Someone asked me why I paint so many clouds...so I'll try to explain.

In every landscape photograph I capture when I'm out in nature, the sky takes center stage, but it's not the plain, unbroken blue I look for with my lens. No, it's skies with clouds that tell the story, painting the canvas of the atmosphere with ever-changing shapes, shades and moods. Whether they're light wisps dancing across the sky, big white fluffies floating lazily by, or ominous storm clouds brewing on the horizon, each cloud carries a tale of its own.

For me, clouds are a reflection of life itself—a reminder of the ebb and flow of emotions and experiences. Just as the sky transforms from clear to cloudy, from stormy to serene, so too does life change and evolve. In moments of darkness and despair, when it feels like a storm will never pass, the sight of clouds reminds me that nothing lasts forever. Just as the storm clouds eventually disperse, so too will my troubles fade away, making room for brighter days ahead.

Even on the sunniest of days, when the sky is adorned with nothing but light, fluffy clouds, there's a mesmerizing beauty in their gentle movements and ever-shifting shapes. It's as if nature has laid out a captivating show just for me—one that requires no ticket or reservation. Watching the clouds drift lazily across the sky becomes my entertainment, a soothing balm for the soul that offers solace and tranquility in even the most trying times.

So, the next time you look up at the sky and see clouds painting patterns against the blue, remember that they're not just clouds; they're storytellers and reminders of the ever-changing nature of life. Embrace their beauty, find solace in their movement, and let them guide you through the storms, knowing that clearer skies lie ahead.  Someone said to me a long time ago, "this too shall pass".  And that's the way it is with clouds...they will dissipate, change, and recreate themselves, sometimes in just a matter of seconds.  To me, that's incredibly fascinating and powerful!

In my big skies series of art, clouds are not just elements of the sky; they're the soul of my paintings. They elevate the scene, infusing it with life, emotion, and meaning. So the next time you look at one of my sky paintings, take a moment to appreciate those clouds, and perhaps you'll discover a new depth and meaning to the world I've created.

In the rhythm of the waves and the whisper of the sea breeze lies a place where time slows down, and the world feels suspended in tranquility. Cape San Blas, Florida, a hidden gem nestled along the Gulf Coast, has long been cherished as a sanctuary for those seeking solace amidst nature's embrace. For me, it holds a special place in my heart, a haven of peace and serenity that inspired my latest painting, "Sea of Joy."

Venturing back in time a decade, Cape San Blas was a well-kept secret, a secluded paradise where the pristine beaches stretched endlessly, and the salty air was tinged with a sense of serenity. It was a place where you could stroll along the shore and feel as though you were the sole inhabitant of this coastal haven. The tranquility was palpable, enveloping visitors in a sense of solitude that was as rare as it was precious.

However, as the world grappled with the challenges of the pandemic, the tranquil shores of Cape San Blas were suddenly discovered by a wider audience. What was once a hidden gem soon became a more bustling destination, with tourists seeking respite from the chaos of the world. While the influx of visitors brought changes to the landscape, transforming it from a secluded paradise to a popular tourist spot, the essence of Cape San Blas remains unchanged beneath the surface.

Today, Cape San Blas may no longer be quite the quiet refuge it once was when I was, at many times, seemingly the only human on its shores.  But its beauty endures, undiminished by the passage of time or the crowds.  Unlike typical tourist destinations, Cape San Blas remains refreshingly devoid of high rises and hotels, preserving its natural charm and allure. Instead, visitors are welcomed by a community of beautiful beach houses and condos, offering a cozy retreat amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Gulf Coast.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, Cape San Blas serves as a reminder of the simple pleasures found in the beauty of the sea and the tranquility of nature. It's a place where you can savor the small joys of life, from leisurely walks along the shoreline to quiet moments of reflection as you watch the sun dip below the horizon.

