Fine Art of Debbie Lamey-MacDonald» still life

Newest Miniature & News about Ezine

Debbie — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:29:20 +0000

(Click to enlarge)

Bid on this painting here.

Last One

“Savoring a citrus moment with one last segment.”

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

“Last one” is my newest miniature painting. I have also included the still life set up , so you can get an idea of how I painted it from life. It was a fun little painting to do. My subject was left over clementines from the holiday season. It sure did make my studio smell nice when I peeled this one for my set up. Nothing like the smell of citrus to perk up the senses!

I am presently, working on a larger painting of change houses in Powell’s Point Park. My panel is a 16x20in. and I am enjoying working large again! Hopefully, it will be finished soon and I will be able to post it for you to view.

I’m really excited about my New Online Shop my son and I are working on. In my upcoming Ezine I discuss the philosophy behind my shop. My Ezine will be going out by the end of the month. I would love to have you join me there! You may sign up for it here.

Wishing you a Wonderful Day!

Warmly,

Debbie

Debbie’s Fine Art Prints

A Wonderful New Marketing Resource for Artists!

Soft Elegance

Debbie — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:49:21 +0000

Soft Elegance

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

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Sunny Disposition

Debbie — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 21:45:29 +0000

3x3in. Oil on linen/panel

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Sunny Disposition

“With their sunny disposition dandelions scatter gleefully about, dotting the countryside with cheer.”

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

“Baubles and Ribbon” Up For Auction

Debbie — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:19:33 +0000

(Click to Enlarge)

3x3in. Oil on linen/panel

You can bid on this painting here.

You can also buy prints of this painting here.

I have just added “Baubles and Ribbon to the Daily Paintworks Auction website. It was painted from life in my studio. I love painting these little miniatures, especially these shiny festive baubles. This would make a unique Christmas gift for someone special. Please click on the link above if you are interested in bidding on this painting. I would be grateful if you could click the Like button on the auction page. Thanks!

Thanks so much for looking!

Wishing you a Wonderful Day!

Warmly,

Debbie

Spring Dance

Debbie — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 22:51:16 +0000

Spring Dance

The garden centers have opened and an array of color notes strum through the aisles. After a long winter, bursting blooms tantalize one, begging to be brought home. They sing of long summer days and gardens dancing with color.

Although it is a cold rainy day, they imbue my studio with cheer as they smile back. I promise to give them eternal life as they become immortalized in paint. Their lighthearted nature reminds me of children absorbed in play; where only the present moment bears meaning.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

It was a cold and rainy spring day when I decided to take things into my own hands and bring spring cheer into my studio. So off I went to the garden centers on a treasure hunt for brilliant color and smiling blooms. As I shivered picking out my subjects, I smiled at the thought of being in my nice warm studio painting these cheerful blooms. I was on a mission to ignore this cold spring and make my own music!

What a joy it was to share a space with these special blooms. I love pansies. They have such smiling sweet faces and immediately make me happy. As music surrounded my studio and rain fell outside, I travelled to a joyful place while paint flowed.

I hope you also get to experience some quiet times surrounded by the cheerfulness of Spring blooms! Do you find pleasure in new blooms? What are some of your favorite flowers?

Happy Spring Everyone!

Warmly,

Debbie

Feel free to email me anytime. You may also sign up for my e-newsletter on the side bar of this page under Mailing List.

Welcoming Spring!

Debbie — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:40:13 +0000

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Welcoming Spring!

With its softness and gentle nature a lone tulip welcomes Spring!

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

When I spotted these pretty and delicate pink tulips in the grocery store, they made me smile. It has been a long winter and they seemed to sing a song of Spring’s return. I loved both their color and layers. When examined closely, it is amazing to see all the subtle color that exists in their petals. Sometimes, it is easy to overlook small details that may bring pleasure in our fast paced world! Cheers to Spring’s return and days of painting outside again!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. Photography by my son Brett. I love his artistic interpretation of my set up!

