I can now announce that the Van Buren Conservation Board approved the use of my painting shown here as next years cover for our 3 fold flyer on Bentonsport's businesses, B & B's and Campsite/Trails.
Soft Pastel on LaCarte Sanded paper. I donated the original to the DNR. It's size is 25"x 11.5"
Businesses shown here are all along Hawk Dr., across from Riverside Park and the Des Moines River. The building at the top is known as the "Odd Fellows Hall". The second floor is set up as a museum showcasing ritual memorabilia and meeting room of an "Odd Fellows" chapter. The organization is much like the Masons. NEW IN 2016 the main floor will house the business
"Paddle, Pedal, and More". A kayak, bicycle rental and gift shop. Odd Fellows Hall is located near the boat ramp to the Des Moines River. The business owns a pontoon boat in which they plan to give tours on the river.
Next is the front of "Iron & Lace"store. Below it is a street scene - left to right - Iron & Lace, The Quilt Shop, Greef General Store, and Artisan Coop. Below it is "Forever Sweets Creations" fudge and sandwich shop.
All the businesses are closed now (except for the B & B's in town.....they're open year around). The retail shops are open Mid April through October during the week and both Saturday and Sunday. November and December All retail businesses are open Weekends Only.
In 2016, I plan to have the "Parlor Room Studio" (located in the Herman Greef House shown above) open to the public most Saturdays 10am to 4pm April through November when there isn't a workshop going on.
My dear friend
MaryBeth Heikes, who is an established nationally known watercolorist, is planning to be in the studio two Saturdays a month giving demonstrations.
Here's a picture of MaryBeth working on a collage in the studio.