Watercolors by Susan

4 Paintings Donated to COLLECTORS' CHOICE '09

2009-03-06T05:34:00.000-08:00

Winter Beach

Winter Woods

Spirited Away

Cottonwood

The above works have been donated to this year's COLLECTORS' CHOICE FUNDRAISER at the ST. LOUIS ARTISTS' GUILD. Stay tuned for reception info and bidding day. You can get more information on this wonderful event which draws almost 300 donations and hundreds of patrons of the arts by clicking on the ST. LOUIS ARTISTS' GUILD link on this page.

"When you become detached mentally from yourself and concentrate on helping others with their difficulties, you will be able to cope with your own more effectively. Somehow, the act of self-giving is a personal power-releasing factor." -- Norman Vicent Peale

Pam Price & Dreamcatcher II

2009-02-21T08:24:00.000-08:00

Pam Price took home DREAMCATCHER II to Kansas City, Mo. recently. The painting fits her cheerful personality and will fit right in with her home's classic cottage style.

Pam was a fellow art director at Brown Shoe Company with me. She is a good friend and has wanted to purchase one of my works for some time.

Pam was recently commissioned to paint a series of 36x36 canvases for her daughter and son-in-law's very successful gourmet sandwich shop in Kansas City. The pair designed the restaurant from top to bottom. The newspaper's food critic was impressed and wrote the restaurant up in an article for the Kansas City Star. He used words like "unique" "tasty menu" "a winner".

Here's a preliminary sketch of her first canvas.

Jenifer and her husband are opening another restaurant with different theme in the future. To which Pam will paint a new theme of canvases for that restaurant.

She is very happy to get back to her fine arts roots. Bravo to my multi-talented friend!

Henry David Thoreau said, "I have learned, that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours."

Barb's "HOMAGE" is displayed

2009-02-15T09:44:00.000-08:00

I always feel priviledged to go into a collector's home to photograph my work as they have chosen to display on their walls. "HOMAGE" has found a wonderful place to live in Barb's living room. Barb kids me that the only thing I could have done differently in painting "HOMAGE" would be to have signed my name "JACKSON POLLOCK." True, I have his demeanor and outlook on life. That's about it. Pollock was a genius and changed the way American painters thought about expressing themselves. Thanks for the compliment, Barb. (Click on the photo below to view a larger shot of the lliving area.)

"There is no accident, just as there is
no beginning and no end." -- Jackson Pollock

ROTARY CLUB Fundraiser

2009-02-07T00:08:00.000-08:00

"Earth laughs in flowers."
-- Ralph Waldo Emerson

I donated "Delight From the Garden" to this year's Fairview Heights Rotary Club Fundraiser. I painted this piece a few years ago. It reminds me of the gaiety of spring and summer just around the corner. Brenda Wagner is pictured holding the piece in the lobby of The Bank of Edwardsville, where she is branch manager. Brenda is a co-manager of this year's fundraiser and passionate about raising money for Rotary Club causes.

"Winter Walk On The Farm" Auctioned At Fundraiser

2009-01-29T03:06:00.000-08:00

"Winter Walk On The Farm" was auctioned at the annual Chesterfield Arts Art Feast Saturday evening, January 24. I was quite pleased to donate this piece to raise money for Chesterfield Arts.

I'm also pleased to learn that Debbie Shaw-Franke, daughter of good friend Tom Shaw Sr., has been named president of Chesterfield Arts.

"Now I really FEEL the landscape, I can be bold and include every tone of blue and pink: it's enchanting, it's delicious." -- Claude Monet

SIDE NOTE: I look at "Winter Walk On The Farm" as a testimonial to an often unnoticed and disappearing scene in Chesterfield - farm fields. I especially remember "riding to the hounds" (foxhunting) with my Chesterfield friends. We galloped hard and fast, flying over stone walls between farms. "Field jumping" a horse is the closest a person can come to FLYING! Crisp, fall air that is sweet to breath, hounds baying, and an exhilarating ride aboard a good horse. Doesn't get any better than that!

The Kemp Auto Museum is an interesting place, if you get into Mercedes and the like. Great place to hold a fundraiser.

"Home For the Holidays" Exhibit thru 1/13/09

2009-01-01T05:14:00.000-08:00

"Berry" (above) 14x11

"Winter Coming" (above, framed to 11x14) and "LaVeryne" (framed to 8x10) were on exhibit thru January 13, 2009 at the St. Peters Art Center during HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

"Winter Coming" evokes the feeling of winters spent in the country while I was growing up. How lucky I was to spend so much time in nature.

"LaVeryne" is named after my dear mother. The piece reminds me of her happiness at life and her favorite color - RED. My dad loved to see my mother wear red.

St. Peters Art Center is a lovely place to hang art. I enjoy exhibiting there almost every month with their changing exhibits.

"Happy are the painters, for they shall not be lonely. Light and color, peace and hope, will keep them company to the end of the day."
-- Winston Churchill

"Homage" will soon hang on Barb's wall

2008-12-29T03:36:00.000-08:00

I stopped by Barb Singer's condo yesterday to see "Homage" framed. The piece looks beautiful floating in a cherry wood frame that Barb selected. "Homage" framed weighs about 20 lbs. so she's having the piece professionally hung. I'll take another photo in February when friends will gather to celebrate the hanging.

I'm so pleased that this piece is in Barb Singer's hands. We like to think our work will be appreciated as artists. There is no one who appreciates my work more than Barb Singer. Thank you, my friend.

