Where Does Inspiration Come From?

Where Does Inspiration Come From?

As an artist this is a question I'm asked on a regular basis.  The simple answer is that inspiration for most of my paintings come from my garden, places I've traveled to or perhaps a beautiful color palette.   Many of you know my love of the southwest, especially New Mexico.  Many, many of my paintings are inspired from visits to Santa Fe and the surrounding areas.

Message From The Heart

My newest painting, "Message From The Heart" was inspired by a heart that appeared on a canvas that I was preparing.  Initially this was to be an abstract piece, but as I was hand applying and blending the initial layers of paint a dominant heart appeared on the canvas.  Since I hadn't started out to paint a heart, I set the canvas away for a few days to think about whether I should keep the heart or paint over it.  

Comfy throw pillow from Fine Art America

I meditated on how to proceed and dreamt of an angel.  Then I kept seeing heart shapes in little every day things ....water droplets in the shape of a heart, my granddaughter's crayon heart drawing and more. You get the idea.  I HAD to keep the heart!  How many signs did I need to receive?

Fabulously fun Weekender Tote Bag from Fine Art Americe

I believe we could use a little message from the heart these days.  Angels are watching over us and they want us to find them.

 Wishing you many blessings friends, Mary

“When life seems darkest and we feel lost and alone, that’s when we are surrounded by angels who care for us. All we need to do is open our hearts to see them reaching out to us with love.”

— Unknown

Wishing you all the Joy of the Season!

Dear friends,

With all the hustle and bustle going on this time of year, I wanted to take time to thank you for being part of my journey this past year.  Never in my 50+ years could I have imagined I would have taken up painting at this stage in my life.  Crazy as it seems to many people, it is a passion that must have been dormant in my soul all these years.  I am especially grateful to have found this gift and even more grateful to a husband who encourages me to use my gift. And,  I am blessed to have wonderful fans and collectors who support me too.

Messenger, 16 x 20 acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas  

I've always been a big believer in the magic of Christmas.  Growing up in a large family, Christmas was the most special time of the year as a child. Always believe in your dreams, and keep dreaming.  It keeps the magic alive.

From my family to yours, I wish you a most blessed and joyful Christmas and Happy New Year. I'm looking forward to 2016 and all the possibilities life holds.  I hope you'll continue on the journey with me my friends.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays -
May your New Year bring joy and happiness!

Blessings, Mary

“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.”

— Norman Vincent Peale

Painting Angels

If you've been following my blog friends, you probably know I've only been painting for about a year now.  And. before this month not one angel on canvas.  If you've been to my home you will see angels and cherubs both inside and outside in my garden.  I am a believer in angels since learning about my very own guardian angel when I was a child.  I'm not sure why it took me so long to paint one.  Perhaps it was the anniversary of my dearest friend's birthday earlier this month that prompted my need to paint angels.  You see, my best friend in the world was called to heaven several years ago and I still miss her every day.

On Angel Wings, acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas 

On Angel Wings was painted in memory of my sweet friend.  She was an angel in life, and no doubt is one now that she is in heaven.  

Prints of On Angel Wings are available through my Fine Art America shop. Simply click HERE to visit my shop for additional information on this painting.  It is available in prints, throw pillows, tote bags, shower curtains and MORE.  

Tranquility, acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas

Tranquility is the second angel I've painted this month.  She is also available as prints and more through Fine Art America.  Click HERE for more information.  Very simple, sweet and monochromatic to fit all decors. 

The first angel I painted is Guardian Angel.  Her outstretched wings remind me that I am always protected.  You can find Guardian Angel at Fine Art America.  

Guardian Angel, acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas

STEAL OF THE MONTH is still going on through October 31.  The current high offer for these two colorful, fun paintings is only $45 ~ far below the retail value.

Mary's Garden 1 and 2, acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas

If you'd like to make an offer on these two paintings simply pop over to my "Steal of the Month" website page by clicking HERE.  Enter your offer and submit.  Some lucky person is going to have these lovely pieces for a steal!!  And, each month a new painting will be offered.

Thank you so much friends for following me and my work.  I love reading and answering your comments so please feel free to leave me one to let me know what you think of my artwork.  

Wishing you a great weekend to come.  Get out and enjoy the fall weather if you're lucky enough to live in an area with cooler temps and changing leaves.  

Blessings until next time,  Mary

“Here I stand at a crossroads, wondering which way I should go. I ask for a sign, but in my heart , I believe I already know. Intuition? Inspiration? No. My angel told me so. ”

— Pocket Prayers for Women Finding Angels