New Blog/ Special Commission Revealed!

New Blog: Please note that all current Blog posts are now being published on my new Blog "Creative Rituals". You can join me on my new blog here! 

See you there! 

Warmly,

Debbie
(Feb. 22, 2016)

Awakenings in the Marsh, 18x24in. Oil on linen/panel (Click photo for a larger view)

Commissioned

Awakenings in the Marsh

I have come to a new location to paint. It is so peaceful; that time seems endless. The evening light is captivating as it illuminates tree tops, creating halos of brightly colored greens. It boldly fills spaces not blocked by greenery and foliage. The land is transformed by nature’s spotlight. 

This moment will not last long, as the sun dips lower in the sky. Paint and brush work rhythmically with nature’s easy pace. The marsh awakens as winter grasses are interspersed with bright greens and new blooms. Skylight strokes open pockets of water, leading one along a lighted pathway. Winged friends rejoice in new beginnings. They sing of warmer days and a leisurely pace, only nature can provide. 

It is these moments that make time stand still. A sense of solitude takes hold where one merges with nature. All cares gently fall away; only the present matters. It is where pure joy is experienced. 

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©

Malagash, Nova Scotia

The journey for this piece began this past April when I was approached to paint a commissioned piece for an upcoming retirement. The painting was to be of an area very special to the retiree, which was in Malagash, Nova Scotia. Since I don't paint from photographs, special arrangements needed to be arranged. In my working method,  I use a study completed on location, color notes and also digital images which are more for drawing purposes. 

The wonderful thing about this commission, is that I had free creative choice to paint what I deemed would depict this beautiful area in its glory. Soooo the adventure began! My husband and I visited the area one Sunday afternoon. (It is about one hour and fifteen minutes from our home.) When we arrived I thought I was in heaven! It was so beautiful and peaceful. I scouted around taking in the views and getting a feel for the area.

After our Sunday visit, I returned two more times and painted a study both days. It was on my final day there that I decided the above scene would be the one worthy of becoming a larger work.

It was so beautiful the evening I painted the study for "Awakenings in the Marsh".  Finally, Spring had arrived with its lime greens and new foliage. The light was breathtaking and was changing fast. I began my study at about 4:50 p.m. and finished it about 7:15 p.m. Then I cleaned up and sat down to write my written reflection to accompany the painting. By the time I left it was about 7:50 p.m. I arrived home at about 9:15 p.m. The drive home was really beautiful and I didn't have to drive very long in the dark. I was happy--I knew this study was going to assist me in designing a larger work of this gorgeous area. 

My subject in Malagash, Nova Scotia.

The marsh area in the painting took some designing in order to make it pleasingly to the eye. Several sessions and hours later, my painting finally came to life. It was fun keeping it a surprise, even though the recipient knew it was happening. 

New beginnings in my studio!

My palette with some grays mixed on the right hand side. 

Painting this piece was extra special for me as it was for my former Superintendent of Chignecto-Central Regional School Board. Gary Clarke is both a wonderful person and a very dedicated educator. He retired with 36 dedicated years of service. As Trudy Thompson, Chair of CCRSB stated,  “His dedication, commitment and passion for education has made him a truly exceptional leader for our system. He will be greatly missed.” You can read a tribute and write up about him here. I loved working with both Gary and his Assistant Jo-Anne Jarvis-Jordan on this project.

Not the best pic, but framed and ready for packaging.

Ready for delivery!

I really enjoyed delivering Gary's painting to him. It was such an honor and pleasure to participate in this very special gift giving project! Knowing that "Awakenings in the Marsh" has really resonated with Gary and his family brings me so much joy! An emotional attachment is what we hope will be accomplished with any commission. It was fun creating this artful experience for all involved!

Thanks so much for reading!

Warmly,

Debbie

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Coming to Life!

Available Here

Coming to Life

After a harsh winter, mother nature is finally coming to life. Oh how I have missed the sounds of nature and fresh greens. New leaves rustle gently in the warm breeze, while birds sing their songs of praise. 

An elegant birch has weathered winter's woes. It stretches its branches beyond its core. Happily, it sways in the airy space, as it births new foliage. 

There is an easy flow in the park. One that slows down man-made time and envelops the viewers spirit. Nothing else matters---only a present moment. Mind chatter fades into the distance. 

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell's Pt. Park, Nova Scotia.

This was the first plein air painting of the season I did when Spring arrived.  It was so thrilling to finally have fine weather and be back out on location. I love being alone in the park. I can feel every sinew of my body relax. 

I noticed I was slower painting during this session, as I warmed up to painting on location again. Painting outdoors has a rhythm of its own. In some ways its like a moving target. lol The light changes, movement occurs and decisions must be made in a timely manner. However, I love the feeling of having all my senses engaged. It is a bit like a dance--joyful and with spontaneity. 

