Linda Wilder Creative Expressions

Field of Daises

2012-02-15T15:58:00.000-08:00

acrylic 16 x 20 inches

I am submitting a few painting to the Federation Of Canadian Artists ( Calgary Chapter), and one of the paintings had to be in keeping with the "Spring" theme. I have painted similar daisies before and found them to be quite challenging...they still are. I tried to keep the texture and define the petals and stems without becoming too tight and detailed

Hmmm, which to choose?

2012-02-14T14:46:00.000-08:00

acrylic, 11 x 14 inches,

I pass this scene often on my way to Leighton Centre.It's off of 266 ave when the snow is melting on the side of the road. I am only allowed to submit 3 paintings for the Juried Members Show ( all of which may or may not be accepted). I have already decided on 2 but can't decide between this one and the following.

acrylic 18 x24 inches

This is Barbara Leighton's parrot, Rojo. I thought I'd try something a little different and I'm not too sure it works, but maybe it's because I'm not used to it. It has a lot of texture from tissue paper and gel. The challenge was to tone down the green in the bird and to give a mystical mood. ( originally I had a photo transfer of Barbara's ghost like face coming through the bird cage but it was way too creepy, lol.

Anyway, I'm already submitting 2 landscapes so I'm leaning towards Rojo. What do you think?

Winter Gold

2012-02-02T13:25:00.000-08:00

acrylic 20 x 20

Just a few details to finish...but I'm really liking the feel of this one. I think I have captured the light quite well.

Grotto canyon Trail

2012-02-01T16:25:00.000-08:00

acrylic, 20 x 20 inches.

I'm back in the studio after a family trip to Edmonton and coming back with a cold, which I nursed for 3 days. I still have a nasty cough, but the paints beckon..I have deadlines and commitments to meet. As well as my gallery, FCA, and Leighton Centre, I have also have set a goal for myself of 10 paintings a month.Not such a hard task now, but it will be when I start my larger canvases.

This painting is referenced from the Grotto Canyon Trail near Canmore Alberta.

Chill By The Creek

2012-01-25T13:21:00.000-08:00

Acrylic 20 x 30,
This one still needs some work, but I like to see what it look like when I load it on the computer. Somehow , many of the mistakes seem to jump right out this way...and I see a few I need to fix. Again this one is turning out quite different from what I had imagined. This was referenced from Policeman's Creek in Canmore.

Leighton From The Side

2012-01-24T15:26:00.000-08:00

acrylic 16 x 20,

Another version of Leighton Art Centre. Not sure I'm quite done with this one. It didn't turn out exactly as I had envisioned or planned to paint it. Funny how that works sometimes...you just have to go with the flow and see where it leads you. Many happy accidents and pleasant surprises happen this way. It didn't photograph very well, though, it does look much better in real life.

Behind Leighton Centre

2012-01-19T14:40:00.000-08:00

acrylic, 36 x 24

This is one of my entries into the Leighton Centre Juried Members Show. Before the deep freeze hit us , I took advantage of some mild weather to take some photos out at the Centre. I wasn't quite sure how to approach this painting so I decided to paint over an old canvas first...my drawing was going to off a little,as the trees were all in different positions. I'm pleasantly surprised with the outcome and may not need to do another one. Below is my original photo, adjusted photo and the old canvas.

On The Prowl

2012-01-15T19:37:00.000-08:00

acrylic, 36 x 24
The last of my bears for while ...I think. More landscapes and paintings for the Leighton Center Members show. ( I'm working on some different concepts and techniques...should be fun ). It's a relief I don't have to worry about Stampede this year, as I didn't apply...much to busy to worry about that show.

The Companion

2012-01-14T20:44:00.000-08:00

acrylic 20 x 16

I haven't painted a street/urban scene in well over two years! It was extremely difficult for me to start this painting. A friend of mine bought one of my paintings a long time ago and asked for a 'companion' piece to go with it. At the time, I was doing landscapes and was just starting my relationship with Mountain Galleries, so I kept putting it off. Months went by, and he gently reminded me about his 'companion'. I still put it off, as I was so busy and not painting like that anymore. I promised him I would do it in the summer, then the fall, before Christmas and then the new year. Poor guy, lol.

It got to the point I was afraid to paint it as I wasn't sure how much my style had changed. I have worked hard trying to loosen up and didn't want to go back and be so tight. But I actually had fun painting this...it's a lot warmer than the first painting and I like that. I really hope he likes it...'cause it may be a long time before I do another.

Just Chill'n

2012-01-11T14:01:00.000-08:00

acrylic, 24 x 36

I'm really enjoying the challenge of these polar bears and the colors in the white of the fur. I'm not a big fan of animals in captivity, but if it wasn't for zoo's I'd probably never get to experience of these majestic animals. Two more polar bears to come, and on to more landscapes.

