August 2019: Challenge: "What's On My Mind"

This month, as a summer present to our group (in gratitude for 10 lovely years together) our topic is WHATEVER we are thinking about, or painting.  

"Distance", 20x10 inch, Acrylic by Kelley MacDonald

I am thinking about visual distance, how things get bluer in the distance... and also physical distance... of loved ones, of places we love... in which the blues are really 'blues'.

"Winnie" Acrylic and Oil on panel by Sally Dean

Our sweet and ferocious girl Winnie passed on August 9, at 13 1/2. She was such a wonderful companion, and we miss her so much. She is on my mind all the time. I've entered this into the Trekell Art Supplies pet portrait competition, they sent me this interesting hexagonal panel for pet portraits. Winner gets $1000 in art supplies. Man could I use that!

'Vacationland" work in progress, gouache by Jeanne MacFarland.  Maine is on my mind as it's home to 3 precious grandchildren of mine. 

"Just Too Much" (WIP) 14"x14" Acrylic by Paula Villanova

The world is in such a tough place right now. Gun violence, injustice, potential environmental catastrophes, outward disrespect, I could go on. Somedays it just feels like too much. But I know we can fix things.

"Last Light" by Jody Regan.  Ink on gouache.  I feel the days getting shorter; school has begun, and my time is less my own.  I am trying to remember to find time each day to revel in the beauty of our world and to level myself to contribute, even in a small way, to appeasing the tumult we find ourselves in today. 

Abundance and Gratitude
This summer has been a little bit of heaven on earth for me. My daughter, and her family, and my son have come home. It has brought incredible joy into my heart. I find my self overwhelmed with gratitude for this new everyday life.
When I painted this overflowing vase of zinnias, I counted my blessings as I counted the fleurs in this bouquet.
Watercolor ~ Pamela Copeman

"Lavender Farm" 9"X12" Oil by Margaret Farrell Bruno

Summers seem to go so fast. This was a Plein air from what seems so long ago, but was the near the beginning of summer. A grayish day at a Lavender Farm down the Cape. But all was still beautiful and fun. Of course the scents were amazing. 

"Lift Off" 5"X7" Acrylic by Victoria Chesley Brega

Gratefully launching off to my own little place after the lengthy business of settling my folks estate...

"Ferris Wheel' 12x12 oil on panel by Mary Sheehan Winn

Summer in New England is, sadly, a very short season.
It seems to go from lilacs to 4th of July, to August's end, the Marshfield Fair.
I love the sparkle of lights against the dark sky.