On Location

14th

Quiet Spaces Revealed

Quiet Spaces Revealed

You can bid on this painting here.

6x6in. Oil on linen/panel (Painted En Plein Air)

Quiet Spaces Revealed

The warmth of summer has long disappeared as autumn’s chilly air takes its place. The warm sun is a welcome companion adding relief from the brisk air. It adds brilliance and playfully dances amongst sparse foliage. A happy tune is sung as nature displays a kaleidoscope of autumn colors.

Broader views have appeared as the tree’s skeletons create pockets of space. Places hidden from dense summer foilage are now revealed. No longer a mystery new windows of space are enjoyed. These quiet spaces are refreshing and allow the mind to meander amongst the simplicity of their beauty.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

MacLellan’s Brook, Nova Scotia

On a beautiful Saturday afternoon I decided to take advantage of  the weather and paint on location. Knowing my days for painting  on location were numbered, I quickly gathered my plein air gear, tea and a snack. Off I trucked excited and happily anticipating my outdoor painting session.

Once I arrived to my destination, I took my time strolling around looking at different vantage points for the one that beckoned to be painted. Finally, I found just the right spot! So back I went to my car to lug all my gear to my chosen spot and get set up.  It wasn’t until I was just about set up that I realized I had forgotten my paintbox with all my paints!! Yikes!!

Well I was determined that I was not going let this large detail hamper my session outdoors. Luckily I wasn’t too far from home, sooooo I packed up all my gear and headed home to retrieve my paints!  Once home I asked my son to run downstairs to get my paintbox so I could be on my way again. Both sons shook their heads and laughed at my status!

Once I was back on location, I set up all over again and set to work. I have to say it was a most enjoyable painting session in the end. I entered a meditative state as paint flowed and the nearby brook babbled along.

What I have discovered in life is when faced with situations that sway from my initial intent, it is often the perspective I take  that can create a pleasant or unpleasant experience. A little shift in perspective and going with the flow can often bring about a more pleasing outcome.

Have you noticed this in your life? I would love to hear your comments!

Warmly,

Debbie

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You can purchase select Prints of my work on Fine Art America.

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2nd

Sea Path

Sea Path

(Click to Enlarge)

8x10in. Oil on linen/panel

You may purchase this painting here. 

Sea Path

The weather is changeable by the sea. When I arrived this morning, a clear blue sky stretched into the distance. However, as I worked in a meditative state a cloud cover slowly crowded out the clear blue above. Billowy clouds settled into place, revealing only small pockets of blue.

In the distance, slats of bright sunlight stroke the sandy shores; while deeper blues dominant the land. Curves of land and sea push forward trailing the eye to shore like a meandering pathway. It would be nice if life acted the same; flowing in an easy motion allowing one to live it with grace and ease.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

I am continuing to work on my series of Powell’s Point Park. A beautiful Provincial Park in Nova Scotia which is not too far from my home. This was painted on location in the summer on a gorgeous day! My son came with me this particular day and I really enjoyed his company. He read a book while I painted.

When we first arrived, a clear blue sky prevailed, but while I was painting a cloud cover rolled into the blue above. Before we left I made a short video of my study and experience.

You can view more of my short videos on my You Tube Channel.

I am finally getting around to adding more images to Fine Art America where you can purchase reproductions of my work.  These make great unique gifts for the holiday season or serve as an economical way to decorate your space! Also my gallery is building on Daily Paintworks. I would love if you could LIKE  my pages in these two locations as it will help get the word out there! Thanks!

I would love to hear any of your stories about being at the shore or how the ocean brings inspiration to you! Your comments are always welcomed!

Have a Great Day!

Warmly,

Debbie

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23rd

“Moon Glow” and News

(Click to Enlarge)

You can Bid on this painting here. 

Moon Glow

A crescent moon smiles softly in an evening glow.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia.

I painted “Moon Glow” on  a beautiful late summer evening in Powell’s Point Park. It was fun sitting at a park picnic table to paint this little miniature. I had to make quick decisions because the light was changing quickly. I continue to be enchanted with the moon and its storybook tales!

