News From Southern Wind Studio

New look for website

2011-12-29T12:22:00.000-08:00

I have recently updated and changed my website for my canine art and canine art prints, still at the same place http://www.yvonnesovereign.com/ . It is a whole new look and similar to my fine art website that features original paintings of all subjects http://www.yvonnesovereignfineart.com/

On the Canine Art site I have re-photographed much of the artwork that had old, bad photos, plus I have all my newest prints on there too. Be sure to visit!

I have finished the large greyhound painting, The Greyhounds of GrandCru Hopefully it will be framed and installed at the vet school soon. We are all very excited about it.

Whippet portrait in oil

2011-09-16T15:54:00.000-07:00

Here is my latest oil portrait of the handsome CH Bohem Just In Time, or Justin. What a gorgeous face he has. His owner Nancy is thrilled with the painting and will be using the image for some advertising as well as hanging the actual painting in a special place in her home. The painting is 14 x 18" on linen canvas.

My newest project that I am working on is a very large painting of 4 greyhounds that will hang in the new section of the School of Veterinary Medicine in Raleigh. Watch here for updates on the project.

Some artistic musings

2011-06-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

I just read an article in a recent Wall Street Journal entitled The Art Assembly Line. It certainly made me think. The article talked about artists who don't actually pick up a brush but have assistants do it for them. Many have a whole staff to produce enough paintings (or sculptures) to provide galleries and customers with new works. They maintain that the ideas are theirs and so it is OK for others to do the actual work. One artist remarked about having 7 different artists in India do his paintings, "I prefer not to be involved in actually painting, It liberates me not being encumbered by the technical proficiency." WHAT???? Now it seems that most of these "artists" are doing contemporary pieces. Contemporary pieces are what museums buy for their collections and give showings for. Contemporary pieces often command very high prices. I do know of one current realist painter who also employs artists assistants to do some of his work. This is one of the most well known painters today.
Then there are those realist painters who make very good giclee prints, dab on a few brushstrokes and suddenly they are "original", not reproductions. Prints are prints, reproductions and should be sold as such. Of course they are reproductions. Some very good articles about this phenom is in the website www.artbusiness.com, well worth a look-see for both artists and collectors.
Another of my favorite websites is for the Art Renewal Center, www.artrenewal.org They promote beautiful realistic and figurative works considered passe' by the contemporary art world. Beauty passe'??
Oh well, just a few musings on art...... one thing not mentioned and that is the satisfaction of the acutal making of art, of the doing, the joy of the feel of the brush, the smell of the paint and joy of creating. This is something an assistant cannot do!
Now to get to work painting.......
Yvonne

Sanford tornadoes, Southern Wind Studio is OK

2011-04-22T06:38:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was quite a day here in North Carolina as many of you have seen by the news. I have recieved so many phone calls and emails from friends far and wide. Yes, we are all OK with no damage at all to home or property. It wasn't the case though in other parts of Sanford and the damage is even more incredible seeing it in person than it is on television. I know you have seen photos of the Lowe's home improvement store, but other factories and buildings in the path were even more damaged, flattened some of them. There are going to be a lot of people out of work for a while and as well as people displaced whose homes were so damaged and destroyed. My prayers are with them.
Yvonne

Paintings go to new home, corporate client

2011-04-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled that 4 of my landscape paintings are now owned by Capital Bank. They are hanging in the beautiful new main office building in Sanford, NC. Thanks to Nicole White Kennedy of Nicole's Gallery of Raleigh who put this all together and included me with other fine, talented local artists.

Portraits completed

2010-09-29T16:37:00.000-07:00

Two oil portraits of sisters Hannah and Heidi...... I really enjoyed doing these lovely young girls. Both paintings are 20 x 24" on canvas.

Where does the time go???

2010-09-13T07:14:00.001-07:00

I have been working, really, really.... but I haven't posted for a bit so here are a few recent pieces.

At the top, an oil on canvas, 18" x 24" titled Olde Towne Window

Next a just finished commission watercolor portrait of four beautiful Rhodesian Ridgebacks

And last a custom logo

Thoughtful Pause wins award

2010-05-08T15:39:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled to hear that my painting, which I titled Thoughtful Pause was accepted along with another I submitted, Song of the South, to Wayne County's 31st National Juried Fine Arts Exhibition, was awarded 2nd place. There were about 120 pieces in the show. The reception was held last night and was very well attended. The director of the Arts Council shot this photo of me with my painting.

Painting finished, as yet untitled

2010-04-27T18:01:00.001-07:00

I thought I had this finished yesterday, but still did some tweaking on it today. It was quite a marathon and I am pretty happy with the results. I have to say though, that this is a piece that is hard to appreciate in a photograph. It appears softer and more glowing when you see it in person and the photo really didn't replicate the color subtleties.
Now, to get caught up on some watercolors and several other art projects......

Work in progress

2010-04-22T18:23:00.000-07:00

Let me share with you a new piece I am working on now. A lot of work to be done on it before it is done, but it is at the point where I can share the progress. It is a large oil, 30 x 40". I think this image is a bit brighter than the original, as the paint is still wet. I am spending hours on it daily so I hope to post some more progress tomorrow. Today's work was interuppted by an electrical problem at home. Although the electricians have to come back tomorrow, I should be able to get a lot of painting time in.

My show at Appalachian Physical Therapy is ongoing. It will run through the end of May. I have over 30 pieces hung there, dog paintings, landscapes and figurative. It is in Pinehurst, NC so if you are in the area, be sure to stop in and take a look. The Rhodesian Ridgebacks in residence will be sure to give you a paws up.

Exhibits

2010-04-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

I have had quite a busy spring so far.... hope it continues. Of course I am working in my studio, finished a couple new breeds for my print line, the Great Pyrenees and an Australian Cattle Dog. I am also working on some oils, figurative this time. Will post when I have something to show.
I have a painting in the Double Exposure Exhibit at the Chatham Camera Club this month and also hung a solo exhibit in Pinehurst at the Appalacian Physical Therapy. What a great space, very open and lots of walls. I have about 30 pieces on display there for the months of April and May.
I am really looking forward to some more plein air experiences, especially this spring. Just need to get out there and paint. Looks like a little trip to the mountains might be in the near future.
Y

More new "stuff"

2010-02-23T06:33:00.000-08:00

First, thank you to Carla Helm for adding An Ancient Dignity to her collection. I know she will enjoy it for many years to come.

