INSPIRATION in the sky

I debated with myself about doing this, but if you know me, you know that a very large part of what I consider to be "my artwork" are the creations I do for my church every Sunday in putting scripture slides up on the songscreen. (So you may be seeing them on my blog occasionally).

This morning I awoke to the most beautiful sunrise (photographed here) and then, lo and behold, if this wasn't in my daily scripture reading. The two just begged to be paired together!

Oh, I do LOVE clouds! I look up at the sky and ask God, "Please teach me how to paint like that!" One of the best things about returning to my painting is that my eyes have become so much more in tune to God's glory all around me. This inspiration is invaluable as an artist and I thought you might enjoy the extra inspiration today too. Have a blessed day!

Nearby - Mama Horse and her Foal

I entitled this painting "Nearby" as you might wonder what the foal is looking at in the distance. It is actually a study for a much larger painting which will contain this same image within it. So stay tuned, and hopefully in a few weeks you will see "the rest of the painting" and what this little one is looking at. Credit for this image goes to my sister who got out of the car on a recent trip to take photos for me...and did a wonderful job, I might add.

I'm enjoying painting horses as it reminds me of how much I loved them as a girl growing up. I spent many a day sketching horses. Horses are hard!!! I remember being so discouraged. I guess the hard work paid off, but I think painting horses is easier than drawing horses.

This 8"x10" oil on canvas is now available for $135 + S/H. Contact me at fineartbymj@aol.com.

Mission San Juan Capistrano - View From the Plaza

Known as "the Jewel of Missions," Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded in 1776.

With a few hours to spare one morning, I took myself over to the mission to walk through the gardens. I had visited the Mission San Juan Capistrano when I was a teenager, but had forgotten how beautiful the surroundings and gardens were. I like this view because it encompasses the bell campanario, the statue of Father Junipero Serra with an Indian boy, and the ruins of the church which are "believed to be the oldest standing building in California." What a delight for anyone who has the opportunity to visit these well-cared for, peaceful surroundings. Especially on a beautiful sun-drenched California day.

"Mission San Juan Capistrano - From the Plaza" 5"x7" oil on canvas, gallery-wrapped