The holiday season will soon be here! These small miniatures make unique gifts for special people in your life! The above written reflection is attached to the back of the painting on laminated card stock.

OTHER NEWS:

My son is adding a new feature to my blog. We will now have a plugin that allows me to add Asides to my blog posts. Asides are small bits of information or status updates that you can add without a full blog post. They do not have a title and are similar to a tweet or facebook status update. I thought this was a great way to keep my blog more current without having to always write a full blog post. It would make sharing links and information much faster as well.  I teach 80% therefore, my time is sometimes limited with regards to writing substantial blog posts. I thought this sounded like a great idea. We’ll see how it goes! :D

During my last blog post I mentioned that East Link TV were coming to my studio/home to interview my husband and I regarding my art/life, tape me painting a demo and also take shots of my work. I definitely had the jitters before they came, but Danny Harvie was a great guy and really made us feel at ease. Taping went well and all will be part of a small clip on East Link Magazine. Danny is going to let me know when it will be aired. He is also going to upload the clip to You Tube for those who don’t have access to the East Link Station.  I’ll give you a heads up when it will be aired.

Wishing Everyone a Great Week!

Warmly,

Debbie

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2nd

Rimmed Light

rimmed-light_for-dpw

(Click to Enlarge)

7×5 in. Oil on linen/panel

You can bid on this painting here.

Rimmed Light

It has been a pleasant day with comfortable temperatures. As the sun begins to lower in the sky, signs of fall are evident. The nights are becoming cooler now, once the sun dips below the horizon.

Edges of  distant trees are illuminated as they are saturated by the sun’s rays. This moment will pass quickly as nightfall rapidly approaches. A record in time, must be caught swiftly before it dissolves into darkness.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

MacLellan’s Brook, Nova Scotia

I painted “Rimmed Light” on location, later in the summer. I love how everything seems to glow this time of day! There is no time for pauses, as the light changes so quickly as nightfall approaches. I also noticed how much cooler the evenings were becoming and that I had to don a sweatshirt during my painting session.

I would love to hear what you love about this time of day!

Wishing you a Wonderful Day!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S.  If you enjoyed this post please click the Like button above. Thanks! You may also sign up for my free E-Newsletter in the right hand column. Here is a link to my latest E-Newsletter.

On another note–I have finally begun to add more images to Fine Art America where you can acquire reproductions of my work. Clicking the Recommend button on FAA would help spread the word. Many thanks for all your support!

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28th

“New Life” Up For Auction

New Life

(Click to Enlarge)

6x6in. Oil on linen/panel

You can bid on this painting here.

I have just added “New Life” to the Daily Paintworks Auction website. It was painted en plein air in MacLellan’s Brook, Nova Scotia. You can read my blog post about my experience while painting this one here. Please click on the link above if you are interested in bidding on this painting. Feel free to click the Like button on the auction page. Thanks!

Thanks so much for looking!

Wishing you a Wonderful Day!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. If you enjoyed this post please click the Like button above. Thanks! You may also sign up for my free E-Newsletter in the right hand column. Here is a link to my latest E-Newsletter.

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23rd

A Window To The Sea

A Window to the Sea

7x5in. Oil on linen/panel ( Click to Enlarge)

Bid on this Painting here.

A Window to the Sea

It is a perfect summer day! One that will bring warmth during cold winter months. A balmy air hangs in the park accented by a soft breeze every so often. The distance is a hazy blue that appears dreamy and calm. Billowy clouds change slowly creating interesting shapes and patterns.

A peek hole is nature’s window to the sea, causing the mind to wander and explore the space beyond. I am reminded that without exploration and adventure life can become stagnant and predictable. Nature always favors spontaneity causing one to adjust to her flow.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia.

It was a gorgeous late summer afternoon when our “Nova Scotia Plein Air Painters” Group met for our second outing. This was the small plein air painting I completed. My husband Ian came to take photographs of everyone working for our blog post. We all enjoyed our afternoon and had some great discussions afterwards.

Wishing you lots of beautiful days in nature! I’d love to hear what inspires you while visiting nature!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. If you enjoyed this post please click the Like button above. Thanks! You may also sign up for my free E-Newsletter in the right hand column. Here is a link to my latest E-Newsletter.

