Today this is what I completed at the studio.  This evolving painting represents Vermont off the Molly Stark Trail on Hogback Mountain.  The sky, clouds, and mountains in the background are tinted with mist and a bit of sunlight popping through the clouds. I can not wait to do the foreground with the snowy covered evergreen! Perhaps this painting will evoke a bit of cheer and newness for the New Year ahead.

The Dog Duo is done. Complementary colors were needed to create a subtle value difference between the two dogs.  Diligence and extra time was necessary, but I was happy with the effect. Another new attempt with oils!

1 Morning Class @ 10:00 am, 1 Evening Class @ 6:00 pm
2 available classes to be  held on Wednesday, January 11th
Description: Instructional 3 hour class : Bird Painting w/Acrylic Paints  
Cost: $20 (all materials and supplies included)
Location: Please call Karen @ (518) 237-3917 for further details
or email@kwoodin@nycap.rr.com

New Closeout Painting "Popham Wave in Maine". This is an 18 X 24 Acyrlic painting on canvas with a  rich dark wood frame.  The story behind the creation was an adventureous one. In order to capture this dynamic wave, it was necessary to climb on a similar rock so that I was eye level. I was determined to get that one singular wave as the tide was crashing in.  Well, I believe I succeeded and mother nature allowed me to briefly photograph from this site.  I hope this painting, gives you the sense of motion and a feeling that you are virtually right in the water with the tide tugging at you heals. Double click in the closeout section for a better effect! Enjoy

Sometimes a request may be "paint as is" or other times  some creative license can be done. In this painting, the picture given had no beach and the rocks were totally non descript. So creating a lovely foreground was the answer by adding a hint of texture and lighting to give  a glowing moonlight reflective effect on the rocks. Usually, at the last minute , you get a realization that some added touches are needed. Adding two souls together on the boat really was the answer for a request that truly honors a   landmark anniversary.  Happy Anniversary to a very special couple!

What great feedback! I love to hear from my clients where their special oil painting is placed. Today I was told their moonlight seascape painting was placed in the living room - a very honorary location. Tomorrow's task is to begin an entirely new venture . The painting is a pagoda with a unique dome-like structure against the blue contrasting sky. I have a hunch such contrast will enhance details and make the  main feature pop. Despite the white starkness of the dome, the reflective mirror image in the pond will soften the image with the support of the  grassy surroundings. What I love most about the composition is all the contrasting elements that seems to work in harmony. What a delightful commissioned assignment!

This week I  have been focusing on painting familiar settings that are destination points for some R & R. During this holiday, I thought  I would paint scenes that show another side to life that is quiet and serene. So perhaps at the end of the month of December,  I will send out a preview of two featured  paintings to  soothe our senses.   Have I have peaked your interest?  This I can tell you-- one will be of Perkin's Cove. The other is a popular picnic spot and overlook of Albany county. By the way,  a customer had asked if the frames from the closeout can be removed.  If your preference is such, then that can be done along with a wrap around painting of the canvas.  My hope and my wish is for all to find that perfect calm in al