Now here are two more paintings recently finished. A large landscape, 24 x 30" titled Voices in the Hills and a dog painting of two Dobermans, titled The Gatekeepers, 16 x 20". Both are oil on canvas and are available.

Recent work

2010-02-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

Top: Hidden Homestead, 16 x 20" oil

Bottom: An Ancient Dignity, 14 x 18" oil

New artwork

2010-01-21T13:33:00.001-08:00

Here are my most recent paintings. I just finished the whippet at the top today. It is 14 x 18" oil on canvas and one of my own whippets was the subject for this one, it is titled Serenity. The Afghan hound, Beach Breezes, is a 11 x 15" watercolor, done as a commission for the Tampa Bay Afghan Hound Club in Florida. Reproductions will be given as trophies for their annual specialty show. At the bottom is Golden Blossoms, 14 x 18" oil on canvas. This piece was done specifically for the Double Exposure show at the Arts Incubator in Siler City, NC which wil take place in February.

My latest oil

2009-11-30T16:13:00.000-08:00

An 11 x 14" oil on canvas..... I just love the moss hanging from the live oaks and the backlighting shows it off beautifully. Have been spending a lot of time on watercolors lately.... lots of commissions.... so needed to take a break to do an oil. Hope you like it.

Some watercolor dogs

2009-10-27T13:28:00.000-07:00

All little watercolors, at the top Bulldog Puppy, 5 x 7" $25

Next is a greyhound on the beach, 5 x 7" in 11 x 14" mat, handpainted starfish on mat, and the saying "make a difference." $35

Two more greyhounds, lovely headstudies of a brindle and a parti-color. These are both embellished with little rhinestones on the collars and are $50 each.

At the bottom is an 8 x 10" of an IG also $50

More available paintings

2009-10-27T13:15:00.001-07:00

Here are two small oil paintings, at the top is Snowy Boxes, it is a very small miniature, just 3" x 5". It is only $40 and would look good on a tabletop, shelf or on the wall.

Below it is Farmhouse Nocturne, it is 6 x 8" and $75. I love the stormy sky and the welcoming little light on the front porch.

Fall is here

2009-10-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

First, thank you to the buyer of Sunset Arabian, it is now SOLD.
Fall has arrived with some cooler weather and misty rain. The trees are starting to burst with color. I spotted a maple yesterday that just glowed with an orangey-yellow. Wonderful, I love this time of year.
I am still taking orders for Christmas, both the mini specials and larger portraits, whatever you desire. Later today, I will post more photos of paintings that I will offer for sale that are not posted elsewhere.
Right now, I need to head into town for errands.

Sunday

2009-10-18T09:27:00.000-07:00

Cold here today, in the 50's but it is supposed to get warmer in a couple days. The leaves are just starting to change and I can't wait for all the fall color. I have to say that fall is my very favorite season. I love the colors, the smells of fallen leaves on the earth and burning wood and leaves, I even love the cold rains, it is so cozy when you come inside a warm inviting home. I love Halloween and I love Thanksgiving.

The luncheon at the Woman's Club of Raleigh, where I was the guest artist went off very well. It was lovely and everyone so friendly. The show was very well recieved.

Today, I am spending a lot of time in my studio, matting some prints, getting some orders ready to ship and working on some mini portraits. Life is good.

While in my studio, I thought I would pull out two little paintings to feature here and offer for sale.

Whippet Tapestry is 6x 8" oil on panel and is $125

Also available is Sunset Arabian 8 x 10" oil on panel and also $125

Shipping cost is included. If you would like to have one of these colorful little gems in your home, contact me at canineart@windstream.net

I am also still taking orders for the 5 x 7" mini watercolor portraits, perfect for holiday giving at $75 each and shipping is included in that price also.

Holiday Special

2009-10-07T06:16:00.000-07:00

Here is a sample of one of the mini portraits I am doing for my holiday special this year. I am scheduling each little portrait as the order comes in and working on the first ones now. They are really fun and I know you can find someone on your list that would be delighted with a unique gift like this.

Christmas Portrait Special for 2009

2009-09-28T14:10:00.000-07:00

I am offering a CHRISTMAS MINI PET PORTRAIT as a SPECIAL for 2009 and can take orders now. This is a great price for something original and unique for those special people on your Christmas list. I will do a 5 x 7 watercolor head portrait for only $75. You just need to supply me with a good photograph and I will take it from there. Shipping is included in the price.... isn't that easy? I know most of you readers are familiar with my work and the pride I take in getting the likeness and spirit of your animal. You can check out samples of my watercolors elsewhere on this blog and on my dog art website at www.yvonnesovereign.com Because of the low price I am offering for this year's special, all of the mini portraits must be paid for in advance. You can pay by check, VISA, MC or Paypal. Please schedule your portrait as soon as possible as I will do them in the order they come in and will give you a date for painting and shipment.

Dog Dayz of Summer Art Show

2009-08-30T18:26:00.000-07:00

The reception for the Dog Dayz of Summer art exhibit was really great and a substantial amount of funds were raised for the Temple Theatre and CARA. The exhibit will stay at the Art Studio through most of the month of September, and then some great news.... Lisa and I have been invited to hang the show at the Raleigh Women's Club starting October 1st through the 29th.

Here are some photos from the reception, Lisa is in the black outfit.

Preparations for art show

2009-08-06T18:46:00.000-07:00

The Dog Dayz of Summer art show is almost here. This is a two person show with myself and Lisa Mathis at The Art Studio in Sanford NC. There will be a reception tomorrow night (8-7-09). Tickets are being sold for the reception and include a ticket to the Temple Theatre's production of 101 Dalmatians following. Proceeds from the ticket sales benefit the Temple Theatre and CARA, which is Carolina Animal Rescue and Adoption. I think ticket sales have been going well and I am very excited about the show. Lisa and I hung it today and it is looking really good. We have a few more pieces to add tomorrow. I think I have about 30 pieces of dog art included. I ended up frantically matting and framing a few more tonight to fill in some spaces, as the area we have to hang in is pretty large. Here is one of my newest pieces that will be in the show. It is an 11 x 14" oil on canvas titled Summer Pug.