The Stalker

2012-01-10T13:15:00.000-08:00

A couple of more black bears. The top one 'The Salker' is 36 x 36 and the as of yet unnamed bottom one id 11 x14 inches. Polar Bears next!

Pretty Boy

2012-01-09T12:25:00.000-08:00

acrylic, 36 x 36 inches

"Pretty boy"

Look how nicely he posed for me.I had a request for larger bears and I'm happy to oblige ..more to come.

'Catching Up' acrylic 12 x 24
I started this one awhile ago but was never happy with it. I like the concept but I'm just not sure it works. Maybe because it's a little different from my other bears. I also think I have too much background...I would have liked a narrower canvas. So....I may do this one over.

Tangled Inspiration

2012-01-05T12:41:00.000-08:00

Acrylic, 36 x 18 inches ,

Originally this painting was referenced by Tangled Falls in Jasper National Park...I kinda got carried away; hence the title. Inspired by the Falls and a little tangled at the bottom.

First paintings of 2012

2012-01-03T15:52:00.000-08:00

My first two paintings of 2012! Both are acrylic 18 x 36 inches.

I really like this size and vertical format. I have a few more canvases this size and I can't wait to finish them.

It's nice to get back in my studio , although it was nice to visit with family and friends over the holidays. I wish everyone a wonderful New Year with lots of inspiration and creativity! Cheers!

My Secret Place

2011-12-18T15:02:00.000-08:00

Acrylic 12 x 24,
One more landscape to complete and two more bear paintings to finish up...hopefully by tomorrow, and then I'm taking a Christmas break. I haven't seen any sunlight for three days!

More Bears

2011-12-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

Two more bears. 'Into The Polar Sun' 24 x 24 inches, and 'A Bearly Walk', 12 x 16 inches. I'm having so much fun with these bears. I find them very relaxing. During the first stages, I get back to my sculptural roots by carving and scraping into the heavy gel with my trusty palette knife. Once they are dry I begin the painting portion with many glazing and veil layers to bring out all the textures.

Bear Strut

2011-12-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

acrylic 16 x 12 inches

I'm finding the black bears a lot easier and fun to do! And they are so darn cute!

Icy Glare

2011-12-14T16:15:00.000-08:00

acrylic 24 x24 inches ,
I was working on a couple of bear paintings...this one is the most successful , the other needs work...a lot of it ( bad from the get go). Trying to get a bunch of paintings ready to ship off by the 20th.

beautiful British Columbia

2011-12-12T14:27:00.000-08:00

I'm working on a bunch of small canvases for the Mountain Galleries in Whistler. Not only do they have a gallery at the Fairmont Chateau in the upper village...they are now opening another gallery in the lower Village (3400 sq ft).It's so exciting, but I have very few pieces in Whistler. So, I'm now concentrating on BC scenes.

Opabin Plateau

2011-12-08T13:45:00.000-08:00

acrylic 16 x 20
This is a commissioned piece I did for Mountain Galleries...I hope the clients like it. Commissions scare me...it's always someone elses vision and not your own, so at times it's hard to have the same passion. I'm so incredibly busy right now, trying to replenish my stock for the gallery, and get ready for Christmas. I really thought I'd have a lot of down time at the moment and be able to relax...but *sigh* it's not to be.

Studio View

2011-12-04T15:55:00.000-08:00

acrylic 11 x14 ( mostly palette knife).
I wish this was my studio view, but this painting is referenced from a photo Scott Christensen took in front of his studio! (his facebook page) This little piece was more difficult than I imagined...and I certainly didn't do the photo any justice. I do hope Scott paints this in his lush buttery style with his oils. This painting would work better in a larger format I think.

On another note, I'm pleased to announce that Mountain Galleries has sold 100 of my paintings this year!

Amid The Chaos

2011-11-30T15:46:00.000-08:00

acrylic 36 x 24
I reworked yet another older painting...this one has at least two other paintings underneath it. This made for some incredible textures so I tried for a more abstracted technique. You really must full view to see the textures more clearly...but it's even better in person.

River Ice

2011-11-18T14:24:00.000-08:00

acrylic small 10 x10
I really had a hard time trying to get the colors right in the photo...it looks much better in real life. It's off to Banff along with 11 other paintings tomorrow. Yeah, road trip...too bad the weather wasn't nicer.

Red And Gold

2011-11-18T08:24:00.000-08:00

acrylic 12 x 12
I think I've about exhausted my red tree series. I do like the splash of red, although we live in an area that is predominately yellow in the fall...we do have a splattering of red bushes here and there. This one came off my palette knife rather quickly.

Reworked

2011-11-17T14:32:00.000-08:00

acrylic small 9 x 12 inches

Funny how a couple of years make.( I didn't realize just how much I have learned!) I dug an old painting out and thought I'd revamp it. What a huge difference...I even changed the slant of the slope! I pushed back the mountains, gave a lead in through the trees, added a little fog for atmosphere, got rid of the sharp geometric angles, made a clearer focal area and generally softened the look....much better!