"On the floor I am more at ease. I feel nearer, more a part of the painting, since this way I can walk around it, work from the four sides and literally be in the painting." -- Jackson Pollock (1912-1956), on drip painting.

Barb Singer's Commission Assignment 11/08

2008-11-17T14:56:00.000-08:00

"Abstract art should be enjoyed just as music is enjoyed – after a while you may like it or you may not." -- Jackson Pollock

I finished my longtime commission assignment (embarrassed to admit it's been 3 years!) to paint whatever I like for Barb Singer. The task at hand was to paint whatever I wanted in whatever style with only two requisites. ......First, the painting must fit an ornate, gold leaf frame that Ms. Singer's mother left to her. And 2nd, the painting must include colors that complement Ms. Singer's bedroom (see blank frame with aqua colored drape on wall above bed) ......

It took me a verrry long time before I realized what this work needed to BE. I didn't think a watercolor would be suitable because it would not stand up visually to the chosen frame. I therefore chose to work in acrylic. I have discovered that my best work in acrylic is when I create right out of the tube or bottle - and with pure color. Dripped freely, with a plan in mind. I guess I liken the style to what is called "action/abstraction" -- a name coined by art critics to describe the works of Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning, among other artists who dominated fine art for several decades from the late 40's on. I watched a film of Pollock dripping paint onto a canvas on the ground and thought to myself "I'd like to attempt THAT!" I felt the frenetic pace of the work build after I laid down the base, went back the next day, laid down subsequent layers of color, and back again and again. Each succeeding visit to the work called me to add more and more overlapping acrylic.........My finished painting?.........I LOVE IT, if I DO say so! .............Painting in this style made me appreciate the true genius that Pollock was........the freedom, yet control, with which he painted. ..... This work is my attempt to HONOR Pollock, not to copy him. ...........

UPDATE: 11/22/08 - Ms. Singer and I discussed the fact that she'd like the painting to be hung in her LIVING ROOM! (see picture of existing space where my painting will hang and replace another piece) .........

I love the "evolution" of this painting. I am happy that my painting has found a home with someone who will love it for a long time to come. I look forward to shooting a photo of this piece as well as others at Ms. Singer's home. Her love of art is on display on every wall and tabletop surface. Thanks for supporting the art community. ........

Working on this piece has inspired me to paint more and more full sheet (22x30) paintings....and perhaps even larger in the future.

Look for new works in my next solo exhibit at SACRED GROUNDS in Edwardsville, Illinois. (below) .......

If you'd like to be put on my postcard mailing list announcing the show, please drop me a line with your name and street address to SusanGHoltzman@aol.com. ....

"Abstract Expressionists value expression over perfection, vitality over finish, fluctuation over repose, the unknown over the known, the veiled over the clear, the individual over society and the inner over the outer."
-- William C. Seitz, American artist and art historian

P.S. I am also donating a piece to CHESTERFIELD ARTS' 10th ANNUAL "ART FEAST" Fundraiser in January, '09. I'll keep you posted if you email me your name/street address to put you on my postcard mailing list. I look to 2009 to be an exciting year for me. ........Very special thanks to successful artist and dear friend, CINDY WROBEL, for her tremendous support and encouragement this past year! Also, thank you to LIBBY REUTER, executive director and curator at Schmidt Art Center for giving me good advice about this piece.

"The artist fills space with an attitude.
The attitude never comes from himself alone."
-- Willem de Kooning

FEAST YOUR EYES - St. Peters 11/8 thru 12/8

2008-11-15T22:31:00.000-08:00

"Artists are children who refuse to
put down their crayons." -- Al Hirschfeld

My painting RELEASE won HONORABLE MENTION at the FEAST YOUR EYES exhibit at the ST. PETERS ART CENTER 11/8. Jerry Thomas was the juror.

DREAMCATCHER II and CREATION were also included in the exhibit.

Paintings will be on display through December 8.

NEXT UP: "Home For The Holidays" - St. Peters Art Center - December 14, 2008 thru January 12, 2009

The exhibit will feature holiday themed art just in time for last-minute gifts. Support the arts!

"Senior Moments" 9/26-11/3/08 at St. Peters

2008-11-08T16:06:00.000-08:00

"I've developed a new philosophy....
I only dread one day at a time." --Charlie Brown

Ahhh, SENIOR MOMENTS....I've had a few. At 66 what we learn most is that there is a lot more to learn. I learn about myself when I paint. I learn of the mysteries in my head reaching out of my mind and on to my watercolor brush and to the paper. It is a glorius feeling!

Below: "Cottonwood," "Crucifixion," and "Eruption."

NEXT UP: "What The Eyes See" November 8 through December 8.

St. Louis Watercolor Society's BIG SPLASH '08 - August 23 thru September 22

2008-09-01T15:32:00.000-07:00

"Imagination is the highest kite
one can fly." -- Lauren Bacall

There were 135 paintings exhibited in this year's BIG SPLASH. 14 awards were presented and I was happy to receive an HONORABLE MENTION for "FIRE FLY" (on right, my painting "GALILEE" is pictured to left).

John DenHouter, an art professor at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, was the juror. I love John's work so I was especially pleased to receive a nod from him. The St. Peters Art Center is a great place to have an exhibit. The reception was warm and friendly as usual.