Three New Dog Prints added to my line

2009-07-12T13:42:00.001-07:00

All three prints are 10 x 14" and are matted in a 16 x 20" off white mat. They are signed and numbered, limited edition. The American Staffordshire Terrier is "Picture of Strength", the Cocker Spaniel (American) is "Sitting Pretty" and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is "Dragonfly Encounter". All the originals are done in watercolor. Check out my website for all the other prints I have available. www.yvonnesovereign.com

A Change on recent painting

2009-07-12T13:39:00.001-07:00

I just made a few minor changes on this painting. Sometimes you think you are finished and just can't leave it along. So here is the updated version.

From the Studio.... recent paintings

2009-07-05T07:24:00.000-07:00

The two dog paintings are 11 x 14" oil on canvas, the Dalmatian is "In a New Light" and the Irish Setter is "Morning Mood". These are just two of the paintings I will be showing in August in a special exhibit. The Dog Dayz of Summer will open Fri. Aug. 7, 2009 at The Art Studio in Sanford, NC. There will be tickets sold for the wine and appetizer reception which includes a ticket to the Temple Theatre's production of 101 Dalmatians. The money made from this reception will benefit The Temple Theatre and CARA, which is Carolina Animal Rescue and Adoption. There will be adoptable dogs on hand for the festivities also. The art show will actually run through September 12th, so if you are near Sanford, stop and visit or if you live nearby, please by a ticket for this fun and worthy cause.

The other two paintings are just because. I loved the clouds I spotted one day early this summer with a bit of the Blue Ridge foothills showing through in the background, so I painted "A Glorious Day" which is 18 x 24". The ocean scene is "Distant Memories", it is the Cape Cod National Seashore. When I first set eyes on this beach near Truro in the 70's it just took my breath away with it's beauty. This painting is 24 x 36" and will hang in my home, it is not for sale.

Outdoor art for my yard

2009-06-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

I have been working on this found object piece for several weeks now and with my sister's help was able to get it installed. This is not what people are used to seeing from me but I really enjoyed doing it. I call it Door Reformed.

Finished this one up today

2009-06-03T20:07:00.001-07:00

I was able to finish the painting I started at the dog show this past weekend. It is 12 x 16" and titled Tristan. Tristan is a 10 year old American Eskimo dog. He sure doesn't look or act his age. He is quite the character and you can see that mischevious glint in his eyes.

Charlottesville, VA weekend

2009-06-01T15:23:00.000-07:00

I took my art booth on the road this past weekend to beautiful Charlottesville, VA and the dog show. I just love this show site as it is on the Foxfield Steeplechase grounds. Beautiful horse farms all around. Gorgeous green rolling hills and a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The weather was perfect too!

I took along my french easel and oil paints and worked on a small dog painting in front of my booth setup drawing curious onlookers both days. I didn't get it finished, but got a good start so I will show the WIP here.

After I closed the booth on Saturday evening, I toted my easel and paints to the other end of the grounds to get in one little 8 x 10" plein air painting of the scenery. Even though the show was over for the day, I got more onlookers watching my painting progress.

Seriously, I was never really comfortable being watched, so I just have made myself relax and do it and now I am fine with it!

Lot's of work

2009-05-22T04:14:00.000-07:00

I did get several new watercolors done while teaching my watercolor class which I have added to my fine art website http://www.yvonnesovereignfineart.com/ as well as a watercolor portrait of a man and his dog which was a surprise birthday gift. I managed to complete two more oils as I was "on a roll". Quiet Lowcountry Lane was inspired by a recent trip to South Carolina. I went there with a friend at the beginning of the month to attend a reception in Hilton Head where one of my paintings had been accepted in their juried show. The show was awesome, by the way, with a beautiful gallery and an amazing selection of artworks from around the country. We stayed in Hardeeville and the next morning took a leisurely tour of a wildlife preserve on Hilton Head and then on to Beaufort and Sheldon Church Ruins. My friend is an artist also so we looked for painterly subjects with cameras in hand. Look for more paintings from this trip as I was really inspired.

As for the next painting. I started this one a while back after my fall excursion to Virginia, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Shenandoah Valley. I struggled with it for a couple days and was just about ready to fling it into the burn pile. Instead I left it in my studio and faced it to the wall. Yesterday, I turned it around, put it on my easel and started painting. The paint just rolled off my brushes and the results are Virginia Mountain Mist.

Today, I work on a little oil portrait of a whippet for a client.

New Painting, Watercolor class

2009-05-20T17:10:00.000-07:00

January Moonrise was completed this past week. It is a scene from right here at my home, looking down my driveway in the early evening with the moon showing above some beautiful clouds. This photo fails to show the detail in the pine tree. I worked from a photo I took as well as sketching this tree from life to get it "just right". The painting is 18 x 24" oil on linen canvas.

Yesterday, I finished up teaching a 6 week watercolor class at The Art Studio in historic downtown Sanford. I had a great group that worked really hard to improve their skills. I just had to take a photo to share. Plans are to have another class, perhaps in the fall. There is also the possibility of me giving a workshop or two this summer. Hey, if you are interested, drop me a line.

Painting winner....

2009-05-12T16:39:00.000-07:00

Cheslie, from Chuluota, FL was the first to contact me and picked the greyhound painting. Congrats Cheslie and thanks for checking in on my art blog.
The little landscape is for sale. These little paintings look so great in heavy frames and yet are small enough to be displayed almost anywhere. They can even go on a table easel. A nice affordable way to add to your art collection.

Time for a giveaway!!

2009-05-11T15:07:00.000-07:00

I have a bunch of new stuff to post, but need to get the pictures ready so in the meantime, I thought it was time for a giveaway.

