Almost There

Families with children of all ages are fascinated by visits to the beach.  I am fortunate to have memories of special trips with our children and grandchildren.

Mr. Henry

Mr. Henry is the beloved pet of a sweet young friend who lives in Atlanta.  He was her first "baby".  Now she and her husband have twin boys to enhance their lives.  Lots of fun times ahead!

Alex

Alex was best friend to his master for 14 years.  She has so many precious memories of their time together.  He was such a good "snuggler".  When she sat on her couch he always jumped up and took his special place in her lap, waiting for her to pet him.  He went on lots of family vacations...even had his own suitcase!  

Italian Holiday

I've just returned from a fascinating trip to Italy with good friends and traveling companions from my art guild. We traveled to Rome, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri, and Florence.  It was amazing to see the beautiful art and experience the history of this ancient, though modern, country.  

We visited the Angel Academy of Art in Florence where students are offered a three year curriculum in classical art training.  We also spoke with some artists who were taking three months from their busy lives to hone up on their skills.  I hope you will enjoy some of my photos.

I reached a milestone last month with the 10,000th visitor to my blog!  I appreciate each and every one, and thank you for your interest in my art journey.  

Now, it is time to channel my new knowledge into creativity!

Lakeside Mercantile

Lakeside Mercantile and Linda's Greenhouse are fun places to shop for antiques, crafts, and beautiful plants at Walnut Hill near Lake Martin and Dadeville, Alabama.  On some days, you can see this vintage truck in mint condition parked out front.  A great selection of flowers and plants is arriving now.

I am happy that this painting was accepted for the juried Fine Art Show at Auburn CityFest 2014.  Please come to the preview reception open to the public on Thursday, April 24 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and to the show on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Nunn Winston House at Kiesal Park.

Betrothed

This beautiful beach in the British Virgin Islands is the spot where my nephew asked his new bride to marry him.  They were on a week long sailboat cruise of the islands.  Welcome to the family, Christine!

Big Sur

The craggy coastline of northern California holds many beautiful vistas.  It is one of my favorite vacation destinations.  My brother and I had a great trip together out there last summer.  We had dinner outside one evening on a deck overlooking the Pacific.  Ruby throated bluebirds flew in and out of the trees quite undaunted by the restaurant full of guests.

Big Sur will be available at the Let There Be Art sale and celebration, opening with a gala evening Friday night at the Museum of Fine Art in Columbus, Georgia.  The show will run through April 17.  I hope you can come!

Lilies and Marigolds

My talented daughter in law helped me set up this still life on the deck at the lake.  We liked the composition and pops of color.  The reflections of sky and water can be seen in the glass vases.  Lilies and Marigolds will be featured in Let There be Art next week at the Columbus Museum.

Beach Buddies

I am honored to have been recognized this year as a professional artist in Let There Be Art, the juried art show and week long celebration of the museum of fine art in Columbus, Georgia April 11-17.

The show celebrates artists from the East Coast, throughout the South, and stretching across to Europe.   Please visit www.columbusmuseum.com/lettherebeart/ for the full schedule of events including the

Cirque D'Art premier party.

Some of the best shared memories are those between "big" sister and "little" brother... just

like in this beach scene.  Beach Buddies will be featured in the catalog and the show.  I'll be sharing additional show paintings with you in the next few weeks.

Sunday Morning

Putting our minds in neutral and enjoying nature are two things that can be hard to do in our busy lives.  I am reminded of the Bible verse from Psalm 46:10 that says, "Be still, and know that I am God".


Sunday Morning has been accepted to the juried show of the Energen Corpartion.  It will be available at the Energen Art Show at their corporate offices in Birmingham from March 10-21. Please visit www.art.energen.com for more details.  I appreciate the opportunity Energen offers Alabama artists to show and sell our work.

Daydreamin'

Our industrious grandson, Thomas, is the proprietor of all kinds of heavy equipment and knows the correct name for each piece.  He has spent endless hours working on this backyard construction site.

Simple Pleasure

Simple Pleasure has been accepted in the juried show of Arts Revive in Selma this spring.

Through the combined efforts of citizens for the arts, a gallery has been opened at the Arts Revive Carneal Building on the banks of the Alabama River in the heart of historic Selma.  It is the perfect venue for art, music, and community events.  The show will be open to the public from March 8-21.  It coincides with their annual Spring Pilgrimage.  A tour of homes, plein air paintout, and many other events are on the schedule. Check out www.artsrevive for more details.

My father, Clifton Kirkpatrick,  was born in Old Cahaba and grew up in Selma, so I'm happy to be returning to family roots for this show.

The Flower Store

The Flower Store is an Auburn Landmark.  Once located on South College Street, it is now in this beautiful location on Moores Mill Road.  It was a joy to paint this piece for its very talented and creative owner.

Franks

Contrary to what you might think, this Dachshund got his name because he loves to eat hot dogs!



Legacy

The tradition of dressing in team colors begins at an early age for Auburn fans.  This father and daughter are ready for tailgating.  Fans of all ages gather together in anticipation of the game.

 Legacy is for sale at The Flower Store.

 Many families will be heading to Pasadena after the holidays to support our team playing for the national championship.  We are so proud of our players and staff!

Merry Christmas!