Gifts From Nature

Debbie — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 17:06:03 +0000

Gifts From Nature

Gifts from nature drift softly down from the blue above. It is only with stealth awareness that they can be retrieved. Relish in small occurrences for they are what bring joyful moments.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Although a noisy and aggressive bird, the blue jay is undeniably beautiful! Its rich blue feathers sparkle in the sunlight and can be detected far in the distance.

I had been longing to paint these striking feathers for awhile and had forgotten that my dad had given me these some time ago. You can imagine my delight when I recently discovered them tucked away in a drawer.

Nature quietly offers daily gifts, but if one is in a state of unawareness they often go undetected. It is with heightened awareness that nature’s gifts bring pleasurable moments in time.

I would love to hear your stories about the gifts nature has bestowed on you.

Warmly,

Debbie

Fine Art Readings!

Debbie — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 20:31:24 +0000

Fine Art Readings

I thought I would try something new today using a new program called Cinch. It allows me to add audio to my written reflections that accompany my original paintings. I have been wanting to do this for awhile now and Cinch allowed me to do it quite easily.

I picked “Snowballs in Summer” as my first painting to accompany with an audio reading. I hope you enjoy it and that it adds a new dimension to my work online.

If you do enjoy this format please share by clicking a social media button above.

Thanks for listening!

Warmly,

Debbie

A Sweet Break

Debbie — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 21:32:01 +0000

A Sweet Break

As life whirls busily around us, it is easy to get caught up in its fury. It is easy to forget the calmness necessary for balance. Small pleasures in life such as sweet fruit and a favorite hot beverage often add comfort and pay dividends to the human spirit.

Remembering to sit quietly, oblivious from life’s noise, brings a sweetness needed for balance and grace. It is only then that one can better face the whirl of life as the memory of a sweet break prevails.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

My mom gave me this Emile Henry mug a while ago. I love its deep color and glaze. It reminds me a bit of a crystal ball as it mirrors objects surrounding it. I thought the apricots would further accentuate the rich color of the mug. Of course I continue to be captivated by ribbon and its continuous flow.

There is nothing more satisfying than a small treat and a interlude from life’s harried pace. For me a nice steaming cup of tea, helps me escape from all the to do lists and tribulations in life. It is nice to just sit back and dream for a short while and enjoy a sweet moment in time.

Wishing you sweet breaks along life’s journey where you can breath a lovely sigh of contentment.

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. If you enjoyed this post, please press the Like button at the top of the page. Thanks!

Baubles and Ribbon

Debbie — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 00:41:34 +0000

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Baubles and Ribbon

“Baubles and ribbon return, adding glitz to a festive holiday season.”

by Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Free Flow

Debbie — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 01:40:15 +0000

Free Flow

An English Ivy depicts a sense of free spiritedness as it drifts and spirals about. A sense of freedom and lightheartedness is felt as it happily cascades downward; twisting and turning without worry.

Children often exhibit this sense of complete freedom as they dance about in play. Their only concern is to enjoy the moment. Often as adults this sense of freedom becomes elusive as responsibilities take precedence. It is important to release ones worries and let a child like spirit prevail. Allowing oneself a moment of pure freedom of thought and spirit- if only for a short while.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Baubles and Ribbon

Debbie — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 20:17:41 +0000

Baubles and Ribbon

“Baubles and ribbon return, adding glitz to a festive holiday season.”

by Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

I know I am early, but Christmas always seems to creep up on me! I decided to paint a miniature painting that I might use for my Christmas cards etc. This one took much longer than I expected, but I do find that to be the case with my miniature work.

As I was digging through my seasonal ornaments it occurred to me how comforting it is to find old favorites and the memories they stimulate. I smiled as I thought how funny it is that they appear yearly and go forgotten for most of the year. After many months they are lovingly retrieved to add sparkle to our festive celebrations.