I especially enjoyed seeing friends come to reception. Barb Singer even brought her Uncle Al and Aunt Gert. That was special as they are both in their 90's. I can see where Barb gets HER youthful looks.

I was moved, too, by a couple that spied my shooting a photo of my work. They walked up to me and said, "Is that YOUR work?" "Yes," I replied. "Well, we thought is was beautiful and one of the best works in the show!" You can imagine what THAT did for my EGO. ha ha ha

Thanks to all friends and acquaintances that stopped by. The works will be up through September 22. So stop by.

Dottie Metroulas & "PEACE"

2008-06-01T10:11:00.000-07:00

"There is a friendship that makes us sisters.
None goes her way without the help of others.
That which we give comes back into our own."
-- Unknown

I've known Dottie for almost 50 years now (we lived in the same hall in the dormitory at Southwest Missouri College, Springfield, MO). Dottie says we're "kindred spirits". We have been through ups and downs - sorrow, joy and most of all - laughter. Through it all we know that we are forever friends. Dottie took home "PEACE" today (June 1, 2008). Thank you for your support of my art, Dottie. Thank you for being my friend.

Dottie was also an art major in school and wound up teaching art. You can bet her students learned a lot from her.

Peggy & David King, Evergreen, Colorado, holding "Gathering Storm" - '08 Visit to Belleville, IL

2008-06-01T09:45:00.000-07:00

"There is no wilderness like life without friends.
Friendship multiplies blessings and minimizes misfortunes.
It is a unique remedy against adversity and it soothes the soul."
-- Baltasar Gracian

My friends, Peggy and David King of Evergreen, Colorado, visited the Midwest not long ago. We spent a delightful afternoon together at Southwestern Illinois' Schmidt Art Center in Belleville. I was pleased to have them take home one of my paintings - GATHERING STORM. Peggy said the painting would be perfect in their home. How nice.

Peggy is a sculpture artist who works in large metal pieces and in beaded sculptures of fish and other fowl. Libby Reuter, executive director and curator for the center (www.swicfoundation.com), is interested in Peggy possibly having an exhibit of her work sometime in the future. I'm excited for Peggy. If you haven't visited this state-of-the-art gallery, don't miss it. There's a MetroLink stop across the parking lot from the entrance.

Peggy, David and I attended Southwest Missouri State College (now MSU) together. Peggy and I were both art majors. I have fond memories of those days (I chuckle to myself about some of the fun times we had).

UPDATE: David sent me some of Peggy's "fish" beaded sculptures. Do you have a whimsical name for each of these fishies? Aren't they CLEVER? Lots of hours went into making these, you can be sure.

And here is a gorgeous photo that David took on his way along the trail of Lewis & Clark....Bitterroot Range, south of Lolo, Montana (where A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT was filmed and my favorite state!)

Collectors' Choice VII, June '08

2008-06-01T09:25:00.000-07:00

"How difficult it is to be simple." -- Vincent van Gogh

I love this room!
My donated painting hangs in this room until June 8 when it will be auctioned off.

Yes, Collectors' Choice VII is once again on display at the St. Louis Artists' Guild. The auction date is June 8. Viewing of all donated works runs May 17 thru June 7. The reception to meet artists was held on May 16. This is my 3rd year to participate as a donor. This year's painting is called AURORA.

If you would like more info about this event, please go to http://www.stlouisartistsguild.org for additional information.

Sacred Grounds, Edwardsville Oct '07

2007-10-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

"We don't accomplish anything in this world alone... and whatever happens is the result of the whole tapestry of one's life and all the weavings of individual threads from one to another that creates something."
-- Sandra Day O'Connor

My solo exhibit at Sacred Grounds Cafe in Edwardsville, Illinois was wonderful. I love the location and how they displayed my work. It was nice to see my name in big, bold letters on the wall. I was pleased to see my work - THINK SPRING - purchased by Brian Kalb, a local attorney. Brian thinks this work is "vibrant" - I agree, as THINK SPRING is one of my favorites.

Here's a sampling of photos from the exhibit plus a photo of the exterior of my favorite restaurant across the street - Laurie's.

SMALL WORKS '07 NO. 1

2007-10-14T21:05:00.000-07:00

"The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind." -- Bob Dylan

I've begun matting some 8x10, 12x14, and 16x20 works. I'm in the process of picking frames. In order left to right, left to right (click on each work to see enlarged detail)...Let me know what you think (click on comment link):

8x10 Spring Rain

8x10 Spring Storm

SMALL WORKS '07 No. 2

2007-10-14T19:52:00.000-07:00

"Slow down and enjoy life. It's not only the scenery you miss by going too fast - you also miss the sense of where you are going and why."
--Eddie Cantor

8x10 Arizona Winter I

8x10 Arizona Winter II

SMALL WORKS '07 NO. 3

2007-10-01T11:11:00.000-07:00

"Life, I love you. All is groovy." -- Simon and Garfunkel

Here's some more 8x10, 10x14, and 16x20 works. I am in the process of choosing frames for each of these works. Let me know what you think (see comments link below - I would appreciate your leaving your name, but email address is not necessary). In order (measured as matted):

10x14 SOULARD MARDI GRAS I

8x10 SOULARD MARDI GRAS II

8x10 SOULARD MARDI GRAS III

10x14 BLOSSOM I

8x10 BLOSSOM II

8x10 BLOSSOM III

August '07 BIG SPLASH

2007-10-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

This year's St. Louis Watercolor Society's BIG SPLASH was held once again at the St. Peters Art Center, a truly lovely place to hold an exhibit. There were over 200 pieces in this year's show. All members of the society. I was fortunate to be awarded a Honorary Mention award for my painting entitled LEAVES. It is a half-sheet work framed to 22x28. Here's the piece as it was hung on the wall. This link takes you to a page on the society's web site that features my work along with other winners. This is my first year in the BIG SPLASH. I am honored to be given this award by Carole Carter whose web site illustrates her work at carol-carter.com.

