Category: Daily Blog

Featured Artist: Mark Mehaffey!

On By Barbara StroudIn ART, Daily Blog, Featured ArtistLeave a comment
Shadow Walk #2 by Mark Mehaffey Acrylic 36×24″

Mark Mehaffey. Mark’s paintings are something special. I love those bits of underpainting showing through – it gives the painting pizazz (as if it really needs it!) – great shadows – the trees are magnificent!

See more of Mark’s work via these links:

Website  |  Instagram  |  Workshops

Read a bit about Mark, from his website:

I’ve been drawing and painting my whole life. I started painting with watercolor at the age of 10 and never stopped. My parents and my early teachers encouraged me to paint, I suspect to keep me out of trouble. It worked….more or less.

Some of my earliest memories include trying to match the colors I saw while using a child’s set of watercolors. Hours were spent in this endeavor. After 55 years of painting I’m now more inclined to paint the colors I feel than the colors I see. Paintings always take on a life of their own. Sometimes a work requires a studied design approach, making a plan and following that plan, at other times a more intuitive visceral approach is called for. I let the idea and content of my work dictate the materials and techniques used….not the other way around. Other ideas dictate an exploration of surface and textures, relying on the initial concept and intuition to bring the work to a conclusion.

Above all I value creativity and honesty. And although I follow many paths and speak with more than one voice, I am on my own journey. I have two wishes…one is to live a few more hundred years, for I shall never have enough time to paint all the ideas in my head. Probably won’t see that wish granted. That second wish? That somewhere along my journey I will communicate with fellow travelers who will see something of what I see and feel something of what I feel…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

All images via MehaffeyGallery.com, used with permission…
Images are not for reproduction, they are property of the artist.

 

A quick and tasty dinner – all on the grill!

On By Barbara StroudIn Daily Blog, FOOD, HOME2 Comments

Fred brought this plate in after grilling it outside. Oh does it ever smell good!

This is a fabulous dinner on a hot day, or a day that you don’t want to clean up in the kitchen… I zapped the potatoes in the microwave for a few minutes until almost done, then wrapped in foil and put on the grill with the chicken and corn.

Fred cooks the chicken almost entirely, then he slathers the BBQ sauce (homemade makes all the difference) leaves it on the grill for a few minutes and then takes it off – oh! Is this ever tasty! Check out the link to the BBQ Sauce – so quick and easy. I freeze the sauce in an ice cube tray and once frozen quickly toss into a ziplock and put back in the freezer. When I need it I pull out a few “cubes” and tada!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Featured Artist: Mary Sauer!

On By Barbara StroudIn ART, Daily Blog, Featured ArtistLeave a comment
Painting by Mary Sauer

Mary Sauer. Wow. I love her perspective on people and the different settings she paints – so creative! But don’t just take my word for it… I am loving her paintings! This painting has so much detail and you can look at it for hours yet it still has a painterly quality that makes it so interesting. Not easy!

See more of Mary’s work via these links:

Website  |  Instagram 

Read a bit about Mary, from her website:

Painter Mary Sauer was born in Greenville, Kentucky in 1986. Her work has been exhibited throughout the United States including over a dozen shows in New York City alone. Mary is a 2014 recipient of The Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant for traditional figure painting and winner of the 2014 Director’s Award at the Springville Museum of Art’s annual Spring Salon. Mary’s art is influenced by nineteenth century painting including John Singer Sargent, the Pre-Raphealites, and the French Academics as well as contemporary realist academic painting and fashion photography. Her philosophy is to combine the nineteenth century techniques of painting with more modern conceptual ideas, especially regarding how we present ourselves to the world psychologically.