Something different though, you get your choice of two little oil paintings, both are 6 x 8". The black greyhound is called "Soulful Eyes", the landscape is "Pretty View". Whichever one is not claimed is for sale for $45.00. So drop me an email at canineart@windstream.net and be the first one to do so... you then get your choice of paintings. When it is claimed, I will post and the other painting will be for sale. Don't forget though, you do need to pay shipping which will be about $3. for either of these.

American Whippet Club National Specialty booth

2009-04-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been so long since I have posted, but everything seemed to go on hold for this National. First all the work building up to it, then the week there and now it seems it has taken me another week to recouperate. Everything went great at the Atlanta Hilton Airport. All the vendors were set up in a light airy atrium area just outside the ballroom where all the judging was taking place. In a separate ballroom, several other events were held including the art show. I entered 4 pieces, 1 large Oil painting titled Timeless, 2 small 6 x 8' oils, and a handmade book with whippet watercolors. I recieved placements on Timeless (2nd), one of the small ones (1st) and on the handmade book.

I think my artwork booth looked really good. I made several changes to better display the artwork. My new oil paintings were very well recieved! Thank you so much to all the people who purchased my pieces. I wish you many years of enjoyment.

Small paintings need new homes......

2009-03-09T17:58:00.000-07:00

I am offering some of my small pieces at special prices.... things are piling up in my studio. So here are a few I have on sale.

From the Top: Covered Bridge, 6 x 8" oil, $40

Produce, 5 x 7" watercolor on watermedia board, $35

Wisteria Shadows, 5 x 7" watercolor on watermedia board, $35

Crisp Autumn Day, 8 x 10" oil, $40

Touch of Autumn, 9 x 12" oil, $40

Email me if you would like to purchase.... canineart@windstream.net

Art Show at the Dog Show awards

2009-03-06T16:30:00.000-08:00

Just received official notification today. Whippet and Wallpaper has won 3rd place in the Other Media category and The Antique Chair won Best Whippet. I am thrilled!!

Computer problems but I'm back!

2009-03-05T16:23:00.000-08:00

Was out of commission for a few days while my computer was down. Caught a virus so I had to take it in to the shop and get it cleaned up.... poor baby. I missed it! So now I am trying to get caught up.

I have completed several new paintings.... more whippets of course and a new landscape, though I guess it really is a seascape. Location, Dewey Beach, DE.

9 x 12" oil

Richeson75 International art competion

2009-02-10T08:44:00.000-08:00

I got "the envelope" on Friday and one of the pieces I submitted for the Small Works show has been accepted! This is so exciting and a great honor to be chosen. The piece they accepted is "Sniffing Winter Air", an 8 x 10" oil. The other piece I submitted was "Afterglow" and it was not accepted for the show but will appear in the printed catalog. The show is at the Jack Richeson School of Art & Gallery in Kimberly, WI. It will also be online.

Art Show at the Dog Show

2009-02-03T14:47:00.000-08:00

I got notification today that three of the four pieces I submitted to the Art Show at the Dog Show in Wichita KS have been accepted. Here are the three they liked...

Whippet and Wallpaper is mixed media, watercolor, ink and gold paint. The Antique Chair is watercolor and Proud Sheltie is oil.

I have been spending a lot of time painting as usual and have completed several new things. One so far for the upcoming Canine Art Guild online exhibition, a few new breeds for prints, and a couple more oils of whippets for the upcoming Whippet National Specialty where i will have a booth. They are also having an Art Show there so I have to decide what to put in that!!

Our weather here in NC can't decide what it wants to do, one day cold, one day warm but I guess we are in for a couple real cold ones the next couple days. We have had one significant snowfall this year. At my house it was 6" and it sure was pretty but didn't stick around long. Of course I am not complaining about that at all.

Yes, I have been painting

2009-01-22T15:14:00.000-08:00

I put the finishing touches on this one today. It is a whippet and the painting is not titled yet. It is 16 x 20" oil on linen canvas.

Website update

2009-01-22T14:28:00.000-08:00

Today was a productive day.... I got a little painting done, but the biggie is that I got my website updated. I've been putting it off for too long so it took HOURS. Anyway, new prints are on there now, 2 new whippets
Belgian Malnois
2 Dalmatians
Borzoi
Scottish Deerhound
German Shorthair Pointer
Schipperke
Flat Coated Retriever
Silky Terriers
Papillion
Afghan Hound
Whew, I think that is it for the prints. I also changed the portraits page, taking off some older ones and adding a few new ones, and I changed the Originals for sale page with the addition of some new ones.
Take a look...... www.yvonnesovereign.com
On a side note, a lot of our snow melted today, it was in the high 50's. We got about 6 inches of the white stuff here on Tuesday. Haven't seen any measurable snow here in this part of NC for several years now. It really was pretty.

More photos from our get-together

2009-01-19T05:29:00.000-08:00

Top photo from left to right: Susan Beal, Ute Soles, Hilda Spain-Owen, Sandy Donn and me.

Next two photos, same cast of characters except Sydney Somoza on the far right instead of me.

Artist power!! Yippee.

It was so fun to have an afternoon to talk art, throw ideas back and forth and share plans and goals as well as munch on goodies and drink a little wine.

We hope to do it again soon... next time in Winston-Salem!

Sunday afternoon artists get-together

2009-01-19T05:12:00.001-08:00

At the top, artists thinking "very seriously" about the paintings brought by everyone.

Ute Soles tells about her paintings in the next photo. Hilda Spain-Owens large dog paintings in the background.

Sandy Donn and Hilda examine some paintings closely. Hilda is standing in front of one of Sandy's pieces and the whippet painting in the chair is one of Hilda's new giclee prints on canvas.

Sydney Somoza points out some details in one of her three paintings.

Big News!

2009-01-10T04:56:00.000-08:00

The beautiful, glossy magazine Dogs in Review, 2009 Annual issue is out. There is a wonderful article by Sue LeMieux, Canine Artists Extraordinaire, which features some of the top dog artists today. I am delighted to announce that I am included in this group. There is a two page spread on each artist which includes color photos of their work and a nice writeup. Get your hands on a copy if you love contemporary dog art!
How exciting is that?

