Valerie

The Writer's Den Treasury

2012-02-08T20:21:00.000-08:00

I have long been a lover of writing - and am always so in awe of excellent writers who paint pictures with their words. So, this treasury is for you...

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/ODU1Mjh8MjEwMTMxOTU5OA/the-writers-den?ref=pr_treasury

And I just adore the piece pictured here by Christopher Stewart which is also part of the treasury.

New Beginnings

2012-01-16T06:48:00.000-08:00

I hope that 2012 has started off well for everyone and will be a year full of blessings and fulfilling your dreams. I'm not really into resolutions, but when I looked at my blog again (and realized my last post was around Thanksgiving!), I resolved to do better at blogging this year. And taking time to visit all your wonderful blogs too. I am always blown away by the wonderful creativity out there!

I have to admit it was nice to have some down time over the holidays. Now I'm feeling in a wonderful creative space with lots of ideas for new pieces. Here's one of my first pieces for the year, called Fire & Ice, which is in a local exhibit right now.

So Thankful

2011-11-23T06:10:00.000-08:00

Okay...I admit it. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year. I love the sentiment of it and getting together with family and friends, the Macy's parade, and yes, the football. But most of all, I love that it makes me stop for a few minutes and be thankful for many blessings…

• friends and family who always support me in everything I do
• the opportunities I've had this year to spread my art wings
• my beautiful children and husband who always make me laugh
• a nice warm house to live in, food to eat, and our health

They seem like simple things, but they are oh so important. As a special thank you, I'm offering 10% off in my shop through this weekend. I wish you and your family a most wonderful Thanksgiving!

Artist Home Show

2011-11-06T07:26:00.000-08:00

So excited for my annual Artist Home Show next Saturday, November 12! It's from 11 to 4, so feel free to stop by and see my work, Yvonne's dichroic glass, and Owen's pottery. Lots of great gifts in all price ranges. And, if you sign up for my newsletter you'll receive a special offer on Tuesday when my November newsletter comes out!

This new piece, Crow of Many Colors, is one of several new pieces that will be available.

Garden of Compassion

2011-10-30T05:12:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, there was a service in my hometown called One Naperville. They talked about building a community based on compassion. This piece popped into my head and had to be given wings. Hope you like!

Garden of Compassions is available in my Etsy shop…
http://www.etsy.com/listing/84962410/garden-of-compassion-fine-art-print

Artist Demo This Saturday

2011-10-12T15:39:00.000-07:00

Stop by the new Occasions store (121 S. Washington) this Saturday. I'll be there doing an artist demo from 3 to 4 p.m. as part of the Best of Home weekend. Hope you can make it!

And here's my sunflowers in final form. The piece is called Late Season Beauties.

End of the Season Sunflowers

2011-10-09T07:27:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd sure my latest piece in progress. Love those sunflowers...

Spreaing My Wings

2011-10-03T19:46:00.000-07:00

Over the summer I took on a commission - something I had never done before. A large mural painting
in a home. A little out of my comfort zone since paint is not my main media, and I definitely don't work this large! I ended up having a wonderful experience (even with the sore muscles), and I'm pretty happy with the end result. Here's to taking different paths from time to time!

Dalton Ghetti Artwork

2011-09-27T19:41:00.000-07:00

Artists have been using pencils forever to create art...but I have never seen anything like this. Beautiful pieces of art crafted out of the graphite of a pencil.

These miniature masterpieces are a side project for the professional carpenter, who has been perfecting this art for the last 25 years. Dalton Ghetti uses a razor blade, sewing needle, a sculpting knife, a steady hand and lots of patience to meticulously carve the graphite which can take anywhere between a few months to a few years.

I am in awe!

Something for the Sweet Tooth

2011-09-21T16:54:00.000-07:00

Just couldn't resist posting this photo and recipe which I saw on Pinterest.com - the perfect fall treat...

Baked Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

Adapted from Tasty Kitchen
Makes 20-24 mini muffins

Don’t worry – you don’t actually use the whole stick of butter for the coating, it just makes it easier to dip the muffins. If you’re looking for a somewhat lighter treat, skip the coating – the muffins are moist and pumpkin packed all on their own. These are best dipped and coated the same day you are going to eat them, otherwise the coating tends to get soggy.
Ingredients

For Donuts
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoons nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/8 teaspoons ground cloves
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup canned plain pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2 cup low-fat milk

For Coating
1 stick of unsalted butter, melted
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cinnamon
Directions

Preheat oven 350°F. Spray each cup in a 24-cup mini muffin tin with baking spray or butter generously.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt and spices (through cloves). In a separate, large bowl whisk together oil, brown sugar, egg, vanilla, pumpkin and milk until smooth. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined – do not over mix!

Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. (Using a 2-tablespoon scoop will ensure uniform size.) Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

While the muffins bake, melt butter in one bowl and combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in another bowl. Remove muffins from oven and cool for 2 minutes, or until just cool enough to handle. Dip each muffin in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar to coat.

Monday Inspirations & Thoughts

2011-09-12T12:14:00.000-07:00

Following yesterday's remembrance services/ceremonies, I am taking a few moments today to be grateful and share my thoughts...

I take a moment…
to look at the faces of those I love

I am grateful…
to live in a community committed to compassion
(check out One Naperville)

I am feeling…
so very blessed and grateful for the abundance in my life

I can see…
the tips of some of the trees starting to turn their beautiful fall colors

I am creating…
some new pieces based on ideas that came to me during the One Naperville service yesterday

I am missing…
my beautiful grandmother

I am hoping…
for creative growth in new ways that I haven't even thought of

Chicken Nugget Lemon Tooty

2011-08-30T09:47:00.000-07:00

By Gracie, Age 11

By Valerie, a bit older than 11

The kids over at the Chicken Nugget Lemon Tooty blog have been sharing their illustrations now for 5 years and are celebrating by asking artists to contribute artwork based on one of the kid's drawings. I decided to create something based on Gracie's (age 11) bird.

Please take the time to visit their blog and tell them how awesome they are!

Blog Feature – Urban Comfort

2011-08-24T07:38:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon Suzonne Stirling's blog through Pinterest – very happily, I might add! – and am totally delighted with her Urban Comfort blog. Check out this blog post about southern photographers.

http://urbancomfort.typepad.com/urban_nest/2011/08/5-to-inspire-contemporary-southern-photographers.html#tp

The photo feature here is by Sally Man. Absolutely phenomenal photos...if you've ever been to New Orleans, or that area of the country, these photos will touch a cord with you. They are so evocative of the New Orleans atmosphere. I adored these and New Orleans! Hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Illustration Friday - Swell

2011-08-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

As the waves began to swell, they turned their little boat and headed for home...enjoying the wind and spray on their faces.

http://www.flickr.com//photos/vlorimer/sets/72157627073622626/show/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ValerieLorimer?ref=si_shop

Illustration Friday – Imperfect

2011-08-07T07:33:00.000-07:00

I did this piece a while back, but it fit so perfectly with the "imperfect" theme that I couldn't resist putting it up. Hope you enjoy it. I love that despite all our imperfections, we still find things to love about each other.

Illustration Friday – Obsession

2011-07-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

Well, it seems I'm a bit obsessed with animals lately - this time a monkey! This one is called Monkey Business.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/76644190/monkey-business-personalized-print-for

Featured Artist – Eric Barclay

2011-07-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

I can't tell you how delighted I am to feature Eric Barclay as my first featured artist! I "met" Eric and became aware of his work through Illustration Friday. I am such a huge fan of this talented artist! Make sure you stop by his blog and see his delightful recycled creations.

Eric Barclay is an illustrator, sculptor, and designer based in Dallas, Texas. His work incorporates bold colors, simplicity of line, and subtle humor. Classic cartoons, modern art and design, and everyday mishaps heavily influence his work. He works mostly in gouache and acrylic, but is very comfortable creating digital artwork using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.

Most of his work is for the children’s market; his freelance clients include national and regional magazines, publishers, hotel chains, consumer goods companies, greeting card companies, banks, and more. He is currently illustrating two books, which will be published in 2012.

Eric lives with is wife of 15 years, two beautiful young daughters and two cats. He has an immediate opening for a dog and is currently interviewing candidates.

http://ericbarclay.blogspot.com

Geneva Fine Art Fair This Weekend

2011-07-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

If you feel like braving the heat, come out to the Geneva Fine Art Fair this weekend. It's a fabulous fair, and there are plenty of places to shop or eat and take a break from the hot temps! Hope to see you there.

Illustration Friday – Gesture

2011-07-20T11:15:00.000-07:00

All it takes is a simple gesture to be open to all people, all thoughts, all ways of life.