I continue to be mesmerized with anything shiny. My mother says I am just like a crow! I love anything reflective, so it is with great joy that I add these qualities to many of my paintings. The miniature paintings especially lend themselves well to reflective subject matter as I often paint them sitting on glass.

Wishing you much joy and fond memories as you rummage through your yearly decorations in preparation for your upcoming Christmas celebrations!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. I have also included a recent miniature painting that I finished for autumn in case you missed it.

Snowballs in Summer

Debbie — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 01:41:48 +0000

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

Small Gems

Debbie — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:21:33 +0000

Photo album customized with Smilebox

Happy Canada Day all my Canadian Friends! Happy Summer Everyone Else!

I just made this fun video using Smilebox. I hope you enjoy it! Now that school is out for the summer I am excited to get knee deep in paint and enjoy some lazy summer days! Stay tuned for revisions in my website coming soon!

Thanks for watching!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. The video doesn’t seem to have an automatic stop, so you have to exit by pressing the x in the right hand corner.

Unexpected Surprises

Debbie — Sun, 16 May 2010 23:54:43 +0000

Unexpected Surprises

Several years ago I planted a little shrub called a Flowering Quince. I was new to perennial gardening and really had no idea what I was buying. Well I am so happy I decided to give this little plant a home in my front garden. It really didn’t amount to much for a few years and then began to flourish.

Initially it started with a few pretty red flowers that bloomed close to the bottom of the plant. It is now a thriving showy shrub that displays an abundance of beautiful red cupped flowers in early spring. Thus, it became my inspiration and subject for my newest miniature painting.

This Flowering Quince took on a life of its own and matured into a gorgeous shrub! It exceeded any expectations I had for it. Life is sometimes filled with surprises when you least expect them. Recognizing they have arrived is sometimes a subtle occurrence. Hoping that life brings you sweet, joyful surprises!

Warmly,

Debbie

Sheerly Pink

Debbie — Mon, 03 May 2010 00:12:05 +0000

Sheerly Pink

Many years ago, my mom gave me this delicate handkerchief along with a few others. They had belonged to her when she was really young. I love the sheerness of this one and its soft touch of pink. The drama of course is in its raised embroidered flowers and their decorative appeal.

I have always loved embroidery work and remember when I was a teenager embroidering pillowcases for Christmas gifts to give to family members. It was always so much fun going to the department store to pick out iron on patterns. I also remember being in awe at all the colors of thread that could be bought for one’s project.

I am so happy my mom knew I would love this delicate handkerchief. It has brought back special creative memories while being painted. I truly believe that our creative passion starts at a young age and is often overshadowed with life’s responsibilities in adulthood. Awakening our creativity as adults helps alleviate the stresses of life and brings much joy! Let your creative spirit sing–you won’t be disappointed!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. I would love to hear your stories about any childhood passions. Did they follow you into adult life?

Violas and Sweet Berries

Debbie — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 01:39:06 +0000

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

Rolling Along

Debbie — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 20:51:16 +0000

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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!

New Spring Arrivals!

Debbie — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 22:41:27 +0000

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!/ Haiti Relief Auction

Debbie — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 17:54:43 +0000

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!

Christmas Wonderment 2009

Debbie — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:36:01 +0000

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!

Unexpected Press

Debbie — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 02:28:01 +0000

On Thursday I was received an unexpected surprise. On the way to a medical appointment with my family we stopped at the A&W in Truro for breakfast.

The Chronicle Herald (A local newspaper in Nova Scotia)was strewn on top of one of the tables. I suddenly had an urge to check the paper–something I don’t usually do at this location. Suddenly in the Arts and Life section of the paper I found a bit of press about my participation in the Twitter 140 show. It was a delightful and unexpected surprise!

I had sent in a Press Release about the show a while ago and really didn’t know if it would get any coverage. Special thanks to Bob Howse-Editor-In-Chief and Margaret MacKay-Editor of Arts and Life for coverage in the Chronicle Herald.

