I Left My Heart In Santa Fe

It happens just about every year in June or July. The hubby and I pack up our bags and head to Santa Fe, aka my "happy place". This year was probably the most special of the dozens and dozens of trips we've taken over the past 20+ years. We were able to stay for two weeks in a quaint, charming adobe casita off Canyon Road, the perfect place to stay in town. You can start gallery hopping as soon as you walk out your door.

Of course we did the usual things one does while on vacation, we visited almost every art gallery, museum and boutique we could squeeze into a day. We ate, and ate and ate some some. Took a wonderful night sky tour outside of town which was simply amazing and awe inspiring. Visited Georgia O'Keeffe country and - of course - her museum. I even had a private one day painting workshop with award winning artist, and author Nancy Reyner. I can't wait to try out my new paint flinging skills!!

And, of course beautiful flowers everywhere you looked. I'm particularly drawn to old fashioned hollyhocks and they grow like weeds in Santa Fe. They even inspired a painting done on an earlier visit, Hollyhocks and Blue Sky.

Hollyhocks and Blue Sky, acrylic on canvas

Hollyhocks and Blue Sky is a 12" x 12" acrylic on canvas (unframed). Just send me a message if you are interested as it is not listed on my website.

Below is the first painting inspired from this summer's trip. Titled Celestial Choir no. 1. I was so moved by our night sky tour that this painting was born. I hope you'll enjoy it. I'm just in the finishing stages of a companion piece to go along with this one. Simply click on the image below for more information.

Celestial Choir no. 1, 12" x 12" acrylic on canvas (framed)

Thank you all for being part of my journey. Your support means the world to me and for those who are collectors of my art, you also have a peace of my soul. I do paint the colors of my soul. I invite you to follow me on Facebook and Instagram. And, please do visit my website if you haven't stopped by in a while.

Have a relaxed and fun summer my friends. Let's talk again soon. Your artist friend, Mary

“How they dance in the courtyard, sweet summer sweat.
Some dance to remember, some dance to forget”

— Eagles, Hotel California

Baby It's Hot!!!

I've been saying this to myself for weeks now, but I do live in Florida where it's hot pretty much year round. So what do you do when it's too hot to play outside? You stay in your air conditioned studio and paint what you're feeling. Introducing "Summer Solstice" friends. Hope you will enjoy it.

Summer Solstice, 20 x 24 acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas

This painting was partly inspired by the summer solstice this week and our recent trip to Santa Fe, NM. You could probably pick up on the southwestern colors used. While in Santa Fe we visited so many fabulous art galleries and museums. To say I was in heaven is an understatement. Santa Fe is an artists' town, and I felt very much at home. Can't wait to start planning our next trip.

While I was away Fine Art America came out with some awesome new products for my art. Can't wait to share with you. There's a new weekender bag and beach towels!!!! And more!!!!

Loving this new Weekender Bag.  Perfect for weekend getaways at the beach. — Loving this new Weekender Bag. Perfect for weekend getaways at the beach.

Then there's the new beach towels. So very cool!!! Traditional rectangular and round. Check 'em out below.

Traditional beach towel comes in two sizes

And now the groovy new round beach towel. How cool is this?

And, of course this design is also available on throw pillows, tote bags, Iphone and Galaxy phone cases, shower curtains, duvet covers and MORE.

I'm preparing for my first solo show event in September. Painting my little heart out and so excited. If you're in the area I'll be sharing more information as the event gets closer. I'd love to see you there.

Wherever your summer plans take you I hope you have a wonderful time making memories. Don't forget to wear a hat and sunscreen.

Blessings to all, Mary

“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.
”

— John Lubbock