Society 6 Selection

2011-07-16T06:36:00.000-07:00

This is pretty cool…My print "Georgia Sunflower" was selected to be included in the Society6 Shop! If you've never visited the site, it's pretty awesome. You can get a selection of prints on canvas, as iPhone skins, etc. Check it out!

http://society6.com/product/Georgia_Sunflower_Print/56907

Memories of the Beach

2011-07-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

We used to go to Myrtle Beach, SC when I was a kid. I have such wonderful memories of being there…going to the little hut on the main drag that was Krispy Kreme, Oliver's for fresh seafood and hush puppies, the old amusement park, walking the beach looking for shark teeth, the smell of the salt air, riding the waves. I'd love to go there again sometime as it's been many years since my last trip. I'm sure it has changed dramatically.

When I started working on this little piece, all I could see were greens and blues - the colors of the beach and summer to me. So, here's "Day at the Beach."

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ValerieLorimer?ref=si_shop

Northbrook Art in the Park

2011-07-08T03:44:00.000-07:00

This Saturday and Sunday I'll be at Northbrook Art in the Park! Stop by and see me if you can.

http://www.northbrookarts.org/

Illustration Friday – Launch

2011-06-22T15:51:00.001-07:00

Almost forgot to post this after I worked on it late last night...Up and Away seems to fit the weekly theme "Launch."

Reliving Monet

2011-06-22T15:42:00.000-07:00

Just finished this piece - when I first started it I had no idea where it was going. Except the colors reminded me of some of the Monet pieces. So, that's where it ended up for me. Hope you enjoy!

Art in Bloom

2011-06-16T19:43:00.000-07:00

Head out to beautiful Cantigny in Wheaton this Saturday and Sunday for Art in Bloom. It's a wonderful art fair in a really lovely setting. Hope to see you there!

Feeling Blessed

2011-06-14T15:40:00.000-07:00

Just feeling grateful for many things…

• My beautiful family

• Awesome friends

• The ability to create and do something I love each day

• Books to read every day

• Wonderful, diverse music to listen to

• A gorgeous summer day

This Weekend

2011-06-08T16:58:00.000-07:00

Come out to the Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival this weekend! It looks like gorgeous weather, and this fair is in a lovely setting and is a nice size. Lots of good restaurants close by also. Hope to see you there!

Here's my latest piece I just finished - it's called I Remember Autumn.

Tiger in My Garden

2011-06-06T08:31:00.000-07:00

I've been having so much fun with this line of kid's prints. My youngest daughter asked for a tiger - her favorite animal at the moment! So, here's Tiger in My Garden.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/75011622/tiger-print-for-baby-or-childs-room

Illustration Friday – Soaked

2011-05-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

This piece is called Spring Rain...seemed to go along with the theme and our rainy spring here in the midwest. We've been soaked many times in the last two months!

Illustration Friday – Safari

2011-05-14T06:52:00.000-07:00

I've been on an animal kick lately, so I'm thrilled with this theme! Just finished this piece, Return of the Queen, recently. Can't wait to see what everybody posts.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/73119823/return-of-the-queen-print

Demo & Trunk Show This Thursday!

2011-05-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

This Thursday, May 12 I will be at Occasions in Naperville (3027 English Rows, 630.355.5045) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. doing a demo and trunk show! Stop by and see what I'm working on and see a variety of new items. Hope you can stop by and say hello!

This new little piece is called Pure Sunshine.

Beautiful Soul

2011-05-07T06:25:00.000-07:00

The day before my daughter's 16th birthday, as I was writing my blog post, the idea for this piece of art came to me. I knew immediately I had to make it for her as a special gift for her big day. I just finished it last night and will be framing the original today to go in her room. I hope she likes it! I'd also like to give a special thank you to all the wonderful moms out there with beautiful souls who have served as inspiration and comfort in our lives.

Prints of Beautiful Soul are available at my Etsy shop:

Sweet 16 – Beautiful Soul

2011-05-05T05:30:00.001-07:00

My beautiful daughter Hannah turns 16 today! Still trying to wrap my head around where those 16 years went so quickly. What I can say for sure is that I am so incredibly proud of the beautiful person, inside and out, that she is and has always been. Have a great 16th! Your very blessed mom loves you so much.

My "Aha" Moment & Giveaway

2011-04-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

I'm always interested to hear others "aha" moments - those moments of pure light and inspiration when everything comes together! For me, this happened about 8 or 9 years ago, when I was just beginning to dabble in creating artwork. My professional degrees are in music, and for many years I enjoyed a successful career as a professional accompanist in Chicago. I truly love the time I spent playing, but there was always a pull toward the art field and creating something other than music with my hands. I was taking a pastel class through the local art league, and I created this huge lotus in class...and I realized it was really good! I was walking back to the car and my moment of divine inspiration happened in the parking lot. I knew instantly this was my passion, and I literally started crying because it was such a powerful feeling.