This was my first Spring to be working at my art full time since I retired last year.  It is thrilling to be able to observe and enjoy nature on a daily basis!

Warmly,

Debbie  

If you are interested, here is a link to my newest post on my blog Creative Rituals. Thanks!

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Summer Has Arrived & Timed Blooms!

Summer Has Arrived, 24x12in. Oil on linen/panel. 
Powell's Point Park, Nova Scotia.

Available in my Fine Art Shop

Summer Has Arrived

Summer has arrived in full force with temperatures that make one slow down. Temperatures that delineate hast and dictate a languorous pace. The air is still this morning making my set up easier and adds to a prevailing calm. 

I have come to one of my favorite spots in the park where wild roses and foliage play peek-a-boo with the ocean beyond. The charm of wild roses in full bloom captivates onlookers, adding a regal presence to the surrounding area. 

Their bubblegum pink, cheerfully scatter amongst the foliage. Throwing all cares away they bring one into a present moment, retaliating from life and its many demands. They caress the soul and nurture a place within. Nature once again delivers a gentle therapy where one’s spirit becomes renewed. 

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

(The above Reflection was written on location after I finished my study for this larger work.)

This is a favorite spot I love to paint every year in Powell's Point Park. There is an abundance of wild rose bushes that bloom profusely every year. I am in love with roses and especially wild ones! They just exude joy and symbolize that wonderful relaxed feeling of warm summer days. 

I completed the study a couple of years ago on a warm summer morning. This past winter I completed a larger studio painting using my study, notes and digital images as references. 

I recently visited this spot again this year! The rose bushes are just beginning to bud. I can't wait for them to burst into bloom. If you are patient, nature can be so rewarding and giving. 

Warmly, 

Debbie


P.S. (If you receive my Ezine, you would have already read parts of this blog. Thanks for indulging me! )

P.P.S ( On a personal note, Ian and I happily celebrated our 33rd Wedding Anniversary on Friday, July 3rd! I posted some wedding pics taken many moons ago on Facebook. Look what bloomed just in time for our Anniversary. Cheers!)

Peonies in my gardens. This one is huge!

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Orange Globe and Gift Giving

Orange Globe, 4x4in. Oil on linen/board. Sold

Sold 

Orange Globe

"A miniature orange globe celebrates harvest time with ribbon and cheer."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald 

This was a mini orange pumpkin I bought as a fall decoration for my front doorstep. Of course I knew it would most likely end up as subject matter for a painting. It was just too cute and cheery not to! 

It sold to a good friend and new collector before I could post it online. She really loves pumpkins, so this little painting was a good fit for her. I think pumpkins are so cheery and interesting! Love their bright color and interesting shapes. 

I mentioned in my last post that I will be highlighting a few of my available works over the next while. I thought it might help give you ideas for your future holiday gift giving. 

Today I am featuring "Nature's Power", 6x6in. Oil on linen/panel. It was painted on location at one of my favorite haunts...Big Island, Nova Scotia. This would make a great gift for a beach lover or someone who loved the outdoors. 

It was so windy the day I painted this, I had to hold onto my easel while I painted at times. When I was packing up to leave, a young gentleman helped me carry some of my belongings to the car, because everything kept blowing away on me. I am sure he thought, "This is one crazy artist!". 

Nature's Power, 6x6in. Oil on linen/board. $125

Available Here

You can also view more small plein air paintings here. Thanks for looking!

Today that white stuff was floating down from the sky!! Where did autumn go?!

Warmly, 

Debbie

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30 in 30 Challenge, Day 27, "Magic"

Magic, 4x4in. Oil on linen/board.
Painted En Plein Air in Big Island, Nova Scotia.

Available Here

Magic

"Magic occurs, as a golden glow sweeps over the land. "

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©


We had one last blast of summer yesterday! The temperature was so warm I could wear summer clothing. Yes, I'll take more of these days please! After finishing some domestic chores, Ian and I decided to escape and go for a nice drive. I wanted to try to get a painting completed on location, since the weather was so gorgeous.

After a bit of a drive we landed in Big Island--a favorite painting haunt for me! I loved this scene in the golden evening light. We parked the car on the side of the road and left the trunk up, which acted as a wind break while I painted. The light really changed quickly as I got further into my painting. 

My Subject at Big Island, Nova Scotia.

While I was painting, Ian and I were thrilled to both see and hear geese flying in formation in the wide open space beside us. Several groups of them filled the air during my painting session. 

The geese were honking loudly as they flew by--such an awesome sight. This is one of my favorite scenes on the Island--would make a wonderful larger painting.

It is looking like I will have 27 out of 30 paintings completed by the time this challenge is over. I am going to keep my count until I hit 30, even though my days won't be consecutive and in the same month. It was quite a commitment, but I learned from this experience in many ways. I will elaborate in a future blog post. I really appreciated all those who commented here, liked my posts on facebook etc. It was great encouragement and really kept me going. Big Thanks!

