". . . a brush with nature"

“Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.” 

I love this quote by Marilyn Monroe and I absolutely think it applies to both life and the creation of art. I know that I choose to follow my own path both in what I like to wear, as well as what I like to paint. My wardrobe may not be what others consider “typical” for a woman my age, but I am comfortable in my clothes. Wearing them makes me feel good and makes me happy. 

It is the same with my art. Painting makes me happy, too. I am passionate about the subjects I paint. I want to share feelings and stories with my work. I want to bring back memories with my paintings and I hope to create new ones.

I am certainly not perfect and neither is my work, but maybe somewhere inside that imperfection there is joy to be found. A tale to be told. A feeling to be discovered. I hope my art is never boring.

I read a lot of art related articles and newsletters sent out by art organizations, professional forums and other artists. There is so much to learn from these simply by taking a few moments of your time to read them. Then, I’ve found it helpful to keep notes of my favorite “tidbits” to refer back to later.

A recent newsletter article I read spoke to “What To Do If You Don’t Have An Idea” and then went on to give about 20 or so suggestions to help with the problem. Although I don’t often (or hardly ever, actually) experience this specific problem, I did keep the notes of the discussion. (Lots of good information there and you just never know…) One suggestion, in particular, spoke to me because I often do change things up and challenge myself by painting in a completely different size than I usually work. 

The article suggested to “Work small . . . and do a mini painting.” I have been doing that and it isn’t as easy as it might sound. Working tiny, and with precision, can be difficult.

In fact, I have been painting a few actual miniature pieces (adhering to the strict guidelines outlined) along the way and have even started entering some of them into the juried shows specifically dedicated to miniature work. It’s fun, it’s a challenge and it’s an accomplishment when you get it right. That’s why I was especially excited to receive an award for my work at one of these shows.

My pastel painting, “The Nest”, received the Board of Directors Special Recognition Award at Parklane Gallery’s 33rd Annual International Miniature Show in July 2025. 

What an honor and most definitely motivation to continue painting small now and again. I am up for the challenge!