Share your "aha" moment with me and you'll be entered to win a Morning Glories print and note card set. Can't wait to hear from you! I'll pick a winner on Wednesday, May 11!

The Whimsical Kingdom

2011-04-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

Self doubt - that awful demon! My solo exhibit is coming up soon and doubt is kicking in...Will the exhibit be successful? Will people enjoy the new work? Will I get everything done before the deadline? Of course, when I started working on all these new pieces back in January, I thought I had all the time in the world. Now it's come and gone, and I'm down to the last week or so before I hang the show.

I think I feel a need to step back, be kind to myself and stop worrying. Breathe, relax, live in the moment...it will all be fine. More exhibit info coming soon!

http://www.valerielorimer.com
Become a Fan – Valerie Lorimer Contemporary Arts

Illustration Friday – Duet

2011-04-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

Even though it is a cold and dreary first day of April here in Chicagoland, this seems the perfect "duet" for the day. I so appreciate those days when I have a joyful spirit. Here's to more of those and living each day fully with appreciation for simple joys.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/71287136/joyful-spirit-original

Illustration Friday – Cultivate

2011-03-20T06:56:00.000-07:00

Given everything that's going on right now in the world, it seems appropriate to send a message to cultivate peace. Each little thing every individual can do to that end, makes a difference!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62527516/spread-peace
http://www.valerielorimer.com

Sometimes It's the Things You Don't Know

2011-03-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

I was struck by the simple truth of a Rainn Wilson (a.k.a. Dwight Shrute from The Office) quote I read recently about faith and not knowing what's going to happen at any given time. I remember as a child thinking "show me the proof" about religion, faith, why things happen the way they do. As an adult, it's taken a while but I enjoy living in the moment and not worrying so much about things I can't "see."

My dear childhood friend, Jennifer, posted to my Facebook page recently and mentioned some of the wild, crazy things we used to get into together. We lived in a very small town and came up with some pretty unusual things to do to stay entertained...one of which included the two of us getting in her Radio Flyer wagon and taking off down a very long, skinny, windy road down a very steep hill.

As a parent, I look back on that now and think "what were we thinkg…were we insane?" It was a really dangerous thing to do since it was the only road in and out of our little town that sat on the side of a mountain - and if we steered the wagon incorrectly, we could easily have flown over the side of the mountain (which almost happened once). I even had the torn up knee to prove it. But, I think it basically comes down to friendship, trusting Jen when she was "driving," and taking a leap of faith every time we got in that wagon. Not such a bad philosophy.

There are lots of leaps of faith during our life journey - and many times it is about what you can't see or what you don't know as cold, hard fact. I think that's probably the underlying, subliminal message in my art which I've been told by many they find nurturing, spiritual, affirmative and, of course, whimsical from time to time...okay, maybe a little more than time to time. So, all that being said, go hop in a Radio Flyer and go for a ride!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/67251269/journey-note-cards

The View From Up Here

2011-03-11T06:27:00.001-08:00

I'm continuing my fascination with giraffes in this piece! A couple years ago, we were visiting family and took the kids to the Indianapolis Zoo. You can actually feed the giraffes there. It was so incredibly awesome being right next to them and having them eat out of your hand - okay, kind of slimy too - but still cool!

This piece is called The View From Up Here...

http://www.etsy.com/listing/69815877/the-view-from-up-here-print

Sometimes Nature Cracks Me Up

2011-03-06T06:03:00.001-08:00

Into the house came a box of strawberries and inside it was....yes, this strawberry! I found it very entertaining, as did the other members of my family – especially my 8 year old. So many times I have said that I find inspiration for my artwork in nature. This isn't quite what I meant, but I think I have a thought about how to turn this into a piece of art...hmmm...It's just too good to pass up!

Illustration Friday – Layer

2011-02-21T06:11:00.001-08:00

Amidst all the layers of the garden, the Morning Glories shone with a beauty all their own. Prints of this new piece are available at my Etsy shop.

And the winner is...

2011-02-14T08:13:00.000-08:00

Ang! Congratulations - and thanks to everyone for all the wonderful comments about what makes you happy. Stay tuned for another giveaway sometime in the spring. I love the digital age, but I did the giveaway pick the old-fashioned way - love that sometimes!

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

Valentine Blessings

2011-02-09T19:36:00.000-08:00

I love Valentine's Day, and not just for the normal romantic reasons. For me, it's a reminder to be thankful for all my friends, neighbors and family who are such blessings in my life. My lovely sweet husband, my two beautiful daughters, my parents, all my extended family, and my flock of friends who are all so supportive. Here's a little love for you - freshly finished today.

