Pins & Needles

6"x6"

Oil on linen panel

This little tomato pin cushion belonged to my Mom and was a common sight in our household. She did a lot more sewing than I did (or do), but it comes in handy when a button comes loose.  As usual, when I am painting something with sentimental value, it soothes my soul.

Diamond Star

Oil on gesso board

6" x 6"

This "diamond" pin was given to me by my oldest son, Travis, when he was about eight.   I get good vibes when I look at it, and I especially enjoyed painting it.  Having my objects sitting on a mirror was a bit challenging, but it was an interesting process.  It's all about learning!!

Prosperity & Wisdom

6"x6"

Oil on linen panel

My mother was a big Avon fan, and we could always count on a piece or two being included in our Christmas package.  I call these guys Prosperity & Wisdom.  They have sat in my window for a number of years, and recently they decided it was their turn to be painted.

The Little Kids

22"x28"

Oil on canvas

This is a painting I did awhile back of my sister, Diane (on the right), and me.  I call it "The Little Kids" because that's what our four older brothers called us.  Every time I look at one of my paintings, I see several things I would/should have done differently.  Gotta stop that and move on (I tell myself)!  Below is the reference photo from eons ago!  Colorizing it was an interesting process.  My mother commonly dressed me in blue and Diane in pink.  Not sure why, since Diane was far more the tomboy.

Nana's Vase Lady

8"x16"

Oil on panel

I call this "Nana's Vase Lady" because she belonged to my grandmother and was passed to me by my mother.  I also thought of calling her "The Old and the New" because I use her to hold these shiny new cooking implements.  She is a vintage piece herself (actually a pitcher) and is known on the vintage sites as a Bo Peep milk pitcher.  She was fun to paint, but I struggled (as always) getting the silver right.  I will keep challenging myself because I am kind of a glutton for punishment in that regard.

Shan's Kitty

oil on linen canvas panel

6"x6"

This little kitty had been abandoned and was rescued by my niece, Shannon, and her guy, Tay.  Without a Mama around, it took awhile for him to get used to using the kitty litter box.   Joe and I cat-sat for them in the beginning and got to help with that experience.  Good thing he's so darn cute! 

Artsy Gecko

 6" x 6"

oil on linen panel

​To continue on my gecko kick, I found this little guy in Bisbee, AZ.  He looked up at me and pleaded with his steely eyes, "Take me home!"  So I did.  He didn't ask me to paint him, but I'm thinking that he probably has enjoyed the extra attention.  Getting the shadow right was a bit of an issue, but once I got him to hold still, it worked out okay.