In the middle of winter when I think the snow and cold will never end I check the Lakeside calendar for the dates of the Plein Air Painting Festival.  I mark those dates on my calendar, and I look forward to that one little weekend for months. I remember the first time I took some paint and canvases out to the side of Lake Erie.  I completely felt like I did not belong.  If you are familiar with the more traditional approach to plein air there is a very specific style, and my art does not fit the bill!  Fast forward about 7 summers and so much about my life has changed.  This year I still felt a bit fraudulent, but I approached the experience so much more on my terms.  (I suppose that's how I could approach all of life, but. . .) I didn't participate on Friday as I had planned, but I did paint in my studio.  I stepped out of my comfortable turquoise heavy color palette, and this was the result: Reflection at sunset 12 x 16 acrylic on canvas $95 O...

 It's easy to feel bored or restless.  That is actually a great space from which to create! I've created my first boredom busting video.   It's fun and simple and requires only paper and a pencil.   (Having more supplies will make it even more fun!) This is best for restless spirits ages 5 - 95 years. Enjoy!

  For most of my adult life I have been enamored with Lake Erie.  It’s both moody and playful.  Its gentle ebb calms my anxious mind.  This magic was especially poignant during the pandemic, as I would make quick trips to the shores and accept whatever gifts the lake offered.  Most often I found her returning objects once discarded by humans but now imbued with an aged patina that was beautiful and gracious.  It is from these found objects that I have created a series of serene and meditative work. These pieces are currently on display in my studio inside White Rabbit Gallery, 571 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton If you see something you would like to purchase or show my work, please email me: BraveTeacherMIm@gmail.com Beach Dreamin’ Acrylic on canvas beach glass, glass jars, and adhesive 12 x 6 SOLD Beach Sunset Acrylic on canvas, beach glass, adhesive 8 x 10  $40 Gifts from the Lake Acrylic on canvas, assemblage of gifts from the lake, adhesive 8 x 10...