"Nothing can cure the soul but the senses,
just as nothing can cure the senses but the soul."
-- Oscar Wilde

C J MUGGS Webster Groves 7/19-10/16

2007-08-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

"Those persons who have perceptive eyes
enjoy beauty everywhere." -- Paramahansa Yogananda

I hung two paintings - RELEASE (accepted into THE FOUNDRY Dec 06 Watercolor Exhibit) and GALILEE (pictured - 3rd place in Our Lady of the Snows Gateway Exhibit in late 06) - in C J MUGGS RESTAURANT in Webster Groves, Missouri. Nice neighborhood restaurant in what is called "Quiet Webster Groves" ...lovely part of town....big old, houses and lots of mature trees. C J MUGGS hosts a new exhibit on its walls every month or so (through the St. Louis Watercolor Society). The painting is my award-winner - GALILEE. The exhibit is titled DRIVEN TO ABSTRACTION and the next exhibit will be DOUBLE VISION - PAIRED PAINTINGS.

WARM WASHES/COOL COLORS June, '07

2007-08-12T20:08:00.000-07:00

My work titled "Mountain Meadow" was accepted into the WARM WASHES/COOL COLORS exhibit at the ST. LOUIS ARTISTS' GUILD in June, '07. I've included some more photographs below of the layout of The Guild (see more photos below - COLLECTORS' CHOICE VI) which is located in a stone English-styled building in Oak Knoll Park. The park is woodsy, with rolling hills and a beautiful lake. I always enjoy my visits to Oak Knoll and the Guild. Let me know if you need directions, eh?

"The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes. If you foolishly ignore beauty, you will soon find yourself without it. Your life will be impoverished. But if you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life."
-- Frank Lloyd Wright

COLLECTORS' CHOICE VI June, '07

2007-08-12T18:55:00.000-07:00

I enjoy donating a painting to the St. Louis Artists' Guild COLLECTORS' CHOICE every year. The Guild is such a classy place (in Clayton, Missouri's Oak Knoll Park). My painting titled "Fall Walk" (top photo, at far left) was donated to the fund raiser.

"The longer you spend working on something – loving it into being, almost – the more you get attached. It's silly, but you do hope they go to good homes."
-- Anne Desmet

My Digital Demo 5/15

2007-08-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

"Tell a person they are brave and you help them become so."
-- Thomas Carlyle

I used the above work, DREAMS OF RED, to illustrate how to photograph work digitally, place in Adobe Photoshop and prepare for submission to exhibits accepting digital in lieu of slides. I also went thru the process of how to email and follow the exhibit jurors' instructions (which is extremely important to even have one's work considered). I also wrote a 3-page handout, taking the reader step-by-step through the entire process (from equipment and software selection to how to position one's work to photograph properly). This demo was done for the St. Louis Watercolor Society. Over 30 members attended the demo. I rec'd. a lot of compliments on the thoroughness of my program.

If you would like a PDF copy of my handout, please let me know in the comments area of this post. I enjoyed helping others broaden their ability to submit to exhibits they might otherwise have thought was not within their reach.

Addendum: I have just learned that ART ST. LOUIS is now accepting (and prefers) digital submissions (on CD and DVD) for their members' "artists' registry." Forward thinking, as corporations and other entities prefer to view digital files for possible lease and/or purchase of artists' works.

RIVERS OF COLOR May, '07

2007-08-10T19:59:00.000-07:00

RIVERS OF COLOR was the first ST. LOUIS WATERCOLOR SOCIETY that I submitted my work. The exhibit was held at Creative Arts Gallery on Ivanhoe in South St. Louis. Wonderful venue for an art exhibit! My painting is titled "RED" (look to right in the photo, between and above the sculptures).....one more juried acceptance in this society and I will have "signature" status. Only half the submissions were accepted into the exhibit. So I was pleased.

"When I begin painting I am in a state of unconsciousness; I suddenly forget that I am holding a brush in my hand."
-- Wu Chen

CAFE DOLCE 4/15 thru 6/15

2007-08-10T19:18:00.000-07:00

My first solo exhibit was held earlier this spring and early summer at Cafe Dolce, a wonderful little European style cafe in O'Fallon, Illinois. I hope to have a invitational gathering next spring at this stylish little place that serves excellent pastries for breakfast and luncheon soups and sandwiches. Paintings displayed:

"One can do good things without being very much of a harmonist or a colourist. It is sufficient to have a sense of art – and this sense is doubtless the horror of the bourgeois."
-- Paul Cezanne

Flower Power at St. Peters 3/16-4/23

2007-03-17T20:00:00.001-07:00

Great reception 3/16! "Sunshine" was awarded 3rd place out of 99 paintings in Flower Power exhibit at St. Peters Art Center. "Spring Tulips" (top) and "Delight In The Garden" were also in the show. Next up is my solo exhibit at CAFE DOLCE (starts April 15).

