(click to enlarge)

Time Framed

After continuous days of showers and thunderstorms the sun decided to make its debut this evening. Golden light drenched the landscape presenting dramatic stage lighting for the surrounding scenery. A profound stillness added to nature’s drama; causing one to feel as if they had stepped into an incredible photo shoot. A capsule of time preserved and quickly snapped before it faded.

It is a momentary pocket of time that must be experienced fully by one’s senses before it rapidly passes on to the next. Allowing oneself to fully experience the moment must happen quickly and with complete surrender. Becoming attune to the present allows worries to fade and a sense of self to prevail.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

You can also view the stages of development of  ”Time Framed” here. :D

Soft Elegance

“Hydrangea drape softly, creating a soft elegance during the last days of autumn.”

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/soft-elegance/feed/ 0 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/window-sea-2/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/window-sea-2/#comments Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:15:33 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=2414

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.

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

Watch this video on YouTube.

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.

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

10x8in. Oil on linen/panel

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!

“A Grand Entrance”, 6x6in. Oil on linen/panel

Bid on this painting here.

A Grand Entrance

In the midst of winter, Amaryllis make a grand entrance. They evoke memories of bright spring greens and vibrant blooms.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

I am very happy to be apart of Daily Paint Works. It is a website that displays a wonderful variety of original fine art by many awesome artists. DPW now has an Auction component similar to Ebay, but is only for original fine art. I love this idea! It is also a much friendlier auction due to its Auto Extending feature. This serves as a very convenient and user friendly way to collect fine art. The web manager David Marine is the husband of  Carol Marine. She is a fabulous artist on the site too! David has done a super job on DPW. He is very friendly and great to answer any questions promptly.  I am looking forward to this new adventure!

I have just listed “A Grand Entrance” 6x6in oil on linen/panel. You can bid on this painting here.

Thanks for looking!

Warmly,

Debbie

Nature’s Haven

A taste of summer has finally returned after experiencing a string of fall like days. Still content to embrace summer warmer air is a welcome visitor. Hummingbirds whiz in and out of trees and wildflowers scatter themselves throughout the field.  I have found a most intimate corner in nature tucked away in amongst  an expansive field.

Memories of childhood come to mind of playing hide and seek in large fields and tall grasses. Giggling and dodging for flat ground we had high expectations of never being found! Nature was a safe haven as we allowed ourselves to form a unison with her lazy flow. Minutes stretched into hours until we were beckoned back to reality. Hesitate we departed, but took comfort in knowing there would be many more days to experience nature’s joy!

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

MacLellan’s Brook, Nova Scotia

This is a little whimsical painting I did while sitting in a large field surrounded by tall grasses and wildflowers.  I love these little intimate spots in nature! They bring back childhood memories of the joy we had as children playing in nature’s open playground. With our curiosity and imagination nature provided hours of entertainment.

I sometimes feel our youth miss out on these simple pleasures with the advent of technology and the need to be externally entertained. Guiding them into the wonders of nature helps evoke an emotional response I am sure they would not have imagined. Nature quietly encourages compassion and a respect for the cycle of life.  I would love to hear any of your stories or memories you have of playing in nature as a child.

Warmly,

Debbie

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/natures-haven/feed/ 0 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/snowballs-summer/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/snowballs-summer/#comments Tue, 03 Aug 2010 01:41:48 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=1124

Snowballs in Summer

Although it is summer, giant white snowballs have grown in my garden. Their life expectancy is enduring and even the summer heat does not seem to disturb them. They bobble gleefully in the warm breeze; taking flight with each wisp that comes along.

Their carefree nature bring smiles from those who glance their way. Once picked their longevity persists as they pair nicely with ribbon and glass. Hydrangea’s charm is unrelenting whether in masses or as individuals.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Plymouth, Nova Scotia

As summer marches on my Annabelle Hydrangea displays an abundance of large white blooms. They are so large they remind me of white snowballs. I love taking cuttings and displaying them in vases around the house. The shape of this vase was really appealing to me and I knew it would one day make it into one of my still life paintings. I love this color of purple ribbon and thought it would pair nicely with the greens in the hydrangea leaves. I hope you are enjoying summer’s floral abundance!