As I reflect upon my time spent in this idyllic coastal paradise, I'm filled with gratitude for the memories it's bestowed upon me. With each stroke of pastel, I sought to capture the essence of the beautiful sea at The Cape, to share with others the beauty, peace, and serenity which have touched my soul.

"Sea of Joy" is more than just a painting; it's a tribute to a place holding a special part of my heart, a reminder of the tranquility and beauty that await those who venture to this magnificent ocean paradise. May it serve as an invitation to discover the magic of this coastal town, and to cherish the moments of joy and serenity found within its embrace.

Cape San Blas, situated along the Gulf Coast of Florida, boasts a storied past that stretches back centuries. Before European exploration, the region was inhabited by indigenous peoples such as the Apalachee and the Timucua, who thrived through fishing, hunting, and agriculture. Spanish explorers, including Pánfilo de Narváez and Hernando de Soto, ventured along the Gulf Coast in the 16th century but significant colonization did not occur until Florida was acquired by the United States from Spain in 1821. Despite this acquisition, Cape San Blas remained relatively isolated due to its remote location and lack of infrastructure.

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Florida changed hands between the British and Spanish several times, with Cape San Blas largely untouched by European settlement. During the Civil War, the area played a role in blockade running operations, benefiting from its secluded beaches that provided refuge for blockade runners seeking to evade Union naval patrols.

A significant milestone in Cape San Blas's history came with the construction of a lighthouse in 1849, aimed at aiding maritime navigation along the Gulf Coast. Although the original lighthouse was destroyed by a hurricane in 1851, it was rebuilt, and the current Cape San Blas Lighthouse, constructed in 1885, stands as a testament to the area's maritime heritage.  After being decommissioned in 1996, due to the erosion of the coastline threatening its stability, the original Cape San Blas Lighthouse was deconstructed and moved to Port St. Joe, Florida.  It was restored and reassembled there as a historic landmark and tourist attraction. This relocation helped to preserve the lighthouse and its historical significance for future generations to appreciate.

Throughout the 20th century, Cape San Blas experienced gradual development as interest grew among tourists and vacationers. However, the region maintained its natural charm and pristine beauty, distinguishing it from other coastal destinations in Florida. In recent decades, Cape San Blas has become increasingly popular as a tourist destination, attracting visitors with its unspoiled beaches, abundant wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Despite the influx of visitors, efforts have been made to preserve the ecological integrity and unique character of Cape San Blas, ensuring that it remains a tranquil retreat amidst the beauty of Florida's Gulf Coast. Today, Cape San Blas serves as a reminder of the region's rich history and cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while inviting them to explore its natural wonders.  It's a beautiful place to visit and enjoy being seaside, but I guarantee you, you won't ever want to go back home! :) 

Just a quick update, all of my available paintings can now be found in my gallery at Daily Paintworks.  You'll notice a "subscribe" button when you visit my gallery there.  If you click that, you can subscribe to my "art alerts", which is basically just a short email when I release new paintings.  I encourage you to subscribe!  You can also subscribe to my regular newsletter by clicking the subscribe button in the top menu on this website.  This email is sent once a month with updates as well as event announcements.

​In this blog post, I've tried to capture the emotional turmoil of being an artist whose work goes unsupported by family and friends, while also offering perspective and encouragement for my fellow artists navigating this challenging journey. 

​As an artist, I feel one of the most challenging aspects of pursuing our passion is facing the lack of support from those closest to us. It's a peculiar phenomenon: family and friends proudly proclaim your artistic endeavors to others, yet when it comes to actively supporting your work, they seem indifferent or even dismissive.

It's a sting that cuts deep. We pour our heart and soul into our creations, hoping for validation and encouragement from those we love. Yet, time and again, we're met with silence or a mere nod of acknowledgment.

It's not just about the monetary support, although that certainly plays a part for many of us. It's about feeling seen and valued for our talent and dedication. It's about having our loved ones believe in our dreams as much as we do.

