Fine Art of Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

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Monday, September 01, 2014

30 in 30 Challenge! Day 1, "Summer Grace"

Summer Grace, 4x4in. Oil on canvas/board. Painted En Plein Air. $75 Available

Available Here

Summer Grace

"Like soft balls of cotton, hydrangea float gently on a warm summer breeze."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©

Happy September! Today is the beginning of firsts for me. I am beginning my first 30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge hosted by Leslie Saeta. I am so excited to participate in this challenge with 854 other artists all over the world! It will be wonderful to view all the other artwork and get to know new artists. You can follow along by signing up for my posts if you haven't already done so. Cheers!

Another first is that I will not be returning to work tomorrow as an elementary teacher. I retired this past June after 32yrs. teaching elementary, with a great portion of that time teaching grade one. Although I will miss my colleagues and children I am super ready and excited to embark on this new chapter in my life as a full time artist! It is a dream come true! Due to my retirement, I am able to participate in the 30 in 30 day challenge this time.

My painting today was painted in my front yard. I love my Anabelle Hydrangea! It reminds me of giant snowballs or puffs of cotton. It has really grown over the last few years and I look forward to its display every year.

Well I'm off to paint another one! See you tomorrow--have a super day!

Warmly,

Debbie

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

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Sunday, August 10, 2014

Diary of a Plein Air Painter #28

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

Available Here

Friday, July 17, 2014

Powell's Pt. Park, Nova Scotia.

9:45-12:15 p.m.

The park was so gentle when I arrived this morning. Only a whisper of a breeze and beauty all around. My love affair with wild rose bushes continues. Once again I am determined to paint them at the height of their beauty. Their femininity, hue and cheerful nature are always captivating. How could one resist them?

After scouting around the park, I find the perfect spot. Today I am most comfortable as I park myself at a weathered picnic table. I enjoy the novelty of having my belongings easily accessible, as I spread them out around me.

My Subject--Love these wild rose bushes!

Once my surface is toned, the dance begins. Only thoughts of paint and brush strokes prevail. It is the sounds of nature and motion of the brush that gently guides one into a meditative state. It is the best medicine for the soul!

Today I played with a variety of grays. Both the colors and light are soft this morning. Mauves and grays stroke limbs and water. I make new color discoveries that would only happen from direct observation of nature.

While I write my reflection a special visitor arrives. A little squirrel is looking for tidbits of my snack. He is cautiously playful as he scampers around my feet. To his delight, I toss little pieces of cookie and bread sticks. Suddenly he bumps into my bare feet, startling both of us!

As I pack up to leave, butterflies flit in and out of the rose bushes. The light has shifted. New shadows appear. The scene has changed since I first arrived. I leave contented and grateful for my visit today.

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. While I fed my little squirrel friend, a blue jay flew in bedside us. He quickly retreated when he realized I was in close proximity. I was able to grab my camera and take a few shots of him before he continued on.

Available Miniature on Dailypaintworks Auction with a buy it now button. Summer Birth, 3x3in. Oil on linen/board.

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Wednesday, August 06, 2014

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.

You can now subscribe to my Inspirational Blog "Small Pauses" if you would like at this link. Thanks!

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Thursday, July 24, 2014

Diary of a Plein Air Painter #27

Cheery Hello!

It has been awhile since I posted to this blog. So much has happened in my life since my last post! In June I retired from teaching elementary school after 32 years of service. Soooo I am now a full time artist! WooHoo! You will definitely be hearing more from me in the near future. I thought I would begin posting again with a "Plein Air Diary" post. I am really enjoying being back out on location!

On another note I started an inspirational blog titled "Small Pauses" that you can view here. Please feel free to share your own Small Pauses. Be sure to sign up for my free Ezine, which will be sent out more frequently as well. I hope life is being kind to you. Thanks for sharing this artistic journey with me!

Warmly,

Debbie

Dancing About, 4x4in. Oil on linen/board.
Painted En Plein Air in Powell's Pt. Park, Nova Scotia.

This painting Sold before it left my easel!

