Best Kept Secret in the South

Best Kept Secret in the South

If you’re wondering what the best kept secret in the South is, stay with me! We have just returned from a quick camping trip about 4 hours from Raleigh NC. The trip included some dear friends both old and new. But! We had no idea how gorgeous the landscape would be. Nor did we have […]

Fledging Time

Fledging Time

Well it’s Fledging Time, gentle reader! Why do I say that? Oh I have sooo many reasons to share with you. But before I do, I want to welcome new readers here. And, I’ll share the purpose and focus of this blog. Ready? Small Spaces Special Places Welcome new readers! Each year, I select a […]

Love Hate Love Hate Love

Love Hate Love Hate Love

Location: Philadelphia, PA aka The City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection Greetings! For the past 5 years, my husband, David, and I have been living in Philadelphia. I got accepted into art school here in Philly and we were both up for an adventure. As we stare down the end of our living options […]

Inspired by a Master

Inspired by a Master

Throughout history, artists and ateliers have promoted the challenge of painting a Master Copy as a tool for learning. The benefits, including technical and inspirational lessons, are numerous. For instance, the painter can actively focus on the Master artist’s thought process, problem solving and inspiration. I describe my first experience in painting a Master Copy […]

My Dream Week Painting a Master Copy

My Dream Week Painting a Master Copy

Imagine having the opportunity to paint a Master Copy of painting by an accomplished painter. What does this mean? You visit a museum, see a painting that moves you and learn that you have 4 full days to attempt to recreate that painting. I had this opportunity last week in Philadelphia. My school has an […]

Vanderpoel Museum: visitor tips and treats

Vanderpoel Museum: visitor tips and treats

Days before a road trip to Chicago, I learned about the Vanderpoel museum. Who the heck is Vanderpoel? John H. Vanderpoel’s book entitled, “The Human Figure,” is the mainstay for most ateliers and art schools in the world today. His book, originally written over 100 years ago, offers text, simplified descriptions of drawing and conveying […]