Summer at the Lake

A woman holding a ribbon in front of many paintings.
Wind-bent
soft pastel on Pastelbord
8″ x 10″

I’ve never been much of a beach person, I’ve always preferred swimming in a chlorinated pool! This summer has been different though, I’ve been inspired to be in nature, craving a walk along the beach, looking through the tall grasses and finding art inspiration. These visits to Lake Michigan have led me to a new series of pastel paintings, soft pastel combined with gesso, created with bold textures and lots of dimension.

A woman holding a ribbon in front of many paintings.
Sunlit Pathway
soft pastel on Pastel Premier panel
9″ x 12″
A woman holding a ribbon in front of many paintings.
Beach Shadows
soft pastel & gesso on Pastelbord
8″ x 10″

As I continue to paint with and learn about soft pastels, I am motivated and excited to share this new work. I have started looking for the right venue that will host a solo exhibition. If I am lucky, this will come together sooner rather than later.

A woman holding a ribbon in front of many paintings.
Millard Beach
soft pastel on Pastel Premier panel
9″ x 12″
A woman holding a ribbon in front of many paintings.
Rocky Coastline
soft pastel & watercolor on Arches
12″ x 12″

My years of living in New England also have contributed to the inspiration and desire to paint the water, sand, and sky. I believe it’s the same feeling of serenity… the waves… that is universal to visiting any large body of water located almost anywhere in the world!

While the summer progresses, I will continue to wander the local beaches, photographing the places that connect to my painterly self, and hope to share news of a solo exhibition in the coming months.

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