Cheers to more fun painting times!

Warmly,
Debbie

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30 in 30 Challenge, Day 26, "Touched By Color"

Touched by Color, 5x7in. Oil on linen/panel.
Painted En Plein Air in Powell's Pt. Park, Nova Scotia.

Available Here
(I will have to get a better photo of this one yet.)

Touched by Color

It is a very warm September morning. We have been blessed with a beautiful weekend forecast. Foliage in the park has been touched with nature's brilliant array of colors. It is apparent that autumn has arrived. 

This morning, I am struck by the drama of light and shadow. Bright colors come alive as the sun makes its journey higher into the clear blue. Geese noisily honk from the ocean, as they bobble along on the waves; while tall grasses rustle about as the breeze tosses them to and fro. Nature is alive and active this morning!

The light is changing quickly. Paint and observations must be made without pause. A record of time recorded; a moment in time lived.  An experience that will not be forgotten after winter's cold hand sweeps over the land. 

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©


I spent a great portion of my day in the park, scouting around for future painting spots and painting. The park is really abundant with autumn colors.  I found a secluded spot just off the beach and around a bent in a marshy area. It was a good job I didn't set up my easel where I initially was going to, as by the time I finished painting, the tide had come in and that area was covered with water. 

My location later in the day.

Just about finished.

I loved nature's activity today; seagulls feasting on the sandbars and geese honking and floating on the ocean! There were not many people in the park today, just the occasional walker out for their morning stroll. 

It was nice to have my husband join me after I had been painting for awhile. I forgot my camera card so he took that, along with lunch for me! We really enjoyed the peacefulness and warm temperatures. It won't be long and the park will be closed. If I want to paint here I will have quite a hike with my gear, as the places I like to paint are a distance from the gate. Staying in shape is a must for a plein air artist!

Thanks for following my adventures and for supporting me in my 3o in 30 day painting challenge!

Warmly,
Debbie

P.S. The above written reflection is attached to the back of the painting on laminated card stock. 

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30 in 30 Challenge, Day 25, "Mingling"

Mingling, 3x3in. Oil on linen/board
Painted En Plein Air in Plymouth, Nova Scotia

Available Here

Mingling

"Mingling together in gardens, zinnias and violas add charm and cheer. "

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©


I have a row of violas and Zahara Starlight zinnias in my front flower bed. The violas popped up this year on their own accord and I planted the zinnias around them. I like how cheerful they look along our front walkway. They just make me smile. 

It's a short post today, as we are heading out to supper to celebrate my brother's birthday. His birthday is tomorrow, so we are just a few hours early. I am sure a few good laughs will ensue! 

It sounds like it is going to be a gorgeous weekend. I hope to get out and paint a few studies this weekend. Wishing you a relaxing and inspiring weekend as well!

Warmly,
Debbie

P.S. I couldn't post this painting yesterday as scheduled, due to it being too wet. We just couldn't get a proper photo of it. Also, we had a great birthday celebration for my brother. Lots of laughs and fun made for a great evening! 

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30 in 30 Challenge, Day 23, "Color Parade"

Color Parade, 4x4in. Oil on linen/board.
Painted En Plein Air in MacLellan's Brook, Nova Scotia.

Available Here

Color Parade

"With one last procession, nature's color parade, marches into autumn."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©

As the month progresses, green foliage has continuously changed into an array of colors. Reds, oranges and yellows are becoming the predominate colors; replacing summer greens. I love how the light makes the leaves appear translucent. Leaves are beginning to float in the air on windy days; while, deep blue skies serve as a wonderful backdrop for nature's brilliant colors. 

MacLellan's Brook is one of my favorite places to paint. This space made me feel  like I had been tucked away in a room within the woods. It reminded me of the spaces we use to seek out as children. They were magical little spots, where we thought no one could find us. We thought they belonged to our own private world. 

I hope you are getting a chance to enjoy quiet spaces whether in your home or nature! Everyone needs to create their own private world; if only for a short while.

Warmly,
Debbie

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30 in 30 Challenge, Day 21, "Sparkling Red"

Sparkling Red, 3x2in. Oil on linen/board.
Painted from life Alla Prima

Available Here

Sparkling Red 

"Red berries sparkle on the forest floor as rays of light strike upon them."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©


I have a fondness for any red berries. They always attract my attention, especially if they are the type of berry that appear translucent. I love how they are illuminated when light shines through them. Hues of various reds are created, adding interest to these little red globes. 

I found these ones on my morning walk when I ventured off my usually route to visit a nearby pond. They were illuminated by light and sparkled in comparison to the other vegetation that was beginning to wane due to colder temperatures at night. 

Once home, I placed them in a small vase on a windowsill. I loved the way the light made them sparkle once again. I know my love affair with red berries will continue for some time yet. Who knows--maybe forever!

Do you have a fondness for red berries?

Warmly,
Debbie

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