So, why does it hurt so much when family and friends don't support our art?

When our closest circle fails to acknowledge our art, it can feel like a rejection of our identity and passion. We crave validation for our creative endeavors, and their indifference leaves us questioning our worth as artists.

Creating art is a deeply personal process. Each piece carries a piece of our soul, making it feel like an extension of ourselves. When our art is ignored by those we care about, it's akin to having a part of ourselves dismissed or overlooked.

As humans, we crave connection and support from our social circles. When that support is lacking in something as significant as our artistic pursuits, it can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

While the emotional aspect is paramount, the financial implications of lack of support can't be ignored. For many artists, selling our work is not just about making money but also about sustaining our livelihood and continuing our creative journey.

The most perplexing aspect of this phenomenon is the realization that our art might only be valued once we're no longer around. It's a bitter pill to swallow, knowing that our creations may only gain recognition and significance in the aftermath of our absence.

But why wait until then? Why can't our art be cherished and celebrated by those closest to us now, while we're here to experience it?

It's truly disheartening when, despite our efforts to communicate our needs and desires, our family and friends still fail to support our art. It's understandable that this repeated lack of acknowledgment can lead to frustration and feelings of isolation.

In such situations, it's essential we recognize our family and friends may have their reasons for not engaging with our art, even if they understand its importance to us. These reasons could range from personal preferences to financial constraints or simply a lack of understanding of the value of art in general.

While it's natural to feel hurt by their lack of support, it's crucial not to let it overshadow our passion for creating! Remember that our worth as an artist is not contingent upon the validation of others. Our art has inherent value, regardless of who does or doesn't recognize it.

In navigating this, it's helpful to seek support and validation from other sources, such as fellow artists, art communities, or online platforms. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who appreciate and understand the significance of our art can provide the encouragement and validation we need to continue pursuing our passion.

We don't necessarily have to cut ties completely with those who don't support us, but it's okay to prioritize relationships with individuals who appreciate and value our art. This might mean spending less time with those who don't support us or seeking out new connections within the artistic community who understand the importance of mutual support and encouragement.

Remember, we deserve to be surrounded by people who celebrate our passion and lift us up, and it's okay to distance ourselves from those who don't fulfill that role in our life. Our art is worth celebrating, and we deserve to be surrounded by people who recognize and appreciate its significance.
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Additionally, we can reframe our perspective on why we create art. While it's natural to desire recognition and support from loved ones, ultimately, our art is an expression of ourselves and our unique vision.  Those of us in this situation should focus on creating for the joy and fulfillment it brings us, rather than seeking external validation.

​At the end of the day, while it's disheartening to feel unsupported by those closest to us, it's essential to remember that our passion, creativity, and dedication are intrinsic to who we are, regardless of who does or doesn't recognize it.

And who knows? With time and persistence, perhaps our family and friends will come to see the beauty and value in our art, just as we do. Until then, we should all continue to create for ourselves, for our love of art, and for the joy it brings us!

After all, our art is not just a reflection of us—it's a testament to our resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to our craft.

So, keep creating. Keep dreaming. And remember, OUR ART MATTERS, whether those closest to us see it now or not!

​For many years I honed my skills as an artist photographing & painting wildlife and my attention to detail during this time developed my personal techniques. However, despite my skills in artistic realism, I began to enjoy working in a much freer, semi-abstract style with the big skies. I believe this approach allows me to capture the essence of a place in a way a photorealistic representation can't. I still love birds and animals and without all that previous work I'd not be painting how I do now.  I don't work from references for my scenes, other than maybe a quick glance at a photo before I begin... I prefer to paint these intuitively. My inspiration is from the many wide open spaces I've explored over my lifetime. It feels much more natural to me now as an artist to paint skyscapes and land in the style I do, although at times I have an internal struggle to go back to old ways of painting every detail, but that's just habit I guess.  It's hard not to place a bird or animal in these scenes, but I hold back, as I want the viewer to visualize what they may wish to see in a scene, as well as just feel whatever mood the scene makes them feel without distractions.  