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10th

Videos, New Website & News!

My son and I recently posted two new videos I made while on location in Powell’s Point Park. They are just short little videos that hopefully will give you an idea of what serves as my inspiration while  painting in nature’s playground. You can also visit my You Tube Channel to view more of these short videos. Thanks!

As some of you already know I have launched a New Plein Air Group and Website. I am thrilled that our members so far have really enjoyed their plein air experience! Some members were totally new to plein air painting. I have made a few posts about our outings and a welcome note.  My son and I put up a slide show with photos of our members painting on location as well as their studies. You may view the “Nova Scotia Plein Air Painters” Website here.  We are still continuing to add new features to our website, so stay tuned for more information/resources in the future. :D

I am finally getting around to adding more images to Fine Art America where you can purchase reproductions of my work.  These make great unique gifts or serve as an economical way to decorate your space! Also my gallery is building on Daily Paintworks. I would love if you could LIKE  my pages in these two locations as it will help get the word out there! Thanks! Phew! Lots of online typing and posting! Brett and I have plans to update my personal website this fall as well. Did I say I needed an assistant? Maybe, I could clone myself!

I am just getting ready to send out my E-Newsletter at the first of the week. If you are interested in joining it, I would love to have you sign up on the top right hand corner of this page.

Many Thanks for your continued Support!!

Warmly,

Debbie

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23rd

“Blue Skies Return” With Audio!

10x8in. Oil on linen/panel

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Blue Skies Return

After a span of grey, rainy days we were gifted with sunny skies and warmth. It is such a joy to look above and see a clear blue sky. The sun’s appearance lifts spirits and adds a light heartedness.

Grant’s Lake continues to be one of my favourite spots to paint. Its seclusion and wild nature always beckon to be captured forever in paint. There is an airiness today as loose strife sways gently in the breeze. Nature dances about to it own tune, oblivious to the demands of a man made world.

Apples hang temptingly on gnarled old trees; enticing wildlife to come visit. Their tasty feast serves as an open banquet for all to experience.

As I pack up to leave, I am grateful for this special moment in time. Responsibilities have fallen away and created a centeredness that only nature can deliver. Cherish the small moments, for it is those that will bring one the most peace.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Grant’s Lake, Nova Scotia

Finally after many rainy days we have begun to see blue skies again. My husband accompanied me on this outing in Grant’s Lake. We had been scouting around the area the night before and I had spotted bear droppings, so I thought it would be nice to have some company when I returned to paint there the next morning.

When we first arrived the sky was completely clear blue, but as the morning progressed billowy clouds took form. It was a perfect day to paint outside with comfortable temperatures.  I love listening to nature and just going with the flow as paint and brush move freely. I never tire from painting in Grant’s Lake. Each season brings a new visual canvas. Subtle changes occur from year to year when I observe vantage points I painted in the past.

My son and I tried a new program where I could record my written reflection that I wrote on location. I hope you enjoy it! Just press the audio link below my painting to listen. I would love your feedback on this new format! Thanks!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. I worked a long while on my newsletter today and am just about ready to send it out. If you would like to receive it, you may sign up for it in the top right corner of this page. Love if you could press the Like button above if you enjoyed this post!

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25th

Plein Air Inspirations I

Something New!

I thought it would be fun to post tips, thoughts and inspirational quotes about plein air painting since I will be out in the field more frequently as summer approaches. That is if we ever get summer! Today I thought I was going to have to dig out my winter coat again! I will also post short videos as well featuring my plein air outings.  I hope you enjoy!

 

PLEIN AIR INSPIRATIONS I

(Thoughts, tips and inspirations about plein air painting)

Emily Carr is one of my heroes! I will relay sometime how she became a catalyst for the beginnings of my plein air journey. I love this quote as it depicts that painting a subject without feeling leaves a void in the work produced. Truth comes from a sincere and connected depiction of your subject.

 

“There is something bigger than fact: the underlying spirit, all it stands for, the mood, the vastness, the wildness.” (Emily Carr)

More of Emily Carr’s inspirational work can be viewed here. You can also read her biography as well.