"One of the most attractive things about the flowers is their beautiful reserve." -- Henry David Thoreau

Foundry Art Centre 1/12-2/23 Exhibit & Essay

2007-03-17T10:44:00.000-07:00

The Foundry Art Centre Paperwork: In, On, And Of Paper (520 North Main Center St. Charles, Missouri 636 255 0270). I missed the reception for this exhibit, but was honored to have "Release" (above) juried into the show. Brother Mel Meyer was the juror.

In addition, I was pleased to see that an essay appears on the Foundry's web site about my work ("Fanciful Fanstasy"). Lindenwood art history student Jay Cantwell wrote a beautiful "compare and contrast" piece for his instructor, John Troy, professor of art history at the university. You can read the essay at www.foundryartcentre.org . Click on the link "VIEW 2007 COMPARE & CONTRAST" and then click on link to "JAY CANTWELL" where the essay appears.

"Fanciful Fantasy" (written about in the essay and below) was juried into the watercolor show at the Foundry in December, '06. Students were asked to choose a painting of their choice to write about as their semester project. Thank you, Jay, for writing about my "transcendental abstraction" style. You spoke of my art much more eloquently than I could ever speak.

"There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening, that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and will be lost." -- Martha Graham

Camelot Auction 2-16-07

2007-03-17T05:25:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Linda Davis on her winning bid to purchase "Country Fall" at this year's Rotary Camelot Auction Fundraiser in February. Special thanks to this year's program co-chair Brenda Wagner. Brenda wrote me the nicest letter about how excited Linda was at receiving the winning bid on this painting. I'm told that the event was highly successful and raised over $43,000 to go to local charities. I look forward to next year.

"Character is higher than intellect." -- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Belleville Main Street Fundraiser 2/1/07

2007-02-09T19:13:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Terri Isenhart on receiving the winning bid on "The Dance." I donated the work to support BELLEVILLE MAIN STREET. I'm pleased to see Terri win the bid on this piece and look forward to donating another painting to next year's fundraiser. Special thanks to Rick Ortiz, president of Belleville Main Street, for his friendship and appreciation.

"Color is all. When color is right, form is right. Color is everything, color is vibration like music; everything is vibration." -- Marc Chagall

FirstBANK 1/18-4/19/07

2007-02-09T18:34:00.000-08:00

FirstBANK at Manchester and Weidman Roads just south of Town & Country, Missouri is a beautiful bank with a tall, two-story atrium in the center. The area is perfect for display of large pieces of art. The St. Louis Watercolor Society invites their members who volunteer within the organization to display their works in this exhibit. I am honored to be a part of this effort.

This is a view of half the exhibit, looking towards the entrance. My piece can be seen 2nd from the right in this photo. This exhibit will change again April 19, when I will have 2-3 new works on display at that time through July. The bank provides a list and map of the exhibit (usually about 25 pieces) along with info on artists, title of works, prices and contact information, etc. Many thanks to the Jim Dierberg family for supporting the arts! Please stop by to see the entire exhibit.

"There are two sorts of beauty; one is the result of instinct, the other of study. A combination of the two, with the resulting modifications, brings with it a very complicated richness, which the art critic ought to try to discover."
-- Paul Gauguin

Main Street Gallery, Edwardsville 1/12-2/23/07

2007-02-03T06:22:00.000-08:00

"Be true to your work, your word, and your friend."
-- Henry David Thoreau

Main Street Gallery 239 North Main Street Hours: T-F, 11am-6pm Saturday, 9am-5pm Closed Sundays and Mondays

Thanks, Kathryn! You are my favorite gallery manager!

New Works 1-8-07

2007-01-07T05:51:00.000-08:00

"Abstract painting is abstract.
It confronts you." -- Jackson Pollock

All works are matted to framed to 26x32.

PAINT ME RED, acrylic on paper.

Mountain Meadow, watercolor

Forest Green, watercolor

Celebrate, watercolor

Garnier, watercolor

Fleur Bouquet, watercolor

Dec 10 Service Club Of St. Clair County Holly Day Party

2006-12-27T06:22:00.000-08:00

"Abstract art requires something of the viewer. It demands contemplation. Study. Flights of fancy. Feeling."
-- Svante Rydberg

Here's some of my art patrons showing off works they purchased at this year's Christmas Holly Day Event at the Millennium Hotel in downtown St. Louis.

Cherie Pellock of Ba Lu Coyote on Main Street, Edwardsville, IL, purchased a painting for herself and one for her daughter to give to her father.

They chose "In The Forest" (on left) and "Glorious."

I am always excited to see a patron get excited about my work and want to display my work in their home or office.

Below my enthusiastic patron Jennifer Rashet, U. City, Mo, purchased two paintings after being high bidder last year on two of my donated paintings. Wondering if she was high bidder on this year's donated painting. Thanks, Jennifer! Enjoy "Bursting With Color" and "Fresh Air of Winter."

Dec 6 GEAG Xmas Party w/Friends

2006-12-22T18:28:00.000-08:00

"When I find myself fading,
I close my eyes and realize
my friends are my energy."
-- Anonymous

Our table was the most popular place to laugh at this year's GEAG Christmas party. We missed friend Barb Hasselhorst and pretended she was there by saving her a place setting and name tag...however, we ate her lil candy basket. There was a drawing for all 15 centerpieces and our tablemate, Paul Greiman, won ours.

