Chelsie Brady

New blog

2011-10-15T12:53:00.002-06:00

I failed to announce over here that I have a new wordpress blog for Chelsie Brady Art. It has subsections for other arts and crafts that I spend my time doing. There are order forms on each page and I am trying to keep it up to date with all that is going on in my arting world. Hop on over there and check it out. Also, you'll want to subscribe to that blog instead of this one.

http://chelsiebrady.wordpress.com/

We also have a family blog that we update fairly regularly. Use this link if that's what you're looking for.

http://mc-brady.blogspot.com/

Have you heard?

2011-07-21T09:44:00.004-06:00

I think most of the people that read this blog anymore also read our family blog so you probably know. There is an obvious lack of arting going on around these parts and this is the reason:

Yes, you see 2! We will be having TWINS sometime around the new year. The due date is Jan. 16, but twins usually come 3 weeks early, putting them here around Christmas. It will be one busy holiday season for the ever- growing Brady bunch!

Our new artistic focus has been trying to fit 3 car seats in our cars, so we don't have to buy a new van. I have been sleeping a bit and eating a bit more. I haven't felt well and I still have to run around after our #1. The house has never looked more "lived in," I haven't been couponing in weeks, I'm lucky if I get Liam dressed- let alone myself- in a day. I think I am starting to feel better, though, which means I can start doing more projects. For a while, though, I think they will be all about babies! :) You have been warned! If blankies, burp cloths, and ruffle bums aren't your thing, I'd suggest staying away for about 6 months!

Submissions are in

2011-04-30T09:58:00.004-06:00

I just clicked "Send" on these art pieces, submitting them to the Juried Art Show through the Gresham Art Committee. I was hoping to have more time to work on the peacock painting to give it some sparkle and shimmer, but the deadline is nearing. The hope is that both pieces will be accepted and well received by the curator and the public. I will find out in just a few weeks if I've been accepted and can display my work in the show. I hope, I hope, I hope!

Strut

Oil on board
36X16

Maryhill Overlook
photograph
18X9.5

Pretty pooch

2011-04-21T14:12:00.002-06:00

I've actually had this finished for a couple of weeks now, but I've been nervous about it. I ended up sending a picture of it to my friend, who is a friend of the buyer, and she gave me positive feedback. So, I figured it was safe to post it for all the world to see. I hope the client likes it!

8X8

oil on board

On the easel (er, newspaper)

2011-03-30T10:52:00.003-06:00

I got about 30 minutes of painting time yesterday at the end of Little Man's nap. I have this commission piece in the works. I love doing pet portraits! This one is coming along immensely (he he! I think only Mike will get that). I'm wondering- from artists or pseudo artists like myself- what do you like to paint on? Traditional canvas? Boards? Glass? Something crazy and unconventional? This painting is done on board, which I have grown quite fond of painting on. I like how the paint just glides across the surface. For me, canvas is a bit too textured. There are some paintings, though, that I think look better on canvas than on board. Is it cheap to paint on board? Would you feel cheated if your original oil painting isn't on canvas? Does the surface really matter?

Anyway, here's the progress of this little pooch.

Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad

2011-03-29T10:39:00.002-06:00

My parents just celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary. I was unable to be there to celebrate with them, so I sent this painting. They were sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple and I thought that this subject was perfect. Happy Anniversary, you guys! Love you!

Eternal
18X24
oil on canvas

Maneki Neko

2011-03-25T14:14:00.002-06:00

I did this little painting for the DPW Challenge wherein all the artists will donate the proceeds of their paintings to Japan through some organizations. I, of course, chose to donate to the LDS Humanitarian Aid, where I know that all of the money will go directly to the people affected by the tragedy. The auction has begun and the current bid is $25. Please click the picture or this link to place your bid.

Maneki Neko
(Beckoning Cat)
7X5
oil on canvas

Two new paintings

2011-03-14T11:23:00.003-06:00

Actually, they've been done for about a month, but I just scanned them in so I could post them. This first one of Liam (surprise!) was a quick little thing to get me back into painting- it had been probably a month since picking up the brush so I needed to try to figure out how to do it again.

Yellow Shades
8X6
oil on canvas

And this painting I did for the DPW Painting Challenge. As you can see I am WAY late posting this, since it was the challenge for the week of Feb. 12. You may remember that I did a lot of the challenges at Different Strokes... blog, but I haven't done much by way of painting challenges since that blog went away. This DPW Painting Challenge is the first of these challenge sites that I have found interest in. I hope to paint more regularly to participate in more (and maybe get them in on time!)

Rose on a Windowsill
6X6
oil on paper

I've got a couple of really exciting pieces in the works. One that I can't say anything about because it is a gift, the other is a piece I will be entering into the juried show through the Gresham Art Committee! I am seriously so excited about this painting! It will be BIG- 36X16 and colorful and awesome (hopefully!)

V-day arting

2011-02-17T13:30:00.003-07:00

Here is the art I've done in the last few days. I made these cute little cupcakes and decorated them for Valentine's Day. They are red velvet with almond cream cheese frosting, topped with chocolate dipped raspberries and other chocolate sentiments. They are quite tasty. This little one got a bit of a photo shoot because it looked so cute. I have also been trying to learn some fun effects in photoshop, so I played around with this picture and came up with this. See, I can still be arting without even picking up a paintbrush. :)

Giveaway on facebook

2011-02-16T11:31:00.002-07:00

I will be giving away at least one painting when I get 200 fans on facebook. You must be on the fan list to be eligible. Get your spot on the list and get your friends to "like" Chelsie Brady Art.

Newest painting

2011-02-11T11:10:00.002-07:00

I actually have painted a little Hershey's kiss since I painted this awesome portrait of my boy, but I don't have any pictures of it yet. But here's this bright fun piece that I did for his bedroom. I love it!

Chelsie Brady Art is now on Facebook

2011-02-04T15:56:00.003-07:00

Can I get a "like"? Hop on over to facebook to like Chelsie Brady Art, browse all the art in one place, and get updates. I will probably do some periodic giveaways and stuff, so I'd recommend getting on the fan list!

Art Show

2011-01-17T22:13:00.004-07:00

Come to this art show tomorrow night at the Gresham Art gallery at the Gresham- Barlow School District Building. I have been the lead curator and I also have 4 pieces in the show. I also designed the publications- poster and postcards.

Work Boots

6X6
oil on handmade paper
$50

NYSE
4X10
oil on board
$75

Liam Playing in the Grass
8X10
Oil on canvas board
NFS

Liam
16X12
Oil on canvas board
NFS

Sorry it's been so long.

2010-11-01T09:44:00.005-06:00

I got the Davidsons' painting shipped off and never showed you which one they won. You may remember the giveaway I did for my followers... I gave away my beloved teapot painting. Thanks for all who have followed my blog. I will, for sure, do another giveaway sometime. So, get on my followers list. Only followers are eligible to win.

Little teapot
8X10
oil on canvas board

I have been super busy lately. I have done some painting, some crafting, some sewing, some drawing... all sorts of artistic things. I have gotten some photos of the things I've been working on, but others I failed to document.

This was my mom's birthday present. I haven't posted it until now because it is a total copy of another artist's work and I didn't want to take the credit. So, most of the paintings that you see on this blog can be made into a print if you'd like except this one. I will not be selling copies of this.

Pears and Grapes for Mom
20X16
oil on board

While I'm talking about prints- head on over to Fine Art America and order your fine art prints. I am working on offering all of my paintings as prints as well as greeting cards. If you would like something that is not yet on my site, let me know. I can also get prints done independent of FAA and would be happy to do some design work for you.

