Evening Storm

12"x20" - soft pastel on wallis paper (mounted)

Here's another "skyscape" that I plan to take to Mid Summers Art Faire in Quincy, IL June 22-24th.  I'm planning to present several skyscape works, along with floral still life pastel paintings, during this show.  I'll have some of my giclee reproductions of earlier works too.  These will include the "Element" series and other favorite images.

So far, this will be the only outdoor show I attend this year.  To visit with me and purchase originals and prints, please stop by some Saturday at the Lammert Art Studio in Bentonsport, IA.   I have students works for sale and a few metal items created by Mika Sorak.

Now.....back to work. Commissioned paintings, new works for galleries, and plein air painting are filling up the daylight hours for me.  I manage to slip in a little bit of time to garden. I have to admit, I like staying busy!

View of Bridge over the Des Moines river

Click on image to enlarge
Oil - 6"x6"

A small group of us have started painting "Plein Air" on Friday and/or Sunday mornings in Bentonsport, IA.  This painting is the 2nd I've created during these paint outs.

There is endless subject matter in this quiet community and the experience of painting on location is sooooooooo energizing.  Each time spent at the easel in the garden has been uplifting with  an orchestra of birdsong and the sound of gentle movement of water from the river. 

For those wanting to share the experience, come join us on Friday and Sunday mornings, 8am to 10 am.  Artists are welcomed to set up anytime around the business district of Bentonsport.  The Rose Garden is located in the Riverside Park just across the main businesses along Hawk street.

Betty's Passion

Click on image to enlarge
17"x13" Soft Pastel on Wallis paper

This is the second image I've created from a series of photos I took of  Betty working one day.  She loves pottery ....it, along with gardening, are true passions of hers.  Betty and Bill Printy own the Iron & Lace Store in Bentonsport, IA.   Betty is always giving demonstrations on the wheel for small groups interested in the craft.  Amazingly enough, she's shy when having her picture taken doing it.

This painting was commissioned by Betty's oldest daughter and given to her daughter for her 21st birthday.  I'm ever grateful for being a part of such joyous gifts of love.

Late in the Day

23"x17"  Pastel on Wallis paper

Here's a sunset picture I took one evening last summer.  This is a typical gravel road in Davis County, IA.  I was awe struck by the beautiful colors in the sky.  Iowa sunsets can be so inspiring  and change so quickly.

I'll be painting several different versions of this scene. All created from time lapse photos.

Lace in Full Bloom

Click on image to enlarge

14"x18"  Soft Pastel on Wallis paper

Here's the first of many to come pastel paintings of Bentonsport, IA.  I've been taking a lot of pictures of the area .... capturing not only different weather conditions, but the unique seasons as well.  I'm excited to create....Create....CREATE!