Mount Dora Festival of the Arts Kick-Off Party

  Well, the 40th annual Mount Dora Festival of the Arts is almost here!

It's my first time in this show, and I was thrilled to be accepted to such a great show with the added bonus of getting to sleep in my own bed every night. (Woot, woot!)

Along with several other exhibiting artists, I will be attending the kick-off party graciously hosted by the Mount Dora branch of United Southern Bank.

In the area? You're invited. Will I wear a dress? Will I wear pants? Comb my hair?Will I be extremely socially awkward when asked normal questions yet gregarious about random non-sequiturs? Enough about me. Tell me how you feel about the #likeagirl  backlash.

If you're not around for the preview party, that's just fine, too. 

I'll be in booth A -16 Saturday & Sunday Feb 7th & 8th from 10am-5pm both days

exhibiting original watercolor paintings and a few select limited edition prints.

This might be my only outdoor fine art show of the spring season, so swing by and say hello.

In artwork & play,

The Lawn Care Kismet

 Today started off like this.

 It wasn't exactly easy to get going with a couple pounds of pure sweetness slumbering on me. And by the time I got up and moving around, I knew today would be one of those days when it's hard to get a whole lot accomplished.
 After my morning routine and email check, I decided to dally a bit longer before getting into the studio to paint. Ten minutes turned into almost two hours (damn you internet!) and I had to unplug and step outside to get in the right frame of mind. I needed to realign, if you will. I laced up and headed to the trail.
 The first two miles of my run on the trail were hot and painful.
I was not enjoying myself at all. So, I decided to walk.
Instead of using the time to multitask by listening to a podcast, I took my ear buds out and listened to the symphony of the swamp.
 It was unusually loud today. The cicadas clicked and whirred to a soft roar. I spent a few minutes thinking about all I needed to get done, then a few more, and a few more. (I'm sure I was missing any inspiring animal encounters that were near the trail because I was so wrapped up in the to-do list.)
I stopped myself after mile four and forced my mind to quiet down. Every time a task would pop into my mind, I would counter it with an acknowledgment of gratitude. Eventually, the thoughts of thankfulness began to flow.
  I came to a bench where I sometimes stop to look up at the spanish moss swaying in the wind.

(I meant to take a picture of a huge turtle in the swamp, but I was distracted by this lovely creature and missed the turtle.)

I laid across the metal bench and stared at the sky. Today was the first day this week that thunderheads were replaced by fluffy white clouds rolling along gracefully. I thought for a moment that my heaven probably looks a lot like this. There will, of course, be a full spectrum of autumn leaves and smells in my afterlife bliss, but this was so close.
 I let myself be still. Not trying to listen, but allowing space for inspiration. Maybe a new idea for a painting? An animal muse crossing my path?
 Whether it is divine or just our inner self speaking, I strongly believe that in the quiet mind, we will find our guidance. Most of my biggest successes in my art and life in general have come from a still, small, but clear voice in this state.
                                                              Cut the grass.
Wait, what?
 Cut the grass.


The rain had kept my husband from cutting the grass this week and it was getting pretty long.
This wouldn't be a big deal, but we have a reel mower. ( No motor!)

It's my husband's way to get an extra workout and save a sliver of the environment when he does the lawn. I love him for it and it's really not too bad. It's one of the best push mowers on the market, but it is 50lbs and we have an incline on our lawn. Trust me, you feel it.
  So, after another urge to go cut the grass, I got up from the bench and walked the remaining two miles home. Podcasts lined up, wet towel on my neck and donning a visor, I pulled the Fiskar (yep, they make scissors, too) into the 88F feels like 95F yard.
 I battled the side section first, since it's on an incline, too. I had to go over it several times, adjusting the blade height down with each round.
After 25 minutes I had the side done.
I brought the mower to the front yard and did the first two passes trying to go downhill. This was going to be a long battle. I was starting to regret the 6 miles on the trail. I wasn't going to get anything else done today!

As I did the strip by the road, a large truck passed by and stopped at a stop sign. I heaved the 50lb beast back up to our Oleanders and tried to circle them. The sandy soil caught the wheels and I struggled, but got it back down the hill for another pass. As I neared the road, I noticed the truck backing up toward our house.
 The truck stopped in front of me and the windows came down. I'm sure I was a sight to behold. Red faced and soaked with sweat.

"You want a free mow?"

"I'll be alright. My husband usually does it, but I want to get it done before it rains again."

"You want it to look like you did it?"

 Long story short, these guys asked their boss if they should stop and come back because they couldn't watch me push that mower in the Florida heat. They wouldn't even let me pay them. I tried.