Here's Helen Fritz and Paul chatting....

.....and if you noticed the video screen in the background - well, that bright idea of some GEAG member showcased the year's contest winners. It was a nice touch.

La Donna Sanson and Jane Reed (our art Q&A contest writer EXTRAORDINAIRE) posed for me. Steve Koritta is in the background. This guy plays great guitar and sings 60's like he was born back then. V-P of GEAG, Amy Pawlitschek, is turned to Steve, whom she suggested be our background entertainment. Steve's music made for a great evening. He even had a Christmas repertoire. Thanks, Steve! (I know Steve from working at the Allegra Printing, where I have my postcards printed - I was happy to recently introduce him to Libby Reuter, director of the Schmidt Art Center. Libby can use Steve's talents at the many Schmidt receptions. Good luck, Steve. Hope you get a gig at the next reception! Here's a photo of Steve playing his guitar, belting out "Like A Bridge Over Troubled Water"....you're a pro, Steve!

Betty Powers, my favorite 85-year-old artist and all-around fun person with a zest for life, smiled for the camera. Betty has agreed to do some sittings for me in 2007. I adore this woman. What spunk!

Then there's THIS crazy lady - she reallllly did get a WHITE ELEPHANT as her white elephant gift! Can you believe this woman is a nurse? Still, she's the happiest person I've ever known. Her face glows with happiness. She should bottle that look! We shall paint the town red in 2007! (and blue and green and orange and purple and yellow or whatever strikes our fancy!)

Last, but not least.....Michael Anderson posed for me at the next table - proudly displaying his "white elephant" surprise. Cute, Mike! Michael will have his opening reception as permanent member of the Gateway Gallery in Clayton, Mo. in February. Check out Michael's website at www.michaelandersonstudio.com

The Foundry Reception

2006-11-18T21:34:00.000-08:00

"As artists we are manifesting thought into reality every time we create." -- Cristina Acosta

I caught these two ladies viewing my work at Friday night's FOUNDRY WATERCOLOR SHOW reception.

The reception was a nice event with lots of people interested in the works. Great food layout and good wine. I did not win, but the exposure and just being accepted into the show was special for me. I plan to visit again and take more photos. Wonderful exhibit!

This is a shot taken just inside the front door.
The strings of lights hanging vertically at the right
faced the food layout and wine bar. Classy.

And this shot was taken inside Gallery I.
Isn't this a perfectly lovely space?

Fort Worth, Texas Exhibit 12/8-12/30/06

2006-11-17T09:47:00.000-08:00

"There's no scarcity of opportunity to make a living at what you love. There is only a scarcity of resolve to make it happen." -- Wayne Dyer

The following pieces are on display at the Fort Worth, Texas Community Arts Center. This is an unusual exhibit, as all works are on display sans mats and frames and must be 9x12 or less in size. I selected 5 pieces. Over 900 pieces were submitted last year from over 40 states. This is used as a fundraiser by the Center. All works are sold for $100, with 20% commission. Clever idea and a nice way for people to pickup some original art as reasonable price.

FRAMATIONS GALLERY in Old St. Charles

2006-10-08T20:08:00.000-07:00

"A hunch is creativity trying to tell you something." -- Frank Capra

FRAMATIONS GALLERY at 218 North Main Street in OLD ST. CHARLES, MISSOURI.

Ongoing exhibit of works by members of OAK LEAF ARTIST GUILD.

Gallery open 10am-6pm Tuesday thru Saturday and 12pm-5pm on Sundays. Closed Mondays. Phone 636 724 8313 or email them at Framations@earthlink.net. Fun gallery next to great restaurants and nightspots on North Main.

Thoughts to Ponder - October 3

2006-10-03T07:42:00.000-07:00

I saw this written as a click back comment on Painter's Keys (www.painterskeys.com):

"Anyone who does not make art but tries to explain art is like a man trying to describe childbirth. Scientists are always trying to figure out the goo that makes us work and forget the very thing it is that makes us run - it is what leaves us when we die - and they don't know what that is either, do they? Our spirit. Run as fast as you can Einstein--you'll never catch me I'm the gingerbread man. A scientist thinks about the chewing - an artist enjoys the tasting."

I'd love your comments on this quote, please (move your mouse over COMMENTS and click on the link to make your comments). Have a great day!

Watercolor below is
"BOUQUET"

Art On The Square Gallery, Belleville, Ill.

2006-09-30T17:37:00.000-07:00

"What I mean by 'abstract' is something which comes to life spontaneously through a gamut of contrasts, plastic at the same time as psychic, and pervades both the picture and the eye of the spectator with conceptions of new and unfamiliar elements..." -- Marc Chagall

This was a great place to have an exhibit!

DREAMCATCHER II
“I dreamed of summer fields and the wild things that grow there -- and put them on my brush and on to paper.”

FLEUR
“I dreamed in French - Ooh la la - a French fleur-de-lis for the holidays.”

CREATION
“Ohhh, how very inspiring and wonderous are the beginnings of life - flower to fauna!”

Madison County Arts Council Champagne Fundraiser

2006-09-27T20:31:00.000-07:00

"Do not copy nature too much. Art is an abstraction." -- Paul Gaugin

The Madison County Arts Council Champagne Fundraiser, Alton, Ill., was a success September 23. It was a wonderful evening with a full-capacity crowd. ....

Re-lighting of the JACOBY neon sign was cause for celebration! .....peek inside the gift shop, too.