Below is another reworked painting.

ode to O'Toole

2011-11-16T14:26:00.000-08:00

acrylic 12 x 12 inches
I'm a huge fan of Michael O'Toole's and of all the paintings I've done with the red foliage, I think this one is most like his. ( Certainly not in the same ball park!). People also say some of my work reflects that of Robert Glenn or the Group Of Seven...I take that as a huge compliment. Tons of Canadian art is influenced by the Group Of Seven including Robert Glenn. I don't try to copy anyones style but one can't help but be influenced by the artists you admire. My studio is surrounded by photos of art I love...it inspires and motivates me.

Rebel

2011-11-15T16:44:00.000-08:00

Acrylic 12 x 24
I love this time of year when you have fresh snow slightly melted to reveal the colors of autumn. Makes for interesting patterns as well... I notice I tend to do this in a lot of my paintings. I'm liking the contrast in this one.

Peeking Through

2011-11-14T10:20:00.000-08:00

acrylic 15 x 30 inches
This my larger version of 'Peeking Through'. I find with a lot of my larger canvases in which I've done a study, that they just don't seem to have the same freshness or spontaneity of the smaller ones. Maybe because the larger ones seem to have more detail and therefore are a little 'tighter'.

Quiet Reflection

2011-11-11T09:50:00.000-08:00

Acrylic 24 inches x 24 inches.

A good place for a little quiet reflection ...less we forget.I will be forever grateful, thank-you.

Minniwanka Trail

2011-11-08T14:03:00.000-08:00

acrylic 20 x 24 inches

This is a trail along Lake Minniwanka in Banff Alberta. I exaggerated the warm colors and really wanted to capture the light. This was done almost completely with a palette knife...I did a lot of scraping and pulling. I like the feel of this one, and it turned out almost exactly as I envisioned it.

Vermillion Trail

2011-11-07T16:13:00.000-08:00

acrylic 12 x24inches,
I love walking the Vermillion Trail ( Banff) and taking photos. Every time you go it's a different experience.From the Lakes,most people will photograph and paint Mt Rundle but I decided to be a little different..Mt Rundle will be way to my right. The photo is a little dull...there really was a lot more color going on.

My First Art Purchase

2011-10-31T13:14:00.000-07:00

'Yesterdays News' , 5 x 5 oil, by Donna MacDonald

I made my first real art purchase a while back and I can't stop looking at it. Donna is a very talented local artist, and when she brought this little gem into one of our Federation Of Canadian Artists meetings, I immediately knew I had to have it! I had a painting given to me for a wedding present and traded for another ( Sharon Williams ) but this is the first time I actually dished out some money for a painting and I think I have opened a can on worms ...'cause I want more! I'm really tired of having my own work on my walls only to take them down to be delivered , and then having to stare at blank walls for a few weeks, or months. I really have to start saving my pennies and sell more work so I can collect some beautiful paintings!

Another reason I can't stop looking at this piece is the luscious buttery feel to the oils. I paint in acrylics and find it very hard to achieve the same effects. I recently took a one day figurative workshop with Ingrid Christensen who's work I adore! It was put on by my FCA group so the supplies were included. It was a perfect opportunity to try oils. I learned so much, only to realize how much more about oils I need to learn. I did a lot of fumbling and found I couldn't treat them the same way as acrylics. We painted two poses from a live model, but I'll only show one ( the other will need a lot more work...when I go out and buy some oils). I think oils might be in my future!

'Susan',oil, 11 x 14

Two Moo

2011-10-30T12:15:00.000-07:00

Acrylic , 9 x 12,
My last one for Leighton Centre...deadline to deliver is today and this little fella is still wet...but it'll dry by the time I get there.

Mountain Galleries has sold 15 paintings this month alone! They have done a fabulous job promoting and selling my work! Time now to do some replenishing, and I think I'll do some bear paintings along with more landscapes.

More Equines and Cows

2011-10-28T15:33:00.000-07:00

A few more little ones for Leighton centre, 8 x 16 and 8 x 10.

Leighton Centre

2011-10-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

'Smokey Anyone?' acrylic, 8 x 10 inches

Leighton centre is having their Annual Christmas In The Country, fund raiser on Nov4-5-6th, and 11-12-13th. I think around 70 or more Alberta artists will be participating. Lots of unframed art and fine craft for sale with children's craft activities,festive treats, prizes and free admission. for directions go to website

These are a few examples of what I'll be showing,along with a few equine and cows.

These two 12 x 12 ,floral paintings were painted specifically for my dinning area. A little different than what I usually do, but because they were for myself, I wanted to experiment with a different subject and a lot of color to make a bold statement. They looked quite good in my room, but with mountain galleries having all my stock, I needed something for Leighton centre. If they sell great, I'll paint more for myself, if not then I'll gladly hang them back on my wall.

