Land of Misfit Joys

Where is the Land of Misfit Joys? I promise to share with you today! But, before I elaborate, here’s information about this blog. This is a place where, each week, I share my paintings, process, occasional infuences from art history, studio sales and inspiration. Whether this is your first or millionth visit here, hiya, hello and a warm welcome! I choose a theme to guide my paintings each year. To read about this year’s painting theme, check the description in this link here. To subscribe and get a weekly dose of color for yourself, subscribe here. Ready for more about the Land of Misfit Joys? Me too! Let’s go.

‘Tis the Season

Like it or not, the Holiday Season is upon us. How do I know this? Oh good grief! Just walk into any retail space right now as of November 8, 2023, and you will hear Christmas music already. Isn’t that ridiculous? And, yet, I decided to embrace it. Why? Well, firstly I can’t do anything to stop it.

And, secondly, I thought maybe I could remember some wistful moments from my childhood during this time of year. The first thing that popped into my head was the scene from Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer where Yukon Cornelius and Rudolph land on the island of Misfit Toys. I love this song and its sentiment.

Then I remember that I have some pretty fab ‘misfit’ tree decorations. And, I painted them in gouache. I think these three paintings are the perfect symbol for being unique, one of a kind and okay about all that. Here they are. What do you think of these quirky, whimsical paintings?

Land of Misfit Tree Decorations

So we hang these fish decorations on our tree every year. I love them! They swish and sway on the tree branches. They offer a horizontal “accent” in the branches of the tree. And, they are just fun.

These little critters also make me think of times when I have felt like a misfit. You know those times when ya just aren’t sure you fit in? Well guess what? Misfits unite! Hang in there you! I’ll do the same. Pretty soon, you’ll find your other fishie friends who will invite you to join in.

And, I think it’s worth sharing that the studio sale I’m having this weekend is going to be welcoming and friendly too. So, feel free to stop by and see these fun paintings in person. OK?

Details

The 2023 Forest Park Studio Sale and Art Walk is happening this weekend.

When: Saturday, November 11th from 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Sunday, November 12th from 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Where: 310 East Forest Drive Raleigh, NC 27605

There are 9 other artists participating in this event. See their information in the image below. And/or, you can check out last week’s blog post where I listed each participants information too. Cool eh?

Bonus

For those of you who live nearby, I have a special treat for you! If you stop by during the sale, you’ll have the chance to enter a drawing for a sa-weet framed limited edition print. You can also sign up here. But! You must be present to win. I’ll be drawing a lucky winner each day at 4:00 pm. Here’s one of the prints!

The second print is also framed and ready to hang on your wall. Here’s that one!

How About You

How are you doing gentle reader? Have you already heard seasonal music? Where? And, do you think you can stop by during the Studio Sale this weekend? If so, yay! I really look forward to seeing you. Either way, I would love to hear from you in the comments below!