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! 

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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!

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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  

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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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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 15, "Rhythmic Voice"

Rhythmic Voice, 4x4in. Oil on linen/board.
Painted En Plein Air in Tor Bay, Nova Scotia.

Available Here

Rhythmic Voice

"As the sun warms the land, the rhythmic voice of the ocean, echoes in the 
surrounding space."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©


I was delighted to have the opportunity to stay in a cottage not far from Tor Bay Provincial Park in Guysborough County. Our family has been coming to visit and picnic in the park since I was a child. It is about a two hour drive from our home. 

It was thrilling to be able to visit the beach so early in the morning. Beyond the beach is the wide open Atlantic Ocean. We often see cormorants and sometimes seals out in the ocean by huge rocks. It is a wide open and free space, where the ocean and sky change without warning. 

My view --Tor Bay Provincial Park, Nova Scotia.

I found a great spot, high on a sandy hill surrounded by dune grass and weeds. It was a wonderful vantage point, where I could look far and wide over the ocean. The sun was so warm that morning I was able to sit wearing short sleeves. At one point when my husband went back to the cottage to get his book, I was the only one on the beach! It was so peaceful and trance like as my senses became attune to my surroundings and my brush moved intuitively. I was in the zone!

My perch

Once I was finished painting, we headed back to the cottage. It wouldn't be long and my brother and sister-in-law would be arriving to stay the night with us. We all had a great weekend, despite the rainy day that followed.  A little wood heat came to our rescue, resulting in a cozy, lazy Sunday. 

Warmly,
Debbie

P.S. (You know how it always seems when you are going away you forget something? Well, after checking my painting gear several times, I managed to forget the attachment on my painting box that allows me to attach it onto my tripod!! I had taken it off the day before so the box would lie flat on a table when I was tweaking a painting. Soooo I had to paint with the box sitting on my lap. I won't forget it next time....will probably forget something though! Haha) 

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30 in 30 Challenge, Day 12, "The Night of the Super Moon"

The Night of the Super Moon, 5x7in. Oil on linen/board.
Painted En Plein Air in Powell's Pt. Park, Nova Scotia.

Available Here

The Night of the Super Moon

The park is exceptionally quiet this evening. The lowering sun casts a golden glow upon the land. It is an enchanting evening, especially tonight as the super moon is scheduled to make its appearance. 

As the evening progresses, layers must be donned. The night brings crisp autumn air, creating a chill and the knowledge that soon colder days will be upon us. 

Once the land was recorded with paint, the Super Moon made its grand appearance! It shone  brightly like a huge globe in a pinkish sky. Its beauty was beyond words; causing  an awe inspiring appreciation for nature and her marvels. 

Tonight nature humbles her viewer with her grandeur. She has gifted one with yet another orchestration of beauty. It is an honor to witness her offering! 

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©


It was such a beautiful evening in Powell's Pt. Park when I painted this one. Witnessing the Super Harvest Moon when I was just finishing my painting was beyond words. I literally gasped when I turned around and saw that huge glowing globe in the sky!

 I immediately unpacked some of my gear again and quickly recorded the essence of the moon on a miniature painting. I just have to do some tweaking on it and will post it soon as well. 

Nature's beauty never seizes to amaze me. Being witness and experiencing her beauty on location is a wonderful gift. I will never grow tired of trying to capture her beauty in paint. Definitely a humbling experience!

I hope you have a chance to absorb some of nature's beauty this weekend! Take a few moments to pause and acknowledge your natural surroundings. You might be surprised what see and feel. 

Warmly,
Debbie

P.S. Please feel free to comment or join in the challenge if you are an artist! 

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Nature's Whispers

Nature's Whispers, 7x5in. Oil on linen/panel, Painted En Plein Air in Powell's Pt. Park, Nova Scotia.

Available Here

Nature’s Whispers

The park is so calm today. I almost feel like I am in heaven. Not a soul in sight, just the rhythm of paint and brushes in motion. Breezes arise intermittently causing foliage to rustle and sway. Pink roses skip about within the gentle movement. 

A calmness prevails. It is like time has stood still as a meditative state begins. Nature gently cradles the soul with her quiet whispers and beauty.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©

Powell’s Point. Park, Nova Scotia

This was a painting I completed a few weeks ago in the park when the wild rose bushes were in bloom. I am always so thrilled to witness their beauty and never tire of them. My written reflections are written after I complete my painting. I often take a snack and hot tea to drink while I write. I love this reflective time, writing and listening to nature! 

Stay tuned tomorrow for my Plein Air Diary entry that accompanies this piece. 

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Diary of a Plein Air Painter #26

A Pristine Moment, 8x10in. Oil on linen/panel. Painted En Plein Air in Powell's Pt. Park, Nova Scotia.

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A Pristine Moment

We have been graced with an exceptionally beautiful day. Not a a cloud in sight, only calmness and a crystal blue sky. I have come to the park to immerse myself in its beauty. It is these types of mornings, that one yearns for in the midst of winter. Its serene nature and quiet allow the mine to settle. 

A new angle and an opening to the sea allow the eye to wander amongst the haze. Back lighting adds a dramatic touch, emphasizing nature's pristine presentation. I wish I could freeze this moment allowing it to envelop my soul for an endless pause. But like all things, it will only last a short while, as time passes on. It shall become a sweet memory to daydream upon, when the land rests like Sleeping Beauty.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Wed., August, 7, 2013

Powell's Pt. Park, Nova Scotia.

9:15-12:05 p.m.

Last night I planned my outing, getting my materials organized, replenishing some and preparing my outdoor picnic. I awoke to a chilly, but fresh morning with a crystal blue sky and calmness. This is one of those days one wishes they could package and retrieve at will!

After arriving in the park and driving around I decided to perch myself on the top of a hill overlooking a breath taking view. This was a new angle I had not painted before. The lighting was incredible this morning. A haze veiled the scene and back lighting added drama.

Powell's Point Park, Nova Scotia.  Aug. 2013

I began by toning my panel thinly with terra rosa and then quickly began sketching in my lay out with the same color. This is a great way to move around the canvas while making decisions about what will be included. This quick sketch also heightens my awareness and observation of values and how I will deal with them. 

Putting on the finishing touches.

After I was painting for about an hour and a half, I was struck at how the scene had changed. The haze had lifted and the lighting was not near as dramatic. I was happy I had also blocked in sections that were in strong light earlier.

Afterwards, I enjoyed my little picnic with a hot cup of tea of course. At the same time I wrote my reflection and this diary entry. I hope it transports you to a peaceful place and brings a smile to your day.

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. While I painted three tiny dogs arrived before their owners. They scolded me profusely, annoyed that I was taking up space in "their" park.

P.P.S. Many rustlings from birds and squirrels surrounded me. Boats left trails of white foam and crows cawed nosily. Nature is a very busy place, but in a most peaceful way.

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