February Giveaway…Happiness

2011-01-30T09:51:00.000-08:00

I just read an article in a magazine about happiness. What it is, what makes you really happy...it was an interesting article that made you really think. Is there anyone who doesn't like feeling happy? I thought about it, and I've posted my top five things.

Leave a post on my blog about five things that make you happy, and I'll enter your name into a drawing for a giveaway that includes one of my new prints, Grandma's Songbird. Also a set of cards and a Live Joyfully necklace.

I'm offering a little bit of happiness at my Etsy shop too - all during February my prints are 20% off. Use Coupon Code FEB2011SPECIAL when you check out! Happy thinking...and here's my top 5.

What Makes You Happy?
• Movie night with my family
• First snowfalls
• Reading a really, good book
• Being able to create every day
• Doing something that makes someone else feel good

Windmill Garden

2011-01-22T14:32:00.000-08:00

As I'm looking out the window at ice and snow, this new piece must be my subconcious looking forward to spring! Just finished this one last night called Windmill Garden. It's available on my site, and it's ready to hang (no framing necessary!).

Happy new year!

2011-01-06T05:59:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone's holiday was terrific! I'm delighted to be featured in an article on Patch.com! Check it out...and looking forward to my exhibit starting January 14 at Congregation Beth Shalom.

And here's a peek at my whimsical lion I just finished! Wishing you all a very blessed 2011.

Holiday Freebies

2010-12-11T07:30:00.000-08:00

Hope this little gift guide is helpful if you're still looking for that perfect gift for someone. I've extended my holiday offer through Tuesday, December 14, so take advantage of the freebies offer!

1. Artistic drinkware options from $12.99
2. Accessories for home and self from $6.49
3. Originals priced from $40
4. Prints from $20 to $30
5. 2011 Calendars for $15
6. Artistic clothing options from $21.99

P.S. Happy Holidays!

Whimsical Paintings

2010-12-04T09:25:00.000-08:00

I'm delighted to be a featured artist on WhimsicalPaintings.com. This site is for art enthusiasts who love colorful, whimsical art. Who doesn't love a little whimsy? Thanks to talented Oregon artist, Lindy Gruger Hanson, for this gorgeous site and for the invitation to be involved.

Check out her beautiful artwork. I'll be the featured artist in Lindy's enewsletter in January, so make sure you sign up!

A Little Bird Told Me...

2010-11-30T07:55:00.001-08:00

I'm delighted to be the Featured Artist on the Brave Girls Club's A Little Bird Told Me Daily Truth email! If you've never seen this blog, it's worth checking out. It features a piece I just finished called "Grandma's Songbird!"

First Time Event

2010-11-27T06:31:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!! Don't forget that today is the first ever Small Business Saturday. Support your local small businesses this holiday season. I just opened up the Holiday Sale Room on my website, so stop by and check out the great bargains and freebies!

2010-11-21T11:17:00.001-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came to the Home Show last weekend! I really appreciate the great turnout - it was so nice to see everyone.

I got on a role and actually got my Holiday Sale Room up on the website earlier than I expected. I'm offering a selection of originals at discounted prices and also freebies when you order prints and cards. So make sure you check out the link to the sale room off my home page. Happy holidays everyone!

Home Show Week!

2010-11-08T10:41:00.001-08:00

I'm so excited for the upcoming home show at my house this Saturday! I'm being joined by my fabulous artist buddies Yvonne Thompson, Debbie Egizio, and Owen O'Reilly. I've just finished some great new pieces - hope you'll stop by to get a start on your holiday shopping! If you can't make it, don't forget you can purchase directly from my website.

P.S. Check out the current issue of Where Women Create for the wonderful article about Debbie!

Illustration Friday – Spent

2010-10-31T11:04:00.000-07:00

"She spent all her money on seeds, so that the world could grow peace one seed at a time." I started working on this piece a few weeks ago for my home show in November and just finished it Friday. I couldn't resist tying in the Illustration Friday theme of Spent. It may be a far reach, but I love the message, especially of late.

Loving Fall!

2010-09-29T10:39:00.000-07:00

My favorite season has rolled around - the trees are starting to turn, there's that crips air in the morning - I love fall! There's something about this time of year that gets my creative juices going. I'm finishing up several pieces, but here's one I just posted on my site, called Moving On. Check out Mixed Media Gallery XII on my site for all my new works.

Final Outdoor Art Fair!