Rainy day today

2009-01-06T07:25:00.000-08:00

Taking care of some personal business this morning, among other things getting some entry forms and CD's ready to submit to juried shows this month and sending off my booth rental for the Greenville Kennel Club show in February. If you are planning to attend, please stop by and see me. I will have my entire line of prints there. I have new ones too! I just finished two different Dalmatian watercolors, and I am working on a Tibetan Mastiff as well as a Flat Coated Retriever. These will all be made into prints and I am hoping to add a few more breeds, especially ones that I don't have yet.
I am also working on some new oil paintings, one a commission of a Mini Wire-haired Dachshund. I am working on a big 30 x 40" greyhound. I am doing a series of greyhound paintings. Although I have quite a few greyhound photos in my own arsenal, I was especially inspired by some of the photographs taken by a friend of mine, Sarah Regan-Snavely, and she is delighted to let me use some of them for reference. Sarah is a fantastic artist, a sculptor, specializing in greyhounds. If you get a chance, visit her website: http://greyhoundsculptor.com/
Quite a few years ago, I bought one of her greyhound busts for my own collection and I never tire of looking at it.
Well, it is off to the studio. Hopefully I will have some new oils to post here soon.
Yvonne

Whippet painting finished

2008-12-29T14:33:00.000-08:00

Finally finished it up yesterday and put my signature on it today. Now I need to think of a good title.

I took this photo outside in natural light so the color and details are better than the previous ones taken in the studio.

Today's work on whippet painting

2008-12-27T19:12:00.001-08:00

Darkened the left side of the background and worked on the whippet laying down today. Here are the pictures. You may notice a lot of difference in the colors of the photos I have taken and that some are a little softer focus. That is because I am taking them in the natural light of the studio at different times of the day. I have adjusted the color on my computer some but it is not as accurate as it could be. When I am finished, I will take the photo outdoors in optimal light'

Whippet painting progress

2008-12-26T14:30:00.000-08:00

Finally got a chance to spend some time working on this painting, what with the busy holidays. So today I worked on the dogs more as well as the carpet. Getting closer to the finish! I have no plans for tomorrow except painting more so check in tomorrow for another update.

Slow going

2008-12-22T14:07:00.000-08:00

There is so much going on with the holidays, I am not getting as much painting time in as I would like. I worked on the carpet two days in a row, hated it and painted it over to try again. It is an oriental type rug so is proving difficult to paint. Today, though, I worked on the dog in the chair.

More later.......

Finished commissioned portrait

2008-12-18T14:47:00.000-08:00

One of the commissions I did for Christmas has been presented so I can show it here. It is 14 x 18 inch oil on canvas and is CH Appraxin Queen of the Jungle, better known as Blair.

Still working on whippets oil painting

2008-12-18T14:43:00.000-08:00

Haven't been able to get too much done the past couple days but the three whippet painting is progressing. Here is how it looks today.

New work in progress

2008-12-15T15:28:00.000-08:00

Since I can't post any of the Christmas commissions I am working on (don't want to ruin any surprises), I will post one I am working on for myself. This is a large (22 x 28") oil on linen canvas. None of it is finished yet, except perhaps the crystal ball. All the rest is in various stages of painting. The three whippets will be the last to be painted. The photo shows it as it sits on my easel in my studio.

Some new paintings

2008-12-01T17:08:00.000-08:00

Three new paintings, the top one is Summer Morning Whippet, 18 x 24" oil on canvas. The next is a 9 x 12" oil on panel done plein air a few weeks ago before the beautiful autumn leaves were all gone, A View of the Pond. And last is also 9 x 12" oil on panel, Afterglow. We had spectacular color in the sky one evening and this was a view behind my house just after the sun went down. The orange sky drenched everything in color.

Painitng Winner

2008-11-16T14:13:00.000-08:00

I have a winner for the Christmas Greyhounds painting, a couple days ago actually, but forgot (shame on me) to post it right away. It is Rebecca Larsen of Virginia.
I have been working steadily in the studio, mostly on commissioned portraits. Many of them are for Christmas gifts so I won't post them here now, just in case.... don't want to spoil any surprises.

Soliloquy, Southwest Florida

2008-11-10T05:51:00.000-08:00

Just finished this painting. I wanted to convey a mood and feeling of place. It is in Cape Coral on the Southwest coast of Florida very near to where I used to live. I combined three reference photos for this painting and wanted to keep a tonal quality. When finished with the basic painting I put a thin glaze of yellow over the entire piece in keeping with the warmth. It is 14 x 18" oil on canvas.

No takers yet on the greyhound painting. But I did forget to add my email address: canineart@windstream.net

Time for a giveaway

2008-11-09T14:01:00.000-08:00

As promised, I am offering another original piece of art to the first person that emails me. This is an 11 x 14" watercolor of Christmas Greyhounds. I used it on some Christmas cards a couple years ago.

Winner pays the postage which will be about $8. Any takers???

On the board and on the easel

2008-11-08T05:23:00.000-08:00

Busy time for me, going to dogs shows and enjoying the fall scenery. But I haven't stopped working! Have several dog commissions in progress and completed this one of Toby. This is a tribute by his owner. Toby was sadly killed when he escaped from his handler at a dog show. I hope this watercolor painting will bring some wonderful memories of his face back to her.

Then we have a new design for the yearly Whippet Whiners t-shirt to benefit WRAP (Whippet rescue) and WHF (Whippet Health Foundation) It was concieved for "whiners", or those who aren't able to attend the Whippet National Specialty and thus sit at home and "whine". It has been well supported by the fancy even if they do get to go to the National.

And continuing work on oil paintings, two new landscapes. Solitary Oak is pretty large for me at 22 x 30" and is from a reference photo I took in Beaufort, SC quite a few years ago. I painted it once before with watercolors and thought I would enjoy doing it in oil as well.

Evening Song is from one of those moments where nature gives us an awesome light display. The scene is actually viewing from my driveway down the road. I was coming in from the studio and the sun was setting. When sunny you can see the light receding on these trees. But this night there was a pink and orange sunset which made the trunks glow reddish orange. I bolted for the house, RAN back out and shot a photo at that very moment. No time to do anything else. With the photo and my memories of this scene, I painted this piece. 16 x 20" on canvas.