The paintings below were among 51 pieces auctioned off to benefit the center. Both paintings sold well ....plus I was given an award for "DUSK" ----- I think the art council probably raised about $10,000.

DUSK
(at left)

WINTER'S HOPE
(below)

THE FOUNDRY WATERCOLOR SHOW, St. Charles

2006-09-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

"The abstraction is often the most definate form for the intangible thing in myself that I can clarify in paint." -- Georgia O'Keeffe

These works were accepted into THE FOUNDRY WATERCOLOR SHOW in St. Charles, Missouri from 11/22/06 thru 1/4/07.
Fancilful Fantasy

and Miami Memories.

ARTEast '06 EDWARDSVILLE, IL

2006-09-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

"Each has his past shut in him like the leaves of a book known to him by heart and his friends can only read the title." -- Virginia Woolf

If you've never attended ARTEast, you are in for a treat. Hundreds of artists display their work at numerous venues.

My work was exhibited at EDEN United Church of Christ.

The church is just north of RUSTY'S (a popular, well-known nightspot in Edwardsville).

Fifteen of my pieces were on display.

Professor Ann Losoft, Edwardsville, purchased "Mood Indigo." Seems appropriate, as she is a psychologist. Thanks, Ann.

Kiosk at THE FOUNDRY

2006-09-07T22:41:00.000-07:00

"There is no abstract art. You must always start with something. Afterwards you can remove all traces of reality. There's no danger then, anyway, because the idea of the object will have left an indelible mark." -- Pablo Picasso

The ST. LOUIS WATERCOLOR SOCIETY KIOSK (in St. Charles, Mo.) was set up 9/1. My works were on exhibit thru 12/1/06. THE FOUNDRY is a wonderful venue. Hope you can stop by for a visit.

I'm honored that my dear friend, Barbara Hasselhorst, purchased three of the poinsettia paintings.

THE FOUNDRY is a place to relax and enjoy ART. I love it. Be sure to stroll upstairs to view the artists at work in their studios. This is simply the best studio venue in metropolitan St. Louis.
I've included a closeups of TROPICALLY SPEAKING and FESTIVAL.

M.A.C. Gallery Exhibit

2006-07-06T22:14:00.000-07:00

"Abstract paintings with a few brush touches too many are just like the servings of mock orange tea with added sugar." -- Wayne Thiebaud

My October, 2006, Missouri Athletic Club Gallery exhibit is pictured above. I've included a panoramic of the lobby so that the location of gallery off the main hallway could be viewed. Great placement for members entering from the front door valet parking area.

Many thanks to Diane Schrage, my rep, for hanging the works while I "directed" placement. We were told that the exhibit was well-received.

Again....the best part of being accepted in the Missouri Athletic Club Gallery was the curator noting that she remembered my deceased father, who was a member of M.A.C. up until 6 years ago. I had a tear in my eye when she said she remembered my dad's regular visits. He would be sooooo incredibly proud of me to have this exhibit.

I also received an announcement of my work in the Cherry Diamond, M.A.C.'s monthly magazine. Two of my paintings were featured. To read the announcement in Cherry Diamond click on the image to enlarge in new window.

The Guild at The Shrine

2006-07-04T05:42:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased that GALILEE won 3rd place for "Best Use Of Creativity"...."Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask creative people how they did something, they feel a little guilty because they didn't really do it, they just saw something. It seemed obvious to them after a while." -- Steve Jobs

Other paintings in the show included Crucifixion and Peace

To view a larger image, point your mouse on image and click - larger image will open for viewing.

These paintings were featured among 130 other paintings at Gateway East Artist's Guild show in the Guild Center at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows July 23 thru August 27. Reception was 11am-4pm, Sunday, July 23. Closing ceremonies and awards took place at 3pm on Sunday, August 27.

Gateway Gallery in Clayton

2006-05-22T06:35:00.000-07:00

"Because watercolor actually moves on the paper, it is the most active of all mediums, almost a performance art." -- Nita Engle

The above works were on display and available at Gateway Gallery in Clayton, Missouri 5/19/06 thru 6/30/06.

Thank you so much to friends that came to the June 19 reception to see my works...especially Mr. and Mrs. Ed Cristal, Barbara Singer, Dottie Metroulas, Michael Anderson, Mr. and Mrs. John Flaughers, Helen Fritz, Barbara Hasselhorst, John ....and Diane Schrage, my truly awesome rep!.....

The evening of the reception was hotter than hades, but we found comfort sitting outside on a park bench.

Paintings included in the above display include: Dreaming Arizona, Crystals On Window, Pueblo CO, Fresh Air of Winter, Bursting With Color, LaVeryne, In The Forest, Spirited Away, Cottonwood, White Birch, Cherry, Aurora, Spring Tulips, The Dance, Storm, Discovery and Gathering Storm.

Works at Broadway Arts

2006-04-29T21:16:00.000-07:00

These works were on display at Broadway Center for the Arts in Belleville, Illinois, during the 2005 Belleville Art Walk (October, '05).

This was my very first public exhibit. So much has happened since I got my first taste of putting my work before the public. Thanks, Tom Hohn, for encouraging me to exhibit.

Clockwise:
"Mood Indigo" at top.
Sold

"Winter Coming"
Sold

"In the Country"
Sold

"Into The Woods" was purchased from the center by Patty Gregory, director of ART ON THE SQUARE, Belleville, during an art walk.