2010-09-16T15:51:00.000-07:00

It's the final outdoor fair of the season for me - this weekend in LaGrange at West End Art Festival! Don't forget the promotion on my Facebook page (Valerie Lorimer Contemporary Arts) - you can still use this at the LaGrange fair this weekend. Hope to see you there.

2010-09-09T17:27:00.001-07:00

I'll be at the Downers Grove Art Festival this weekend. Hope you can come!

Illustration Friday – Star Gazing

2010-08-13T11:42:00.001-07:00

Happy Friday everyone! I was just finishing this piece for an exhibit next week when I saw this week's theme. It just seemed perfect for my version of "star gazing." Hope you enjoy it.

Print Giveaway!

2010-08-06T09:07:00.001-07:00

You can win two of my prints - starting August 11!

Just head over to Spring's site next Wednesday to enter to win. I'm the Wednesday Artist Spotlighthis wonderful site. Good luck! And if you don't win, but really like the prints, they're both available on my website for purchase.

Illustration Friday – Caged

2010-08-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

When I saw this week's theme, this piece instantly popped into my head as the perfect entry for Caged. It's called Locked on the Edge of Time. It was done for a recent show at a local art league.

Moody Blues

2010-08-01T06:52:00.000-07:00

Love these little artist panels mounted on wood! They're so much fun to play with. This is my latest creation called Moody Blues.

Illustration Friday – Diary

2010-07-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

What a lovely topic this week. It brought back all kinds of memories of my junior high diaries. If I kept a diary, which I don't anymore, this would be my entry for the week. To live joyfully, experience simple pleasures, and breathe....

Occasions Anniversary Event

2010-07-06T07:29:00.001-07:00

I have a fun event coming up next Thursday, July 15 at Occasions in Naperville (Rt. 59 and 103rd in the English Rows Towne Centre). If you've never been to Occasions, it's a wonderful store, and Donna (the owner) is a terrific supporter of the arts. So stop by on the 15th and support the arts. Also, I'll be donating ...

Daily Herald Article

2010-06-18T07:09:00.000-07:00

I was interviewed last week for a Daily Herald article about Cantigny Art Festival this weekend. Actually, made the paper - and they have three of my images posted. Here's the link if you'd like to take a look...

Hope you can make it to Cantigny!

Art Fair Season

2010-06-11T12:05:00.000-07:00

It seems there's so much going on lately - the art fair season starts tomorrow for me with the Lincolnshire Art Festival. Hope you'll be able to stop by! I was also interviewed by the Daily Herald for next week's show at Cantigny. Kind of exciting! If you get the Herald, look for the article on the fair around June 17 or 18.

Also, the Geneva Arts Fair (http://www.genevachamber.com/artfair.html) is using one of my pieces (Summer Meadow) on all of their promotional materials! Such an awesome honor and great advertising for me. If you've never been to this fair, it's well worth the trip. Geneva is such a charming town and the quality of this fair is outstanding.

Illustration Friday – Coccoon

2010-04-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

I just finished this piece for a local yoga studio. They close every class with this wonderful blessing that seems to just wrap itself around you like a cocoon.

Illustration Friday - Dip

2010-04-02T08:23:00.001-07:00

The cool, clear water beckoned to her...she couldn't resist taking a dip. This piece is called "Emergence."

Illustration Friday - Expired

2010-03-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a theme this week. I finished this piece a bit ago for a theme show - and it fits this week's theme. It's called Gone Too Soon.

Illustration Friday – Subterranean

2010-03-13T11:38:00.000-08:00

Here's a pen and ink piece that I did titled "Roots." Seemed to fit the subterranean theme this week.

Illustration Friday – Adrift

2010-02-13T05:32:00.001-08:00

This piece, Waiting for the Flood, but seems to fit the theme this week. Bad fortune seems to follow some people around naturally. Is it something they invite by their state of mind or just bad luck? It somehow seems to set them adrift on their journey as they wait for the next disaster to hit.

Illustration Friday – Focused

2010-01-29T09:06:00.001-08:00

Here's a piece I just finished called "Juxtaposition" - they were "focused" on getting into position.

Illustration Friday – Clumsy

2010-01-25T11:49:00.000-08:00

The very first thing that popped into my head was high heels! Remember that first venture out on heels and how incredibly clumsy you felt? So glad I don't own a pair anymore!

Illustration Friday – Wilderness

2010-01-18T14:06:00.001-08:00

The first thing that popped into my mind when I saw this week's IF theme was "wilderness of the heart." This image followed shortly after, and I just finished it today. Hope you enjoy viewing it...

