Three on Porch

Three on Porch
20"x16"

Your kids leave home, and they come back, and they leave home, and they come back. And even though they are much taller and faster and sharper than you now, they still have a grain or seed of that child who lived with you long ago.

painting group

On Thursday evenings I host a painting group in my home. People arrive at 7:00 and work until 9:30.  They are at all levels, but everyone has a playfulness to their work. I feel so energized by their creativity, and they treat me like a queen. If you would like to join us, send me an e-mail.

Welcome with Stairs

Welcome with Stairs
36"x36"
The Boonville Hotel has a beautiful stairway by its front door, which was the initial inspiration for this painting. But what then? I painted a party in the next room, kids running down the stairs, various women coming in the front door, but settled for something quieter. Thank you, Johnny, for letting me come and be inspired at your inn.

Dance Party #2

Dance Party #2, triptych
12"x42"
I used to wonder when Chagal would have dates on his paintings that would span multiple years. Maybe he kept pulling old paintings out of the racks to push them farther. I love doing that. Sometimes I end up completely repainting them, which makes my family angry. On this painting the older version is on the bottom, the newer one on top.

Mountain Path

Mountain Path
16"x20"
I went to Yosemite a couple weeks ago. I was flooded with memories of a trip there in college with friends. They taught me I'm never alone. 

Quite Safe, Quite

Quite Safe, Quite
20"x16"
A very personal painting, done to remind myself that I am safe and loved. A valentine.

Dancers, Red Room

Dancers, Red Room

One night after a potluck dinner, we pushed the table to the side of the room, and everyone danced. I scooted around and shot photos, one of which became this painting.

Come a Long Way

Come a Long Way

This painting went through several evolutions--a little house at night to a broken down car on the side of the road to me being carried safely. At each stage I am totally present on the journey, coming to a place of hope.
One of my first painting teachers told his class, "If you're going into painting as therapy, forget it!" I think he was wrong.

Arms Akimbo

Arms Akimbo
19"x11"

I have a new gallery! If you are in the Elmwood district of Berkeley, please drop by The Collector at 2950 College Ave. My paintings will be there until March 2, and we're having an opening on Feb 13 from 6:00 to 8:00. If you'd like to meet up for an early dinner beforehand down the street at Shen Hua, let me know. I'd love to see you.

Hard Shoes to Fill

Hard Shoes to Fill

 

 

 

 

My dad had a ritual of always polishing his shoes on Saturday mornings. I remember him teaching my older brother how to use the buffer and rags.
A few weeks ago, my brothers and I packed up Dad's bedroom. In the back of his closet was a pair of reddish brown wingtips, worn at the heel. I brought them home and did this painting of them. He is here, but he's not. So intimate and personal. An emptiness remains.
Dad died on Thanksgiving Day. After leaving the hospital, my brothers and family came here for dinner. I invited my older brother to sit in Dad's place at the head of the table, but he just covered his face with his hands and refused.