Wrapped it up today, "Evening Watch"

2008-10-14T15:29:00.000-07:00

After a couple more days work, I think I am done. Here is the final result. I am calling this one Evening Watch.

Border collie today

2008-10-12T14:56:00.001-07:00

More work today, continuing to refine the foreground and worked on the dog. The dog will get more work as soon as this layer is dry and in fact you can see some glare in that section of the painting from the glistening wet paint. The foreground needs a lot more work too, but things are coming together.

Border Collie work continues

2008-10-11T13:57:00.000-07:00

I am continuing to work on the background, still mostly in the darks but some highlights are being positioned as I go. This is what I have done over the last couple days. I forgot to mention the size, it is 24 x 30" on gallery wrap canvas.

Next step

2008-10-07T05:34:00.001-07:00

Looking a little funky at this stage, but just wanted to get the canvas covered and establish the values. My poor border collie looks a little funny without eyes too! Will continue when this step is dry.

Finished and starting

2008-10-05T17:02:00.000-07:00

Distant Rain, 16 x 20" oil on canvas

Palms by the Bridge, 6 x 8" oil on panel

Tropical Colors, 6 x 8" oil on panel
CH Sporting Field Stone of Destiny, 16 x 20" oil on canvas. This painting was done quite a while ago of my own whippet girl, but I was never completely happy with it, so it recieved some changes to make it more to my liking.

My artist friend Ute has requested I post the progress on my new piece. Today I got the sketch transferred to the canvas, it is rather hard to see in the photo, and then I put a glaze of Raw Sienna over it to tone the canvas (not shown). Tomorrow, the real painting will begin on this beautiful border collie.

Painting winner!

2008-09-29T16:54:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Chris Henkel and Mary Ann Larssen of Virginia. They have won the painting in my painting giveaway.

Lonely blogger!! That would be me....

2008-09-29T10:48:00.000-07:00

I am not getting a lot of feedback but hope there are readers out there that want to keep up with all the things that are coming out of my studio. So as an experiment and hopefully to gain some new readers, I am offering a FREE ORIGINAL OIL PAINTING. This is an evening sky painted on location at my house. It is 6 x 8" oil on panel. The first person to contact me at my email address canineart@windstream.net will be the recipient and I will even pay the shipping (in USA). I will be posting lots of paintings here, plein air, animals, whatever. Most are for sale, but every once in a while I will throw in a giveaway... so bookmark my site, watch it often and tell your friends about my art giveaway. I want to spread around the freebees so I won't award two in a row to the same person.

Have fun...... Yvonne

New whippet art

2008-09-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

Just finished this watercolor titled "The Antique Chair". This little whippet looks like she is not sure if she should be sitting in this chair or not, but certainly looks beautiful in it. It is available as a limited edition print, 10 x 14" matted in 16 x 20" mat, signed and numbered for $50. plus shipping.

Something to share

2008-09-05T16:25:00.001-07:00

A photo of me painting by fellow dog lover and photographer, Katie. Late in the day, Shenandoah Valley, and I am in my own little world. It is funny how absorbed you become in the painting process, whether outdoors or in the studio. Time passes without realizing. The actual painting of the painting is what gets me going. How to solve problems, how to put down on the canvas (or paper) your emotional reaction to the subject and how to convey that to a viewer. I hope I get it right at least some of the time. In the meantime, I will keep painting and enjoying the process.

The latest off the easel

2008-09-03T17:05:00.000-07:00

A classically styled painting..... Russian Wolfhound (Borzoi) in a Landscape

This piece is 16 x 20" oil on gessoboard and framed in a lovely ornate gold frame that compliments it perfectly. It will be going to Vineland Gallery for display and sale next week. If you are near Southern Pines, NC, Kim Sobat of Vinelad Gallery would love to have you visit and see all the beautiful artworks featured there.

Me, well I have also been spending time painting plein air as well as in the stufio and have a few new little pieces to show for it. I am finding out what a learning process it is and know it will improve my skills in depicting landscapes, in seeing the true colors of nature, the effects of light and learning to simplify elements to make a memorable painting. That is my goal anyway! I read on the art board Wet Canvas, that it takes 120 plein air paintings under your belt before you really "get it." I think I have a long way to go.

Lots of News!!

2008-08-20T19:37:00.000-07:00

It has been a very busy week!

First exciting news.... I am now showing my work at a lovely art gallery in Southern Pines, NC. It is called Vineland Fine Art Gallery and their website is http://www.vinelandfineartgallery.com/

Here are a couple of new oils that will be at the gallery. A Dark Horse is 16 x 20" oil on canvas, and Proud Sheltie is 16 x 20" oil on gessoboard. There will be several other pieces there as well, including some of my little plein air paintings.

Speaking of plein air paintings, I have been having so much fun lately going out "in the field" to paint. I have been to the new greenspace park in Cameron, NC, painting in my own yard, and I just spent a couple days in Virginia where I did some painting as well. I visited a friend who lives in the Shenandoah Valley and it is SO beautiful there I can't wait to go back and spend more time with my easel.

And to top it off, the painting featured in the last several posts has been SOLD.

The finished painting

2008-08-10T15:40:00.000-07:00

Really got busy today and finished up the painting. I worked mostly on the lying down dog, did a few touchups on the sitting dog, put a glaze over the pillow with the picture on it to tone it down a bit and deepened the shadows on the sofa behind the dogs. I photographed it and then found a frame to fit just to see how it would look framed. I hope you have enjoyed seeing the progress and results and I have enjoyed sharing it.

Getting there is half..or all... the fun

2008-08-09T14:06:00.000-07:00

It is definitely coming along now. The sitting whippet is pretty much done and I have done the basic block in on the lying down whippet. I've photographed the whole painting and a detail of the sitting whippet. Tomorrow is Sunday and I plan to paint in the studio for most of the day so tomorrow should have another update.

