"Make Lemonade"

"Make Lemonade" - Driving home, after a long day of work, I was reflecting on the lives of some of the children I work with (I am a school social worker). Knowing some of the stuggles my students deal with on a day to day basis, I am often amazed by their resiliency and how well they can function at school. The old adage "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade" came to mind. This way of thinking and living our lives not only leads to a more satisfying life, but I am learning it is also a survival strategy.
Notice the handle of the lemonade pitcher wraps around to the right side of the canvas!

For sale: $35 (sold)

11x14

"Bear Down"

"Bear Down" - About a year ago at this time I told my family I needed a hobby, something other than cooking. You see, Chad loves football and I love spending time with Chad. However, sitting in front of the TV for over an hour is not my idea of a good time. So I guess you can say Chad's love of football has inspired me to do this painting. Last weekend when we were talking about football, he said, "Remember when you thought you were a Packers fan?" Explanation: I lived with my girlfriend Jackie and her parents in Hudson, Wisconsin my 8th semester in college. Her folks accepted me under the condition that I share their love of the Packers. Perhaps this painting is evidence of my conversion?

For Sale: $40

16x20

"Splish Splash"

"Splish Splash" - It seems like a lot of people are having babies these days. Friends, colleagues, relatives. I love it! This painting is for you:) Or, perhaps there are no little ones in your life. Anyone can use a rubber ducky in the bathroom.

For Sale: $40

11x14

"Grace"

"Grace" - This painting is in honor of my mom. As most of you know, she had a stroke on Monday. I think I can speak for my family when I say, it was one of the most horrifying and heartbreaking days of our lives. As I gazed at my mom, who was unconscious and unable to breathe on her own, I thought about her resilience in some past obstacles she has overcome. I thought about her goofy personality and how unbearable life would be without her. Over the course of the day, I felt waves of hope and waves of total despair. She is home now and is making exceptional progress. It looks like she will make a full recovery. Some attribute her healing to the grace of God, some to modern medicine and some to her resiliency and feisty personality. I believe it is all of the above. This painting honors her and the beauty, strength, resiliency and love she brings to the world.
For sale: $50 (Sold)
2 - 4x12 (museum style canvas)
*Can be hung horizontal or vertical*

"Simplicity"

"Simplicity" - My mom hates dandelions. I love them. She calls them weeds. I call them flowers. What is the difference, I wonder? The debate goes on... Regardless, we have all enjoyed the simplicity of blowing on a ripe dandelion and watching the seeds float through the air. Simple times. Fond memories.

For Sale: $20 (Sold)

8x10

"Chicago Skyline"

"Chicago Skyline" - Chad and I have a great view of the skyline from our roof-top deck. I have been wanting to paint on the roof and experience the solitude of the space, while taking in the view and fresh air. Since I paint with acrylics, I am a little worried the paint would dry too fast, making the job more difficult. Anyways, this piece was not created on our roof and in fact, it is not even the view from our roof. The photograph was taken from the lake at night time.

For Sale: $50 (Sold)

8x24

"Seasons of the Midwest"

"Seasons of the Midwest" - The inspiration from this series came as I was thinking about my summer break coming to an end. I momentarily became depressed knowing that going back to work for the new school year meant the bright sunny days of summer were coming to and end. I love summer, but there is something to love about every season. When we celebrate the beauty of each season, we get more out of life.

For Sale: $30

4 - 2x2 (comes w/ easel)

"Love Birds"

"Love birds" - I gave the first one I made to my fiancé as a birthday gift. So many people liked it, that I figured I would make another. It's hard to tell here, but there are hints of slate blue, purple and white in the piece.

For Sale: $45 (Sold)

12x24

"Pursual"

"Pursual" - This is my first piece. The core of the painting is full of energy which spirals out into the delicate glow of the yellow. The quote is written in twigs, which I gathered in my parent's backyard a couple years ago. They had fallen from a tree I grew up with.

SOLD

16x20