Conspire to bring joy!

"Studio In Spring" 36"x36" Oil SOLD.

The decision about which painting to enter in the upcoming fall online show with the Realism Guild was made easier when a fan decided to make "Studio In Spring" theirs.

Every time I mark a painting as "SOLD" there's a story. And the story never fails to amaze and delight me. But this one....

This one just keeps me laughing and giggling with anticipation. I'm like a wiggly puppy. I can't wait! It's just about killing me!

Ok, breathe, Jan...

Here's a brief backstory so you'll understand my excitement.

Kelli and Tony with "Coffee Or Tea?"

Kelli and Tony are old friends.

The painting they're holding in the picture here, I donated for a cause they support; Alternatives For Girls.

When the fundraiser that Kelli helped coordinate was cancelled at the start of the pandemic, Kelli and Tony expressed a desire to have the painting. So I suggested that they donate the starting bid to AFG and keep the painting.

AFG got a donation, Kelli and Tony got the painting they fell in love with, and I got a thrill knowing someone was genuinely enjoying my little teacup painting.

Aspiring Chickadee #2

About a year later, Kelli commented a few times about "Aspiring Chickadee #2" while it was in progress.

With each conversation about the painting, Kelli's desire to have it grew.

When it was finally almost ready I made it known first to people on my private list. I had no sooner sent the notification out when Kelli messaged me that she wanted to purchase it.

It resonated with her because she had started to paint as well. Her first attempts were quite encouraging and I think the metaphor of the delicate bird perching among the well-worn brushes spoke to her aspiring artist's heart.

Then when she first saw "Studio In Spring" in progress, Kelli expressed a desire for it several times before asking Tony if he might get it for her birthday.

Now this is a big and complex painting at 36"x36," so you can imagine it's a bit higher priced than my little 4"x4" color studies. Tony encouraged her in a different direction.

But as it turned out, that was just a diversion....

A surprise awaits Kelli.

Tony contacted me saying he had decided to surprise her with the painting. They were on a road trip so we had to coordinate payment and delivery instructions via text during small moments when Kelli was out of hearing.

I just delivered it to their home. Sometime in the next few hours, Kelli will walk through their door and see this waiting for her.

And the suspense is killing me!

Fast Forward....

When Tony and Kelli arrived home from their road trip, he took a video of her walking in and seeing it there on an easel in front of the fireplace.

Kelli's reaction was priceless! You can watch the video here.

I will miss seeing this painting every day...the same way I miss every painting that leaves my studio. Sold paintings are like friends who move away.

But what a privilege it is to know that it brings these remarkable people joy. And that is a very satisfying trade.

"Feather Tip" 4"x4" Oil

Summer Giveaway

It's finally here!

Drumroll please.....

Congratulations to Marti from Iowa! Marti chose "Feather Tip" from among three choices.

If you know of anyone who might enjoy my Studio News, please forward this email to them.

Thank you to all on my private list for coming along on this creative journey. Your presence, and your feedback in comments and emails inspire me to create more and continue to explore and grow as an artist. The giveaway is my way of expressing gratitude.

Have a wonderful week and take a little time out for birdsong.

Jan