Save and Savor

Zeke

During these strange times it good to have projects to do and what better ones that do good.

I just completed my third pet portrait for Heart2Heart Pet Lifeline, a nonprofit that cares about helping companion animals for those that may not have the funding to continue to care for their pets.

So I've gotten to help save while savoring what I like to do most, create art.

Thanks to local artists and the dedication of volunteers at Heart2Heart for including me in your efforts.

Daisy

Oscar

Umbrellas on a Rainy Day

Best Seat in the House 11x14

Gloomy days, like today, are great for painting vivid colors. Remembering sun filled skies, a bottle of wine and waiting for Blues and BBQ at Elmaro.

Just finished this one, on a spur of the moment, going through last weekends photos. Orange and Yellow really brightens my day.

Til the clouds go away.

Communing in Perrot

State Parks in Wisconsin opened this past week for camping.

We had the opportunity to camp and commune with nature and commune with people. It was a lot of sensory stimulation but welcome after so much time in isolation.

We felt safe and still choose to wear masks while distancing ourselves. I just wish people could have seen me smiling.

The weekend of respite inspired me to draw and paint. Drawing has always been my first love, maybe because it's so easy to do anywhere.

Pen drawings and a little color using markers.

I did pull out the paints, to attempt Plein Aire painting.

I still prefer to work in the studio, I think it's a control issue. Lots of frustration with bugs, wind, glare and random items falling into the paint.

Resting in the Pines 8x10

Out of the three paintings that I attempted this is the only one I didn't destroy.

I brought along a few of my paintings of the area to share with onlookers, playing the part of Resident Artist.

Thanks to campers from Minneapolis, St. Paul, Farmington, Waupun, Kettle Moraine, Baraboo, Oconomowoc, and Upper Pennisula to name a few, for stopping by and your kind words.

Before the Storm

Peonies Saved from the Storm 8x10

Since the rains were coming I collected those peonies that were in bloom, before they were washed away. And since I would not be able to paint outside it was time for a stilllife.

It seems everyone was painting their peonies or posting photos so I felt compelled to join in the show.

I'm happy enough with the results, all thought I couldn't seem to get that bright pink this variety is known for.

These buds for You

Bleeding Hearts 5x7

Spring reveals some beautiful buds. Those long missed ephemerals  enjoy their sunny spots until the trees began to unfurl.

Garden Bells 5x7 

Hickory Blooms 5x7 

I'm happy I caught their glory before the latest hail storm decimated my garden. I was just about ready to start painting some plein air in the garden. The Hostas are shredded and the wind flatten and broke everything else.