Warmly,

Debbie

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/snowballs-summer/feed/ 8 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/believing-magic/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/believing-magic/#comments Tue, 20 Jul 2010 18:07:04 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=1088

Believing In Magic

The moon smiled softly in a violet blue sky. Its presence added a magical feel as it hovered over the park. It whispered tales of cheerful summer days, creating excitement for what lies ahead.

Magical moments present themselves regularly in nature. Children seem to innately be aware of this phenomenon. It is adulthood that silences these moments as the responsibilities of life take over.  Stepping into nature restores the belief in magic and renews faith, if one is willing to listen.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

I am returning to the park to paint again this year to add new work to my Powell’s Point Park Series. As long as I can remember I have loved and been fascinated with the moon. I love how it tauntingly appears even in the early morning hours. I remember as a child reading magical stories and poems about the moon. As children we liked to discuss the moon imagining that the dark spots were chunks of cheese. Even the saying “The Man in the Moon” revved up our imaginations; whereby, we began to string along various fun stories. The moon has a magical quality that I think can appeal to even adult imaginations! I would love to hear any of your stories about your infatuation with the moon!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. You can find the video post about the day I was on location painting the study for this painting here.  As a little added note, the day I painted the study for this painting, I was celebrating my 28th Wedding Anniversary with Ian. Time sure does fly!

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/believing-magic/feed/ 0 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/natures-story/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/natures-story/#comments Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:39:32 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=1047

Nature’s Story

It is another scorcher today. Although it is early morning humidity can be felt in the air. A gentle breeze assists in dashing flies away and cooling one down. Nature’s offering today was a long forgotten rose bush with an indescribable scent. It has been left to grow wild peeking up amongst the bushes that have grown around it.

It’s determination can be felt as it strives to be seen in the sunlight. It seems to be calling out for attention; stating that although old and obscure its beauty is still strong and captivating. Reminding one that in the haste of life, beauty in others is sometimes overlooked. There is always a story to be told and beauty to be seen if an alert sensitivity exists.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

MacLellan’s Brook, Nova Scotia

It is so thrilling to be back out on location again! The horseflies were out in abundance when I painted this painting. The temperature got very hot as the morning moved on and the sun rose higher in the sky.  I continue to be enamored with roses and love both their scent and beauty in the summer sunlight.  Other than the horseflies it was an extremely quiet and peaceful morning. I counted my blessings to be able to stand in nature’s beauty and paint happily with her!  Hoping you are getting a chance to find happiness in nature too!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. I would love to hear any of your rose stories or thoughts too!

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/natures-story/feed/ 7 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/plein-air-inspirations-video-powells-pt-park/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/plein-air-inspirations-video-powells-pt-park/#comments Wed, 07 Jul 2010 11:38:55 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=1036

Hi Everyone!

Here is my latest ” Plein Air Inspirations”  video of my newest study done in Powell’s Pt. Park, Nova Scotia. It was a gorgeous summer morning and while scouting for a subject to paint I looked up in the sky and saw the moon still hovering above. I love the look of the moon in the sky during the day –something magical about it! I am presently painting a larger studio painting from my study and will be finished of it soon. Hope you enjoy my little informal video. Cheers!

Warmly,

Debbie

Violas and Sweet Berries

The world is beginning to come alive again with the birth of new growth and Springtime activities. I love seeing these little violas pop up and scatter themselves cheerfully throughout my flowerbeds in early Spring. They remind me of children at play; carefree and joyful as they dance about in nature. Their cheerful presence makes me smile and dream of  summer’s lushness to come.

With warmer weather come delectable treats from nature. Fresh produce from gardens and outdoor markets are always such a treat. Once barbecued, these tiny tomatoes were a sweet and juicy addition to our meal. Although this little  tomato did not come from my garden, I smiled at the thought of our future garden.

Hoping you get to experience some of the small pleasures of Spring or whatever season you are experiencing at present. Noticing  small gems in our life bring about quiet daily pleasures.

Warmly,

Debbie

Sold

Rolling Along

I have always been fascinated with marbles. It is mesmerizing to gaze into  their depths. I really enjoy exploring their swirls of color, variance in values and the manner in which light dances through them.

Marbles were a special Easter gift. One bag  full of shiny new marbles were a delight to behold! I remember as children we had hours of fun playing with marbles. Twirling round and round to make earth pots we would become dizzy and giddy. Careful calculation took place as we made our shots towards the earth  pots, hoping to win more colors and sizes.