Here is the published article in the Arts and Life Tattler section:

TATTLER

Thu. Sept 24 – 4:46 AM

New Glasgow artist among those all a-Twitter

New Glasgow artist Debbie Lamey-MacDonald is participating in The TWITTER 140 Art Exhibition in Flagstaff, Arizona.

The TWITTER 140 show, on view to Sept. 30, is a group exhibition featuring a collection of work by 24 international artists from the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia who use Twitter, the social networking service. The work reflects the technology and use of Twitter.

Since Twitter messages have to be 140 characters or less, all works in the show are 140 square inches or less. Each artist’s statement and bio contains 140 characters or less. Lamey-MacDonald’s still lifes are called Tweet Me, of a little blue glass bird, and Between the Layers, of orange flowers.

You can also read more about the show in an earlier blog post: http://www.lameymacdonald.com/twitter-140-art-show/

Twitter 140: Art Show

Debbie — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 01:46:45 +0000

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!

Within The Layers

Debbie — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:24:03 +0000

I spotted this little pot of begonias in the grocery store one day. They reminded me of warmer days and gardening. In the summer they have been known to add a burst of bright color to any shade garden. Their interesting shaped leaves are an added bonus to their song of color.

Like roses, they boast many intricate layers of petals. Painting these layers can be tricky. I had to make sure they didn’t take a “pasted on” appearance. Keeping some layers subtle and others more dominate helped create a more natural display.

As I painted, it occurred to me that their multi-faceted layers were much like individuals in general. As relationships with others grow, you begin to experience more layers of their personalities. The best layers are the delicate ones inside where defenses have been dropped and their true personalities experienced.

Four Corners

Debbie — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 21:20:53 +0000

This painting evolved as I went along. Initially, when I began to paint it, I was just going to do quick sketches. Then inspiration took over and I really got into more detail. I loved playing with contrasting values and trying to get the fruit to “shine”.

It stayed in development mode in between other work. I would return to each corner over different time periods. Each corner was painted alla prima (all in one session). I was really amazed that I actually started it in the fall! It was a cheerful and artistically stimulating piece to work on.

It always intrigues me how each piece of fruit is so uniquely different. Much like the human experience. Although very similar in so many ways, we each have a unique gift to offer. With the business of life, it is so easy to overlook these subtleties unless we take the time to observe and appreciate.

Off to have some fruit salad! Remember a fruit a day keeps the doctor away!

Iris Harmony/Visit to Florist Shop

Debbie — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 21:37:23 +0000

Yearning for the lushness of spring and summer, I once again took a visit to my local florist. Sometimes when I go I have a flower or color in mind that I feel like painting. This time my urge was the color purple. I love a blue-purple; it seems so regal and rich.

While in the cold florists fridge, I browsed around with a worker. She was so helpful and pulled out various types of flowers for me to consider. I thought the poor worker was going to freeze if I didn’t make up my mind in a more timely manner. Finally, I spotted a small pot of mini irises calling to me from a small ledge in the fridge. They were perfect! Perky and jolly -just what I needed in this drab March weather! We were both happy as we exited the florist fridge!

Once home I stained my canvas with a wash of cadium yellow medium. Then once a quick sketch was in place and the still life set up with its spot light; my painting frenzy began. I worked alla prima all in one session to complete this small painting.

I thought its name “Iris Harmony” was so befitting to its allure. Being in nature with its timelessness and lush surroundings always seems to bring harmony to me. What creates harmony for you? I believe listening and finding something that creates this emotion is crucial for one’s sense of well being. Remember to take time to create a sense of harmony in your life today. You will be thankful you did!

Teatime

Debbie — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 16:41:05 +0000

This is a special little teacup my brother gave me awhile ago. I always had intentions of using it as subject matter and finally got around to painting it. I was drawn to its cheerful motifs and funnel shape.

It evokes an emotional response as I recall soothing cups of tea in relaxation or social events. The kettle boils frequently at our house as we prepare our ritualistic tea! It is a common thread that brings people together over conversation or to just sit quietly in thought.

