Spontaneous sketch while on vacation to test out time lapse. I think I'll try and get it together to do a time lapse painting video. Should be fun!

I love California clouds. I think this State has some of the prettiest clouds I've seen. I'm obsessed. I have a lot to master, but I'm enjoying the process and the freedom of painting the big sky.

My New Year's resolution sounds lovely doesn't it!? To paint more. But easier said than done. All artists yearn for a space where they can spread their wings, spread their supplies and leave things out to be worked on the next day and the next day. Until I have the luxury of my own studio, I will carve out a space where I may and resolve to paint as much as I can. And I will encourage my artist friends to do the same.

I'm so happy painting pets. Who knew? It wasn't something I planned, but sometimes those unexpected curves in the road are what bring joy. And since I'm such an animal lover, it's a natural extension for me. I hope I get a ton more pet commissions in 2015. Happy New Year everyone!

One thing sells art and one thing sells jewelry: lighting.

I love my local shows, but it always breaks my heart to see rooms full of amazing artwork poorly lit. Because art is portable, it seems easy and obvious to pop up art shows here and there. And it is: artists become more involved in their community and can network with potential buyers. But crowded, unprofessionally hung shows can suck the life out of a brilliant painting, and artists start to scratch their heads about their subject matter and pricing. It's a shame.

It's a good way to start for the emerging artist, but my recommendation is to find gallery representation as soon as you can to mix it up.

I'm revving up! Spring is a key exhibit time for Southern California artists and I'm happy to say I'm somewhat organized this year. I have three shows on the books and I'm working hard to have something more to share in the coming months. I'm also taking orders for custom portraits, as always.

I'm still playing with watercolor on wood and slowly building a collection of miniature portraits. I'm working on 6" square panels and really enjoying the challenge of making the paint obey my intention. It isn't easy. I love it.

Here is my latest I call "The Last Fairy".

Many artists adopt the painting a day method to keep focused, in practice and disciplined. Hello New Year! I'm going to try this. I am so busy all day every day, that if I have ten minutes that are unfilled something jumps right in. My resolution is to make some small artistic effort to fill that tiny void. Wish me luck! I'll post my efforts on my Facebook and Instagram no doubt - let me know what you think!

My friends are adorable. This is a great breakfast place where I meet a friend of mine when we can squeeze in hang out time between work, kids and workouts. I arrive five minutes late one day to find Christie talking me up to the owners as a great artist. When she sees me she ushers me to hand over my card right away so the owners can send it to the art curator. With friends like these even the reluctant artist can get some traction...