Warmly,

Debbie

 

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20th

Back out on location!

New Life

The brook rhymically babbles along this evening. The light begins to stroke sections of land and trees as the sun lowers in the sky. The field is aglow beyond the brook and is ready to come alive as Spring progresses onward.

Soon a lacy frill of green will drape over branches, concealing their skeletal nature. Spring delineates winter’s sparseness and brings about new life.  A rebirth is felt within the land!

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

MacLellan’s Brook, Nova Scotia

On Easter Monday evening I had a chance to paint out on location again! It was the first time on location since last fall and felt like I was coming out of hibernation. It didn’t take long to get back in sync with nature. Painting in her open studio was just as I had remembered.  A variety of conditions arose that kept me on my toes–rapidly changing light, variances in temperature from the time I arrived and taking care not to over paint so I wouldn’t lose the simplicity of my subject and thus loose its esssence.

My son accompanied me on this outing and was witness to me becoming overzealous with my subject. At one point as I tried to capture the abundance of light on all the tree branches, I went too far! My painting became too busy and I had to pare back what I had added. This happened in a matter of minutes and reminded me of how important it was to keep things relatively simple when out on location. In this situation, too much detail interfered with the overall feeling of my painting–less was definitely more.

All and all I really loved being immersed in nature again and once again she quickly reminded me of lessons I had almost forgotten! I am really looking forward to being out in Mother Nature’s Open Studio during the upcoming seasons! Hoping you get to spend some peaceful moments in nature as well.

Warmly,

Debbie

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16th

Twitter Art Exhibit in Moss, Norway

Mild Day in November

It was a mild day in November when I ventured out to paint en plein air. My goal was to paint a small oil painting on acrylic paper so I could send it to Norway for a charity event organized by David Sandum. David is an artist friend I met on Twitter. When David heard that funding had been cut for children’s books in his local library, he decided to reach out to his Twitter Artists Friends for help.

It is heart warming and amazing to see how many artists were willing to create and donate one or more pieces of work for this cause. Being a teacher of young children this was a cause close to my heart. I am pleased that “Mild Day in November” has been sold. To date 100 cards have been sold and $3350 raised for childrens’  books. Amazingly, 200 artists participated from 23 countries! David has does a tremendous job organizing and maintaining this exhibit!  The exhibit will be on display until February 1st, 2011.

You can stay up to date on David’s Twitter Art Exhibit here. You can also follow David on twitter under his Twitter name @DavidSandumArt .

I had a wonderful time painting ” Mild Day in November”. The light was gorgeous and the temperature was extremely mild for November. It was fun being on location –usually it is gray and cold in November! It made my heart sing and long for warmer days spent outdoors. Nature is always good for the soul!

Warmly,

Debbie

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7th

Nature’s Lullaby

Nature’s Lullaby

Slowly a veil of darkness begins to cloak land and water as the last rays of light fade. After a breezy day a calmness envelops the park. Tranquility presides as nature prepares for nightfall.

Nature’s lullaby whispers of  a peaceful sleep as one leaves their cares behind and surrenders to her solitude. She promises renewal when the light begins to rise again and a new day awakens.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point. Park, Nova Scotia

Later in the summer I ventured out late one evening to paint en plein air. I really wasn’t sure if there would be enough light as it had been a very moody day and evening. Many clouds loomed in the sky, but pockets of light flashed intermittently as the sun approached the horizon.

I met a local resident while there and we had a little chat, which also delayed my painting. However, I always enjoy talking to locals and often acquire little tidbits of information about the park.

Once my set up was in place the sun made one last hurrah and turned the sky into a glowing beauty! It had been a windy day, but all of a sudden all became calm. It was almost surreal as I worked quickly with brush and paint in a pocket of calmness.

As I packed up my gear to leave, nightfall had overtaken the park. Many of nature’s creatures were bedding down for the night, while others were beginning to explore. I was thinking of my own comfy bed and the prospect of a restful sleep, while anticipating  a new day at dawn refreshed and energized.

May peacefulness envelop you at night in your safe and cozy homes too!

Warmly,

Debbie

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