Illustration Friday – Confined

2010-01-11T10:52:00.000-08:00

I did this piece a while ago, but it seemed appropriate with the start of a new year...and this week's topic! "Don't be confined by a lack of imagination."

Illustration Friday - Renewal

2010-01-03T12:31:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year to everyone! May 2010 be a renewal/awakening of creative opportunities. Just finished this piece entitled Awakening. Had started it back in December but it was too nuts to have time to finish anything. It's a joy to be creating again...and back on Illustration Friday!

Illustration Friday – Skinny

2009-11-02T15:30:00.001-08:00

In a skinny little forest, on a skinny little hill, sat a skinny little house...

Illustration Friday - Fast

2009-10-23T11:45:00.000-07:00

Here's my take on this week's them of "fast" - which is how it always seems to be in our lives! I have to give thanks for the lettering inspiration to Aimee! Just love her work - it's simply wonderful.

Illustration Friday – Frozen

2009-10-16T13:20:00.001-07:00

Oh, it feels good to be back on Illustration Friday. And so wonderful to crank out a quick little piece for this week's theme...

"She was nowhere close to frozen in her colorful, warm scarf and hat."

I must subconciously want a really wild winter hat...they keep showing up in drawings from time to time!

Letting Go

2009-09-23T07:16:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling the need to unload and let go. It's been a very rough couple weeks with work and getting ready for my final outdoor art fair in Chicago this weekend. I've been in a very bad place and really need to let some of that go. So, I'm looking on the positive side and am reminding myself of things I feel grateful for...

1. My wonderful family and friends
2. A lovely home that provides shelter and food each day
3. The ability to create freely every day
4. Books which provide an amazing escape
5. Laughter

I did this piece called Eternal Dance a few years ago, but I was reminded of the saying in it as I was writing this. It seemed oh so perfect for where I need to be. Sometimes it helps to step back and just breathe!

Illustration Friday – Strong

2009-09-04T09:09:00.000-07:00

Trees - so strong…stalwart…always beautiful whether budding, full blown or bare. My grandmother, who I adored (and was one of the strongest women I've ever known), absolutely loved bare winter trees. I never understood it as a child, but as an artist now I totally get it. So, here's my piece, called Slumber, in honor of trees and my grandmother Edith.

Illustration Friday – Magnify

2009-08-28T12:45:00.000-07:00

I just finished this piece - it might be a stretch, but I like the idea of "magnify" possibility for this piece.

Illustration Friday – Impatience

2009-08-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

I recently finished this piece, Flight, and thought it tied in nicely to the Impatience theme. It seems there are times for everybody when they are tied down doing things they don't necessarily enjoy, and we all become impatient for flight.

Illustration Friday - Modify

2009-08-02T09:58:00.000-07:00

He chose to modify his attitude and to live to the fullest each day.

And it is so nice to be back on IF. Now that I have some time, I can't wait to start looking at everybody's posts again!

Illustration Friday – Shaky

2009-07-03T07:56:00.000-07:00

She was the shy one - and she loved to dance - and it didn't matter how many times she got on stage, she was always a little shaky to start.'

Happy 4th everyone!

Illustration Friday - Drifting

2009-06-19T13:26:00.001-07:00

Oh, it is so nice to be back with an IF entry! It's been so crazy the last few weeks that I have not had time to post anything or even spend time looking at the IF site. So, here' my entry for "drifting." This piece is based on a Vettriano piece - was done a while back for a "takeoff on an artist" piece. It's called "Drifters."

Illustration Friday – Contagious

2009-05-20T10:37:00.001-07:00

Oh, to dance...and have it be contagious! I did this piece a while ago (called Dancing in the Wild) - just didn't have time to do anything new this week! Thought it kind of fits the theme.

Illustration Friday – Parade

2009-05-09T13:42:00.001-07:00

The only thing she could do was watch the parade go by...she was locked on the edge of time.

Illustration Friday – Hierarchy

2009-05-03T19:28:00.000-07:00

Her new hairdo put her at the top of the hierarchy! Just finished this one and couldn't resist. I think it kind of fits...

Illustration Friday – Theater

2009-04-26T15:24:00.000-07:00

When I saw the topic for this week, I thought how appropriate it was for our house this weekend! My daugher, hannah, is in her last middle school musical, as the Baker's Wife in Into the Woods - by the wonderfully awesome Stephen Sondheim. And my equally awesome daughter did the most fabulous job! It was great fun. I'm posting a piece that I did a while ago called Waiting to Enter. It seemed appropriate with the whole waiting in the wings thing as I saw Hannah peeking out from the wings and giving us a thumbs up before the show began.