Since the owner, Corey, wouldn't let me pay him, I asked what his wife decorates with.
It turned out that his wife is a graphic designer and they were both in the printing business.
He said she likes turtles, but I don't have any Slow and Steady signed prints yet, so I asked if she likes frogs. I gladly gave him signed prints of Atoadment and Kiss It.

I did ask for cards, and you can be sure that Safari Lawn Care will be getting our business next time.
With a 3 person crew and professional equipment, they knocked it out in under 15 minutes.
It would have taken me over 3 hours.

 So, I actually did get a little painting done today, and my husband is spared from this week's bout with the lawn. Who knows, maybe a zebra painting is in my future.

What floats your boat?

 Water is a constant inspiration for me. (As you can see.)
Which one of my water themed pieces do you like best? 
Every piece of art I make is an outlet or a conduit for a specific group of emotions or memories.
Each one of them illustrates a piece of me or something that I or a client experienced.

 Just from looking at them visually, which artwork speaks to you right now?
Everyone has a different interpretation, and art is totally subjective. But the art we choose can say a lot about where we are right now.
Leave a comment and let me know why that one resonated with you.
(You can also join the conversation on my Facebook  page or Twitter.)

Details on each piece are below, the bold text is what your art choice might be telling you.

1.  Something In The Water ~
11" x 15", Watercolor & Ink 

   This piece was inspired by a friend's engagement and wedding.
I'm a big fan of love, especially when it took two people a while to find each other.  
 When you've had  a not-so-fairy-tale long-term relationship or marriage and it ends, it can be hard to swim back into the deep end. Do it anyway. It's worth it. True love will find you in the end.
 If you chose this piece, I'm guessing you're in love or really want to be. You're a true romantic that values people and relationships. Dive in, it's waiting for you. ;)

2.  Moonlit Tide
 16" x 20", mixed media pastel, original in private collection, prints available

  I used to live on a magical and very quirky island, Tybee Island, GA.
Now, I'm in Florida. I can still make it to the beach in 30-40 minutes, but it is not the same.
I miss hearing the ocean lullaby every night, but most of all, I miss the full moon dancing on the night sea. I painted this one night when I was pining away for my little beach town and all of the wonderful friends that call it home. I think the loneliness I feel in Florida came through in this piece, but also the part of me that really likes solitude in nature. 
If you chose this piece, you're probably in a place like that right now. 
It's okay to be a recluse. Take a break and escape somewhere that you can be still.
Sometimes the moon seems to shine brightest when there are clouds hiding her from the stars. 

3.  Mark Of A Perfect Day
16" x 20" oil canvas, private commission

  I paint memorial portraits for people all the time, but this was a very special commission for me. 
A landscape isn't usually interesting for me if it's from someone's direction, but this story was as touching and beautiful as the beach in the painting.

 A young wife wanted to give her husband a painting for Christmas to help him remember his father that had passed away. The last good memory he had was having lunch on a beach in the Florida Keys.
 I was especially touched by the story. I wanted to make this the most peaceful and happy beach I could while still making it look like the view they had during that meal. It seemed like a challenge, but making someone's good memories last is one of the greatest pay offs in my work. Mark was the client's father's name, hence the title. So, I was very relieved and joyful when the painting was received with heartfelt thanks and praise. <3

  If you chose this painting, you might be in need of a nice beach break. Maybe it's cold where you are and some tropical breezes would be welcome. I'm also betting you're the sentimental type that has crystal clear memories and tons of photos.
 
4. Throne
16" x 20", textured plaster & acrylic
  This piece was created with quite a few underlying meanings, underlying being the key word.
I am fascinated by and have a deep respect for the sea. There's something about water and the ocean that calls to me again and again. But- there is always a slight discomfort about what lies beneath the waves. (There's also an iron islands reference for you GOT fans. ;) )
 I could go on and on about this piece, instead I'll leave you with a Frida Kahlo quote-

"“I drank to drown my sorrows, but the damned things learned how to swim.”

There is a lot to be said for the texture of this piece and the figures within. If you chose this painting, you are probably drawn to fluid movement, whether it's water or dancing. You're physical and tactile with lots of kinetic energy. You feel restless if pent up and need freedom, even if others say it's a little hazardous.


