As many of you know, a vast majority of the inspiration for my artwork comes from the beach. The light, the layers of textures and colors, and the overall mood of the beach has always inspired me.  I just cannot get enough of it.  

Last month, my friend Laura, of Laura Lee Photography, and I headed out to do a lifestyle photo shoot at the beach in Coney Island, Brooklyn.  It was windy and a little chilly, but the sun was shining and we were ready to talk art, following dreams, business strategy and even do a little painting on the beach.  Her photos are AMAZING and I wanted to share a couple with you today. Be sure to check her out on social media too, at @lauraleecreative.  

Laura and I met at Creative at Heart Conference Round 2 in Charleston, South Carolina in November of 2015.  We hit it off right away because we are both seriously passionate about what we do, totally wacky + silly, and very adventurous ladies with major wanderlust + travel goals. Laura has recently started a new venture, in addition to her photography business, to document and profile creatives who are following their dreams as makers and artists.  

Enjoy the beautiful photos and happy Tuesday! 

M

Also, during our shoot, a little over-excited puppy came over to me with boundless energy and Laura captured what might be the best / funniest photo blooper ever!  hehe.

This Friday is opening night at HERE. A Pop-Up Shop in Annapolis, Maryland.  The women who run this awesome pop-up are amazing and have really helped me become a more serious and dedicated (albeit crazy busy!) artist.  I will always be thankful for their kind words, support and inspiration of local talent. This POP-UP is themed LIVE.LOVE.(shop)LOCAL.  I will be painting LIVE during the week of the shop, so hope to see some of you there!

Come on over on Friday night, 7-9pm at 40 West Street in Annapolis for opening night.  Or come see us any night next week for fun local art, crafts, and vendors.

This May 18th, Artomatic comes to Crystal City, to take over an old Federal Building that will be knocked down.  Before the demolition begins, Artomatic and hundreds of DC area artists take over and transform the space (for about 2 months) into an awesome center for the arts .  For more information on dates, directions and details, visit their website!  Meet the Artist night is June 2, see you there!?

I found out about this awesome art event from a friend, read about it and signed up right away...no questions asked.  After attending their orientation seminar on Saturday, I am super pumped to share my artwork (check me out on the 1st floor by the cafe!) and to meet other artists and hear all about their adventures and work.

I was proofreading a paper for a student the other day and stumbled upon the most beautiful and accurate quote regarding art by Keats: “Art is its intensity, capable of making all disagreables evaporate.” (Keats)

After a crazy day, sometimes looking at something that is truly beautiful can help to calm the nerves.  How true are these words?

His quote goes nicely with my newest Pinterest board (feel free to follow) called lovely.simple.

So, I blew my "deadline", but it was self-imposed so I am being realistic and kind to myself and allowing for a little "extension". 29 paintings will happen, not to worry!  Check it out on ETSY.