Even when I go out en plein air, I always take my thermos of tea. After I finish painting I sit back with my cup of tea and begin writing my reflection that accompanies my work. The tea cup I take is often one that has special meaning for me and I call it my location cup. It is a personal time I relish and while there I often gain insights to life’s ever changing journey.

There is much history that surrounds the making of tea. Did you know tea was discovered accidentally in 2737BC by Chinese Emperor Shen Nung? He discovered tea leaves that had fallen in a pot of boiling water presented a pleasing aroma. Hence, the beginning of brewed tea!

Are you a tea drinker? Does tea drinking evoke any memories or emotional responses in you? I would love to hear your stories!

Tea is steeping; off to have a cuppa!

P.S. You can find more tea facts at: http://www.crazyfortea.com/strangeteafacts.html

With Grace

Debbie — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:29:36 +0000

Every now and then a painting takes you on some twists and turns. “With Grace” was such a painting. In the beginning these larger carnations were vibrant and bursting with life. I happily sketched them on canvas and blocked in my values and then life got in the way and I did not get back to them as soon as I wanted.

Upon my return to my easel a dreaded event occurred! My subject was now wilting and did not look so full of life! Oh dear, what was I to do now? My favorite and usually only way to paint is from life. Luckily, my subject’s values had been blocked in and they were also fresh in my mind’s eye. A few digitals added to my rescue as well. I was off and painting again with determination to capture my subject at its best!

My trials and tribulations were not over yet. When I first began my still life I had a narrow strip of ribbon tied around the stems of the carnations. After painting the ribbon in and fiddling with it a bit, I soon realized that it just looked too contrived. So off came the ribbon and on I went to restore the stems and background back to a pleasing presentation.

Although I went through some trials with this painting, I still enjoyed painting it. A nice moment occurred when I discovered a new background color. I used a greenish umber, paynes grey, alizarin crimson with touches of white and naples yellow. Together they turned out to be the color I had envisioned in my mind’s eye before I began painting “With Grace”.

As an artist one must remember to make adjustments to works in progress. Having the courage to delete what is not working is better than living with a mediocre piece of work. Likewise, life can be somewhat the same as this experience. Sometimes, we just have to reajust our position or have the courage to make a change where necessary. That is what makes life interesting; change and our ability to adjust to it.

Gerber Daisy Brings Vibrancy

Debbie — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 01:03:04 +0000

During this time of year I begin to miss nature’s vibrant vegetation and getting out on my plein air excursions. So I decided to visit our local florist to consume the vibrant colors and aliveness of their ongoing supply of flowers. In the dead of winter they seemed to energize one; leading to visions of spring blooms and long summer days. While in the cold florist fridge I spotted this cheerful Gerber Daisy and could just envision it on a small canvas of its own. So a friend it became as I toted it home so it would become everlasting in bright paint.

It was fun to paint and was painted alla prima ( wet into wet all in one session). I wanted to capture its vibrancy, thus contrast in lighting was essential. Although a simple subject, it does have a presence of joy and lightheartedness. So if you are feeling a little deprived of flora and fauna why not visit your local florist and pick up a few fresh flowers to brighten your day!

What is your favorite flower? Do you plant it, or does it just grow wild in nature?

Stay tuned for a new floral to come, as I also picked up more flowers besides Miss Gerber during my visit. Wishing you a sunny day!

New Series/ Outlook for 2009

Debbie — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 19:01:58 +0000

Happy New Year Everyone!

I have started 2009 by launching a new “Minimalist Series” of small works. They will be a part of my” Bookshelf Collection” on my website http://www.lameymacdonald.com This series will run no larger than 6x8in. They are so enjoyable to paint and at the same time hone my skills. An abundance of ideas for these small works are bubbling over in my head! I have decided to add short anecdotes with each one- no need to write lengthy reflections.