As with marbles we must roll along in life: moving beyond the bumps in order to experience life fully. Brushing off the dust of life and moving forward strengthens character and enables us to experience the gifts that await us.  May your bumps in life be small and your journey joyful!

Warmly,

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

P.S. I would love to hear any of your stories or thoughts about marbles!

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/rolling/feed/ 4 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/spring-arrivals/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/spring-arrivals/#comments Mon, 05 Apr 2010 22:41:27 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=884

New Spring Arrivals!

I would like to share some new work I have been doing that I am really jazzed about! A few weeks ago I started painting miniature paintings ranging in sizes from 3x2in. to 4x4in.  They are painted on linen covered archival panels and can be ordered from Art Boards. I discovered that I really love painting on linen and am contemplating painting on linen for larger works as well.

I love the intimacy these small works create. For some  reason their personal quality remind me of short lines of poetry. Careful planning is still necessary when setting up these little paintings.There is not a lot of room for error, so I often do a quick thumbnail or gesture sketch before I begin painting my still life.

For awhile I have had small nudges to explore this area of smaller works.  I am so happy I finally listened to that little voice. My admiration of some daily painters such as Duane Keiser, Julian Merrow-Smith and Justin Clayton have also inspired me to begin this new painting adventure.

In keeping with my artwork/reflections process, I am accompanying each small painting with a line of prose or poetry. I hope these mini paintings will add a ray of sunshine to your day. I have felt most joyful when painting them.

Happy Spring Everyone!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. I have begun adding these to my Etsy Shop.  I will also be adding  Buy It Now buttons to my blog as well. For your reference, pricing is as follows: 3x2in $50.00 +S/H, 3x3in. $58.00 +S/H and 4x4in. $75.00 +S/H.

P.P.S. You can now sign up for my future Ezine where I will be sharing, paintings, happenings and thoughts about my work. Love to have you! (Sign up is on this page on the side panel.)

Special Announcement!

“Blooms in Winter” is now up for bids on the Haiti Relief Auction sponsored by 140hours. It’s a great way to purchase original art at bargain prices! Come see and join in on the bidding fun. One hundred percent of the money raised is being donated to help the Haitian people!

You can bid on “Blooms in Winter” 5x7in. Original oil painting  here.

You can also bid on other original works of art here

This is a wonderful way for everyone to extend their hearts to the Haitian People!

I made this small video from my Powell’s Point Park Series I am working on. Hope you enjoy it

Let the tranquility of nature transport you to a realm of peacefulness.

Sweetness In Friendship

It is a gorgeous September morning causing one to recall past languorous summer days. Birds noisily flutter in and out of the old apple tree as a gentle breeze appears intermittently.

I have come to paint in my best friend’s backyard while she is traveling. Like the apple tree our friendship has matured over the years. Its weathered the storms of life and always bears fruit. No matter what the circumstances our friendship is unconditional. As the years march on a sweetness is gently sprinkled over our friendship as we realize how fragile life can be.

I giggle at the anticipation of her arrival  home.  A special gift will be bestowed to a very special friend for her 60^th birthday. A smile spreads softly, as I think of the years we have ahead to nurture a friendship that only years of acceptance could create.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Riverton, Nova Scotia

“Sweetness In Friendship” was a special gift for a dear friend. It was painted in her backyard while she was away traveling.  It was a gorgeous day in September, where I was transported into the tranquility of nature. Like a small seed in nature,  true friendship occurs and blossoms over time if attended with loving care.

Wishing you many happy moments with new and old friends in 2010!

Plant a seed of friendship; reap a bouquet of happiness. –Lois L. Kaufman

Christmas Wonderment

The scene is set, candles lit and ornaments hung. A Christmas glow envelops all, warming hearts near and far.

Christmas heightens our sense of humanity and stirs a kindness lost in the rush of life.  Mere strangers’ nods and smiles are warmly acknowledged; which would otherwise be lost to a sea of preoccupation.

Christmas brings a sense of wonderment and gratitude heightening our awareness of what truly matters. Close relationships, family and the act of human kindness become prevalent. Gifting this sense of wonderment to the world  would bring us one step closer to greater peace and harmony throughout mankind.

