Mark your Calenders!

Rue de Faubourg Brasserie made it into the Oil Painters of America's Western Regional Show- yehaw! I am shipping it out this week.

I cut and paste the following info about the show so I wouldn't have to paraphrase something that is already short, sweet, and to the point.

"This year’s Western Regional Exhibition will be held at the beautiful Howard/Mandville Gallery in Kirkland, Washington, August 8 through August 30, 2009. Located near Seattle, Kirkland is a small, yet sophisticated town, offering many opportunities to explore the beautiful Pacific Northwest area. Situated on the shores of Lake Washington, Kirkland offers many prospects for enjoying aquatic activities and bird watching, as well as viewing the beautiful panorama of the Olympic Mountains.

Please mark you calendars now for the opening reception, which will be held on Saturday evening, August 8, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The awards reception will take place at approximately 7:00 p.m. A two day preview period will take place on August 6 and 7 for collectors, however, no paintings will be sold during this time.

This year’s Western Regional Juror of Awards will be Master Signature member Jeffrey R. Watts. Mr. Watts is widely regarded for his figurative work and will provide a 3 hour painting demonstration on Saturday morning, August 8. In addition, we have a full day of educational events planned including a “Meet the Expert” Q& A session with OPA president Neil Patterson and a presentation by Scott Gellatly of Gamblin Artists Colors on studio safety, environmental concerns and important tips for traveling with your paints."

Mansfield Dam: Lake View I
6" x 8"
original oil on canvas board
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Mansfield Dam: Lake View II
6" x 8"
original oil on canvas board
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I got to go paint with the Plein Air Austin Crew and these are the result. It was a great painting session filled with beautiful views, wonderful people and unexpected weather changes. We could see the rain coming from across the lake. Awesome.

Texas Oaks

Texas Oaks
6" x 8"
original oil on canvas board
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Another wonderful view from my mom's back yard. My son was taking a nap, so sat on the back door's step and stole a few minutes for this painting.

I love this painting. Greens have been giving me trouble for a while now, but I stopped trying to see them as shades of green and started looking for the reds, purples and blues instead.

I am so hooked.

My Mother's Crepe Myrtle

My Mother's Crepe Myrtle
6" x 8"
original oil on canvas board
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I was visiting with my mom while she watered the back yard and fell in love with this Crepe Myrtle. The evening sun was shining on it perfectly and the blooms were fantastic.

I am amazed at how many stunning views I find in my mother's back yard. I never saw so much beauty in the Texas Hill Country as I do now. Everywhere I turn I find another spot I would like to paint. I love plein air!

Enchanted Rock Shadows

Enchanted Rock Shadows
6" x 8"
original oil on canvas board
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I had a request from a friend for a painting of Enchanted Rock, and this is one of the studies. I found a great spot with absolutely no shade that overlooks the dome. (sweatin' and paintin') One good thing about a drought is all the dust in the air that creates such beautiful atmosphere in the distance.

I look forward to going out and painting some more. This place is a great subject with endless painting possibilities.