All that being said, I have a large painting on the horizon I'll be doing soon, and for this one, I'll be painting my favorite bird as a portrait in the foreground, with a little sky behind her.  Ollie has a specific marking – a heart on a feather – and I recently acquired this picture of her which shows the heart in all its glory.  I felt it fitting if I were going to work on a bird in pastel, it be this bird, with her specific marking.  Of course I'll have to work in more detail again to accomplish this, but she has given me so much joy over the last nine years, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate it!  It will be a large painting, to go in a huge frame I "rescued" recently.  Because of the size, and because of the amount of work this one will entail – and because this is "my bird" -- the original will probably be priced far out of range for most people.  But that's ok, as there will be prints available for those who may enjoy her painting.  Stay tuned, if all goes well and I get the painting completed in time, it will be revealed at an event I'll be attending in May. :) 

I had something really thoughtful written up about this topic, but I decided to trash it and kind of say this through photos....

So here's how I feel about it.  I do think gift cards have a place.  For example, if you know someone really wants something from a place, and they need to pick it out themselves for some reason, such as picking the right clothing or shoe size, then yeah, a gift card would work.  If you've been chosen to give a gift to a coworker and you have no clue what that person would like, then yes, a gift card might be a good choice.  If you want to give someone a dinner out "on you", then yes,  a gift card works.  What would be better, however, is to consider actually inviting them out, and personally taking them out to dinner or lunch.  Just my opinion!

As for the gift cards I've received, which seem to be growing by leaps and bounds with every "gift giving time", I honestly can't remember them.  After use, they end up in the trash, and they are promptly forgotten. 

The original art I've received and/or purchased as gifts for myself, however, stays put.  I have a visual reminder of these gifts all the time!  They are all special -- they MEAN SOMETHING more personal.  They go way above and beyond a gift card to Walmart or Pizza Hut.  

So how do you pick original art for someone? 

Number one, you cannot go wrong with a landscape or beautiful scene.  Everyone appreciates a lovely scene, whether it be a water or river scene, mountains, skies and clouds, beach scenes, etc. 

Number two, think of their favorite things...is it birds, wildlife?  Do they love cats?  Dogs?  How about flowers?  Do they garden?  Are they into cool old cars?  Race cars?  Do they like things to do with outer space?   What are their hobbies?  Perhaps pick an original work of art which coincides with their favorite hobby!  Do they prefer abstract?  Do they have a favorite color?  Do they collect certain things around a certain theme?  Do they have a special place they love?  Asking yourself those questions can help with picking out art for a gift.

Number three, think of your budget.  If you were going to give someone a gift card for $50, $100, $500, etc, you can literally find great original art in ALL PRICE RANGES.  For example, Daily Paintworks, a website I offer my work on, has a huge range of prices as well as a wide range of art selections.  Not only that, but they have auctions running all the time for original art, and the prices range from small to large. 

While gift cards serve some purpose in today's world, the gift of original artwork stands as a testament to the thoughtfulness, creativity, and enduring nature of true generosity. In choosing original art over plastic gift cards which will eventually end up in the trash, you can actually turn the act of giving into an art form, creating a lasting legacy of beauty, emotion, and connection.  If you want that, of course.  Just something to think about!

​There are several reasons why people choose to buy original art rather than reproductions or mass-produced pieces. Here are some of the key considerations:

Unique and Authentic:
Original art is one-of-a-kind, created by the artist's hands and imagination. Each piece has its own authenticity and uniqueness, making it a distinct expression of the artist's vision. Owning an original artwork means having something that no one else has.

Investment:
Original art has the potential to appreciate in value over time, especially if the artist gains recognition or popularity. Some collectors buy art as an investment, hoping that the value of the artwork will increase over the years.