Wild At Pryor

2011-10-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

Acrylic, 10 x 20 inches

This is my study for a much larger painting. (3 x 6 ft). Unfortunately it didn't photograph very well. it is a lot softer looking with lots of texture glaces and layers. I recieved permission from the photographer ,Tiffany Meyer, about a year and a half ago, but only just started working on it now. I see lots of possibilities.

Canmore Sky

2011-10-25T15:50:00.000-07:00

small 9 x 12, acrylic
A view from Canmore Alberta, just outside of Banff.

Fire In The Sky

2011-10-24T16:08:00.000-07:00

Acrylic, 11 x 14

I didn't think I'd ever paint sunrises or sunsets....I always had it in the back of my mind that they were too 'postcardy' or 'cheesy' for lack of better words....well, I just did. Still trying to wrap my head around it though, I'm not sure how I feel about it.

I do want to play around more with clouds though, as they offer so many shapes and colors to create atmosphere. Most of my paintings don't have a lot of sky, so this should be a fun challenge. ( palette knife or not...hmmmmm)

Hidden Falls

2011-10-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

acrylic 12 x 16
This little painting was quite fun to do and took no time at all ( doesn't always work that way). I had an old canvas which was repainted many times, so it had lots of texture and colors underneath to work with. I was undecided about what to paint today and so to get me moving and motivated I painted a scene I had painted before. They are similar but not the same as well as a different orientation and size.

The Pond Reflects

2011-10-13T16:30:00.000-07:00

acrylic 16 x 12 inches,

Originally there were no autumn colors nor was there any snow...but I played around so much this is the end result.

My Show In Banff

2011-10-13T07:20:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time in Banff for the opening of my show.We made it a mini holiday and enjoyed the time with my husband, our children and some close friends. I managed to create about 28 paintings for the show but a few were sold before the opening. I did manage to sell 9 total. It was a great experience but I was a little nervous during the local TV interview ( a glass of wine or two had a nice calming effect). Many thanks to all my guests for their support and a special thanks to Wendy Wacko, Aimee, Adrienne and John, the crew from Mountain Galleries, who did such a wonderful job putting together my show. I'm including a few photos from the beginning of the afternoon.

During my TV interview

I was thrilled when these clients bought 2 of my paintings!

My husband, daughter and friends

Myself, Adrienne and Aimee from Mountain Galleries.

Little Red Bush

2011-10-11T15:00:00.000-07:00

Tiny ( for me) 12 x12 inches, acrylic
It still amazes and frustrates me, how a smaller painting can as long if not longer than most of my larger ones. I'm going to live with this one for awhile but I'm pretty sure I'm going to make some adjustments.

Peeking Through Study

2011-10-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

acrylic, 16 x20
Really had a hard time photographing and photoshopping to try to get the colors correct and it's still not right! I'll have to do a re-shoot later. I'd like to do a larger ( and more horizontal) version of this one

Painting From Photos, pt 2

2011-10-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

Acrylic, 15 x 30 inches
Here is another painting from Elbow Falls. I changed the photo quite a bit in this one. Exaggerated the colors, moved things around, simplified the background and added more shapes and colors. The original photo was quite washed out so I had to pump up the color.

2011-10-06T09:51:00.002-07:00

Painting From Photos

2011-10-06T09:51:00.000-07:00

Small acrylic study, 12 x 12,
It took me a long time to learn how to paint from photos ( I still probably rely too much on them). I don't consider myself a pleinair painter, but I do love being outside. My studio process does not transport well to an outside mobile setting for various reasons. But I will keep trying.

In any case, it's important not to become a slave to the photo. Everything will need adjusting ...composition,perspective, lighting and color. Here is the original photo I took out at Elbow Falls along the bank, and the photo after I did some adjustments. I will do a larger version of this scene 'cause I'd really like to play with the rocks in front which I could not do in the study.

Must Be Autumn

2011-09-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

Must be autumn, 'cause I can't seem to get enough of these little foreground pops of reds.
'The Jewel Below', acrylic 12 x 24 and a yet unnamed one, 12 x 16

The Foliage Above

2011-09-27T16:54:00.000-07:00

'The Foliage Above' acrylic, 16 x 20
I'm having so much fun experimenting with these reds.I love seeing where this leads me... the satisfaction of that final punch of red as I finish the painting. Certainly can't be timid as I load the palette knife with brilliant color and with a gentle swiftness slide it across the canvas.

'Stream Through The Red', acrylic 16 x 20

Along Minniwanka

2011-09-24T14:30:00.000-07:00

acrylic, 12 x 24
It's fun to add these reds...I just hope I'm not overdoing it. I'm officially done all my paintings for my solo show in Banff, at Mountain Galleries on Sept 30th...opening Saturday Oct 1st. I would love to meet and chat with you, I'll be there from 2-5 pm.