Anyway, back to the updates:

We have some wonderful friends who just moved far far away. Mike and I have really grown attached to this family and will really miss them. I painted this painting for them for their new home in Ephraim, Utah. It is the Manti temple.

Manti
11X14
oil on canvas

I also gave him 10 small drawings of each of the girls that I have worked with over the past couple of years. They are just their faces 4X5, then I made them into a little book. I had each of the girls write a little letter or testimony on a card and put it all in a little box. I hope it can be a reminder of these sweet girls. I wish the best of luck to the Nielson family.

I have also been doing some photo editing for my sister, Whitney. This photo was taken at the pumpkin patch (which is another reason we've been busy- Halloween. More on that to come) by me and edited also by me. Whitney takes great photos and I help with some of the editing. Check out her site and book your session today!

I have also been busy with Halloween. I made both Liam and my costume. I was Cleopatra and Liam was Nacho Libre. We had a fun party to go to on Friday and I was working like a crazy person on the temple painting, the drawings, and these two costumes all at the same time. Whew! I got it all done, though, and everything turned out just fine. :) My head piece is a little wonky. It is supposed to have beads coming down over my hair, but Liam got a hold of it and tore off all the beads. That's okay, Little Nacho. I forgive you. Oh yeah, and he had a mask, but wouldn't even let us get it close to his face, let alone wear it. Ah well.

And, of course, there was some pumpkin carving and Halloween baking going on. For the party I made some yummy cake balls on skewers. I dipped them in chocolate and added candy corn and orange sprinkles. They were pretty cute and I think they tasted pretty good. And here's our jack-o-lantern that we used as a decoration at the party.

I have done some card making in the past little while, too. And, I've been working on some Art Committee stuff. I have a show coming up in January that I'm pretty excited about! I'm telling you- I've been quite busy doing stuff. I have kind of neglected this bloggity blog, though. I will work on that. Happy Halloween, everyone!

Made a purse

2010-10-06T00:22:00.006-06:00

Lemon Squeezy Home is hosting Purse Week, where people submit their original designs or sewn creation using a pattern to compete for some cool prizes. I thought it would be fun to submit. I've made a couple of bags before, but nothing like this really. I used some fabrics I've had for a while. It is somewhat inspired by a bag my Mother-in-law gave me for Christmas a couple years ago. I might make a new one to submit- a second draft of sorts. Anyway...

There are plenty of pockets for stuff- wallet, keys, lip gloss, fruit snacks, toy truck, eye glasses, cell phone, ball point pen...

The flaps close with a snap and the front flaps have a bead embellishment

A painting

2010-09-18T15:55:00.004-06:00

I just did this painting for my grandma. My dad took some photos of some hummingbirds a while ago. My grandma wanted one made into a painting. I used a couple of the photos, changed some composition, and ended up with this. The photo looks terrible, though. It's all washed out and glared. Liam is up now, though, so I can't try to take a better photo yet. I may try to take a different photo of it before shipping it off, but this is what you get for now.

As I'm staring at it on the computer screen I see lots that needs to be reworked- like the whole background. So, I guess this is take one of the hummingbird painting. Check back for the update. Ugh... maybe I shouldn't post this at all yet. Ah well. Here goes. Just remember that it looks better in person anyway, but it will be completely redone later and look a thousand times better still.

Hummingbird

8X10
oil on canvas board

I don't think you've seen this painting...

2010-09-13T11:43:00.005-06:00

I would like to rework it. When I did it I was on a "I-want-to-try-to-use-a-palette-knife" kick. I just used the knife instead of a brush without knowing what I was doing. I think the knife is great and provides great texture when used correctly. Since I still don't know how to use it correctly I don't do a lot with it. I do love to see paintings which appear to have been slathered in paint with a knife, such as here and here.

Anyway, here is my first attempt at this technique. It will be in a show starting at the end of September called Urban Landscapes. It is a triptych rendition of Salt Lake City.

SLC Triptych
36X24
oil on board

This drawing

Night Lights
16X20
graphite drawing

and two paintings, this one

Shadow stroll
8X10
oil on board

and another, that I don't have an image of yet, will also be in the show.

I will, hopefully, have some new stuff to show you in the next few days. I just made 2 card sets with envelopes and matching boxes for a couple of birthday gifts. I didn't get pictures of those, though, so I'll have to make another just to show you! I would really like to sell cards, I think. I love to make them and try new things. Perhaps I will set up my etsy shop again and post some cards, just to see how they are received. Until then, if you need invitations, cards, or other paper crafts, let me know! My prices are great! :)

I also have at least 2 paintings to start and one that is half way finished. In related news, Liam won't take naps anymore. He has been skipping his morning nap and finally going down at about 4 in the afternoon. He then sleeps for an hour or 2 at best. This is the reason I've not gotten any painting done recently. I painted my bathroom and spare room, though... does that count?!

The new winner is...

2010-08-31T13:32:00.002-06:00

I didn't get a response from jennifersaddress, so I picked a new winner. Again, please respond within about 48 hours so I know you are there. The number this time is 37, which means that (guess who!) my husband wins a painting. What are the odds?! Sorry, Mike, but you are ineligible. Besides, I'm working on your painting anyway. So, the new number is 26... This time the winner is The Davidsons! Yay, Megan! I think I might still have your address, but just email me and send it to me again anyway, if you don't mind! Do you want me to post which painting I'm sending, or do you want to be surprised when it comes in the mail?

And the winner is...

2010-08-28T08:55:00.002-06:00

First of all, I wanted to tell you how this person was chosen. Blogger put all of my followers into some order- I can't tell what order that is, but it is the same order each time. I went to random.org and had that site pick a number for me. I then counted down the list to the number chosen (which happened to be 42). It was all very random, so you all had the same chance at winning, except maybe my husband- I give him paintings all the time :)

jennifersaddress is the winner!!

There is no blog or site associated with this name, so jennifersaddress I need you to email me, or comment, letting me know that you are there. I also need your address to send you your painting. Please respond by Monday at 10:00 am Pacific time. I will post the painting that is being sent after I hear a response.

Thanks a bunch, you guys! Good luck next time! If you aren't a follower yet, click to become one. I will do giveaways like this periodically. But, you're only eligible if you are a follower!

Cakes

2010-08-26T19:34:00.003-06:00

I have made 2 of these little cakes in the past couple of days. Two of my young women girls had birthdays this week. The first one was pink- light pink base with bright pink and green polka dots and a bright pink bow- and this one is white with two shades of green spots. I didn't get a picture of the pink one, regrettably. The green is fun, though, too. I am going to make Liam's birthday cake and needed to practice using and making fondant, as I've never even touched the stuff before now. I made a marshmallow fondant, which supposedly tastes better than the real stuff, and is about a million times cheaper. :) Cheaper is GOOD! I'm off to deliver this little cutie!

What up my 50 followers?!

2010-08-26T13:02:00.003-06:00

It has happened! 50 followers, my baby is turning 1 (crazy!), it's my big sister's birthday, and I now get the Sunday paper with all sorts of great coupons! This is cause for celebration. Who wants a painting? Should it be a surprise as to which one I send, or do you want to know what you're getting? All you on my followers list will be eligible... I will let you know who it is tomorrow, August 27. Until then...

VOTE NOW!

2010-08-09T14:23:00.004-06:00

I don't know when voting began because I never received an email, but when I went to the Gerber site I could now vote for my munchkin. So, go here and vote if you want.

The Gerber Site

You can do a search for specific pictures by first name or entry number. His first name is, of course, Liam and his entry number is 49265

(You can vote once each day from the same computer, so vote every day if possible!)