Her work has been featured on the cover of American Art Collector Magazine, in the annual, “21 Under 31,” feature in Southwest Art Magazine, and in feature articles in both International Artist Magazine and the April 2014 issue of The Artists Magazine. Her painting, ‘Anna’ was awarded Best in Show at the 2012 Portrait Society of America International Portrait Competition, for which she was again a finalist in 2013. Her education includes a BFA in Illustration from Brigham Young University in 2009, further studies at The Art Student’s League of New York and The Grand Central Academy of Art, and an MFA from The University of Utah. For two years she apprenticed in the studio of master painter William Whitaker. She has served as an adjunct faculty member at Brigham Young University teaching advanced life drawing, at the University of Utah teaching painting and drawing, and currently at Utah Valley University where she teaches the Painting the Human Head(portrait painting) class. Her work is in a number of permanent collections including those of the Springville Museum of Art and the LDS Church History Museum. She maintains an active portrait career and is represented by Sloane Merrill Gallery in Boston, Anthony’s Fine Art in Salt Lake City, and Meyer Gallery in Park City, UT.  She currently resides near Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband David, an operatic tenor, and their daughter Scarlett.

Catch you back here tomorrow!

All images via MarySauerArt.com, used with permission…

Images are not for reproduction, they are property of the artist.

Hurricane Hugo – 28 years ago today…

On By Barbara StroudIn Charleston, Daily Blog, SC, THOUGHTSLeave a comment

Hurricane Hugo – September 21, 1989 

Hurricane Hugo. I will never forget that night (even though it was 28 years ago). We were watching the weather. Leslie Lyles (newscaster) was saying through blinking eyes “Get out, get out now!” – the problem is that evacuation started much sooner, so we decided to hunker down. Shortly thereafter an eerie sound and the power went out. And so it began… Bridget, me and her dog “Buster”. We gathered any supplies that we could possibly need (flashlight, radio, batteries, water, staple gun, plastic). At that time the hurricane was a Category 5 – as strong as it gets. We decided to ride it out in the hallway – no windows, so that was good, we piled blankets and pillows. In the bedrooms off that hallway we moved large pieces of furniture in front of the windows. All bedroom doors were closed. We had the radio on and there was one radio station that remained on for most of the night – it helped to be connected with another entity so much!

The wind was strong (Category 4 when it hit land) and we were there in the hallway in the dark listening to what we thought were large limbs snapping (the wind underneath the doorway was incredibly strong). One after another. We woke up the next morning after actually sleeping after the eye moved in. We moved the plastic off the window and peered out. OH. MY. GOD. with both said in unison.

The sounds of snapping branches were extremely huge pine trees, not branches. Several houses had pine trees sliced right through – cars with trees, trees everywhere.

We had one tiny leak. It was a miracle.

In the coming days we signed up with the Red Cross to help in any efforts we could. They had us ride out in the country to give them notice on where they needed to send people for help. It was a telling time. My place of employment had no roof, but I was luckily transferred to another location after a few weeks.

While driving to that far away location – there were boats in the middle of the interstate. Blown right off the racks they were on. Traffic lights were eye level, hanging with wires everywhere. Gas stations coverings were toppled – And because we couldn’t watch TV or hear any real news we had no idea how bad it was until much later. Two weeks with no water, electricity or phone. We learned some tough lessons like you can’t write a check in a store, even though you waited in line almost an entire day and were able to grab a few things that weren’t spoiled (they could only let a few people, escorted, in at a time, no lights, no power, etc.) – no gas, nowhere to eat, nothing… anywhere.

We were fortunate to have a friend not too far away, so we could take a cold candle-lit shower – also working with the Red Cross they found a way to make coffee in the morning, bless them! Within a week a pizza place opened and we were set.

Thanking our lucky stars.

I’m writing this as Irma may be barreling this way. I pray not.

This is a great (short) video of what Charleston looked like after Hugo. Some videos and news stories say 9/21 and some say 9/22 – power went out around 8PM and it hit hard around midnight… Click HERE to watch a short video and see what Charleston looked like after Hugo hit in 1989.

Image (and more info) via Wikipedia.org

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist – Charleston, SC

On By Barbara StroudIn Charleston, Daily Blog, Photograph, SCLeave a comment
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist – Charleston, SC

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist – a beautiful church in Charleston, SC. This church has so much presence. The sheer size of it alone is astounding. The brickwork is intricate and stunning. The cross on the top shines in the sun. The interior with the beautiful stained glass will take your breath away.

The history on this church is fascinating… click HERE.

Catch you back here tomorrow!

📸 IMAGES ARE MY OWN UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF INTERESTED…

GUEST POST: Mini Nachos by Brennen McElhaney!

