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......

Time spent with a Painting

Over the years, I have encountered the question; " How long does it take you to finish a painting?"  Most of the time, I replied with; " I honestly do not know?"  This is because of several factors, a) I work on several pieces at a time because I need time waiting for paint to dry, b) the painting has to speak to me c) lost the inspiration and the painting may be abandoned for years! d) busy with life, work and other responsibilities and lastly, e) I never took the time to count the minutes!

So with a 24" x 48" piece, I started to take note of the hours spent working on the painting.  I jotted the time I started and noted every hour spent on it.  Upon completion it took 24 hours! Then, I painted another piece 24" x 24" and it took me 10 hours!  So is there a correlation with size, subject matter, areas of difficulty or technicality? Yes for sure, so therefore, it would not be safe to give a time frame to each painting.

I think, should I get asked the same question again, I should continue to say; " I honestly, I do not know?"

For really, a painting starts from the idea, planning stage, execution, evaluation, final stages, varnish and framing.  All these take time and art should not be rushed.

Till the next adventure!
Marissa

To Consolidate or Not!

Gee, I found my old blog, by using Google Chrome.  Somehow, I just couldn't find the old blog anywhere, so I started a new one this spring. (2014)  But now that i FOUND it again, should I consolidate all my new blogs since spring to that old one which I started 4 years ago?

I think it is time to move on.  I have started fresh and going with the intention of a blog every week. So I will keep this new blog and for those following me on the old one, I hope you can make the transition too.

Hugs!!
Marissa

Happy Surprises

As an artist, I encounter alot of people who love my work, perhaps admire my work,  pretend to like my work and do not say anything about my work.  There are alot of factors that come into play when selling work either through a formal art show such as juried shows, local art group shows, art fairs, private galleries, on-line and through word-of-mouth.  Being in the industry now for 12 years, I have come to realize that art is such an emotional investment.  Most people have to be touched by the piece for them to invest in it.  When a painting has spoken to them, they just should not let it go.

Just in the last month, I have had many people telling me that they were touched by my paintings.  I have sold more this month compared to some years of 'drought' and several art shows.  I am glad my paintings are speaking to people and making them happy.  These are happy surprises!!

Feel blessed,
Marissa

Fragile Nature 24" x 36" Mixed Media  (SOLD)