A day like no other

We all get to experience the beauty of nature. How magnificent it is to witness Gods creation. To those who have stood in the midst of a redwood forest, or at the foot of a majestic mountain or waterfall, you know what I am talking about. 

Last week I was blessed with the opportunity to go to the largest art museum in America.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art….Wow, Wow, Wow!

Of course, we expected grandeur from creation but not always from mankind. Too many times people are known for their hatred, wars, and evil ways. A place like the Met is where you flip the coin to experience the other side of mankind. People, artists, architects, painters, sculptors, and craftsmen who had a creative nature to express beauty that stagers the mind. It’s deep within them and yet they have found a way to pour it out in their artistic ways and impact the world in their own lifetime and for generations after they have passed on.

More updates to come of my findings at “The Met”

A side note: I ’m not saying creatives are perfect…far from it. Van Gogh delt will depression and many expect he committed suicide.

The Italian painter, Caravaggio became notorious for his drinking, gambling, sword-carrying and brawling. He was arrested for carrying a sword without a permit, sued for beating a man with a stick. : o

After Benvenuto Cellini killed his rival, the goldsmith Pompeo de Capitaneis, in 1534, Pope Paul III—a Cellini fan—reportedly pardoned the Florentine artist, declaring that men like him “ought not to be bound by law.” In 1660 the Dutch painter Jacob van Loo stabbed a wine merchant to death during a brawl in Amsterdam, and then fled to Paris.  *ARTnews

life changing moments

It’s easy to overlook the everyday miracles of the natural world, but art has the power to rekindle that sense of awe. This drawing invites you to reconnect with nature and see the animal kingdom with fresh eyes, offering more than just a beautiful image—it can be a transformative experience. Art has the unique ability to shift perspectives, lift your spirits, and inspire new ways of seeing the world. Bringing special art into your home can spark joy, provide moments of calm, and even be a catalyst for change in your life.

What happens next is yours to discover.

Unforgettable Studio Shenanigans

I had probably one of the most unique studio experiences ever. It’s just a typical day in the studio, paperwork scattered across my desk. My sweet little grand-darling who was only about 6 months old at the time, was spending the afternoon with me. I had her on my hip while walking into my studio area to get some paperwork. Little did I know that this innocent visit would turn into one of the most amusing and heartwarming experiences in my art career.

As I sorted through the paperwork, my grand-darling began babbling away, completely captivated by something in the room. I turned to see her smiling and cooing at none other than CMS Sapp's portrait. I couldn't help but chuckle at the unexpected interaction. It was as if she was having the most animated conversation with the stoic figure on the canvas.

I couldn't resist mentioning this adorable encounter to CMS Sapp himself. His reply was , "Well, babies have always liked me."

A Touch of Magic: In that whimsical moment, I realized that art has the power to transcend boundaries. It can captivate the imaginations of the youngest souls and create a world where anything is possible. Who's to say that CMS Sapp's portrait didn't have a secret charm that caught the attention of my grand-darling? Perhaps she sensed his bravery and esteemed presence, even at such a tender age.

That day, my studio transformed into a realm of innocence, laughter, and unexpected connections. It reminded me of the joys that art brings, not only to the artist but to all those who encounter it. In the future, I will always remember the sight of my grand-darling smiling and babbling away, entranced by a portrait that seemed to possess a baby-friendly aura.

It’s become a studio memory I will always cherish. It’s a reminder of the magic that art can create. It's these delightful and humorous moments that make our artistic journeys all the more meaningful. So, here's to the joyous wonders that unfold when little ones and portraits have a lively chat—truly a tale for the ages.

The Beauty and Inspiration of Nature

Nature's allure is a constant reminder of the profound beauty that surrounds us. From the majestic mountains to the gentle rustling of leaves, nature captivates our senses and touches our souls. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, nature holds the power to inspire, invigorate, and awaken the creativity within us.

1. Finding Solace in Nature: Amidst the chaos of daily life, nature offers solace and respite. Whether we find comfort in a serene forest, a serene lake, or a vibrant garden, nature's tranquility soothes our weary minds and rejuvenates our spirits. It provides a space for reflection, introspection, and deep connection with our inner selves.

2. A Source of Inspiration: Nature's boundless beauty serves as an endless wellspring of inspiration. Its colors, patterns, and intricate designs ignite our imaginations and fuel our creativity. From the delicate petals of a flower to the sprawling canopy of a forest, nature's artistry urges us to see the world through fresh eyes and find inspiration in the simplest of details.

3. Reconnecting with our Roots: In the embrace of nature, we reconnect with our primal instincts and rediscover our place in the web of life. We witness the interdependence of all living things and the delicate balance of ecosystems. This reminder of our interconnectedness fosters a sense of humility and encourages us to become stewards of the environment.

Nature's beauty and inspiration are gifts that enrich our lives and awaken our spirits. By immersing ourselves in the wonders of the natural world, we find solace, ignite our creativity, and reconnect with the essence of our existence. Let us cherish and protect nature, for it holds the key to our own growth and harmonious coexistence with the world around us.

The Soul Awakening

Progression of a painting.

Oil on panel

About this artwork:

The Soul Awakening is about a place that you come to where you become enlightened in some unexplainable way. There is a connection between your spirit and a great force that works for the good in your life and imparts a light in your heart and mind that can not be explained in mere words. Each person goes through a dark time in life, the darkness can engulf you like being sucked into a black hole, but in the midst of the darkness comes a place of growth where your soul is awakened by light. This light could seem very small like a faraway star but nevertheless the light illuminates the darkness around you and brings hope for a brighter tomorrow.