Also... I now have 49 followers! One more and one of you lucky people will get a painting!

46 followers!

2010-08-05T11:46:00.003-06:00

I have been vacationing and Art Committee-ing the past month or so, which is why I have not posted a new painting in a while. I have just completed 4- 5X7 acrylic paintings, though. I will get those posted in the next couple of days.

My sister took some photos of my family when we were there visiting. I did the photo editing and had a few favorites, which I've posted.

The main reason for this post, though, is to inform you that I just need 4 more followers and one of you will get a painting!

4 followers!

Cherries

2010-07-13T13:00:00.003-06:00

I just completed one of the more difficult paintings I've done... ever. I have a few theories as to why it was so blasted hard: 1- I wanted to try out acrylics since I haven't for a while. I have gotten so used to the juiciness of oil paints that the acrylics just seemed dry. 2- I painted on paper. That was a bad idea from the beginning. Add to the dryness of the paints the dryness of the painting surface. 3- I have a lot of other things I should be doing but decided to paint instead. My focus was just not here. 4- There are a lot of colors in these little fruits. I was wanting to paint and get it done quickly so I could get on to other things, but I kept finding little flecks of blue or bits of yellow or green that needed to be in there. I don't think I would call this painting done, but I have to be done for now.

This painting is for the Rookie Painter online painting challenge. I think I've participated in it just a couple of times. Since the dissipation of the Different Strokes blog I am having a hard time painting as much as I should. But, I liked this photo and thought I'd give it a try.

Cherries
7.5 X5.5
acrylic on watercolor paper

Vote for our Gerber Baby

2010-07-13T08:47:00.001-06:00

I entered the photo from the last entry into a Gerber contest. There are something like 50,000 entries so far, so it will probably be a far-fetched idea, but go on over and give him a vote. It would be so cool if he won!

http://www.gerber.com/Photo/?entryid=49265&source=10086654&utm_source=Gerber&utm_medium=email&utm_content=PhotoAcceptedReminder&utm_campaign=GerberGeneration#/gallery/

You can do a search for specific pictures by first name or entry number. His first name is, of course, Liam and his entry number is 49265

Get on over there and give him a little votey vote. (I think you can vote 1 time each day from each email address.)

UPDATE: VOTING WON'T BEGIN FOR ANOTHER MONTH. I WILL LET YOU KNOW WHEN YOU CAN VOTE FOR OUR LITTLE MUNCHKIN.

Still no painting...

2010-07-12T23:01:00.003-06:00

... but I DID play around with some photos- does that count?

Original photo

Exposure, brightness, contrast, saturation, sharpness, blur, composition all tweaked.
Added the burned edge-
much better!

In other news: I now have 40 followers. 10 more and someone will get a painting. No joke!

Follow Me... again

2010-07-09T22:56:00.002-06:00

38 followers as of 9:56 pm on Friday, July 9, 2010. 12 more and someone's getting a painting!

By the way... I kinda like this color combination lately. I made Liam a hat and shoes using these colors and I think they're so cute!

Test

2010-07-07T08:57:00.006-06:00

Some cute baby face to test photo size... I'm tired of having tiny pictures while the rest of the world has great big ones that are so awesome! Here's my adorable baby in living color!

Camp Angelos

2010-07-06T11:35:00.004-06:00

This is the lodge at the camp I will be going to this afternoon. I am teaching a watercolor workshop (if you can call it that) to 22 teenage girls. It is simply for girl's camp certification, so I doubt it will be as intense as that sounds. I wanted to give them an example of the type of painting they could do. Mike had a good idea- to give it to the Stake President at the end of camp. I think I might.

Happy Birthday, Mike

2010-06-11T09:22:00.002-06:00

click invitation to make it bigger

Hot dog

2010-06-08T16:33:00.004-06:00

I painted again today. I decided this morning to submit something to the Weener-Art Expo. A buddy from our ward in Salt Lake City puts this crazy event (Ween-O-Rama) together every year and added the art expo to their lineup of other hot dog related activities. It sounds like a good fun time. Anyway, I thought it would be funny to submit something. I actually think I might want to eat a hot dog now. I can't let the staged weener go to waste, can I... :)

Hot dog

oil on paper
8X8

I painted today....

2010-06-05T16:04:00.003-06:00

It's been a while. If you've seen our family blog you've probably seen this photo. I thought it would make an interesting painting, so I did it. There are some bits that need fixing, but I think I might call it done for now. It's been so long that I've kind of forgotten what I'm doing. I need to pick up the brush a bit more often, but with an active baby boy... oh dear! He just fell and cut his lip...

As I was saying... with an ACTIVE baby boy it's hard to find the time to get any painting done.

He's so cute, though! See:

Liam playing in the grass
oil on canvas board
8X10

Teapot

2010-04-24T14:27:00.002-06:00

I gave myself about an hour and a half to paint, start to finish. Liam was sleeping and I have lots of other things I need to do (I get to go see family in about a week!) but I haven't painted in far too long. By the way, the previous painting was named Liam, got it submitted to the show on time, but I didn't get in. :( I'm a little disappointed, but not much I can do about it. Next time...

Anyway, I gave myself an hour and half to do this painting for this site. This is my first submission to this online painting forum. I wanted to stay loose and just get it done so I can get on to other things. I don't know... I like the composition and colors well enough, but I think I could polish 'er up and have a more striking piece. Perhaps some day I will tweak it to my liking. For now, though, I'm off to clean or sew or make food or play with Liam or something.

Teapot
8X10
oil on canvas board

New painting! Please help...

2010-03-31T17:37:00.003-06:00

I just did this painting of my little sweetie pie. I need a title, though. Please help! I am submitting it to a juried competition and need a memorable title. I was thinking that something abstract would be better than just his name or age. Something like Hope or Wonder... I have to submit it like yesterday, though, so be quick with your ideas! Thanks!

Untitled

12X16
oil on canvas board

Blog interview

2010-03-31T14:59:00.003-06:00

I got an email the other day that my blog had been submitted to be interviewed at bloginterviewer.com. I filled out the form and now my interview is on the site. Check it out and give me the "thumbs up" vote. And, remember to become a follower of my blog to have a chance to win a painting!

Click on the image or here to go to the interview.

What has kept me busy lately?

2010-03-11T15:56:00.011-07:00

Baby stuff:

Next door neighbor had a baby boy, so I made a quilt and burp rags.

(The presentation is the best part! I love seeing these blankies folded up and tied with a bit of scrap fabric.)

Good friend is having a girl, so I made another quilt, 2 changing pads with covers, a blanket, and acrylic painting. I only have a picture of the quilt.

Another good friend is also having a girl. I am helping with the baby shower, so I made these invitations. I also just finished her quilt. I will be making some muffins for the shower and some fun shower games also.

Church stuff:

The YW had their camp fundraiser this week. That is always a big job. I failed to document this event with pictures, but know that it went well. Everyone seemed to have fun and they made a good amount of money.

Art stuff:

The temple painting from the last post was during the past few weeks. I also have curated a show and had my sunflower painting in that show. I will be starting a new painting to put in the All That Jazz show coming up. I also want to do more daily painting to participate in some online painting challenges. I fixed a drawing for a friend over the last couple of weeks as well. I'm telling you, I really have been busy! I wish I had photographic evidence.

The biggest reason I've been so busy:

This kid just keeps growing up. He turned 6 months on March 5... 6 months!

