"Mrs. Talkie"

Commissioned paintings are always a challenge. I worry over trying to capture the vision inside of my client's mind. However, I always come full circle to the fact that a commissioned work rests on the artist's interpretation of the subject. When I was asked to paint a pet hen turkey, I moved away from strict realism and to having fun with color. Mrs. Talkie has a flamboyant, chatty nature, and I decided to paint the "inner turkey". Her owner was pleased with the results!

"Abby Bell"

This past year, a good friend asked me to paint a portrait of her favorite horse. Commission pieces are always a bit nerve racking, as one hopes to come close to capturing the vision in your client's mind. However, I do love horses, and this painting turned out to be an enjoyable experience. Abbey Bell's owner enthusiastically said I had nailed her personality...no greater compliment to me!

Bald Eagles in the Columbia Gorge

January brings frigid temperatures to our region, but it also brings the winter migration of bald eagles to the Columbia River. This particular eagle was fishing in the vicinity of The Dalles Dam. My husband, Dale, photographed it late in the day, the low sun back lighting the wings and body. In the resulting watercolor, my aim was to portray the strength and grace of these amazing raptors.

More Horses

This watercolor is called "Raising the Colors". It is a slice of life from our Fort Dalles Rodeo, a high point of The Dalles summertime experience. These gals and their steeds begged to be painted!

A Soft Spot in my Heart for Horses

Growing up on a farm allowed me to experience the companionship of horses. Although I longer have the pleasure of a horse in my daily life, but I will always have an abiding love for them. It is a joy to paint an equine subject, and really study their beautiful form. This painting is titled "Good Company".

Finished Painting

I'm glad to have completed this watercolor before December 25th. It's my visual Christmas card to everyone. All that's left is the title. I'm thinking "New Snow" or "Cascade Mountain Deer". Let me know which one you like.

Merry Christmas to All!

Painting the Deer

Yikes...these deer have been a challenge to paint, especially the foreshortened face of the doe. I usually don't focus on one area of the painting, but move around to develop several areas. In the case of animals, if their image doesn't start out right, why continue? (That's when I flip the botched watercolor over, and use the fresh, unused side of the paper. No waste, and another chance to bring my depiction to light.)

Every painting I start is like completing a puzzle. Each one has unique demands to solve. I'll post more on this winter scene as I make progress.