Chephren Lake

2011-09-23T11:45:00.000-07:00

Acrylic 18 x 36 inches. Chehpren Lake in Banff National Park.

Falling Mystery

2011-09-21T14:42:00.000-07:00

Acrylic 18 x 24, This one I started awhile ago and have been fussing with it ever since. It certainly is not what I intended this painting to look like but it unfolded this way and I kinda like it. Still not sure if it's done yet

Louise

2011-09-21T11:24:00.000-07:00

'Louise', acrylic 16 x 16 inches.

Mostly done with a palette knife, a rag and a dry brush technique at the end. I combined two reference photos along with my own artistic licence. I was quite surprised how quickly this came together.

I Won A Painting!

2011-09-21T07:52:00.000-07:00

'First Snow' ( 16 x10 ) is a painting by Richard Robinson of New Zealand...which I'm thrilled to say is now mine! I first discovered Richard while looking through fellow artist Jerry Markham lists of links. I signed up for his newsletter and small video demos. He was starting a unique online workshop which I signed up for along with over 130 others.. He would submit a photo for us to paint with complete artistic licence . We would upload photos of our paintings he would pick some to critique. We all could make comments and vote for our favorites. He would then do a demo and video himself. He would choose his favorite to receive the painting and the popular vote would receive three of his DVDs. Well, I'm so happy I won the popular vote and the painting!! My version of this scene pales in comparison ( my version and the original photo ). I will certainly treasure this gem. You can see Richards work here Richard Robinson.

Shimmering Through

2011-09-20T13:05:00.000-07:00

This little painting was a lot of fun to do. I wasn't using a photo reference so I'm not sure if this scene could actually exists but the freedom to loosen up and explore was exhilarating! Acrylic 9 x 12

Forest Dance

2011-09-19T10:24:00.000-07:00

acrylic 12 x24 inches, palette knife
A definite Tibor Nagy influence although nowhere near as refined. I really do adore his work,the palette, the incredible light, the abstracted quality, the rough yet delicate strokes and the controlled looseness...you really must checkout his work! Tibor Nagy

Two Small

2011-09-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

I worked on two small 9 x 12 acrylics this morning and was quite pleased with the way they developed. After working so large, these two seemed to fly off my palette knife.

Come Sway With Me

2011-09-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

Acrylic, 12 x 16 inches
Something a little different from me. It's not the way I originally intended this painting to look like and it took me a long time to paint. I changed the water and sky color so many times...I fussed way too much.

Plein Air break

2011-09-13T09:19:00.000-07:00

I did manage to get out for a few hours to do some plein air painting ( albeit unsuccessfully!). Our intent was Elbow Falls, but it was closed due to bear sightings so ended up near Allen Bill. It was nice to get out from my basement studio to enjoy some beautiful weather, even if I didn't produce anything worth keeping. I had some great painting companions! Sharon Lynn Williams Ingrid Christensen Cheryl Quist and Jan Chalupnicek.

This is a photo I took of Ingrid and I knew immediately I wanted to paint her. I did attempt it, but will have to put it on the back burner and finish it when my show is over and I can concentrate on a more loose, wet on wet technique .

I enjoyed the break and hope they will invite me back when I can spend the whole day and be in a more relaxed state of mind. Thanks guys!

Run Deep

2011-09-13T08:51:00.000-07:00

acrylic 16 x 16
I'm working feverishly on some smaller paintings for my upcoming show in Banff and I'm running out of time. Sometimes these smaller ones take just as long to complete as the larger ones :( Fusing too much perhaps. Not the case with this one though...I didn't want to over work it so it took about 2 hrs.

Through The Brush

2011-09-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

Acrylic 24 x24
My Rundle from vermillion Lakes.

Commission

2011-09-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

This is a commission from Mountain Galleries which I just finished. The Clients really liked my painting "Pyramid From The Marsh' but it was too large ( 3 x 4 ft ) for their fireplace. This one is acrylic 30 x40 inches. Commissions are usually difficult for me because you are trying to please someone else instead of yourself. Also it's hard for me to get motivated to paint someone elses vision. But in this case, it was an interesting challenge to use my own painting as reference and try to make improvements and keeping the scene without copying it.

Kananaskis Cascade

2011-09-07T15:52:00.000-07:00

Acrylic 4 ft x 4 ft .

This is the last of my larger canvases for a bit. I need to concentrate on some smaller ones for my show, which is creeping up really fast.

Sunwapta's Rush

2011-09-03T15:01:00.000-07:00

Yet another version of Sunwapta Falls only much larger. acrylic 4 ft x 4 ft. A definite must see for anyone close to Jasper, Alberta

beyond Bow Falls

2011-08-31T14:42:00.000-07:00

behind the Banff Springs Hotel. Acrylic 3 ft x 6 ft. Not quite finished...thinking about putting some cloud/fog to cover part of the mountain on the right. I've already compromised the scene a little by lowering and adding more trees on the left ( I didn't like the rocky Cliff...) But I think you can still tell where this is.