Whippet painting is coming together

2008-08-07T15:34:00.000-07:00

Here are two photos of todays progress. The top photo shows where I was around noon, worked on the blanket and pillows, then had to take a break. Went back to after lunch and added the binding to the blanket and got a lot of one dog blocked in. He needs more detailing but got the basics down. The color in the bottom photo is more accurate than the top one.
I did miss one day of working on this piece..... went out in the field and did a couple small plein air landscapes.

More on my work in progress

2008-08-05T13:53:00.000-07:00

I got a lot done today and finally reached a stopping point. The sofa was a battle and I am not quite done with it. Had to change the grey shade of the wall behind it slightly and worked on the painting and frame, as well as the pillows. I am trying to take my time on the background and get it right before I do too much on the dogs, but hopefully tomorrow I will get some done on the two whippets as well. Now it is off to mow the yard... so hot but it needs to be done.

2008-08-05T04:29:00.000-07:00

I hope to spend most of today working on this painting, I did get a little done on it yesterday and the progress is shown here. I am working on the background. Got the wall done in shades of grey made with several different colors for a lively appearance, and started working on the painting hanging in the background also. Here's hoping for a productive day today! I am dreading the pattern in the fabric of the silk sofa..... but it will be a challenge.

Work in progress

2008-08-01T16:35:00.002-07:00

I would like to share my progress on a new oil painting I have just started. I am sure it will go through many stages of the uglies as I work on it, but hopefully it will turn out well in the end... so come along with me for the ride with all it's ups and downs.

My reference is a photo I took a number of years ago, but it is still as fresh in my mind as the day I took it. The subject is two whippets relaxing in an interior, there is natural lighting which is coming from a window that is not in the picture. I have changed the composition slightly from the photo to make a better painting. First, I drew on tracing paper, and then took it to the local copy shop to enlarge my drawing to fit on the 20 x 24" canvas I will be working on. I then transfered the drawing to my canvas with graphite paper. Next I redrew the entire composition with a lot more detail directly on the canvas and spayed it with workable fixative. That is what you see in the first photograph. My next step was a thin coat of acrylic paint to tone the canvas. I used raw sienna. In the last photo, I have lightly done an underpainting in shades of grey to give it a little volume and to help visualize how the lights and darks will work. Of course it will be much bolder when the actual painting begins.

Two miniatures, just off the easel

2008-08-01T16:21:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, I won't be going to "Greyhounds Reach The Beach", greyhound gathering in Dewey Beach, Delaware this year. So I am working on a series of whippet paintings for the big whippet show I will be attending in the spring. My miniatures have been very popular and I also have several ideas for large pieces.

Here are two whippet miniatures that I just finished this week. The headstudy is 5 x 7", oil on canvas and the other of a whippet with one foot on a rock is 8 x 10", oil on a canvas panel.

Other news: All 4 of the greyhound paintings in the previous post have been SOLD. Many thanks to their new owners.

New print release

2008-07-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

First, the top two greyhound pieces below, the blue fawn with the ocean and the pen and ink drawing have been SOLD. Thank you.

I have just completed a new painting that is available as a limited edition print. It is titled Gypsy Fantasy and features a beautiful Gypsy Vanner horse. I am in love with this breed of horse and plan to do more artwork with Gypsy horses in the near future. This print is 10 x 14" and comes matted in an off white 16 x 20" mat, it is a limited edition of 100 and is signed and numbered.

Last night I was able to go to the Equine Extravaganza show at the Raleigh NC fairgrounds. It was thoroughly enjoyable and our front row seats were amazing. Many of the horse acts just took my breath away with their beauty.

This time it's greyhounds

2008-07-07T13:13:00.000-07:00

I have several greyhound paintings and a pen and ink that have been sitting around my studio a bit.....

so I am offering them now.

The blue fawn headstudy with the ocean in the background is oil on canvas board and measures 11 x 14" and I am offering it now for $150. I used this painting on notecards that I took to Dewey Beach last year. (By the way, the weather was lovely last year, the first time in a long time)

The pen and ink drawing has an image size of about 6 x 10" and is on illustration board. I used it for Christmas cards many moons ago and a buyer would be able to do the same or just frame it as is. It is $50. The other two headstudies, a fawn and a black are in watercolor on arches paper. As you can see the colors are very vivid and they have a lot of detail. Each is 9 x 13" and would make a good pair, but I will sell individually for $85 each.

Thank you

2008-07-06T16:30:00.000-07:00

Both of the pen and ink drawings have been sold and will be appreciated in new homes. Thank you!

Pen and ink drawings

2008-07-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

Found these two drawings; the top one I made into a print quite a few years ago, but this is the original. It is 11 x 14". I am offering it for $55.

The bottom one was used in the design of the logo for the 2004 American Whippet Club national specialty in Greensboro. It was a very popular design and this original pen and in drawing, also 11 x 14" is $65.

This is a nice opportunity to own original artwork for a super price!

Special sale, two whippets, red and black

2008-07-01T17:28:00.000-07:00

These two pieces are for sale also and I plan to send one third of the proceeds to help my friend Paige Z. who lost her home and all but one of her whippets to a tragic fire.

The red whippet on a bed, is 11 x 15" watercolor on watercolor paper and is priced at $150.

The black beauty is 11 x 14" is watercolor on textured clayboard and has been treated with a fixitive so there is no need to use glass in the framing. This piece is $185.

I will continue to post pieces as I locate them in my studio!

You can pay by Paypal or credit card.

Studio sale

2008-07-01T06:48:00.000-07:00

Work has been piling up at my studio and some of these paintings need to go to new homes! I am offering them here at reasonable prices. They would make great gifts for yourself or someone special. Many of them are miniatures so could fit almost anywhere in the home, on a wall or an easel.

The first little painting is 6 x 8" oil on panel, a headstudy of a blue merle border collie. She was so striking with her color and blue eyes, and so unusual for a border collie, I just had to paint her. Blue Merle Border Collie is priced at $100

Next are two miniatures, 5 x 7", done in watercolor on clayboard. Clayboard watercolors are sprayed with a fixative so there is no need for glass. I offer Produce and Wisteria and each is priced at $75.