Warmly,

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Christmas 2009

Every year I try to create a Christmas painting that I can use to make special cards for family and friends. I have to admit I had to have a painting marathon to bring this painting to completion due to my late start. While I worked on each stage I posted them on my Facebook Fan Page. I had a wonderful time interacting with everyone who joined in on my progression.

I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who stops by to read my blog and for your continued support!

Wishing you all a Very Joyous and Peaceful Holiday Season!

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/christmas-wonderment-2009/feed/ 4 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/late-autumn/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/late-autumn/#comments Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:21:03 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=728

Late Autumn

It is well into autumn now. Leaves have been stripped from trees baring skeletal structures beneath.  Glimpses of areas unseen before, make their appearance between negative spaces once occupied by greenery.

Mauves and grays have overtaken the land as nature prepares for her slumber ahead; while straw colored grasses soften the appearance of autumn’s grayness.  Even the light has becomes less intense and seems to be filtered into a cooler light.

As evening approaches a stillness engulfs the land.  Warmer temperatures are a welcome relief to previous damp weather. It won’t be long before the land will be hushed with a blanket of white.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Grant’s Lake, Nova Scotia

This past weekend we were fortunate to receive warmer temperatures and drier weather.  I decided to take advantage of the finer weather and head out on location. I  knew I would not be blessed with many more days to paint en plein air before it got too cold.

It was amazing how much the light had changed since early autumn. The warmth of the sun quickly disappeared as the sun began to fade. Unfortunately I had forgotten my small gloves, so a rapid clean up occurred before I trudged back to my car!  Admittedly, my thermos of tea was a welcome relief when I got back into my car!

A State of Solitude

The air is clear and crisp this morning. We have been blessed with another gorgeous autumn day. Today the park tantalizes one with an array of subject matter.  Decisions must be made before the noon sun fades autumn’s brilliance.

Finally, across the ocean a strip of land beckons to be captured on canvas. Slats of light drape gracefully over land and foliage; while pockets of shadow add to its drama and mystic.

Senses engaged, a rhythm of paint and motion begins as an intuitive voice guides the way. Directed thought  gently disappears as the mind quiets and the present takes precedence. A state of utter solitude occurs, interrupted only by nature’s activity within the area.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

This weekend I took full advantage of the weather when the sun decided to visit! The park will be closing soon, therefore I am trying to paint on location as much as possible. I also took some time to explore new nooks and crannies at the park that I had not viewed before.

It continues to amaze me how many angles and different vantage points I can find as new subject matter to paint. There is an endless array of subjects and inspiration! Visiting at different times of day add to the abundance of subjects.

Today, I met a person kayaking in the bay. We chatted about the absolute beauty of the park. It was one of those perfect autumn days you wish could go on forever!

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/a-state-of-solitude-at-powells-pt-park/feed/ 5 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/twitter-140-art-show/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/twitter-140-art-show/#comments Fri, 28 Aug 2009 01:46:45 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=559

Artist Statement:  Relationships bloom, tweet by tweet. Many tweets later, defenses drop; revealing delicate layers of multifaceted personalities.

Biography:  Debbie Lamey-MacDonald is a Nova Scotian artist who works from life to capture the essence of her subject. Musings accompany her paintings.

I am very happy and excited to be a part of an upcoming art show entitled Twitter 140. Twitter is a free social networking and micro-blogging service that enables its users to send and read messages known as tweets that can be no more than 140 characters. All artists involved in the show are members of  Twitter and have completed artwork with a twitter theme in mind. The artists span the globe; thus it is an international showing of interesting artwork! Our Artists Statements and Biography also had to abide by the 140 requirement and the artwork could be no larger than 140 square inches.

The show is being hosted by the Grandon Art Gallery in Flagstaff, Arizona on Sept. 4th, 2009 for the entire month. All the artists and one of their entries can be viewed here.   Also, this is what the gallery looks like from the outside.   All artwork is either on route or at the gallery now!

Many thanks and praise go to Sheree Rensel for her vision in masterminding this event. She worked very diligently to acquire a gallery that would host our show! Kudos to Sheree!! Special thanks also goes to David Grandon(Gallery owner) for hosting our show.

I have found an amazing community of artists on twitter who are both talented and resourceful. Many wonderful relationships have been developed one tweet at a time. Wishing all the Artists and Grandon Gallery a wonderful opening and show!