Supporting Artists:
Purchasing original art directly supports artists and their livelihoods. Artists often rely on the sales of their original works to sustain their creative practices and continue producing art. Buying original art is a way to contribute to the arts community.

Emotional Connection:
Many art buyers feel a deep emotional connection to the pieces they choose. Original art can evoke strong emotions, whether it be joy, contemplation, or a sense of connection to the artist's message. This personal connection enhances the overall experience of owning and appreciating art.

Quality and Craftsmanship:
Original artworks often showcase the artist's skill, creativity, and dedication to their craft. The texture, brushstrokes, and other unique elements of an original piece contribute to its overall quality, providing a tangible and authentic aesthetic experience.

Story and Context:
Original art comes with a story – the story of the artist's inspiration, creative process, and the context in which the artwork was created. This narrative adds depth and meaning to the artwork, enriching the overall experience for the collector.

Exclusivity:
Original art is exclusive by nature. Unlike mass-produced prints or reproductions, there is a limited number of original pieces created by an artist. This exclusivity can add value and prestige to the artwork.

Personalization:
Original art allows for a more personalized and curated living or working space. Collectors can choose pieces that resonate with their individual tastes, preferences, and the overall aesthetic they want to create in their environment.

While original art may come with a higher price tag compared to prints or reproductions, many art enthusiasts find the investment to be worthwhile for the intrinsic and lasting value it provides.

There are several reasons why individuals might choose to buy prints instead of original art:

Cost:
One of the primary factors is the cost. Original artworks, especially those created by well-established or renowned artists, can be quite expensive. Prints offer a more affordable option for individuals who appreciate the artwork but have budget constraints.

Accessibility:
Original pieces of art are often limited in number and may be owned by private collectors or institutions, making them less accessible to the general public. Prints, on the other hand, can be produced in larger quantities, allowing more people to enjoy and own a copy of the artwork.

Variety:
Prints provide the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of artworks from different artists. While original pieces are unique and often one-of-a-kind, prints allow for the mass reproduction of an image, making it available to a broader audience.

Decorative Purposes:
Prints can be chosen based on their aesthetic appeal and how well they complement a particular space. People may opt for prints to match their home or office decor without the expense and commitment associated with acquiring an original piece.

Gifts:
Prints can make great gifts, especially when someone appreciates a particular artist or style. They offer a thoughtful and affordable way to share art with others.

Practicality:
Original artworks, particularly large or fragile pieces, may require special handling, climate control, and maintenance. Prints are often more practical for those who want to avoid the logistical challenges and costs associated with caring for valuable originals.

Investment:
​While original artworks can appreciate in value over time, prints are generally not seen as investment pieces in the same way. However, for those who enjoy art but aren't necessarily looking for a financial return, prints can still be a valuable addition to a collection.

Ultimately, the decision to buy prints or original art depends on personal preferences, budget considerations, and the individual's relationship with art and its cultural or sentimental significance.

My 30 day painting challenge series has started today!  Yesterday I completed painting the 30 frames for these 5"x5" pastel big sky paintings.  That was a project in itself!  The frames are all handmade, custom, to the size I needed.  They come in as raw wood, with a few imperfections here and there, which is wonderful as each one is unique.  I painted them all in my signature paint color, and then gold leafed a trim area around the center with 18K gold leaf.  All of the art in this series will now have a consistent look thanks to the frames!

I have to admit I haven't cut ALL the pastel paper yet for the series, but I've cut about 10 so I decided to get started with painting 1 in the series.  Each frame has glass to protect the delicate pastel.  Despite the fact these are a bit smaller than the pieces I've been doing lately, it took about the same amount of time to paint one.  Miniatures aren't as easy as people think!  The detail is much more difficult to achieve, requiring the use of a smaller blending tool than I normally use.   

