January 10, 2010

My trip to Venice Italy was a great one. Venice is such a beautiful city and unique onto its self. The fact that there are no cars, and as far as I could see not even a bicycle anywhere makes it a very interesting place to paint.

I was able to paint two or three times a day. Lots of walking, boat riding and walking some more. I wound my way around maze like streets while following a local map, every corner held the promise of a beautiful scene.

The markets were colorful and busy, as were the shopping areas. At the end of the day we would stop for a glass of something at a local cafe. Joining the local Venetians we sat outside sipping our wine or cocktails. There is a gentle pace on this island, people seem to take their time and enjoy life, the ultimate La dolce vita!

I arrived home from Italy just before the holidays and aside from a few family visits and some festive holiday parties I've been in the studio painting.

I will be having a one man show at the end of the month and my focus right now is to finish paintings for that show. I'm planning  a small painting trip to some warm place next month. Although the winters in New England are beautiful they can also start to feel long, so this trip will give me a chance to mix up some nice greens that don't get used too much in the winter in New Hampshire.

I have a couple of portrait commissions that I will be working on through the rest of the winter. Before we know it I'll be picking flowers out of the garden again and working on still life painting.

May you find beauty in all that you see!

Regards,

John C