Last is an 11 x 15" watercolor on paper, a headstudy of a hunter-jumper with a vivid blue background. The price for this painting is $125.

I can take Paypal or credit cards by phone, contact me at canineart@windstream.net

Yvonne

Wilmington Azaleas juried in to show

2008-06-09T14:12:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce that my oil painting "Wilmington Azaleas" was juried into Wayne County's (NC) 29th Annual National Juried Fine Arts Exhibition. There were over 300 entries and only 54 chosen for the exhibit.

I originally painted this as part of the monthly landscape challenge on the online art community Wet Canvas! I felt it was a good subject for me living in NC and having visited town of Wilmington recently.

On another note, I have a number of new dog prints available, I have been painting like crazy. New breeds include Belgian Terverun, Mini Schnauzer, Smooth Fox Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Whippets, and several others.

Also have been working on an oil portrait for a client in England of her beautiful and rare sighthound, an Azawakh. I will post a photo of it when it is finished.

It's been a while....

2008-04-04T08:57:00.000-07:00

since I have posted anything here! I have had a great month of March starting with my much anticipated trip abroad to London and Crufts Dog Show. It was every bit as wonderful as I had hoped. Since returning, I have been working on portraits, filling orders and doing watercolor paintings for new print releases which I have added to my website. Here is a painting I just finished that is going to be auctioned off at the American Whippet Club National Specialty in Oregon. I am not going this year but I will be represented with this and a print that is being offered for Best Brace. Now I am off to the framers to get these two pieces framed.

Art Show at the Dog Show entries

2008-02-01T15:27:00.000-08:00

Got my notification today for the art show and two of my pieces were accepted for the exhibition. Yah! Here are the two pieces, the whippet (16 x 20" oil on board) titled "Did You Call?" and the Shetland Sheepdog (20 x 24" oil on canvas) titled "Late Arrival".

Arthur painting finished and a commission too

2008-01-26T16:33:00.000-08:00

I am finished with my large oil painting of my whippet Arthur. I love fall colors so that is what I decided to go with. The painting is 30 x 40", the biggest I have done so far. Hope you like it. And I also wanted to share the watercolor commission I finished. It is 15 x 22" and will be traveling to it's home in Florida soon. I was pleased with the way the background came together on this watercolor.

Welcome to the New Year!

2008-01-09T18:36:00.000-08:00

The holidays are over and I got a lot accomplished; got all the commissions done and sent out, created some new watercolors for prints including Japanese Chin, Bedlington Terrier and two of Friesian horses. Have also been working on my oil painting including dogs and landscapes. Here is one of the horse paintings, Noble Faces, done in watercolor and available as a print. And here are a couple of the new dog paintings, a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy titled The Little King Surveys His Domain, and an adorable Jack Russell, titled Terrier Unique.

New watercolor portrait

2007-12-01T04:44:00.000-08:00

Here is a new, just finished, portrait of three Scottish Deerhounds and a whippet. The client said "I love it, I am thrilled" so I wanted to feature it here before I send it out. The painting is 22 x 30" in watercolor.

An exciting couple of weeks

2007-11-27T16:06:00.000-08:00

It started with attending a workshop at Art of the Carolinas in Raleigh given by artist James Sulkowski. The workshop was on Classical Still Life Painting in oils. It was a day long workshop and packed with information. Mr. Sulkowski is a well known and talented artist. There were still life set ups around the room and after a demonstration by Mr. Sulkowski, the workshop participants set up their easels and picked a still life to paint. Here is the one I completed. It is 11 x 14".

My next adventure was a trip to Florida. First to Ocala where I set up my art booth at the dog show for 4 days. Saw a lot of my friends, enjoyed the weather, the beautiful grounds and showing my dogs. Then we left for Cape Coral where I had plans to stay with my friend Ann and.... big goal..... do some plien air painting. I also took lots of reference photos to create more Florida scenes now that I am home again. Here are a couple little paintings I did while there. One was done in Pineland on Pine Island, a barrier island overlooking Charlotte Harbor. The island is much the way it has been for many years, with a lot of palm tree farms interspersed with Florida style homes. There are also a number of little shops and Galleries as you first go on the island in Matlacha. The art scene is very active there. The painting is 5 x 7".

The other painting I have pictured was done in Centennial Park in Fort Myers. It is on the Caloosahattche River. I understand that the park will not be there for long as they are planning to put a high rise condo there. I am glad I got the chance to paint there before that happens. When I lived in that area, I enjoyed the park and will be sad to see it go. My Centennial Park painting is 8 x 10".

So now I am home, and back working in my studio. I have quite a few commissions to finish before Christmas. If you are interested in any of the paintings featured on my blog, be sure to contact me as they may be available.

2007-11-05T15:17:00.000-08:00

Here are the other two paintings I didn't get to post yesterday. I love painting trees so here are two of them! The first is from a wonderful spot in Fort Myers, FL. That is the Thomas A. Edison home and gardens. He collected lots of exotic and tropical plants and the gardens are fascinating. This is one of numerous banyan trees in the gardens. It is not the gigantic one when you first go in though, but another smaller one.

The other painting is a scene from a recent trip to Virginia. I wanted to drive by a place I lived for a little while, a quaint little house in horse country. The little town of Casanova (near Warrenton) boasts an active hunt community, a church and a tiny post office. It was pretty much as it was when I lived there some 25 years ago, but the little house was gone. I couldn't resist this tree with it's signs and fence as it captures the essence of the area.

Welcome to my blog

2007-11-04T16:07:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to find a way to post my new paintings, news of shows and other artistic endeavors.... so I thought, what better way than a blog! So here it is, my first post on my first blog.

I have been working on oil paintings this past week or so with 3 new ones completed. The first is a 16 x 20" on gessoboard panel. It is titled "Did you call?" and is a young whippet with a marvelous surprised expression. Whippets are one of my favorite dogs to paint, and I know them well having lived with the breed for many years.

I haven't photographed the other two paintings yet so will save them for tomorrow.

In the meantime, I am working on a number of watercolor commissions, most of them to be completed before Christmas.