 5. Release
30" x 48", torn letters and sennelier pastel on canvas
 This piece is very personal and could be an entire blog post in itself, so I'll save it as such.
Just know it was created from a box of old love letters. I tore them up and created a "self-portrait" of sorts. This piece was made for a group show titled Beauty for Ashes.
  If you chose this piece, you're a water baby, too. But, you may sometimes submerse yourself in heavy mental and spiritual quicksand. Relationships and commitments are important, but you might need to come up for air. Don't drown in whatever is miring you down, wash it off and let it go.

6. Certainties
   8" x 10", textured plaster & acrylic
Fun, textured, pure, energetic and simple. 
 If you chose this piece, I'd like to hang out with you. You're bold, bright, and you bring it.
You see silver linings and possess an uncommon optimism while remaining honest and uncomplicated. Never let anyone convince you to be serious and stop playing, you're too smart for that. ;)



7.  Matsya
 38" x 18" textured plaster & acrylic on wood

The legend of Matsya is very similar to other Great Flood myths. According to the Matsya Purana, the king of pre-ancient North India was washing his hands in a river when a little fish swam into his hands and pleaded with him to save its life. He put it in a jar, which it soon outgrew. He then moved it to a tank, a river and then finally the sea. The fish then revealed himself to be Vishnu and told him that a deluge would occur within seven days that would destroy all life. Therefore, he was instructed to take "all medicinal herbs, all the varieties of seeds, and accompanied by the seven saints” along with animals. Sound familiar?
  The colors of soothing, cool waters saturate this piece featuring a figure in matsyasana, or fish pose. I created this piece to remind myself that the deluges of life are not always meant to drown me, but to wash away the unnecessary obstacles I may be clinging to. Let the riptide take you out, go with the flow, and know that the current may sweep you to better shores. 
 If you chose this piece, you are a deeply relaxed person that appreciates stillness while the world swirls and unfolds around you. But if you're stressed right now, this piece might be calling you to lay back. Go ahead, flop into a fish pose. Your heart will thank you for it. <3

8. Outswimming Typhon
19" x 30" textured plaster on wooden skate decks
 The story and mythology behind this one deserves its own post, but I will say that
the decks were given to me by a collector's twin sons. I wasn't sure what to do with them until I learned they were Pisces and their mother believed they were reincarnated together after one killed the other in a past life. (Yeah, I know.) In Greek mythology, Typhon was known as the "Father of All Monsters". Aphrodite and her son Eros (aka Venus and Cupid) transformed into fish to escape Typhon.
 If you chose this piece, you could be the type of person that is a great companion. You're lively, supportive, and fiercely loyal. Your friends or significant other mean the world to you. You couldn't imagine leaving them to fight off bigger fish alone. Swimming solo is nice sometimes, but where's the fun in that? 

9. Reflecting on the River
16" x 20", textured plaster & acrylic
 This piece was inspired by a blissful day on the black back waters of the St. Johns River.
Taking it slow and surrounding myself with nature is my way to recharge. It's also my sanctuary.
The cypress trees and their knees stand like members in the choir as I roll by to the alter call.
I feel like I am most grateful, reverent, and able to be clearly reflective when I'm in the hammocks.
 If you chose this one, you know where I'm coming from. You love nature and everything in it. Manicured city parks are boring and way too loud. You like to be in a wild place where the animals and breeze in the trees is the only action. You're ready for a quiet ride in the boat. We'll let the birds do all the talking.

 

 

Now is the New Sexy

 The past, guilt, and shame is so much heavier than fat.

 After reading this blog post, I was angry. (A great reminder that "sexy" and fitness fads are always changing, and pretty much always detrimental, strong language warning.)
But, I can't always blame the media and fads. Even though I don't judge myself against others, I do compare myself to past versions of me, robbing myself of current joys and self-esteem. Time to look in the mirror-

Red-faced in Florida, post-run

  In the summer, I slack. Florida is hot as all get out and I do not particularly enjoy pounding the pavement under the blazing tropical sun while gasping in thick, insect filled air. I timed myself on a recent 5k early morning run. It revealed just how much I've slacked.
As a former Team-In-Training athlete, my time was embarrassing compared to my past 5k and 1/2 marathon PRs. I felt lazy. I felt old. I felt fat.

 On the contrary, my husband is definitely more fit than your average American married man.
He's not an Adonis, but he diligently works out almost every morning before sunrise, despite his mood or physical state. He is incredibly disciplined. He is also typically insusceptible to media and culture brainwashing. He competes against himself, and he is proud of his body's strength. He also enjoys copious amounts of cheat foods on weekends. He is less concerned with his appearance than with his performance, and he is unashamed of a little (tiny) cheat food pudge.
 When I met my husband, I ran at least 5 miles every morning and went to group fitness classes and yoga 3-4xs a week. Saturday mornings were often spent at the gym followed by watching a college football game or movie on the treadmill. I was five years younger, 25 pounds lighter and nicely wore slim dresses that now sit in the back of my closet in the I-loved-and-I-will-wear-you-again-one-day section, nestled somewhere between my shame and winter wear.

