Reworking a Pastel Painting, "Serenity"

"Serenity" is one of a series I painting based on a view at a nearby lake. The series has been enjoyed by many, with people often telling me how it reminds them of summer evenings at their cabin. But no one ever loved it enough to give it a home.

One of the nice things about pastel paintings is that the "paint" never "dries". So I decided to re- work this painting, to capture something that was missing. Well, it must have worked, because one of my regular collectors saw it and bought it immediately at it's first public viewing! SOLD to someone who will enjoy it for many years to come. Thank you!

One View, Three Visions Plein Air Painters of Lake Superior Michelle Wegler, Lisa Stauffer, Cheryl LeClair-Sommer August 10 through August 27, 2010 Opening Reception August 20, 6 to 9 p.m. Gallery Hours Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Art Reach St. Croix + St. Croix Galleries 224 North 4th Street Stillwater, MN 651-439-1465 www.artreachstcroix.org

Winter into Spring II

Ahhhhh! Spring! I paint outside in all seasons, but it sure feels nice to stand and paint without hand warmers.

I painted outside on a fine April day. The location was conveniently located for me and my PALS. It is right off the freeway, and has the necessary amenities-it is at a highway rest stop! It will be included in a grouping with the paintings my colleagues painted that day.

"Green" Painting

So much is "green" these days: not just the grass and trees, but consumer goods as well. I still like the original green best, I think.

Here in full summer we are surrounded by green, which can be a challenge to paint. I found these hosta leaves to be interesting and tried my hand at them. I used a sienna toned paper to contrast with the green, and a square format to emphasize the abstract quality of the composition. It turned out so well I am planning to do more like it.