IF temple

2010-03-08T12:49:00.002-07:00

I painted this for a friend. I originally wanted to do it on gallery wrapped canvas, so she wouldn't have to frame it to hang it. Well, I couldn't find canvas in the size we talked about, so I did it on canvas board and made this frame for it to be able to hang it on the wall. I am pretty pleased with how it all came out. I love the frame, actually. The painting is from a photo that my wildly talented sister took. I hope I did it justice. I wanted the temple to kind of be in the background and make the landscape the focal point. I hope my friend likes it! Actually, I hope she loves it. I hope everyone who has any of my art loves it!

Follow Me

2010-02-17T09:22:00.002-07:00

Thank you to a couple of people who asked about following me. I had never thought about it before, but I would really like you all to follow me. I now have a button, so it is easy to do. Just scoot on over to the right hand side of my page, find the "Followers" section, and click the little button and you'll get notified when I have a new posting and other exciting things. I am planning on giving away a painting when I get to a certain number of followers. Let's start at 50... when I get 50 followers I will write a post to let you know that the contest has started. At that point, comment on any post you desire and I will randomly choose a winner to receive a painting. So, let's get started!!

Morning Meditation now on Ebay

2010-02-17T09:19:00.002-07:00

Go here to bid.

bid

Morning Meditation
5X10
oil on hardboard

NYSE Rush

2010-02-12T21:01:00.003-07:00

NYSE now on ebay! Go here to bid.

bid

NYSE Rush
4.75 X 10
oil on hardboard

Karin

2010-02-12T14:51:00.006-07:00

I did a lot of the challenges on the Different Strokes From Different Folks blog over the past year and a half-ish. Until further notice, that blog is being dissolved and others are popping up to satisfy our artistic desires. I participated in the portrait exchange challenge both years. This year, as a thank you to the blog coordinator (Karin Jurick), several of us participated in a special challenge for Karin. 118 of the 180 artists who did the portrait challenge painted or drew or otherwise created a work of art using Karin's photo. Jill Polsby compiled them all into a very nice book, which was then sent to Karin. Well, this has been a couple of month- long process and was kept a surprise for all this time. The time has finally come, though, that we can reveal our paintings! Go here to see all of the submissions.

Karin
4X8
oil on balsa wood

Selling paintings on Ebay!

2010-02-05T12:41:00.003-07:00

Go here and bid on this painting!

*SOLD*
Waiting
6X6
oil on hardboard

Toggl

2010-01-12T22:12:00.003-07:00

This is Liam's sock monkey friend, Toggl. Mike named him. There seems to be a theme happening with this whole sock monkey obsession. I like it.

Toggl
10X10
oil and mixed media on canvas

Christmas paintings

2010-01-02T22:09:00.005-07:00

I guess I can post the paintings I shipped off for Christmas now. I didn't get very good pictures of most of them- they are either cell phone pictures or too dark and blurry. Ah well, you'll get the idea...

For Fred
8X10
oil on canvas

For Sachiko and Larry
8X10
oil on canvas

For Mom and Dad
10X10
oil on canvas

For Mike
25X16
oil on board
(Thanks to Stacy- Three Winks Studio- for the use of her photo)

DSFDF portrait exchange

2009-12-29T15:56:00.003-07:00

It's that time of year again... the Different Strokes from Different Folks portrait exchange is at hand. I don't know who this artist is, but she is painting my portrait. I had a heck of a time with this painting- from the first strokes of the first draft to the photographing of the final piece, it was difficult... it looks better (as they generally do) in person. I cropped the reference to just focus on the expression on the face. I am fairly pleased with the finished product, especially compared to the first attempt. :)

reference photo

Unknown artist
7X5
oil on canvas board

Christmas paintings

2009-11-19T10:33:00.007-07:00

These two will be in a show coming up in December. Come check them out at the Gresham City Hall building starting December 8. Artist reception (food and live music!!) will be December 15 from 5:30-7:30. You can purchase these there... or let me know. They are at a low price of $109 and $119 framed and ready to hang!

Red Ribbon #2
10X8
oil on canvas
$109

Red Ribbon #1
7X12
oil on board
$119

sock monkey liam

2009-11-06T11:13:00.002-07:00

my monkey
7X5
oil on canvas board

I'm back...

2009-11-03T15:51:00.006-07:00

I finally got back to the painting world after a couple months of hanging out with my baby boy. He sure is entertaining! This painting is my submission for the Different Strokes challenge. I can really tell that I've been away from the paints for too long. This is really not as good as I was hoping for this photo. I will paint more regularly and, hopefully, get back to improving my paintings.

Traveling

8X8
oil on paper
$25

New blog

2009-09-21T16:03:00.002-06:00

From now on this blog will be dedicated strictly to art. For those who are interested, Mike and I have created a new blog for our family. Go here: mc-brady.blogspot.com to see that.

I have a portrait to post soon and I hope to get back into the different strokes from different folks challenges. I've had a bit of a break from painting- for obvious reasons- but I'm excited to get back into it.

painting for Jake and Stefeni

2009-08-24T10:01:00.002-06:00

I finished this painting for some friends a couple of weeks ago and haven't posted about it yet... Jake is Mike's former roommate and Stefeni is Jake's wife. They got engaged on this bench at Red Butte Garden, so they wanted a keepsake of said bench. This is a larger painting than what I normally do, but I really liked the finished product.

Red Butte Bench
30X24
Oil on canvas

38 weeks (almost)

2009-08-22T22:57:00.003-06:00

Okay... officially 37 weeks and 5 days, but we're coming right along. Had a baby shower today and got some really cute things! Thanks to everyone involved- you are all so great! Afterward, we picked up a few items we were still needing and I think we are mostly ready for Liam to arrive. (Well, ready with stuff for him- not ready emotionally. I don't think I'll ever be "not freaked out.") Then, tonight, a couple of friends came over and helped me "nest." It's fun to organize baby stuff!

My mom was wanting to see the latest belly shot, but Mike wasn't home to take the picture. So, here are a couple of myspace-style baby belly shots...

Not really sure what the deal is with the point. It's kind of a weird shape. Ah well. Oh, AND... you can see the awesomely BLUE bathroom. No, we didn't choose that color- we actually don't use this bathroom much because we have to fix the fiberglass in the shower. Some day it will be pretty and not... smurfy.

Latest painting

2009-08-12T15:37:00.005-06:00

Today was supposed to be a day of getting some paintings packaged and shipped and some cleaning done... Well, it's turned out to be "one of those days." I did some laundry early in the day, got some cleaning done, and called a few places to find some boxes to ship these paintings with. Well, last time I had no problem finding a box. This time, however, I've run into problem after problem- poor customer service mostly. Anyway, it kind of put me in a weird mood where I don't really feel like doing anything. I notice more today that I'm super tired, that my belly hurts, that when I am on my feet the baby feels really heavy... so, I'm trying to get the ol' blog updated. That's bound to put me in a better mood, right?! So, here's the latest painting (besides the ones that are going to be shipped soon.) I quite like it. Though, I think it looks better in person.

8X10
oil on canvas
$90

Rufus won!

2009-08-12T13:02:00.002-06:00

I forgot to update you on the art contest I entered. Rufus won! Thanks for all your votes. The person who put the contest together posted the top 3 winning images on his site. Check it out. You can check out the other entrants also here.

Baby bedding

2009-08-07T12:27:00.003-06:00

Here's a bad picture of the baby bedding and other arts I've been working on lately. I'll get better pictures when I get batteries for my camera. The quilt front and back are pretty visible, the bumper is to the left on top of the sheet, which is the solid turquoise fabric. You can't really see the skirt- striped fabric with sage green trim. You can see most of the mobile and the monogram wall hanging in the background. I hung two shelves on the other side of the room and I am going to be painting 3 square paintings to go above the dresser/ changing table. I also want to do something for the window- I'm thinking a painted wood valence with some neutral fabric panels. I keep finding little projects to do, so I'm sure there will be more to come!