These go behind the winter coats.

  The evening after my timed run, I was bemoaning my pace to my husband as we talked about our training schedule and goals for a turkey trot this year. (Thanksgiving 5k race)
I whined about wanting a beer, but denied myself the brew due to calorie estimates; getting faster is much easier for me if I drop a few lbs.

 Here's where I'm a lucky gal, my much-faster-than-me husband scoffed at the idea.
He reminded me that I ran that morning. No matter how fast, I ran, and it's a start to getting back to where I'd like to be. He essentially said that life is short, and I need to enjoy it. If I want a beer, drink a beer. If I want some autumn treats (don't get me started on fall), have them. It comes once a year, and I can run year round.
 Just like in most situations, his encouragement puts things in perspective and me back on track.
The heat may still be stifling, but I think it's the shame and guilt that weigh me down. Comparing past me to now me slows me down more than any other variable could. Doing so devalues my current abilities.

 One of the reasons I practice yoga is to slow down and live in the present moment. I am aware of my body as I breathe, stretch and strengthen. I honor the gift of now.
Right now, my body may not look or perform as it once did, but it is carrying me through daily trials and triumphs. It enables me to create my artwork, solve problems, help others, enjoy life, and love.
It carries my soul through its journey, and that is beyond beautiful.

 Now, my legs can carry me on an easy run, and for that I will thank my now body and celebrate.
I will celebrate that by going on a run tonight with my two best supporters; my husband and my now body. Then, we'll probably have a beer.

Photo from http://www.pintlog.com

A Post Road Pumpkin Ale sounds perfect.

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Orlando Art Salon Members Show (and grow) Together

 It's cool. We aren't collaborating on crazy hair cuts. It's this kind of salon;

 "Salon: from the French word salon (a living room or parlor), means a conversational gathering. Usually this is a select group of intellectuals, artists and politicians who meet in the private residence of a socially influential (and often wealthy) person." - arthistory.about.com

Interior of 27 Rue de Fluerus, Salon of Gertrude Stein

  I'm pretty stoked to be a member of a group called a salon, especially since esteemed artists such as Matisse, Toulouse-Lautrec, Renoir, Picasso, etc. attended Gertrude Stein's salon,

 but this particular salon isn't an esoteric group held in an ivory tower at 27 rue de Fleurus. 

Like most great teams, it all started with a coach.

 Alyson B. Stanfield, aka the Art Biz Coach, has made a very successful career for herself. With thousands upon thousands of social media followers, she has an impressive reach and even more impressive audience engagement and quite understandably so. As a former museum curator, educator, and art history scholar, she helps artists do what we (well, at least me)  dread; the biz side of our art careers. So, when Stanfield offered free course materials to local artists that met in groups, I was all about it. Just my luck an amazing Orlando artist, Robin Maria Pedrero, offered to host the group in her FAVO studio.
 As an artist that actively participates in local art events and shows, I already knew quite a few of the artists that joined the Orlando group. This actually made it easier than I had imagined. Rather than a stuffy "all business" approach, it was a real pleasure to meet, brain storm, encourage and sometimes just commiserate with such a diverse and talented group of artists.

 Honestly, I'm not organized enough to give you a quantifiable measure of how the biz side of my art did benefit from the course. I can tell you that there were quite a few days when I wanted to throw in my paint rags, but I left our salon with lighter shoulders and a renewed spirit.
I don't know about you, but I'll take warm and fuzzy over the former any day.

  One of my favorite affirmations of all time comes from a fellow salon member, Dawn Rosendahl,
"I am a creator, not a competitor."
(Fyi, she's not showing with the group b/c she's busy as an artist-in-action at the Maitland Art Center and getting ready for a solo show there. Awesome!)
 This salon fostered a sense of kinship rather than a competitive, market-driven atmosphere.
That's why I'm so proud to show alongside some of these salon members at Dandelion
Communitea Cafe. (A place so awesome and truly community driven, it deserves its own post.)