IF – Impossibility

2009-04-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

There were so many ways to go with this week's topic...I decided to use a piece that I finished several months ago and haven't really done anything with. It's called A Place to Call Home - and I started thinking what an impossibility it is for those who have no place to live, to even imagine having a house, an apartment, a room. And how very blessed we are to have a nice, safe place to live that we call home.

Floating on the "Breese"

2009-04-17T13:55:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to the wonderful, talented Bella Sinclair for my beautiful Breese Award (Peter Breese ). (Many apologies for not passing this along sooner this week. It has been a crazy week here.) I am truly honored to receive this award and am passing it along to six inspirational individuals - all amazing artists. Please visit their blogs and keep the award moving along by passing it on to six other recipients. Thanks again Bella!

Ralouca
Diane Duda
Graziella Mattar
Sarah Wyman
Debbie Egizio
Manuela Jarry

Illustration Friday – Fleeting

2009-04-10T12:30:00.001-07:00

Even though right now I'm looking forward to the arrival of spring, and all the beautiful flowers and green leaves - I know there will come that moment when summer will start to flee. The flowers will lose their bright, vivid colors, and a different kind of beauty will come to nature with brightly colored falling leaves. Nature, it seems, is always fleeting. This piece is called Summer's End.

Illustration Friday – Talisman

2009-04-07T12:40:00.000-07:00

Talisman – anything whose presence exercises a remarkable or powerful influence on human feelings or actions. This partial line – "i carry your heart" – from an e.e.cummings poem popped into my head when I saw the topic for this week.

Kretiv Blogger

2009-04-05T10:54:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to the talented Jenny for giving me this award! Visit her blog if you haven’t been there yet…her work is wonderful. It is now my turn to pass the award to other bloggers and share things I love. I'm new to this tagging experience...hope I have it right!

So here we go, 7 things I love...
1. Family night with my girls and hubby. It’s rare for us all to be in one place at the same time! So, whether we’re watching a movie, playing Wii or just hanging out, it’s great.
2. Soccer!From my daughter’s teams to MLS to English Premier to World Cup…I’m an addict.
3. Hanging out in a book store for hours.
4. Books! Reading has always been very important to me. I have to read a few pages every night before bed if I can’t squeeze in more time than that. It brings peace and restoration to me.
5. Spending time with friends and family.
6. Creating, creating, creating…
7. Popcorn! Absolutely my favorite snack food.

... and 7 blogs I love visiting:
Sarah Wyman
Debbie Egizio
Leanne Ellis
Bella Sinclair
Bjornik
Aimee
Piper Anderson

[Note to the selected bloggers: You're off the hook if you already got the award or if tagging isn't your thing, I just like your work and blogs :) ]

Illustration Friday – Poise

2009-03-28T08:55:00.000-07:00

I finished this piece not too long ago. It's called "Waiting for the Flood." The two women show great poise, even in the eventuality of something disastrous coming. This is in honor of those who have gone through hurricanes, hunger, losing jobs, adversity – and are still able to show poise, grace, faith and strength. Sorry the photo isn't better – I just couldn't seem to get a nice, bright shot of this one.

Illustration Friday – Subtract

2009-03-20T11:29:00.001-07:00

At first I was totally at a loss by this week’s theme. Then I was thinking about a piece I just finished last night for an upcoming show with the theme of “Are U Angry?”…I think there’s a tie-in. This piece is called Worthy of Anger – and it was inspired by a friend of mine who lives his life firmly on the path of peace and social justice. Someone who is unwilling to subtract, to take away, from what he holds important and things that are worth getting angry about.

Illustration Friday – Legendary

2009-03-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

She was legendary for her hairstyles - but most of all, for the roses that grew in winter. Most people called it miraculous.

Illustraton Friday – Intricate

2009-03-06T14:25:00.001-08:00

I did this piece a while ago, but I immediately thought of it with all the different patterns. Seemed perfect for the "intricate" topic.

Illustration Friday – Breezy

2009-03-02T09:29:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess I am still in my wistful, hoping for spring mood. Just couldn't help myself when I saw this week's topic. Just want one of those gentle spring breezes...

Illustration Friday – Instinct

2009-02-21T06:28:00.000-08:00

Instinct, intuition...call it what you will. There's a voice inside of us that helps us know which path to travel along – if we are quiet and listen to that voice.

Illustration Friday – Celebrate

2009-02-13T14:00:00.000-08:00

I couldn't help myself – I'm celebrating things to come – like spring and summer, warm weather, butterflies, flowers, warm breezes...