Gnarled Glimmer

2011-08-29T09:11:00.000-07:00

Acrylic, 12 x 24

I joined this new social network site for artists run by Richard Robinson called The Complete Artist.http://thecompleteartist.ning.com/ He did a video of a painting that was inspired by Tibor Nagy ( I love his work!). I thought it would be fun to do his online monthly workshop where he posts a picture and we have full artistic licence to paint it. He gives tips, does a critic of your work, a demo, and picks a favorite for monthly prizes. This is my attempt, and the original photo.

medicine Lake Wildflowers

2011-08-28T10:15:00.000-07:00

acrylic, 18 x 24
Medicine Lake, Jasper

I had to get down and personal with the wildflowers to get this shot ( with artistic licence of course).

Canmore Creek

2011-08-27T17:52:00.000-07:00

acrylic, 16 x16 inches
This one took just as long as a large canvas! I played around so much with the color changing the sky and the water numerous times. I might attempt a larger canvas for this one.

Lefroy And Larches

2011-08-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

Mt Lefroy with golden larches, Banff National Park. Acrylic 30 x40.
I really like the feel of the mountain and was unsure whether to add the foliage and golden larches at all..but I did. Now I'm unsure if I've overworked it to the point where I need to go back in and simplify. I'll leave it for now and live with it.

Along Moraine

2011-08-22T16:00:00.000-07:00

Moraine Lake, near Lake Louise, Banff National Park. 3 x 4 feet. Still need to work on some details and a few touch-ups, but for the most part,it's done.

Shannon Falls

2011-08-16T13:21:00.000-07:00

acrylic 4 x 5 ft
Shannon Falls, British Columbia.
I had a hard time photographing this one. I'll live with it awhile, make my adjustments and re shoot it

Parker Ridge From The Highway

2011-08-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

Acrylic, 3 ft x 6 ft

I'm pretty much finished this larger version. I just have to 'live' with it for a bit and see what adjustments I need to make. Next I will be working on another large 4x5ft canvas of Shannon Falls which I started before my holidays and never had a chance to finish. Medium size canvases will follow ( 24 x36, and 30x40). Funny how several months ago I thought my medium canvases were large!

Back To Work

2011-08-12T11:32:00.000-07:00

acrylic 12 x24
Well, holidays are over and I'm back in my studio. I'm well rested and eager. This is a smaller study of a large 3 x6 ft painting I'm working on. I took this photo back in May, on my way to Jasper. This is Parker Ridge from the highway just before the Columbia Ice fields. I've painted a few similar...but it's just so impressive I can't get enough!

Wildflower Meadow

2011-07-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

acrylic 24 x 40 inches
I'm not quite done with this one, but I have to live with it for awhile before I make any adjustments.Maybe it's because this is a little different for me and the adjustments are in my head, lol. In any event there are many things I do like. I am also enclosing the original photo and the cropped and lightened photo. This scene was on the road back from Maligne Lake in Jasper.

Busy Bee

2011-07-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

I really don't know where the time goes! I haven't been painting much these last few weeks. Between holidays, travelling, company and a move, there really hasn't been much time. I have this week to paint before I'm off to Banff on the weekend and then New Brunswick. So nose to the grind, it's studio time!

This painting was causing me so much grief and has been reworked so many times...it was good to have a break and come back to it. I added the wild flowers inspired by a recent Artist in Residency trip to Jasper where the mountain blooms were so beautiful. acrylic 18 x24

Big Hill Springs ,Palette knife

2011-07-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

small acrylic 9x12

I was going to say I reworked this plein air painting I did at Big Springs but I actually painted over the whole thing with a palette knife.

And Now For Something Completely Different!

2011-07-01T21:05:00.000-07:00

acrylic 11 x14
I felt like doing something completely different for Canada Day. I wanted to try my new 'interactive' paints in my studio. ( I bought them for plein air painting as they stay wet longer and come back to life after to spray with water). I haven't done any figurative work in a while and needed a break from my landscape to do a little experimenting and playing. It's a little tight and my anatomy is probably way off but I do like a lot of aspects to this little painting. Gotta love red hair!

Awesome Rawson

2011-06-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

Acrylic 54 in x 78 in ( 51/2 ft x 6 1/2 ft)

I'm not finished this one but I like the way it's coming together. My gallery wanted this size for the lobby of the hotel in Whistler, and wanted one similar to 'Rawson Vista' link. I have a few details to work out and a couple of touch ups but it won't change too much from this. I doubt you'd actually see this view as I used three different photos taking what I wanted from each.