Dancing About

"Wild rose bushes dance merrily in a warm summer breeze."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©

Saturday, July 12, 2014
Powell's Pt. Park, Nova Scotia.

10:45-12:00 p.m.

Oh, how I missed painting on location. Life's responsibilities and happenings have kept me away too long. It was a pleasure to be immersed in nature once again today.

I returned to Powell's Pt. Park, one of my favorite locations to paint. I was thrilled to discover that the wild rose bushes were in full bloom. I scouted about looking at various clumps of roses. I love how both light and shadow make them come alive.

After much debate, I finally decided upon a section of rose bushes that caught my eye. They danced merrily in a light breeze. A beautiful view of the ocean gave my eyes an enjoyable break as I painted.

Luckily, I found a cozy shaded spot to sit while I painted. Nature hummed and bustled around me. Visitors came to walk their dogs and I enjoyed little chats with them. It is always so interesting to meet new people and hear their stories.

I decided to make a miniature painting as the light was beginning to change due to all my little conversations with visitors. I had a really enjoyable session and look forward to my return soon.

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. I had a lovely conversation with a lady who was walking her two dogs. At one point in our talk, we discussed how important it was to find a creative outlet that eased the stress of everyday living. I feel very grateful for my art and nature!

P.P.S I also met a sweet young lady who just moved to our area from British Columbia. She came to work as a nurse at our local hospital. A profession I have great respect for. When you have an ill family member, their kindness is so appreciated!

Sunday, February 09, 2014

Aglow and New Blog!

"Aglow", 3x2in. Oil on linen/panel. Available

Available Here

Aglow

"A tiny apple sits aglow in summer's warmth."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

This was the second apple I picked from an old apple tree in our backyard this summer. I was fascinated with how it glowed on our blue tin table in the bright sunlight. It was fun to paint on my back doorstep!

In my last post I mentioned a special gift I received for Christmas and then forgot to post a picture of it. Chuckling.... must have had a distraction and moved on to my next thought.

So here is the beautiful piece of amethyst my brother and sister-in-law gave me for Christmas. It is suppose to inspire creativity. I love how it glows with a lit candle behind it. It has found a home in my studio on my apple green bureau.

A special Christmas gift --amethyst.

Last post I also mentioned my New Fine Art Gift Bags I launched just before Christmas. The idea grew after visiting a new shop in my area. I loved the way in which the shop owner/ artisan had artistically set up her new shop. I also loved how her wares were packaged. We had a wonderful chat the day I visited.

That visit along with my love for teaming with other like minded entrepreneurs/artisans helped my vision evolve for these new Fine Art Bags. My intention was to make each bag personal and unique. To hold a special energy of their own. This would greatly align with my philosophy that I take to the creation of my miniature work. Each miniature is like a small meditation; thus these new bags needed to mimic this intention as well. I really enjoy assembling each one and am always delighted to see what my two counterparts come up with in their interpretation of my miniature oil painting.

You can read more about them on my online shop here.

"Violet Heads" Fine Art Gift Bag Available Here.

New Blog: Feel free to visit my second and new blog "Small Pauses". I would love for you to join in by sharing your own small pauses or thoughts!

Wishing you a Wonderful Day!
Warmly,
Debbie

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Tuesday, February 04, 2014

New Fine Art Gift Bags/New Blog!

Violet Heads part of a New Fine Art Gift Bag! Available

Just before Christmas I launched my "Fine Art Gift Bags. I was very humbled and thrilled at how well received they became. The idea grew after visiting a new shop in my area. I loved the way in which the shop owner/artisan had artistically set up her new shop. I also loved how her wares were packaged. We had a wonderful chat the day I visited.

That visit along with my love for teaming with other like minded entrepreneurs/artisans helped my vision evolve for these new Fine Art Bags. My intention was to make each bag personal and unique; to hold a special energy of their own. This would greatly align with my philosophy that I take to the creation of my miniature work. Each miniature is like a small meditation; thus these new bags needed to mimic this intention as well. I really enjoy assembling each one and am always delighted to see what my two counterparts come up with in their interpretation of my miniature oil painting.

You can read more about my bags here. The collection below is available as a Fine Art Gift Bag.

