Opportunities

Happy to report that I have two new teaching contracts this fall, The Town of Whitby Seniors Centre and at Northview Oshawa Seniors Centre.  I totally believe that when one door closes, another one much greater opens!

It is going to be busy for me this fall, since these teaching positions add on to my busy schedule and I am welcoming them with open arms and spirit!

I recall reading an article on Betty White (Comedian/Actress) on how she stays young and busy at 90 years of age and she replied; she never says no to any opportunity.  So...I know there will be more opportunities around the corner... I just have to pray that # 1) I notice them and #2)  I have the wisdom to say YES!!!

Hugs!
Marissa

En Plein Air

Painted last week with Artist/Sculptor friend Erika Takacs at the Bowmanville Creek.  It was such a nice day, no bugs, cool breeze and sunshine.  I am still conquering my "greens" and finding the best combination/mix to brighten them up !!!  I feel every time I go out and paint,  I feel I am improving.

I got a bit distracted as I was painting near the bridge where a family of three came by and started throwing stones on to the creek.  The son, possibly about 4 years old was having so much fun, laughing, screaming then laughing again. The mother and father were supportive and kept him from being too loud, but even though they were not technically disturbing me, they were!

This taught me to zone into my painting and FOCUS on my paint.... talk about painting -in-the-zone!!!  This is what is challenging from not being in the comforts of your own studio.

By the end of 1.5 hours, this is what I have to show!  Painting outdoors is such a humbling experience.

Whoo hoo!!!

So honoured and proud to have been accepted to the ECOAA ( East Central Ontario Art Association) 56th Annual Juried Show at the Art Gallery of Bancroft!  What was special was that I won The Jeanne-Marie McAdam Award - Most Innovative, for my piece "Ebulient" !!!!!  That was a big surprise and a big Whoo Hoo!!!

This group has the most amazing artists, all working towards their passion and conquering painting outdoors!  It is a humbling feeling to be among all these recognized and respected artists in East Ontario!  Congratulations to all!!!

Lot's happening

Today was a day I needed to sit down with my calendar and sort out my fall schedule!  A full schedule coming soon with workshops and classes about town and future projects!  So stay tuned!

Funny how I so look forward to summer... having such a long icy winter this year,  just couldn't wait!  But now it is the beginning of August and already I am feeling summer about to slip away all too soon!

My husband and I got to spend some time away in Algonquin North and unwind with nature.  Camping for us is the best way to experience being away from technology, white noise, busy schedules and reconnect with that which is important - each other.  I did try to paint one evening just before supper, but the bugs where terrific in getting their presence known!

Needless to say... I have enough material to add on to my Up North Series......