"Into The Woods"
Sold

"Every good painter paints what he is." - Jackson Pollock

Interesting notes on Pollock:

It was Jackson Pollock who blazed an astonishing trail for other Abstract Expressionist painters to follow. De Kooning said, ``He broke the ice'', an enigmatic phrase suggesting that Pollock showed what art could become with his 1947 drip paintings.

It has been suggested that Pollock was influenced by Native American sand paintings, made by trickling thin lines of colored sand onto a horizontal surface. It was not until 1947 that Pollock began his ``action'' paintings, influenced by Surrealist ideas of ``psychic automatism'' (direct expression of the unconscious). Pollock would fix his canvas to the floor and drip paint from a can using a variety of objects to manipulate the paint.

Dec, '05 Service Club Of St. Clair County

2006-04-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

I donated these paintings to the Service Club of St. Clair County (IL) to be auctioned off at their annual fundraiser (December, '05). ...
Jennifer Rashet purchased both pieces.

"In The Garden I"

"In The Garden II"

"Nobody sees a flower, really--it is so small we haven't time, and to see takes time." -Georgia O'Keefe

Among the great American artists of the 20th-century, Georgia O'Keeffe stands as one of the most compelling. For nearly a century, O'Keeffe's representations of the beauty of the American landscape were a brave counterpoint to the chaotic images embraced by the art world. Her cityscapes and still lifes filled the canvas with wild energy that gained her a following among the critics as well as the public. Though she has had many imitators, no one since has been able to paint with such intimacy and stark precision.

Barb's "Streetscape I"

2006-04-25T19:03:00.000-07:00

Barb Singer purchased this evocative European streetscape.

I like to think of this as a simple street scene in Italy - where I would LOVE to paint en plein air someday.

"Interpretation in art is the revenge of the intellect." -- Susan Sontag

Art On The Square Holiday Boutique

2006-04-25T09:56:00.000-07:00

Art On The Square's Holiday Unique Boutique is quite an experience. I love the location of the gallery, as it is RIGHT ON Belleville's famous "square" (that is a circle). The front door to the gallery is decorated in holiday fashion, as well as the fountain. A horse-drawn trolley stops right in front of the gallery (offers rides every 15 minutes). Only in historic Belleville!

"Vibrations" - was purchased by Belleville College District real estate developer Ronnie Phillips. "VERY BERRY" - was purchased by art patron Barb Singer. Barb also purchased "Mardi Gras.

"We have a choice: to plow new ground or let the weeds grow." -Jonathan Westover

"Winter Walk" & "Delight"

2006-04-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

"Winter Walk On The Farm" was inspired by walks I've taken around my sister's acreage in winter ......where the buffalo now roam (yes, buffalo...no, none when I painted this from memory).

"Delight From The Garden" is a reocurring theme for me. I have images of floral colors in my mind and feel a need to capture them with my paintbrush.

“I never decided at all to be an artist; being an artist seems to have happened to me.” -Anne Truitt

St. Louis Artists Guild

2006-04-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

The painting on right titled "SPRING STORM" was donated to the 2006 ST. LOUIS ARTIST GUILD COLLECTOR'S VI AUCTION.

225 $150 ticket holders had a chance to view the art in May and on June 4 chose which piece they desired - via lottery. I am proud to say that "SPRING STORM" was chosen 30th out of 225 paintings.

"CELEBRATE" - was placed on exhibit during the month of April by the ST. LOUIS ARTISTS GUILD in the ST. LOUIS COUNTY MAIN LIBRARY.

The piece has since been sold to my "patron of the arts," Barb Singer.

The future enters into us, in order to transform us, long before it happens. -Rainer Maria Rilk

April, '06 at St. Teresa's

2006-04-23T23:11:00.001-07:00

On the right is "WEATHERFRONT" - purchased by retired Lt. Colonel Chris Stuhldreher, Shiloh, IL. Chris was so thrilled with this painting that he discussed right then and there where he would hang it in his home. Image area: 8x10. Full dimensions: 11x14.

On the left is "BIRCH TREES II" - purchased by Mary Ellen Ache, Belleville, IL. I painted this in Tom Hohn's watercolor class at SWIC last fall. Image area: 8x10. Full dimensions: 11x14.

BELOW: The Whitemer family - Belleville, IL - purchased "FRENCH BOUTIQUE II" - Image area: 8x10. Full dimensions: 11x14. Their children also painted their own greeting cards. A nice family.

I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. -Laura Ingalls Wilder

"Field Of Discovery"

2006-04-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

This painting has an ethereal quality about it. FIELD OF DISCOVERY was auctioned off to benefit BELLEVILLE MAIN STREET in 2006.

The method of painting is the natural growth out of a need. I want to express my feelings rather than illustrate them. -Jackson Pollock

"Winter Woods"

2006-04-21T18:19:00.000-07:00

"Winter Woods" was inspired by fall foliage near my home.

I never know what I'm going to put on the canvas. The canvas paints itself. I'm just the middleman. - Peter Max

"French Boutique"

2006-04-21T06:15:00.000-07:00

I love the color in this painting! I'm pleased to know that it now hangs in the home of a couple in Glen Carbon, Illinois. My nephew, Scott, purchased the painting for them.

The artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place; from the sky, from the earth, from a scrap of paper, from a passing shape, from a spider’s web. -Pablo Picasso