Vote for me...

2009-08-03T23:55:00.003-06:00

I entered Rufus into a contest through Fine Art America. There's not really a prize or anything, but I thought it would be fun. So go here and vote for me!

35 week baby belly...

2009-08-03T16:17:00.002-06:00

Here's my huge belly today at 35 weeks... you're welcome.

Lots to catch up on....

2009-07-14T09:56:00.009-06:00

I will attempt to go in chronological order, but I'm having a hard time remembering everything in order. I believe first was the trip to Idaho for the baby blessing and baby shower. It was really great to be there for the blessing. Kevin did a great job and little Kinlee sure is a sweetie.

I already went out of order because the day before I left to go to Poky we celebrated Mike's birthday. Well, first we had a BBQ with some people in our ward on Thursday. Friday night Mike's sister, Kristen, and Keith surprised Mike by coming into town and meeting us at an Indian restaurant downtown. We had delicious curries and lassis and a stellar time.

I think I'm off again. At some point Mike's other sister, Yuki, and her family came to visit. I'm pretty sure that was before Mike's birthday... yes, I think that's correct. It doesn't look like I was a very good photographer for that trip, though, because I can't find any pictures. Likewise, Mike's mom came to visit just after (or just before--> ugh! I wish I had a better memory) Yuki's visit. Again, no pictures. But, we had a really great time visiting with family the last few weeks. Oh, and- even before all that we bought a house! I remember to include that now because we knew we were having people over right after moving in, so we got everything put away and looking like a home in just a few days. We bought a townhome with 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, and lots of storage! We have a place for all our stuff and room to grow. I don't think I have pictures of our house, either- man, I'm not very good at this blogging stuff! We painted many of the rooms a pretty neutral color called water chestnut with white trim. I got to choose the accent wall colors and, let me just tell you, I'm not afraid of color! I chose a color called citrus punch for the wall between the living and dining room and a color called granny smith apple for the kitchen. I'm working on getting the baby room done in the next few weeks which will include a hand painted something on the walls and some other little paintings and things. I am also making all the bedding- just figured out exactly what I'm going to do yesterday!

Oh, look at me go... now I've really gotten out of order! Let's get back to my trip to Idaho... We spent a lot of time crafting! It was really fun for me! We made cards, helped Kambree with her Father's Day present for Kevin- a really neat, sentimental calendar, made a quilt (!!), and just had fun designing and creating things. We went to a movie or two, played games, ate delicious food, and just enjoyed family time. On Saturday while I was there my sisters threw a baby shower for me, which was so nice! They did a great job and I appreciate all the work they put in! I have the best family in the world! I couldn't transport a diaper cake in its entirety, so I did take a picture of it to show Mike (and you all!) what it looked like. It was from Yuki, who drove all the way from Salt Lake to come to the shower. April, Mendy, and Stacy also made the drive. What great people you all are!
I got lots of other really great things from really great people at the shower. I'm a little more prepared for the wee thing's arrival than I was before.

Okay, a few days after I returned home from Pocatello we had Mike's brother, Danny, and his family in town. We did some fun things with them, too. One day I went to the coast with them and we went to the aquarium. Here are some favorites from that trip:
And this one of Ian (and Anna on the back horse) on the carousel at the shopping center at Seaside:

I did pretty well documenting that trip, huh!? Well, next item of business, I believe, is Girl's Camp. I was a 4th year unit leader for our Stake GC this year. I am also 7.25 months pregnant! It actually wasn't too bad... we had mattresses to sleep on, showers, toilets, and delicious food. I definitely was totally fine! It was a little tiring walking around camp all day and just being in the sun.

We had a really great group of girls- 13 4th years in one cabin should have brought a lot more problems than it did! They were silly and fun and friends with each other. It was really fun to be with them all.

The theme was Bloom Where You're Planted and each of the units chose a name which fit that theme. Our girls decided on Soil as their name, amidst other units with cutesy flowery names like Forget-Me-Nots, Hibiscus Hotties, Cabbage Patch Girls, etc. Our girls were definitely more the Soil type, which was great for me!

Each unit does a skit for one night of camp and our girls definitely stole the show! They did a poetry reading thing with goofy poems they made up, or primary songs dictated dramatically, with drumming and guitar chords backing up the lyrics. It was hilarious and really suited the personality of Soil!

Tali

Each day the stake leaders went around for cabin checks. The cabin who did the best at keeping their place neat and tidy won an ice cream party at the end of the week. Well, Soil was a different sort of breed. They didn't care about ice cream. They didn't care about cleaning. They completely trashed the cabin for the main cabin check and this is what the stake leaders had to walk into:

Needless to say, they didn't win an ice cream party, but they definitely gave the whole camp a good laugh! They stuck with their theme of soil through it all! It was a really fun experience and I'm glad I went.

I think I might be ending this novel now... In most recent news my belly is getting big and the little guy is moving all around. As I said earlier, I have many projects to be working on to get ready for his arrival. I will try to remember to take pictures as I complete things.

Oh- here's a cute picture of baby Kinlee from a week or so ago:

Kinlee Bree

2009-06-24T19:19:00.002-06:00

This is my new niece, Kinlee. I went to Idaho last week for her blessing and to spend time with the family. I will post more on that later, but for now just enjoy this beautiful face!

Veggie painting

2009-06-12T13:57:00.004-06:00

Here's my latest painting for the DSFDF blog. I haven't painted in like 3 weeks or more, so I felt pretty rusty with this one. I think it turned out okay, though. I will probably be off painting again for a week or two because I get to go see the family! Remember the cute baby I posted a few weeks ago- Kinlee Bree- well, I finally get to go see her. And, my sisters are throwing a baby shower for me! Should be a grand ol' time with the fam-a-lamily! Until next time...

Summer Veggies
10X8
Oil on canvas board

Birthday time

2009-06-08T16:32:00.003-06:00

It's that time of year again... Mike's getting older and deserves a celebration. Come on over if you're in the area.

MIA for a little while

2009-05-17T20:47:00.002-06:00

We have no internet and may not for a little while, so I am out of commission until further notice. We are moving soon (hopefully this week! :) ) and I packed away all of my art stuff, so there will also be no new paintings for a while.

Baby update: My belly is getting big and this little guy is a mover!

Back to reality...

2009-05-10T23:16:00.004-06:00

I feel like the last several weeks have been so stinking busy, but really it's been just one thing that has taken over my life. It just finished last night and I suddenly have time to worry about other things! I will have no problem finding ways to fill the time I have been spending, what with school, work, baby, moving, church... there's always something to keep me busy. Perhaps I can get back to participating in the Different Strokes challenge. There's a great reference photo up right now that I'd love to paint, but I don't know if I'll get to it in time to post. We'll see.

I wanted to say Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers in my life! My own wonderful mom deserves way way more thanks and appreciation than I can give. I hope she knows how much I love her. My mother-in-law deserves a big hug too! There are so many women around me who I hope to be able to emulate when I am, myself a mother. Thanks to all for the wonderful examples!

My awesome husband is seriously one of the most thoughtful people I've ever met and I'm so lucky that he is mine! He is always there to support me in all my adventures- thanks again for your help with the fundraiser, Mike :) - he is unselfish and always trying to do things for me and for our family to be. He is really really busy, too, by the way, but always finds time to make me feel special. I love my Mikey Doo!