Meet us at the opening reception this Wednesday, September 4 from 7-10pm at Dandelion

618 N Thornton Ave, Orlando FL 32803. 

Salon members featured in the show are listed below. Simply click on the name to learn more about the artist and see artwork.
Gail Peck
Robin Maria Pedrero
Aimée Trudell Wheaton
Susan Sloan
Gregory Stock
Leah Hossler Wiedemer
Dlynn Roll
D. Renée Wilson
Bethany Taylor Myers
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Apple A Day Art Challenge & Apple Pic Giveaway

 I'm participating in a fun art challenge this August. I'm in Florida, so as much as I'd love to go apple pickin' in a gorgeous orchard to gather references, it ain't happening. I have tons of ideas in mind, but I know I'm going to tire of sketching my daily snack. Here's where you come in- Send me your favorite photos of all things apple- fruit, pie, electronics, that Coldplay baby, anything goes! If I choose yours, I will create an original piece of art inspired by your image*. (*see the official rules at the bottom- these must be YOUR photos- we're legal, beagle.) I will be be creating as many apples as my schedule allows- ideally one for each day in August, so send as many as you like! One lucky winner will be chosen at the end of the challenge and will receive one original piece of my art from the Apple a Day art challenge. There are lots of options to get extra entries, so get pickin'!

 Click the link below for details and to enter.

Apple a Day Art Challenge & Giveaway





FAA links-
Portrait

Winter Garden Yogi Brian Friedman; Changing the World One Pose at a Time

Brian Friedman demonstrates favorite and challenge poses in his Winter Garden Yoga studio.

 A few weeks ago, I decided I wanted to learn more about and share the stories of people that inspire me. I had several people in mind, but this first interview came about quite organically. I needed a model for a new painting, and Brian was gracious enough to take time out of his busy schedule to set up a last minute photo session with me in his Winter Garden Yoga studio. (See my  previous post on the Red Chair Exhibit for more.)
 I was first a student of Brian's when he taught yoga in Lake Mary a few years ago. His thorough knowledge of the body and exercise physiology is amazing, but it's his demeanor that hooked me; totally relaxed, judgment-free, with just the right amount of lightness and humor that helps you crack a smile when you're taking your asana too seriously.
I had a few questions for Brian, and he was generous enough to answer. Enjoy :)

(My questions are italicized) 

Brian, you're definitely one of the best yoga teachers I've had the pleasure of taking a class with, but for those that haven't, can you describe your work?

  I help a highly selective group of clients who want to boost their quality of life which means that I empower them to feel younger and more alive.
I have a truly unique yoga studio that emphasizes strength and mobility instead of flexibility which means …
• Number one: You get strong 
• Number two: You prevent injury 
• Number three: You de-stress
And because of this my clients have toned, pain free, and resilient bodies.

-When did you know what you wanted to do? ( your "aha" moment")

 My 'aha' moment came to me when a friend of mine said, "You must love what you do."
I asked, "What do you mean?" They said, "You spend every waking moment learning to improve your [skill] so that you can help your clients."
It was at that moment that I realized I really love what I do.

-What's your biggest dream?

 My biggest dream? By God's grace, I'm living it now.


-What's the best advice you were ever given?

The best advice I was given came to me in two parts. The first was during a conversation and a mentor of mine said, "If you want to make a living by doing the thing you love, there is always a point when you will have to take a giant leap of faith." 
The second was during a second conversation when a friend suggested 'trying it on for size.' Allow me to explain. At the time, I was working in the corporate world and running my yoga studio. I was getting burned out. I knew I had to make a choice between one or the other. My friend said, "try it on for size... try imagining being at your corporate job for another year." I groaned. Then they said, "try imaging being at your yoga studio full time." Well, the rest is history. I took a giant leap of faith and I'm living the dream.

-That's so awesome! Where can we find you living your dream?

  You can find me at wintergardenyoga.com or at 12 West Plant Street, in Historic Downtown Winter Garden, Florida.

For my last and most important questions. What is your quest?
  
My quest is to change the world one pose at a time.

What is your favorite color?

 Oddly enough, my favorite color is red.

Perfect and perfect!

 Thanks, Brian for being such a great role model ( and literal model!)

D. Renée Wilson, "Have a Seat", 20"x24", plaster & acrylic on wood, currently in the Red Chair fundraising auction. Click here to bid for good.

and especially for having the courage to live your dream and helping so many in the process!

If you can't make it out to Winter Garden for Brian's incredible and highly accessible classes (and I recommend them- his workshops are great, too, especially the partner yoga workshop!) You can find some great dvds for your home practice on the WGY website store.  

Make sure to stop by and visit Winter Garden Yoga on Facebook and say hello.

Thanks for joining me in my Artwork & Play! 

May your dreams be BIG and well lived,

~D. Renée

FAA links- Yoga