All works continue to be painted from life. The works are painted alla prima (wet into wet) and usually in one session. The first painting is titled “Blooms in Winter” ; second is “A New Angle”. Hope they add a smile to your day!

Thoughts and Plans for 2009

It is always great to take a few moments to jot down future plans and ideas. Putting thoughts to paper always seems to bring about greater clarity and focus. I am excited about bringing these new ideas or plans into action during 2009. Hopefully, by 2010 some will have come to fruition.

Create a greater online presence.
Revise my current website-adding e-commerce, adding audio to some of my reflections and other features. http://lameymacdonald.com
Continuing with and revising my Blog. http://lameymacdonald.com/blog
My most exciting idea : to create a separate and totally new Website and Concept. I have been scheming since the summer of ’08 on this idea. I even registered the domain name already. My new site will have a Special Section for local clientele, For Everyone it will have: Collections of work for sale, By products from my artwork and an educational component as well. I will need my technologically minded son to pull this one off! I’ll let you know how we are doing on my blog-lots of behind the scenes activity so far!
Introduce and continue my “Minimalist Series” as well as my “Bookshelf Collection”.
Begin working on another Series of paintings of Powell’s Point Park. I posted some of my studies on an earlier blog post titled “Powel Point Park”
Explore the idea of producing a small coffee table book. I found a neat site that provided the software to actually assemble your book online at www.blurb.com I just need to make sure the digital images will be of good quality.
Remain open to any new experiences, ideas etc. that come along in 2009!
Lastly and most importantly, to continue learning as an artist; always striving to create the best work I can, thus providing works of quality for others.

Why not take a few moments of your own to jot down your ideas or thoughts for 2009. It really helps to refocus and get a grasp on what is most important to you. Let’s make 2009 the best yet!

Merry Xmas Everyone!

Debbie — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:38:48 +0000

Finally getting my Xmas painting posted. All I need to do now is run off photos. Then cutting and pasting begins. I give these cards out for gifts to family, friends etc. Often the people receiving them frame them as keepsakes. I thought that was such a neat idea and one I had not thought of when I started giving them a number of years ago. I really enjoy giving them out and feel it’s my small way of sharing with everyone. Adding a little sparkle to their day makes me happy!

I am now scheming again and am thinking about painting a minimalist series of small paintings. Some thoughts were orange wedges, garlic etc. one or two items, but adding drama with color, texture and lighting. Hmmm we ‘ll see. Hope to start one soon.

I want to take a moment though to wish everyone a Very Happy Holiday Season! Special thanks for visiting my site and following my blog! I always love receiving your comments. Thanks!

Merry Christmas!

The following is my reflection for inside my Xmas cards from the painting above:

Simplicity

For years many beliefs have surrounded the holly plant. Some believed it to be a symbol of peace and harmony.

While others believed it possessed a mystical quality. It has adorned many a household with its fresh glossy leaves and vibrant red berries.

Whatever the belief, its simplicity speaks of Christmas’ true meaning. It speaks of the real magic of Christmas when one attains a heightened awareness of humanity; an awareness of our ability to lift another’s spirit. The true meaning of Christmas lies within the human spirit. May this heightened sense touch one and all and sustain us throughout the coming year.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Christmas 2008

New Still Life/Xmas in the Works

Debbie — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 18:59:46 +0000

It’s been awhile since my last post! This is such a busy time of year!! I recently finished a new studio painting–just a small one, but fun to do. It measures 9in.x 7in. I set the still life up in my studio and then painted from life. I loved, loved painting the design on the pottery vase! Really fun to paint! I used an old varnished water bed board to set my still life on. It made for a nice shiny surface so that I could paint great reflections from my set up. I have to come up with a title for this one yet though. I have posted my set up and the completed painting.

Now that this still life is complete I dismantled it and now have a new set up for my Xmas painting. I will make cards off it when it is complete. Paint has to really get flying as my days are getting numbered! I will post my set up and Xmas painting when complete.