Blog

Earlier this month, I was honored to be juried into the Finger Lakes Pleinair Competion and Festival.  June 8, 9 and 10th were spent a gorgeous area around Canandaigua Lake.  This is about 1 1/2 hrs. drive from my family in Western NY so other than having to ship all my stuff there, it was an easy trip. I rented a car and drove in on Thurs. and stayed at a community college dorm. Really took me back to bare bones, bring your own linens and soap, roughing it...almost like camping! There was lots to explore and paint. Friday morning found me and many others at the City Pier painting the historic boat houses. The afternoon was spent painting at a little beach area until the thunder storms rolled in. Saturday, we woke up to rain. Ran to Wegman's and bought breakfast and a rain parka. Fortunately, my sister has a friend who's lovely cottage, complete with porches sits on the lake. That was my morning's shelter from the rain. I painted 2 that day and framed and delivered them all.  Then there was time for some fun and relaxation. My sister, Barb and her friend Sue joined me and we spent the night at the cottage on the lake (thanks, Amy for your generousity!). The sunset set the lake on fire! It was a gorgeous reward after two days of hard work. Sunday, after coffee and breakfast on the porches, Barb and I headed into town to meet my parents (86 yrs young) for lunch and we all went to the awards, show and sale.  Ann Larsen did a fabulous job judging the works of 48 very talented artists. It was wonderful to meet so many new artists and to explore this beautiful area. Hope I can do it again...maybe next year!