I'm pleased to share that my painting Rock City Skyline was awarded the Doris Williamson Mapes Award at the Mid-Southern Watercolorists 54th Annual Juried Exhibition.  I remember Doris. She was always willing to tell me what needed improving in my paintings and I listened.  So for me this award holds a special significance and sweetness.  

Short story:  I painted this for an exhibit in Italy and because of Covid it got stuck there for two years.  When I got it back, its life in the exhibition world was quite limited.  I was so happy to be able to show this painting where it is the most relevant.  Back to my brushes.  


"To avoid criticism say nothing, do nothing, be nothing." - Elbert Hubbard

I'm pleased to share that my entry in the American Watercolor Society's 157th Annual International Exhibition was accepted. My thanks to the Jury of Selection: Antonio Masi, Chris Krupinski, Dongfeng Li, Bev Jozwiak, and Amid El Haddad. The exhibition dates are April 2nd thru April 26th at the Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY  10003. Back to my brushes.  

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"With an eye made quiet by the power of harmony, and the deep power of joy, we see into the life of things."  - William Wordsworth

Just a shout-out to the kind folks who sent me pics of my painting on exhibit in California. There were several of you, and I appreciate you so much. I wish I could have been there with you, I bet you all had the best time. Maybe next time? Back to my brushes.  

​​"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."  - Aesop

Today is the opening of the NWS Open at the NWS gallery in San Pedro, California. The exhibition runs until November 5, 2023 and there are various ways to view the artwork. In person is best of course, but if that is not possible you can view all the pieces on YouTube at  NWS Exhibitions. I am very excited to be recognized as a Master Signature Member this year. I hope you take a moment to enjoy my painting Hashtag Harmony. The online sales gallery is located at nwsexhibition.com if you find an artwork you wish to purchase.  There are so many great choices - a breathtaking exhibit as usual!  Back to my brushes.  

"He who improvises can never make a perfect line of poetry."  - Titian

We had such an enjoyable evening at the reception for the 2023 Annual Choctaw Art Show.  I always enjoy seeing works by my fellow artists. Some of my favorites included the marquetry and the fiber arts pieces.  But I absolutely loved the framed work using the origami cranes.  Suspended on string (I didn't count how many...I'll just say lots) it was absolutely beautiful.  If it had had the perfect light on it, it would have cast the most stunning shadows. Just beautiful, well done!  Another highlight was of course the meal.  It was so delicious!  The Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Wild Berry Red Wine Reduction, Caramelized Sweet Potato Medallions with Brown Sugar and Maple Butter, Choctaw Pecan Salad, Southern Collard Greens with Ham Hocks topped with Crispy Pork Skins, and Passion Fruit Luksi for dessert.  It makes my mouth water just thinking about it!  An exceptional experience.  If you ever have a chance to visit the Choctaw Cultural Center - do so; and be sure to eat at the Champuli Cafe as it does not disappoint.  Back to my brushes.  


"Giorgione always used to pick out the most beautiful and varied subjects he could find to put in his work." - Giorgio Vasari  (The Lives of the Artists - 1550)

What a wonderful trip we had to the Choctaw Cultural Center in Calera, Ok recently.  The weather was fine and clear, but wicked hot.  The heat dome is in full force here right now.  We enjoyed a delicious meal at the Champuli Cafe before touring the facility.  We spent an educational two hours at the center and I must share that seeing some of my ancestors on the timeline was both touching and heart-wrenching.  I would highly recommend you visit the facility if you ever have the opportunity.  You will definitely learn something and you will know me better as well.  Back to my brushes.  

"Where the spirit does not work with the hand, there is no art." - Leonardo Da Vinci

I am always delighted to be included in The Best of Watercolor special issue presented by Artists Magazine and American Artist and this year is no exception.  I have two paintings included this year! You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore or order one at Artists Network.  Back to my brushes.

​"Amor Vincit Omnia." - Caravaggio

I went to a wedding in Atlanta and then on to the Biltmore in North Carolina recently.  We used to drive by there when I lived in NC as a kid, but never stopped.  It was worth the trip and we were lucky to have excellent weather as well.  Sixty-seven degrees in Asheville...One Hundred Three at home - Ugh.  While we were there I received news that my painting Hashtag Harmony was accepted into the 2023 NWS 103rd International Open Exhibition!  My thanks to the jurors Thomas Schaller, Ruth Armitage, and Jean Pederson.  Back to my brushes.  

"Find something you're passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it."  - Julia Child

I love surprises.  I received a copy of the latest Artist Magazine yesterday and was surprised to see the heading "Special Sneak Peek - Watercolorists who are making a Splash".  The article was compiled by Anne Hevener and kicks off World Watercolor Month.  How wonderful to have my work included in the sneak peek!  So pick up a copy at your local bookstore or click this link to Artists Magazine. You can also head on over to the Springfield Art Museum and see this painting in person at Watercolor USA 2023!  Back to my brushes.  

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"When the well's dry, we know the worth of water." - Benjamin Franklin