"Violet Heads" Fine Art Gift Bag Available Here.

On another note, I have started a New Blog entitled "Small Pauses". As an artist I often take note of my everyday surroundings and occurrences. These happenings and subjects often weave themselves into my work. The blog is about taking small pauses within your busy days. Taking time to acknowledge everyday happenings create subtle joy and a sense of well being. I would love for you to join me, by offering your own experiences or thoughts. Or you can just come visit, read and follow me quietly.

New Small Pauses Blog

You can read about my thinking behind this blog here and follow my posts on the Home Page.

Thanks so much!
Warmly,
Debbie

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Thursday, January 23, 2014

Summer Birth

Summer Birth, 3x3in. Oil on linen/panel. Painted En Plein Air in Plymouth, Nova Scotia.

Available Here

Summer Birth

"Birthed from weighted branches, a small apple finds joy in summer's warmth."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

I love painting apples. This was a small apple from an old apple tree in our backyard. I was fascinated with how it glowed on our blue tin table. I sat the table on a blue chair, so the apple was definitely in the blue zone!

My set up outside. The apple was set on a blue tin table which was set on top of a blue chair.

I enjoyed painting this one so much I painted two more miniature apple paintings. I really enjoyed the summer light and how the apples seemed to glow. I'll post the other two paintings soon. Summer seems so long ago. As I am typing up this post a blizzard is raging outside. We are suppose to get up to 30 cm. of snow tonight!

I thought it would also be fun to share a special Christmas gift I received from my brother and sister-in-law. They gave me a beautiful piece of amethyst that is suppose to inspire creativity. I love how it glows with a lit candle behind it. It has found a home in my studio on my apple green bureau.

In my next blog post I will be sharing more information about my Fine Art Gift Bags I launched just before Christmas. You can click the link above to have a peek at them.

I hope 2014 is going smoothly for you!

If you are in a winter season right now, let's visualize an early Spring with all those wonderful lime greens and freshness!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. You can view some of my Plein Air Available Paintings Here.

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Wednesday, January 08, 2014

New Inspired Space/ Happy New Year!

Welcome to 2014!! It is going to be a year of great happenings and new beginnings. It has been awhile since I posted to my blog. Life has been busy, but I'm getting back on track!

I just posted a new "Inspired Space" to my online shop and thought I would share it on my blog as well. I continue to be intrigued with space and how it affects us. I truly believe that fine art can aid in uplifting your space as well. Art evokes emotion and memory, creating a positive mental break. The piece of work featured in my new inspired space photo is titled "My Brother's Sanctuary". It was painted on location over several sessions in my brother's backyard. A wonderfully peaceful and uplifting experience!

Relish in this intimate space, where conversation flows naturally and steaming cups of your favorite beverage ensue. Fresh greens and bright drapery echo summer's vibrancy and charm. " My Brother's Sanctuary" conjures memories of times spent within nature. Moments of being tucked away beneath apple trees, while our winged friends flutter about. It is a space where you happily relinquish your cares to a world beyond.

(You can visit the "Inspired Spaces" section of my shop here.)

Featured Painting: "My Brother's Sanctuary," 11x14in. Oil on linen/panel. Painted En Plein Air in McLellan's Mtn. Nova Scotia.

On another note, it is a great time of year to take stock of where we are and the direction we would like to be taking in various areas of our life--career, personal etc. One of the more common practices this time of year is to write New Year's Resolutions. I think they are a good idea in some respects because they help focus our dreams and desires. However, they are sometimes another "thing" to do and fall by the wayside because they do not align with our internal desires, only our "shoulds"! That is why a few years ago I began picking a word of the year that I felt intuitively aligned with where or what I wanted to experience more in my life for the upcoming year.

You can fine Christine Kane's Word of the Year booklet Here.

I got this idea from Christine Kane. She also has a great little workbook you can print off to get you started on picking your word. You can find her workbook here. I like to type my word and post it around the house, in my studio etc. Thought you might like to give it a try! Good Luck!

Hoping all your Dreams come True in 2014!!

Warmly,

Debbie

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Sunday, October 06, 2013

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.

Available Here

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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