On By Barbara StroudIn ART, Daily Blog, FOOD, RecipeLeave a comment

Today I’m featuring a guest post written by an artist I have featured in the past. He sent me this tasty sounding recipe – and what a perfect idea – to have those of you with good ideas – recipes, art, thoughts, etc. submit something to be featured.

If interested, contact me via my blog (or click on the CONTACT ME page at the top of my website) – send me what you would like to say, include an original image if you like…

For those of you who give this recipe a whirl – be sure to comment on this blog!

Be sure to check out Brennen’s fabulous paintings:

Website  |  Facebook

Here is the post by Brennen – catch you back here tomorrow!

GUEST POST by BRENNEN McELHANEY

Mini Nachos by Brennen McElhaney
Nothing beats a big plate of nachos (and margaritas) shared with friends. But sometimes a smaller “fiesta” is more appropriate. Here is a scaled-back version of the traditional Mexican appetizer.
  • Nacho chips (10)
  • Refried beans (heated)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped lettuce
  • Minced fresh onion
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh guacamole
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedge

Spoon a small portion of heated refried beans onto each chip and line the chips up in a row. Add toppings (in this order): Shredded cheddar cheese, chopped lettuce, minced onions, tomatoes. Top with sour cream, guacamole and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedge. (Best served with margaritas or your favorite Mexican beer!)

ONE WAY!

On By Barbara StroudIn Daily Blog, Photograph, THOUGHTSLeave a comment

This sign struck me – it says ONE WAY on both sides of it, yet it appears that each points to a slightly different path.

Which made me think about life. Some of us go one way down the path of life and others of us go down a different path – I think it’s important to remember that it doesn’t matter what path we go down, when all come together and are one great country. People helping people, as we’ve seen in the case of all the flooding in Texas. Cars lined up with boats, supplies, gear – people risking their lives and belongings to help their fellow men, women and children (and animals! Let’s not forget the animals!)

Bravo to all of you who have done something to help Texas, whether it was by taking part in the survival efforts or whether you made a donation, no matter the amount.

There is only ONE WAY for us to be. United.

Catch you back here tomorrow!

📸 IMAGES ARE MY OWN UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF INTERESTED…

John Rutledge House Inn – Charleston, SC

On By Barbara StroudIn Charleston, Daily Blog, SC, THOUGHTS1 Comment
John Rutledge House Inn – Charleston, SC

This is a photo of the John Rutledge House Inn  – it’s a beautiful inn in Charleston, SC. The Plumbago and it’s purple flowers are thriving in this spot!

If you’re looking for a special place to stay, this is a great one! We stayed here the night of our wedding. Woke to an amazing breakfast – so special! Check it out!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

📸 IMAGES ARE MY OWN UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF INTERESTED…

Hominy Grill – Charleston, SC!

On By Barbara StroudIn Charleston, Daily Blog, Photograph1 Comment

We stopped in Hominy Grill for breakfast a few times last month – while it can be very busy on weekends and during holidays, we were lucky enough to catch a quiet breakfast.

Delicious food and such atmosphere! If you’re in Charleston, SC – I would highly recommend! Check out their menus!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

📸 IMAGES ARE MY OWN UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF INTERESTED…

 

Featured Artist: Jennifer Van Cor!

On By Barbara StroudIn ART, Daily Blog, Featured ArtistLeave a comment
Schoodic Point II by Jennifer Van Cor 30×40″ Acrylic

Jennifer Van Cor, a wonderful artist from New Hampshire. Her paintings are striking – full of color and very unique brush strokes. She can paint those “Maine trees” that I love so much – each has their own personality.

See more of Jennifer’s work via these links:
Website  |  Instagram

Read a bit about Jennifer, from her website:

The landscape has always tantalized my senses.  The smell and feel of wet grass, the sound of leaves in the wind, the shape of a shadow through a broken limb.  And with it all the ever changing color; a universe of color.  Each stroke and dip of the brush pushes my senses onto the surface and if I am listening closely and truly, the life of a landscape fills the painting.  As my landscapes progress, they become more about the flow of energy, the experience of a lifetime of color, shape and feeling.  
Poetry has been another way to touch the landscape.  Words mix color and senses through imagery that is very much like painting.  When the two are combined, I feel I have painted a poem.