My youngest sister, Kambree, just had her beautiful baby girl this week- Cinco de Mayo. Congrats, Kam and Kev, and Happy birthday baby Kinlee.

And, since I'm all over the place anyway with this post I'll give you an idea of my own baby belly situation. I feel like I've completely popped in the past few weeks, so this picture is a little outdated, but it's the only one I have. Pardon my t shirt and lounge pants- I was just on my way to the gym. This was taken 3 weeks ago at 20 weeks:

Okay, I think that's all I have for you today.

Catching up...

2009-04-16T23:49:00.003-06:00

I have a few paintings I'm working on- really. I feel like this week has been uber busy and I haven't really gotten anything done done. But, things are coming along. Watch for the new paintings soon. In my free time (lol) I've been daydreaming about our little munchkin set to hatch early September. What will he look like? What will his personality be like? Will he look more like his mommy or his daddy? How the heck am I going to be a MOMMY!? See, there are so many unanswered questions. I freak out, get really excited, hurt and whine, freak out again all in a matter of minutes. This adventure will be the most unnerving, I presume, as well as the most fulfilling. I just have to stop stressing. It'll be fine, right?

AHHHH!

It's a...

2009-04-16T23:25:00.001-06:00

BOY!!

The stats...

2009-04-13T13:39:00.003-06:00

We had our appointment this morning, but I think I'll hold off telling you the news for a few days, just to add to the suspense. (Although, Mike's already let the cat out on his blog. But, if you want to have a little fun vote here and then check your answer!) So, I thought I'd give you some stats about the old wives tales I've been studying up on... Feel free to change your vote if you so desire based on the findings.

-Heart rate: 142
-Carrying high (from what I can tell so far)
-The hair on my legs is growing at the same rate as before, as are my fingernails
-My feet are always cold, but that's how they were before the pregnancy
-Mike doesn't seem to be gaining sympathy weight
-I am 25 and got pregnant in December (for those of you interested in the Chinese lunar calendar)
-My urine has been a dullish yellow (some of these are so ridiculous!)
-I usually crave salty or sour foods rather than sweet (which is weird, by the way- generally I LOVE me some sweets)
-I have been getting headaches, especially in the past several weeks
-If someone asks me to show them my hands I would probably do so palm side up
-A needle dangled from a thread directly above my wrist swings side to side (across my wrist, not from arm to hand.)

Okay, carry on! I'll let you know the news in a few days... unless I get too excited before then!

Cast your vote...

2009-04-11T23:01:00.003-06:00

I just barely figured out how to add a poll to my blog, so it's a little late. I'll just have to wait to tell you the news until all votes are in! We find out on Monday... 1.5 days away! I'm pretty excited to be able to call our little bun "he" or "she" rather than "it." While you're at it, perhaps you could leave a comment about some baby names associated with your vote. We're taking any and all suggestions, so help us out! Oh... I think baby's moving around- it's like butterflies or popping popcorn. Isn't pregnancy weird and awesome and exciting and... weird?! Okay, get to voting and suggesting. :)

I'm blue

2009-04-05T13:21:00.003-06:00

I'm not really "blue." Don't worry! We don't have cable television, so we have to watch conference online. That's fine except that I can't really sit still, watching my computer screen for two hours at a time. I needed something to keep me busy while I could listen to the messages. This was that something for this Sunday morning session. I really want to be a better painter and I really want to be able to paint portraits as I envision them. Ugh! Well, here was an attempt to keep things loose and simple. I should have stopped long ago, before crispifying the edges and adding too much detail. Now, the more I mess with it the worse it's getting, so here's where I stop.

Monochrome portrait study
6X8
Oil on canvas board

Little bird watcher

2009-04-05T13:10:00.003-06:00

I have been painting a lot this weekend, trying to get a portrait done for a friend. It's not quite done, but I needed a break, so I did this little one. The reference photo was taken from the Police concert in Salt Lake City last year. This little girl was pretty cute with her binoculars, not really watching the concert, but watching her sister mostly. I used that really textured handmade paper like I used for the work boots a while back. It is fun to work with, but I think it's not quite right for this scene. Perhaps I will try it on canvas some other time.

Watching
6X6
Oil on handmade paper

Passion for Painting

2009-04-01T10:30:00.002-06:00

For those who take a gander at my blog regularly, you know that I have been participating in the Different Strokes challenges pretty regularly since the beginning. I post my submissions nearly every time there's a new challenge and have had a great experience being involved with other fine artists. It is fun to look through each person's submission and try to gain a little bit from their creativity and style. I have "met" (web met, anyway) many artists I would have not had exposure to otherwise. Well, there are certain artists that I am particularly drawn to through each of these challenges and I have received a painting award by one said artist: Lesley Spanos

Thank you very much, Lesley! So, as part of this award I am to list 7 things I love and tag 7 other artists for this award.

7 Things I love:

1. Soup- I could probably eat soup every day and be really really happy about it.
2. Discovering new musicians- I love happening upon some really fabulous local music or obscure musical genre that I am able to adopt as a fave.
3. My family- of course that definitely means my super awesome, way-too-good-to-me husband, my parents and siblings, nieces and nephews, who live too far away, my extended family in various parts of the world, and my friends along the way who have become family on some level. (These are in no particular order, by the way. I love my family more than soup!)
4. School and learning- I have been working on the same degree for several years with life happening in between, but I am always very excited when I get to take classes! Currently I am taking 12 credits at the local community college!
5. Yellow ochre and titanium white- my two favorite colors to paint with. I can't get enough yellow ochre and I love finishing a painting with that highlight of white. I also love linseed oil.
6. Laughing- sometimes I just laugh at really silly, random things because it makes me feel good. I think Mike likes it to.
7. Sun and warmth- I am often cold, even in the summer, so on the rare occasion that I am warm and cozy I am in love! I love soft, cuddly blankies and super hot showers just to kick things off in that direction.

Okay, now 7 artists I nominate... (Some that seem to fall into that drawn-to category)

1. Sally Tharp
2. Maria Kovalenko Leysens
3. Dana Cooper
4. Debbie Miller
5. Carolee Clark
6. Torrie Smiley
7. Ed Marion

Beached

2009-03-29T11:27:00.003-06:00

This was the challenge for the DSFDF blog I often participate in. It seems I will be doing a bit more watercolors starting this week. I will be starting a term of school, and one of my classes is watercolor! Yay! I think this one would make a nice watercolor, actually. Perhaps I will take a different part of the reference photo and use watercolors.

I started with a bright orange background, thinking that since orange is the complement of blue, and this painting would end up being very blue, that might be a nice ground to work with. It kind of made the skin tone brighter than I'd hoped, but I like how bits of orange are peeking out from behind the blue. I don't know... I'm still experimenting with colors. There's so much to learn and try with oil painting! That's exciting, but also quite daunting. Trying to teach myself is difficult. Anyone have any suggestions?

Beached
8X6
oil on canvas board

Queensly

2009-03-27T21:38:00.003-06:00

I just finished this painting and I'm quite pleased with how it turned out. I think Miss Queensly is pretty darling with her big, sad eyes and her "look at me" expression. I started this with a bright orange underpainting, thinking that I'd leave the background somewhat orange. There are bits of the orange peeking through around the eyes and in places in the background, but the bright color was too distracting as the overall color. I like to use the greenish bluish ochre-ish colors and I think they work for this little thang.

Queensly

8X8
Oil on canvas

Cute little Scotty boy

2009-03-26T17:53:00.003-06:00

This is the adorable Scott. I love his little smile and his big blue eyes. I did this painting for a wonderful friend, Natalie. I've actually had it finished for quite sometime, but couldn't post it before she received it.

