Blog

  My studio is in a very old building on an historic street in Uptown Saint John.  Germain Street features many independent businesses and some of the most beautiful heritage homes anywhere.  This area of town is home to people of very diverse backgrounds and income levels. In an age where new development tends to follow the principal of "conformity" , our "Uptown" is a welcome relief.

 This is a neighbourhood where just saying, "Hello" to folks passing by would be considered snobby. It's always, "Good morning...great weather for November."  or  whatever. We are a community and appreciate and encourage each other.

  I was very touched by this warm support as I was turning my window boxes into Christmas greenery arrangements. I was able to get some lovely greenery at the City Market at a very fair price and so started arranging the window boxes. There were many people walking by on Thursday and I don't think one person walked by without saying they looked nice and so many thanked me for helping make the neighbourhood look more festive. I am so thankful to my landlord for providing the window boxes and leasing me the studio space and to the most welcoming community I have ever been a part of. 

  I want to wish everyone all the joy and love of the season and may you all know true peace in your hearts and in your homes.

  The autumn colours are still hanging on to the trees in many places. My container gardens are still growing in this mild November weather. I know they have to go away soon but it seems cruel to uproot them when they're still blooming. I'm in a state of denial about winter but it's going to happen soon.

  I will dig the Christmas decorations out on Sunday, November 12 to decorate the studio. There will be mimosas and some treats available for anyone who wants to stop in and help or just watch. I'm looking at being there from at least 11:00 until 4:00. Drop in. We'll take a vote on the Christmas music.

  After taking some personal time off, I will be open again most days for those who would like to visit. I have a few oil paintings that I have recently finished and a couple more that should be finished by the weekend. I had an idea for an abstract painting today and started it in acrylic. I am excited about how it's coming along!

  There are a few works from last year and before that could really use a new home. I have discounted some of these pieces to make them affordable to more people. If there's a painting you've been considering for a while, it may well be in this group. These prices are for a limited time only. I just need a bit of wall space.

  Also, I will be taking part in "Uptown Sparkles", on December 01. This is probably the best Holiday Event Saint John has ever hosted and I really want to thank everyone at Uptown Saint John for making it happen. My studio will sparkle and there will be lots of treats and a bit of Christmas Cheer!