Catch you back here tomorrow!

All images via JenniferVanCor.com, used with permission…
Images are not for reproduction, they are property of the artist.

Annapolis Court House Plan by Our Town Plans!

On By Barbara StroudIn Daily Blog, HOME, House Plans1 Comment
77 Annapolis Court by Our Town Plans

77 Annapolis Court by Our Town Plans – pretty fabulous, isn’t it? This plan is 2,303 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms – I love the lines of this house  – it’s overflowing with character – like a grand home built back in the day – but built today with modern conveniences, you just can’t beat that!

What a nice porch on the front of the house – also notice the entrance to the sunroom to the left of the porch, as well as another porch on the second floor!

 

77 Annapolis Court by Our Town Plans

This plan offers an open kitchen, living, dining space as well as a wonderful sunroom complete with an entrance to the outdoors – This plan has a wonderful carport, which is so convenient, you can drive up with your groceries, go in the side door by the sunroom and be at your kitchen in a moment to unpack!

I like that there is a bedroom on the main level. While it’s not the master, it is a nice size and could easily be used as a master. I like to have a bedroom down – it’s piece of mind in case there are unexpected broken bones, illness, etc. Also notice that wonderful back porch and the half bath tucked beneath the stairs – a smart use of space.

77 Annapolis Court by Our Town Plans

The upstairs includes a master bedroom, closet and bathroom. The laundry is located right outside of the master suite. There is an additional bedroom with it’s own bathroom and generous closet. And oh la la, to have a sleeping porch on those nights that are heavenly to be outside! What a treasure!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

All images via OurTownPlans.com, used with permission…
Images are not for construction or reproduction, they are property of the design firm.

 

Featured Artist: Jeanne Rosier Smith!

On By Barbara StroudIn ART, Daily Blog, Featured ArtistLeave a comment
Exhale by Jeanne Rosier Smith   18″x24″   Pastel  |  Gallery 31 Fine Art

Can you believe this painting? The green in the wave where light is coming through is spot on. How?! This is a brilliant painting – absolutely stunning!

See more of Jeanne’s work via these links:

Website  |   Instagram  |  Blog  | Workshops  |  Classes

Read a bit about Jeanne, from her website:

Jeanne Rosier Smith grew up painting, but first discovered pastel when a box of Nupastels arrived in the mail from an uncle in Massachusetts, 20 years ago.  “You might enjoy these,” he said.  He had no idea.  She studied art at Georgetown University and later at the DuCret School of Art in New Jersey.  After earning a Ph.D. in English and teaching college English for ten years, she made the switch to full time professional art in 2000.  She now maintains a Pastel Studio school, teaches around the country, and is represented by several East Coast galleries.  Her subjects are diverse:  landscape, portrait, food, and the sea.  

Smith is a signature member of the Pastel Society of America, the American Society of Marine Artists, the Connecticut Pastel Society and the Pastel Painters Society of Cape Cod, an IAPS Masters Circle member, and a juried artist member of the Copley Society, the Salmagundi Club, and Academic Artists of America.  She has exhibited at the Massachusetts State House, the Guild of Boston Artists, and nationally at the Pastel Society of America, the Catherine Lorillard Wolfe Arts Club and American Artist Professional League shows.  Her work has garnered top awards, including the Prix de Pastel (Best in Show) from IAPS, The International Association of Pastel Societies, a Grand Prize in International Artist Magazine Seascape Competition, and an Art Spirit Foundation Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Pastel at the American Artists Professional League.  She has placed in the Pastel Journal’s Pastel 100 for the past five years, including first place in 2017.  Her work has appeared in International Artist Magazine, American Art Collector, and The Pastel Journal, and she is a regular contributor to the Pastel Journal.  Her paintings are in collections on five continents. She is represented by Cecil Byrne Gallery of Charleston SC, Gallery 31 of Orleans MA, Francesca Anderson Fine Art of Lexington MA, Old Spouter Gallery on Nantucket, and Powers Gallery of Acton MA. Continue reading HERE…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

All images via JeanneRosierSmith.com, used with permission…
Images are not for reproduction, they are property of the artist.