Scotty poo
7X5
oil on canvas board

Lovely picture

2009-03-15T17:57:00.002-06:00

I was spending my Sunday afternoon looking through some old pictures and found this one. It has always been a favorite of mine- I love the serenity and the memories surrounding it. This was taken at a Chinese garden in Seattle on our honeymoon. We have lots of pictures from that trip, but this one will always be a favorite.

2009-03-11T18:15:00.002-06:00

Mmm! I love sushi. My mouth watered the whole time I was painting this. I had a few pieces of a California roll the other day, but I will be sushi-less for the next several months. I hope I can last! :) This is another painting for DSFDF. It was quite fun to do and I'm pretty happy with how it turned out- all except for the blasted soy sauce. For some reason I had a hard time with the color, the shape, the highlights... I may rework it at some point.

Sushi trio
7X5
oil on canvas board

Wigging out

2009-03-04T16:20:00.006-07:00

This is the latest DSFDF challenge. The photo has significantly more of these mannequin heads, but I liked the way these ladies are all looking in the same general direction. It makes me think they are interested in whatever is happening out there. There are several compositions in the reference photo, though, so maybe you'll see more of these freaky wigged out gals.

Wigging out

10X8
Oil on canvas board

Our dear, sweet, Zeke...

2009-02-16T14:50:00.003-07:00

I like the name Zeke for a boy. Mike, however, hates the name- as does most everyone else I've told. My mom, for instance, said she likes Mike more and more every time I talk to her because he will keep her grandson from being named Zeke. Another friend laughed and said, "it sounds like he'd have buck teeth and live in a trailer." Well, we're not going to name a son Zeke, mostly because what follows frightens me so bad. This is an email from the above friend:

Mike,

Good choice on not naming your baby Zeke. I promise that he will look like this if you name him Zeke. Give my condolences to your sweet wife.

Jeff

Tiny portrait

2009-02-11T19:18:00.002-07:00

I am donating this cute little thing to a children's hospital event. I have had this tiny canvas for a while just waiting to be covered in paint. I wanted to do something cute and sweet on it because that's just what it was demanding! Well, it just makes me smile and I'm excited to donate it to a good cause.

Tiny portrait
4X4
oil on canvas

Bob's kids cont...

2009-01-31T16:14:00.002-07:00

This is Bob's site. He's a very talented writer and an all around sharp dude! Thanks, Bob, for the kind words and joyful sentiment! I'm glad you like your painting. I'm excited for you to see it in person!

Everyone, Go here

http://www.nonpart.org/?p=291

Bob's kids

2009-01-31T14:04:00.003-07:00

These are Bob's kids. I've had this painting done for a couple of weeks now, but I always seem to hesitate posting portraits that are supposed to look like certain people... especially someone's kids. Anyhow, I thought I better get it posted or I never would.

Bob's kids
10 X 10
Oil on hardboard

San Francisco Victorian

2009-01-28T18:23:00.002-07:00

This is the latest challenge for the Different Strokes blog. I am still trying to get inspiration for painting lately, but I was going through painting withdrawals. So, I decided to give this one a try and hopefully get back into the joy of painting. I like, pretty well, how this turned out. I wish I were a better painter and knew exactly how to create the look I like. Ah well... maybe in time.

San Fran
7X5
oil on canvas

New business cards

2009-01-23T18:51:00.004-07:00

I know, I know.... I haven't painted for WAY too long and you're tired of not seeing anything new on the ol' blog. I am hoping to get some painting in this weekend among the practicing and singing in church on Sunday, youth temple trip tomorrow, and work meetings on Monday (Mike, please help me remember these). Until then, though, feast your eyes on my new business cards! I LOVE them and I'm pretty proud of them. I designed them myself and sent the design off to get printed. They came out just how I wanted. I love the colors and the simplicity and the actual cards are a little bit glossy because they have a UV coating and I think they are fabulous! Tell me what you think, unless you hate them- because that would seriously burst my bubble...

Front

Back

Need inspiration

2009-01-13T19:59:00.003-07:00

I have been working on a couple of projects that I just can't seem to get right. I always seem to get to a point on a painting where I keep working on it, hoping to make it better. The more I mess with it, the less I like it. That is the struggle I have- I need to know how to lay down the paint perfectly the first time or else it just gets worse. Any suggestions?

I finished a triple portrait I started last week- one of the problem pieces. I was mostly working on values and tones, trying to make the faces look dimensional, while still keeping the likeness. I may have made a mess in the process. Not to mention the fact that I can't seem to get a good photo of it. Perhaps I will wait a few days for it to dry and scan it.

Many of you have probably heard our news- we're gonna have a baby! -and that helps (or hurts, I guess) in the area of not getting inspired. I have been very tired and queasy all day long and I can't seem to sit still long enough to really think about painting. My sense of smell is a little more heightened, too, so the paints themselves are kinda making me sick! Perhaps I will try a watercolor or something less stinky to try to get my inspiration back.

I have my first doctor's appointment on Monday, where I will hopefully find out when baby Brady will be due. I'll keep you posted on all that.

Jenn and Ryan

2009-01-02T17:54:00.006-07:00

I have really been into portraits lately and need more subjects to paint. I requested that friends send me photos of themselves, their kids, family members, friends, pets, anything- that request is valid here too. Send me photos that you think might make good paintings. If I end up painting it, you will see it here on my blog. I would love, especially, to paint children or drama. If you have anything, let me know. Jenn sent me a few photos from her wedding day. Here is the one I chose to paint. I started this on a bright red background (you can see bits of red shining through) so their skin turned out a little pinker than I was planning. I need to practice with different starting colors to find out what works when. Ah well.

Jenn and Ryan
4 1/4 X 7
Oil on wood panel

Dallin

2009-01-01T11:50:00.006-07:00

This little cutie is the one and only Dallin. He's pretty awesome. At 7 months he weighs in at like 22 pounds, I think. He's a big ball of cute and we love playing with him. I'm very interested in doing portraits of all sorts- people, pets, plants, whatever! Hit me up if you'd like a portrait done.

Dallin
6X7
Oil on wood panel

Speaking of plants, I got an awesome planting mechanism for my birthday called the AeroGarden. I planted my pods and turned the lights on at 6:30 pm on December 28th. To my excitement I now have little sprouts just peeking their way through the pod label. This thing is fun and easy and fits under the cupboards and I love it! Thanks fam for the awesomeness!

Christmas presents

2008-12-31T10:17:00.004-07:00

I did this painting when my brother was in town to help me drive home. We decided to paint one night- or maybe it was two nights actually. I worked on an abstract painting for my dear friend, Teana, and I did this painting. Todd did the purple one! It was a good time- and they ended up being great Christmas gifts for our parents! Forgive the quality- they were taken on a cell phone. I forgot to take pictures using the real camera before wrapping them up.

Orange vase
14X11
Oil on board

Toddy's painting (you need to tell me what to name it)
8X10
Acrylic on mat board

Christmas Painting

2008-12-31T10:10:00.002-07:00

This is a painting I did in time to make it our Christmas card.

Christmas nativity

16X16
Oil on canvas

Mystery portrait

2008-12-29T12:44:00.004-07:00

The Different Strokes blog challenge this time was quite interesting. We submitted a photo of ourselves to Karin and she paired us with someone else. She sent us their submission and we were asked to paint it. So, I don't know who this lady is, but she is painting a picture of me! The photo was washed out without much depth, so I decided to give the painting more. I started with a bright red surface and left some of that color showing through. I wanted to have the focus of the piece more about the red undertones and green contrasts than her bright blue eyes, so I hope that doesn't offend. Anyhow, enjoy! And watch for the painting of me here.