After finishing, the painting is sprayed with a fixative {3 times!} to protect the pastel dust a bit from coming off.  Then the painting is placed behind the glass in the frame, and the backing is applied and hook for hanging.  So the paintings in this series are ready to hang on the wall right when the buyer receives them!

The only thing which hasn't come in yet is my custom sticker for the back, where the name of the painting, date and my signature will be applied.  But they'll be here Monday!  Yay!

All of these are being listed for sale immediately upon completion.  See this page on my website to watch The Dance Above series develop and click on the paintings you wish to purchase.  You'll be taken to a special category in my online store to complete the purchase.  And be sure to sign up for my mailing list to be notified of everything! 

Thanks for following my work - I hope you will enjoy this 30 days of Big Skies in miniature!

Have you ever felt that overwhelming desire for freedom? The kind that has you dreaming of open spaces, a place in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life?

Well, that's been my constant yearning, especially after a whirlwind of health issues from my alpha gal allergy in 2019, followed by a pandemic quarantine,  and then a life-saving surgery in 2022 which left me recovering at home for several months. All of that left me grasping for a sense of liberation, a yearning that found its voice in an unexpected medium - soft pastel paintings of big skies.

I call this body of work simply the "Big Skies" series, and it's more than just strokes of pastel on paper; it's my way of escaping the noise, the constant chatter of city life, the continuing battle of interruptions of a peaceful moment. Living in a city neighborhood with friendly faces doesn't always translate to tranquility, and the absence of peace here sent me on a quest for a dream studio, tucked away in nature. Sounds idyllic, right? Unfortunately, practicalities make it a distant dream for now.

Sharing a living space with two others means quiet is a rare commodity even in my own space. Conversations, TV chatter, and the everyday hum of a household create a constant background noise which can be suffocating. Even my go-to wildlife photography retreats in local parks lost their serenity, swallowed by a growing tide of noise and activity.

And that's where the Big Skies series comes in. Each stroke of pastel is my way of breathing in fresh air, of looking beyond the confines of my immediate surroundings. The paintings, characterized by expansive skies and minimal horizons, embody my desire to escape, to be somewhere else – UP THERE.

In a world where finding peace means a long drive  to the few remaining quiet spots, looking up at the sky became my readily available escape. The canvas became a sanctuary, a reminder that, even in the midst of chaos, the sky remains untouched, its hues ever-changing and its expanse limitless.
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The Big Skies series of work is a peek into my personal pursuit of freedom, a journey reflected in strokes of pastel which go beyond the paper. It's a personal exploration, a reminder that we all yearn for a moment of respite, and sometimes, all it takes is a gaze at the vastness above.

As I prepare to dive into the creation of "The Dance Above: 30 Days of Big Skies in Miniature," I wanted to offer you a glimpse into the understated artistry involved in crafting the custom handmade frames for each piece.

Selecting wood for the frames is a deliberate process, ensuring it complements the essence of the paintings within. The brushwork in my signature paint color on the frames mirrors the energy of the clouds, providing a subtle backdrop for the main attraction.

Adding an 18K gold leaf trim is the defining touch. Applied by hand as well, it brings a touch of sophistication to the frames, creating a connection between earthly elegance and celestial allure.

Because these are soft pastels, each pastel will be framed behind glass in these frames, and each frame will be professionally finished on the back. This attention to detail ensures that this original art will be top-notch from front to back.

These frames, in their own right, play a role in the series narrative. They serve as a prologue, hinting at the luminescent spectacle within. The gold leaf, while not extravagant, pays homage to the timeless connection between art and luxury.

As I engage in this dual artistry—painting the frames and the skies—I invite you to observe this behind-the-scenes process. Together, let's appreciate the craftsmanship that enriches every aspect of The Dance Above, where even the frames become integral to the miniature masterpieces.

Stay tuned for updates as I approach the grand reveal of  The Dance Above: 30 Days of Big Skies in Miniature.  Don't want to miss it?  Click the button below to subscribe to my mailing list and watch this journey unfold!