Scholastic Art Awards South Jersey Keynote Speaker

I was asked to be the Keynote Speaker for the Scholastic Art South Jersey Jersey Awards evening to be held at Appel Farm. I am so honored to be chosen to share my story and experiences with talented young artists. I am also excited to return to Appel Farm where my art career began. It feels like everything has come full circle.

I was in the first class of the Salem County Vocational Technical School's Art Academy. During my freshman year we had the opportunity to work with International Artist, Ava Blitz, to create a permanent installation at Appel Farm. We took field trips to help carve, create molds, and pour cement to construct this work of art together. It was an amazing experience. You see the artwork below and can read more about the piece by clicking here. Later, our class also had the opportunity to work with Candy DePew on a permanent installation. We worked on sculpting the large piece at Appel Farm and it was then installed over our High School's auditorium doors.

During my speech, I plan to share my life experiences with the young art award recipients. I was also asked to provide advice for the students to encourage them into creating their own career path into the arts. I will be sure to share pictures and more about the experience with you!

Photo courtesy of Ava Blitz

Painting Progression: Sickler's Mack

During the renovation of our house, we had to decide on either doing poured concrete or pavers for the walkways up to our home. Our contractor had us visit a mutual relative who had a selection of pavers in his yard for consideration. While we were visiting, my husband, Chester, and Frank Sickler, struck up a conversation and were catching up with each other. After looking at the pavers I spotted Frank's old Mack truck.

I was drawn to this particular truck because of it's red color, the headlight, and plant growing between the bumper. I thought the contrasting colors and various textures would make a striking painting. I love the character that old farm trucks have: the diverse colors, dents, and rust provide such a unique subject matter. Almost every farm has an old truck that no longer runs but still can be found parked out back. Can you imagine the stories they could tell if they could talk? It's definitely something I pondered while I rendered this painting.

Below is the painting along with the progression video of it's creation. 

Please leave me a comment, I'd love to hear what you think!

The original painting is available for purchase.

It is also available in archival prints, greeting cards, and more. Click here to shop

New Painting Reveal Party

I will be revealing my new painting on Saturday, February 16th from 10AM -11AM in the Tiny House Art Gallery. Come listen to a brief artist talk, see the painting, and watch the progression video. Refreshments will be served and a free keepsake will be given as a thank you.

Space is very limited, please RSVP at: bit.ly/PaintingReveal

February Painting Workshop

Join me to learn how to paint this sheep on a 7" free standing, rustic bucket in the Tiny House Art Studio. All supplies are included and light refreshments will be served for $25. Class size is small to ensure everyone has assistance and an enjoy experience. (Greenery not included).

Click here to register