Mystery portrait
6X6
Oil on board

Photo submitted by mystery woman

Snow day

2008-12-18T14:06:00.004-07:00

Portland doesn't get snow often enough to know how to handle it, so everything pretty much shuts down. There was a storm on Sunday (I think I told you about that) and another one today. I think the little ones have had snow days 3 of the 4 days this week, if not all four. I really wanted to make a snowman today after leaving work early for the "inclement weather."

I didn't want to leave my house, though, so here's what I ended up with.

She's sporting a posh handmade hat and scarf set. :)

Work boots

2008-12-15T01:41:00.003-07:00

This is my submission for the Different Strokes blog. I did this so completely different than anything else, ever. I kinda like it! And, it's even better in person. Some of the colors got a little muddled in the photo. I started with a bright orange acrylic background on a highly textured handmade paper. (I've run out of small surfaces to paint on, so I had to get a little more creative) Anyhow, I loosely drew the picture onto the bright orange and just started painting. I knew I wanted to use a lot of blue in the shadows to play off of the orange flecks coming through, but I didn't know where to go from there. I started this piece after finishing my Christmas painting I talked about in the last post. I needed to finish this one in a hurry considering it was already 11:30 when I started. In all I think it took about 45 minutes. I will do more quick paintings like this for sure.

Work boots

6X6
Oil on handmade paper

Sunday stuff

2008-12-14T15:25:00.003-07:00

I had to take Mike to the airport again this morning. I was supposed to do the lesson for YW and I prepared so much! I made the cutest little planner books for the girls with a reminder of how to stay stress free. The lesson was on avoiding crisis living- basically taking control of life through time management and organization. Anyhow, during Sunday School the bishop told everyone to go home because it snowed and the roads were getting pretty icy. This is the first snow of the year. Portland just isn't prepared for snow because it rarely happens, so any little bit really shuts down the town. So, I didn't get to give my lesson, I didn't get to give the girls their cute planners, and I had to come home to my empty, husbandless house. I'm working on a painting, though, so I did some more on that when I got home. I also need to finish crocheting some fingerless gloves for the girls for Christmas presents. They are also super cute, BTW! Check the pictures below. Hopefully I will finish my latest painting today so I can post it here as well. That would be swell!

Buddha and hydrangeas

2008-12-08T09:09:00.002-07:00

This was for Karin Jurick's blog from a couple of weeks ago. I think I might change the background a bit, but this was the submission to the site.

Sitting Buddha with Hydrangeas
5X10
oil on board

A post or two or three are forthcoming...

2008-12-07T23:23:00.005-07:00

For all you followers who are disappointed in the lack of posting lately (Mom) I thought I'd show you what's been taking quite a bit of my time lately...

1. School-- This is a picture of the project I finished this weekend! I had a pattern drawn at 1/8 scale which I had to convert to 1/4 scale and redraw on cardstock. Then, I had to cut it out and glue it together. It was a fun project- harder than you might imagine. I also had a final critique for painting on Thursday night and I have a final exam for Geology Monday afternoon that I've been neglecting studying for.

2. Young Women-- As you may or may not know I am the YW 2nd Counselor, over the beehives. I found out two weeks ago that the beehives were in charge of the combined activity for the month of December. They wanted to do a Christmas party including a gift exchange and a dinner... (one wanted to provided entertainment also) Also, the bishop wanted all of the ward's activities to be focused on handmade gifts. So, with short notice we put together a fun evening for the wee things. We made different kinds of pasta and had salad, played a couple of Christmas themed party games, and had a handmade gift exchange. (My idea was to provide each girl with a box in which their gift had to fit. Notice the cute boxes in the image!)

3. This is going back a couple of weeks, but it kind of started everything off in a busy manner... I was super sick on Thanksgiving Day and a few days afterward. I was seriously wiped out- I even took naps during the days (For those who don't know, I DO NOT take naps- ever!). I don't have a picture of this, but it was pretty cute- just ask Mike!

4. Other random events and activities... For instance- our ward Christmas party. I signed up to make a dessert, so that took a bit of time. Whilst there, just minding my business, eating yummy food, I was whisked away to a corner room where some of Santa's little helpers proceeded to elf me. I became one of Santa's elves to help welcome the children and pass out gifts. This picture shows the before-- I'll see if I can find any pictures of after the transformation.

5. And, of course, I've had little kids to attend to (I quite like my job with the little tykes). Not to mention housework, dishes, laundry, and Christmas decorating and other things I haven't even gotten to.

I guess once school is done (tomorrow!) I'll have a bit more time for posting and painting.

Upside Down Walker

2008-11-16T22:07:00.002-07:00

This is the new one for Karin Jurick's site
We were given the photo upside down and asked to paint it while looking at the photo in this manner until the very end. It was pretty difficult, but I quite like the way it turned out.

Walking and shadows
10X8
Oil on board

Happy Birthday Kambo!

2008-11-15T12:17:00.004-07:00

This is the painting I did for Kam's birthday. She's expecting a wee one in May ish and I wanted to do something sweet and motherly.

Baby feet
6X6
oil on board

My Etsy store

2008-11-12T18:06:00.002-07:00

Hey all. I just set up shop at Etsy and now have a way for you to purchase paintings easily. It's called Chelsie Doodles- cute huh. Mike named it! Go here

Long Shadows

2008-11-11T18:11:00.003-07:00

This is another painting for Karin Jurick's Different Strokes blog. I've been in a bit of a painting slump lately so this one was kinda difficult for me- way moreso than it should have been. I also have another painting to show you that I am pretty proud of! It has to get to its owner first, though.

Shadow Sisters
6X6
Oil on board

Portrait of a plumeria

2008-10-29T18:10:00.003-06:00

This is based on a friend, Jyllian. She is very beautiful and has paint-worthy features! I stole the photo from another friend, Logan and he has given me permission to post it. This is done in an even different way than the other portraits. I think this turned out quite nice. What do you think?

Jyllian
10 X 8
oil on board

Ian

2008-10-25T16:12:00.002-06:00

So, let's talk about the city scape that is forthcoming... I've been trying to decide how to make it really interesting and thought that doing it completely with a palette knife might do the trick. Problem is I've never painted with only a palette knife. I've also been wanting to paint a picture of one of the cutest little boys ever, Ian. This was quite difficult because the palette knife is good for architectural, straight elements not a human face of all things! But, it turned out pretty neat and I will undoubtedly do more with my trusty palette knife.

Ian
6X6
oil on board

NYSE

2008-10-13T09:09:00.003-06:00

This was a very difficult painting. I think I should have started with a bigger surface. All those little tiny people and my big ol' brushes just caused some definite struggles. But, I'm pretty happy with how it turned out. This is another painting for Karin Jurick's Different Strokes blog. It's been a few weeks, but I had some time this weekend to do it. I've got a triptych coming up that I am soo excited about, so keep your eyes peeled for that. It is quite large, though, so it will take a few weeks. Anyhow... enjoy the busy, crazy New York Stock Exchange.

NYSE
Oil on board
4.75 X 10

Website!

2008-10-11T14:46:00.002-06:00

My awesomely brilliant and oh-so-loving husband has created a website for me and my art. Check it out here. I think it is still in the works, but you will be able to view my work, see which ones have sold, purchase a painting, submit photos for commissioned works, email me directly, and be up to date on all things my art! You should go to the site and tell me/ Mike what you think.