Summer is flying by and I haven’t had a lot of time to write or paint.  We spent some time back in the old country (Canada) visiting family and friends as well as some time on Maui.

I’ve chosen to enjoy time with Kira (while she still wants to hang with me) and not focus on painting until she starts back to school.

However, I couldn’t resist working on this adorable little pug. 

It’s a small painting, but hopefully big in character.

Aloha, Susan

Acrylic on canvas | 10" x 10"

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I decided that I have to start thinking of ways to make my art more affordable – at least until this crazy recession ends.  I discovered a wonderful company that puts images onto various products.  That is the direction I would ultimately like to take my art, so I decided that I would test the waters.

I ordered a tote bag with the painting of Malia on it.  The image is woven, not printed, so the texture is fantastic.  I’m pretty thrilled with it.

"Malia to go" 17"x17" tote bag

I will be offering this image and others on my website soon.

Susan

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Time sure does fly!

I have decided that while the economy is doing what it needs to do so people can afford to buy original art again, I am going to enjoy painting beautiful dogs.

My most recent painting is of Sofia.  Sofia is an absolutely beautiful Golden Retriever, who keeps me company while my daughter has her riding lessons.  Sofia is gentle, kind and very patient.

I love this pose! This is such a Golden look.

"Eyes for You" | Acrylic | 24 x 20

That’s all for now!

Aloha, Susan

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Women ROCK!  Men are cool too, but I have been thinking a lot recently about all of the extremely fantastic women I know (and those I have met in the last few weeks).

Last Friday was my birthday and as I was reflecting on my life, I have come to realize that while I donʻt dig the wrinkles, I love being 52!  I have a great husband, an awesome daughter, sweet dogs, wonderful friends, a super fun art career, two very fun volunteer projects (more about that later), very little drama (not fond of drama) and it just gets better all the time!  Basically I love my life.

You may wonder what this painting has to do with anything.  It just adds a bit of color and reflects my current mood

So… women.  Last week I was invited by a very nice new friend, to meet some of her women friends.  Normally, that would send me running to the nearest closet. Frankly… and please donʻt share this with anyone, I am a bit shy in medium to large groups, however, the hostess of this gathering had attended Obamaʻs inauguration and was going to share her photos.  I couldnʻt miss that!  As it turned out, I had a wonderful time!  Our hostess was a wildly talented and creative architect and all the women were interesting, dynamic and very welcoming. Big bonus.

Then there are the women in my daily life.  Wonderful friends who have supported me through all of lifeʻs ups and downs.  I have managed to surround myself with artists, writers, designers, teachers, therapists, child advocates, health care professionals, students, directors, producers, agents, committed volunteers, terrific mothers (who have been life saving mentors to me), grandmothers and all around incredible human beings (yeah mentors) who have awed me with their strength and wisdom. These women have suffered the loss of health, beloved family members and confidence, yet they rally with such grace and dignity, it gives me great hope.  I am so proud… and once again blessed to be in the company of such incredible women.

Thank you to all of the women in my life!  You have helped make my life very special.

Susan

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As you know, I have been working on fire.  I’m actually “on fire” with this whole fire painting thing.  However, I needed to take a time out.  I also needed to use the fire colors for something fun.

As you know, Ipo was one of my first acrylics.

Ipo | Acrylic | 24 x 20

So… I decided it was time to tackle Malia.  Again.

Big Chihuahua

Malia is a 3-1/2 pound Chihuahua who actually thinks she is a Pit Bull.   When we walk the beach, she will go tearing up to all the big dogs trying to get them to cower in her presence. Fortunately the dogs on Kailua Beach are almost all very tolerant of Malia.  They ignore her (or they don’t see her because she is so tiny) and so to save face… since she knows she can’t really beat them, she walks away… head held high.

So… I decided it was time to tackle Malia.  Again.

I have looked into her cute little face for 10 years and while this painting is sweet.  It’s not the complete picture of Malia.

Here is the one I painted several years ago…

..

Malia | Watercolor| 13 x 10

Now THIS is Malia…

Malia | Acrylic | 12 x 12

Now I feel better!

Have a great day!

Susan

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