What A Difference a Day Makes

2011-06-30T08:01:00.000-07:00

( after some studio adjustments...still needs more )

acrylic on canvas, 12 x 24 in

I attempted three plein air paintings in the past few days and this one was the best of the bunch, although they all need some studio work. I wanted to paint the same location at Lloyd Park as another painting I had done, only larger. The scene was completely different! The colors were cooler, the weather was hot and there was a ton of green.My acrylics did not react well in these elements! Might be tempted to try oils for this plein air stuff! It was sure nice to get out of my basement studio though, and take advantage of the beautiful weather and soak up some vitamin D.

Back in my studio I'm working on my largest canvas to date and should have it finished shortly.

Amidst The Haze

2011-06-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

LARGE ACRYLIC 4 FT X 4 FT

I used a few photo's and my imagination for this experiment.( a little Michael O'Toole influence?) I like most of what is going on here...but I still need to touch up and add some details...without overworking it! The overall feel is good.

Leaving Jasper

2011-06-21T10:10:00.000-07:00

acrylic 12 x24
We were just leaving Jasper when I snapped this photo from the highway. So much to see in Jasper...so little time.

plein Air At Carburn Park

2011-06-14T16:14:00.000-07:00

Two more attempts at pleinair, without the palette knife. Ingrid Christensen was kind enough to let me tag along with her Tues class as she took them to Carburn Park in Riverbend, Calgary. One great thing about pleinair painting is I get to discover places right in or near the city, I didn't even know existed! I still find it somewhat awkward and my paintings are so different than my studio work! But I enjoy it very much and it's nice to step away from my basement studio and enjoy the fresh air. I like these two but I can now see they some touch ups.

Athabasca's Colors

2011-06-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

This is a large 4 x5 foot acrylic painting looking out towards mt Athabasca. I'd like to thank Debra Garside for the use of her photo as reference. I still have some touching up to to with some highlights and details.

Big Hill Springs, Plein Air

2011-06-06T16:30:00.000-07:00

It was a gorgeous day for plein air painting. There were waterfalls galore and the weather was perfect...my paintings were not. I attempted three paintings, all of the same waterfall and all from the same spot. One I did with colored gel added with a palette knife and a brush after it dried (above) 16x16, one with a palette knife, no gel and a bit of dry brushing and one with a brush only. I wasn't happy with any of the results so I worked on them in my studio. So I guess they can't be classified as 'Plein -air'. I'm much happier with them now. I love the abstract qualities of this one and the subdued color. Please click on the image to see the larger view.

I found it interesting how much I analyze and think and so aware of my surroundings while experiencing the elements and how frustrating and lost I felt at times. In my studio I have no distractions and I tend not to think too much and just let the painting go ...no rhyme or reason...I just have to like it. In my studio I do all my thinking, sketches, and visualizing long before I start my painting. With Plein Air I can't..or don't . I'm sure it will come easier with practice and I do love being outside!

Plein Air at Llyod Park

2011-06-04T16:31:00.000-07:00

Here are my two attempts at plein air painting today before I take them in the studio to touch up. It didn't start out such a great morning as I laboured in my winter boots, coat, mitts and ear muffs but I ended the day in with a sun visor and short sleeves...go figure. That's our Alberta weather for you. It was fun painting with the girls. Sharon Williams is giving a workshop today and tomorrow on plein air painting...certainly a different kettle of fish ( does that make sense?) than what I'm used to. No palette knife...brush only... again a little different for me. I'm so used to thick paint and I'm surprised how little I actually use with a brush.Calling for sunshine tomorrow!

Pyramid From The Marsh

2011-06-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

acrylic 36 inches x 48 inches ( 3x4ft)

I was in jasper recently and loved Pyramid mountain, with its peachy salmon highlights...you could see it from everywhere, Pyramid lake, Edith lake, Patrica Lake etc..this particular painting was from a roadside marsh but I changed it to a fall scene...still some touch-ups left to do though, and I'm not done with this mountain yet!

Painters at Painters

2011-05-31T08:27:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in Campbell River, BC, for Painters At Painters this past weekend! My husband and I love making the trip to the Lodge and this year planned it to coincide with this popular event. Many of BC top artists were present and there was an array of talks, demos, discussions and plein air painting, along with great food and awesome views!I had the pleasure of meeting and talking to Kathryn Amisson and her husband Greame Roberts,Alan Wylie,Janice Robertson, Mike Svob, Brent Heighton, Nickolas Pearce,Chief Tony Hunt and his wife Gwendoline, Robert Genn and many more! I have more photos on my facebook page . I came away fully rejuvenated, refreshed, relaxed and ready to paint!

Robert Genn and his delightful grand daughter
Below is Nickolas Pearce

Mike Svob with Gail Johnson looking on.
Below is Brent Heighton painting and Keith Hiscock observing.

Vermilion Lakes Study

2011-05-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

acrylic 24 x24
A study for a possible large painting. Vermilion Lakes with a view of Rundle...Banff National Park.

