Alex

(Mixed media) Custom brushes; acrylic, pen/ink airbrush and digital. It's been an absolute pleasure to be able to bring back a memory of this special soul. This is the second time, that I was given this opportunity. We don't know what our futures hold for us, so enjoy every little moment. Alex is an example of how fast life passes us. After a long battle with cancer, he survived. Sadly, an infection grew in his lungs and he was unable to breath. Even though he's not here with his faimly and fiance (physically), he still lives in their memories.

Kristin and Alex

Mixed media. This picture was a great memory that I got to capture. It's absolutely heartbreaking to paint such amazing people who've passed away so young! In their case Alex suffered from cancer, and beautiful Kristin never left his side. Words cannot express how meaningful this was, for me to be able to give a lasting moment that will be carried on throughout her life, now that he's gone. I can't imagine how much pain Kristin experienced throughout his fight. I feel like by being able to give this to her, I was able to connect with Alex on a personal level. I'm glad that I could convey life again through a soul that should never be forgotten.

It's Raining, It's Pouring...

It's a perfect rainy day for getting caught up with old projects. I started this one last year, and due to having some wrist troubles, I wasn't able to finish. Finally, my wrist is starting to get stronger and the heat of spring is turning into a hot summer, which eases the pain. This one is a bigger piece. So, I need to find a place to hang it. I always hang my ocean, water reflection, paintings in our bathrooms. Seems appropriate, right? It's always nice to wash your hands while enjoying a tropical beach. But, this one is a little too contemporary. I am thinking it should be in a place that's made for a funky piece. I guess we'll see. For now I have to paint in the details, and finish the shadows. Wish me luck!

Desolate

"Desolate" painted in Sketchbook, with airbrush, pen, marker, and other custom brushes. Special thanks to my model Rebecca. Everyone is waiting for something.. someone... anything, really. I painted this delicately, to feel as though she was basking in the warm glow of the sun. She's was apprehensive, but has accepted peace in her solitude. It's not about giving up the wait. It's about patience. Whenever the time is right, she'll get what she's looking for. "Time can change us, but we can't change time."

Riding In The Stars

Riding in the Stars, is a representation of my unknown paths in life. A "faint" lit lantern is the only light to show what is in my path. The glow of the moon only casts behind her, indicating the clarity of the past. I painted the shadows on her face to conceal her thoughts, like I would myself. The horse is seen alert and knowing the journey ahead. Sometimes the mysteries of life are only learned by what's held in the past.

Airbrush/pencil/ink/sketchbook pro

Children's Book Updates

I've been taking a break from my children's book. I have good news though. After years of being friends with a girl from childhood, she has came back into my life again. Her poetry is beautiful. And, I am so proud of her for having them published. It would be so special to have her write poems for my paintings. This is a possible outcome. It would also be a very special bonding experience.

Our childhood took place in our old neighborhood. She lived at the top of our road. We ran around our yards, caught fireflies, swam in my grandmother's pool, and caught frogs. There were plenty of croaking green, slimy, tree frogs and sometimes toads.

The highlight of our week was seeing tiny frog eggs hatch into tadpoles. It was so amazing to watch little lives transition into something bigger. After a week or so when the tadpoles developed eggs, we counted how many survived. We knew when their legs grew, it was time to look in the tree's for frogs.

At night we would grab flashlights and shine them under tree limbs, up in the branches, and near the water. Once we saw the flash in their big golden eyes, they would JUMP! We both laughed, and hopped in excitement as if we were frog's ourselves. Frogs have a big significance in our childhood and it would be nice to share that with children who are growing up like we did.

Raven Night

"Raven Night" painted with airbrush, pen, in Sketchbook pro. I've been doing a lot of night paintings. I am enjoying the shadows, contrasts and glow. It's been good practice. Soothing and melodic music has been inspiring me. Katatonia "The Fall of Hearts" has been on repeat, since it has come out a week ago. Of course the cover is of a raven, which just furthers my inspiration.