I Can See Pyramid Study

2011-05-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

acrylic, 18 x24
This is a study for a much larger painting. You can see Pyramid mountain in Jasper from this hiking trail. I know snow/winter scenes are not that popular but I love painting snow with all the abstract shapes and colors!

From Edith Lake

2011-05-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

Large 3 ft x 6 ft acrylic Edith lake in Jasper.

Not quite finished this one...I see a few things that need touched up now that I see it on line...I often do that when I'm unsure of a piece...download it and see it in a different light and something usually pops out at you.

Canter

2011-05-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

acrylic small 10x10
One more small equine, and that's it for now. I'm dying to paint some larger canvases of scenes from my trip to Jasper.

Small Equines

2011-05-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

A couple of small equines I'm putting into the Leighton Centre fundraiser 'The Clothesline sale'.

Rocky creek Study 1 and 2

2011-05-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

Small 12 x12 acrylic studies

Roosters

2011-05-12T07:51:00.000-07:00

Working on a couple of roosters that I'm putting in Leighton Centres' largest fundraiser, the annual spring 'Clothesline sale' to be held on Sunday May 29th.Last year we had over 70 artists participating with unframed art hung on clotheslines throughout the property. Hay rides , BBQ, artists demo and children's craft centre make for a great way to support the centre and enjoy a day out in the country with the whole family

The Raven

2011-05-10T21:46:00.000-07:00

Acrylic 12 x12 . More playing around before I settle in and do more large scale landscapes ( from my recent trip to Jasper). I have a few more roosters to finish up as well. This guy was lots of fun playing with the texture in his feathers...felt like I was sculpting in clay.

Spring Fling at Mountain Gallery in Jasper

2011-05-09T08:54:00.000-07:00

Great weather, awesome art and meeting new friends! We had a wonderful weekend in Jasper! It took my girlfriend and I about 10 hours to finally reach our destination. It was total eye candy in every direction and we had to stop constantly to take photos!

Mountain Galleries at Fairmount Jasper Park Lodge was having the first annual 'Spring Fling' in conjunction with the 'offical' opening of the new'green' gallery.

Many of the Gallery artists were in attendance and had travelled from all over Alberta as well as Vancouver and Saskatoon.. It was great to put faces to the artwork!

Randy and Heather Hayashi along with the electrician Terry standing in front of my painting 'jewel In The Woods'

My friend Rosemary checking photos with artist Nicholas Bott and his wife Sharon. Abstract artist Libby Weir, myself and BC artist Joan Baron!

Gallery owner Wendy Wacko with artists Mel Heath, Jerry Heine and their lovely wives.

Calgary artist Bill Duma sharing a laugh with BC artist Gail Johnson

Glass artist Lee Brady and his wife Muriel

New Paint and a bit of a change

2011-05-04T21:11:00.000-07:00

I've bought some interactive acrylics, thinking they will be better for plein-air painting. ( to go along with my brand new soltek easel!) This is not a plein air painting, however but I wanted to get a feel for these paints which stay wet longer and can revitalize with a bit of spray when they start to dry. I'm not sure I need them for this type of painting with the texture underneath. A couple of Red Robins for a change of pace and to welcome ( finally) Spring!

acrylic 9x12
Again using the interactives and no palette knife. Hmmmmm.... struggled a lot with this painting...maybe too may new variables...small canvas, new paint, new subject and no trusty palette knife. Fun to play and experiment though.

Tangle Falls

2011-04-27T13:15:00.000-07:00

Large 6 ft x4 ft acrylic
Just a few details to workout such as softening some edges, lightening some areas and adding a few details. I'm still working out how to make my images look like the painting with this new computer system...this photo seems way to dark for my liking...but I'm getting there.

Top Of Tangle

2011-04-25T06:43:00.000-07:00

acrylic 20 x28 inches
This is another version of Tangle Falls, in preparation for my large canvas.I am using photos as reference to try and get a feel for these falls, I haven't seen in years. I will be making a trip from Banff to Jasper in a few weeks( for the offical opening of the new Mountain Galleries at Fairmount Jasper Park Lodge) and am soooo excited! It'll be great to replenish my lost references and become totally absorbed and inspired.

Tangle Falls Study

2011-04-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

acrylic 12 x12 inches
This is a small study I did of Tangle Falls. I've started a large 4ft x6 ft version of this...not sure when I'll get it done though. I didn't realize how dependant I am on my computer...which crashed 5 days ago. I have a brand new one with a different operating and email system. I have to learn all over again. I'm trying to edit, send, crop, resize, etc, the photo's of my paintings. It is sooo different and at the moment, is very frustrating as I try to adjust the images to look like the painting.

Hiking Near Morraine

2011-04-17T19:04:00.000-07:00

Acrylic, 36 x 48 inches
I went to see Dominik Modlinski's show at Canda House in Banff this weekend. His work is much more impressive in person. It was an accumulation of two years hard work, and it paid off...the show is stunning and bold...with a rich dramatic palette. Dominik's work