You're Invited!! Sunday, November 9, 2014

428 Hudson Street, Healdsburg, CA  707-433-2364
I can't believe I'm leaving Sonoma County after 30 years. I love it here and have so many great memories and dear friends. This past July, my folks and I took a little trip to see my brother, Bryan & his wife, Kim and their family. We rarely get to see them as my brother works in Indonesia. Once we got back, we all decided to make a huge change and move to Santa Maria. It's about 7 hours south of Sonoma County, 1/2 hour south of San Luis Obispo & Pismo Beach and about an hour north of Santa Barbara. I have many treasured memories of Santa Rosa and Healdsburg especially with friends I met through Wolfard & Co., Statements Gallery and T Barny Sculpture. See you Sunday!
P.S. Watch for news about my new Santa Maria Art Studio as I get settled.   

de Young Museum to NYC ARTexpo

"Dancing in the Dark" is the title of the piece chosen as part of the "Bouquets to Art" event by the Santa Rosa Garden Club. Marsha Heckman, a de Young Museum, San Francisco floral designer selected 5 Sonoma County artists to inspire her creative arrangements. She interpreted the title of my painting to reflect the couple dancing using tall, blooming pear ("pair") branches with a black and white foreground of hydrangea and succulents complimented with a pair of moss covered heels topped with an orchid bloom. It was quite dramatic and an honor to be a part of this annual March event.

ICONIC - I'm pleased to announce that my "Music Series" has caught the attention of ARTexpo organizer Rick Barnett. He is the Managing Director of ARTexpo, New York and forwarded this Music Blog to the jurors of the show. He is calling it ICONIC and wants me to participate! This April, I will attend as a VIP Guest to check it out for exhibiting there next year. ARTexpo puts emerging artists in the "right spot at the right time" for a crowd of Gallery Owners, Publishers, Art Collectors, Art Consultants and Interior Designers.   



  

"Dancing in the Dark"  18"x36"     Marsha Heckman's Floral Interpretation

 

#50 of 50 Happy Birthday!

"Happy Birthday", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x5"    SOLD

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY" What a 50th Year it has been!! I knew I wanted to do something BIG that was about my artwork and painting music for 20 years. It has proved to be so rewarding to create this series "50 Paintings My 50th Year". The practice of painting daily is so valuable; it's the best gift I could give myself. Celebrating with everyone who came to the 50th Show at the Hudson Street Wineries was a joy. Completing this project has led to a book, bigger ideas and larger commissions. It is a dream come true. I want to Thank You All who have commented, liked it on FACEBOOK, who have called, written, emailed and supported my desire to do this series. You made my 50th Birthday special all year long and always.  

#49 of 50 "My Shining Light"

"My Shining Light", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x5"   SOLD

"My Shining Light" I have to say that this is one of my favorites of this "50" series. It's the first time that I ever painted the piano keys at this perspective. I'm realizing more and more that it is all about the light. That's why I'm proud of this one and the fact that I got the cello to glow. I know it's been awhile since I've blogged. I have to say, I've missed it. A lot has been happening. This series has kicked everything into gear. I'm still 50 at this moment and savoring every moment of it. The year ahead looks grand in projects and scale. It is a year of larger paintings and a new 5"x5" series based on landscapes. I'm very excited to continue the music theme but also focus on landscapes. Stay tuned.     

#48 of 50 "The Red Couch"

"The Red Couch", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x5"    SOLD

"The Red Couch" One of my collectors who came to the "50th Art Reception" invited me over to see their painting. They had a new red couch delivered that day. His guitar looked so dramatic against the red leather yet his request was for a harmonica painting. So of course, I had to put his guitar in it too. I have to point out that even their table has guitar pick shaped flower petals. I don't know if they saw it that way but my paintbrush did. I've sketched or painted almost every instrument and many wine glasses. This is a first! A beer bottle with harmonica's. This is a very musical couple and I've seen their band perform a long time ago at Quincy's in Rohnert Park.You can see them every Wed. at The First Edition in Petaluma for the Blues Jam!

#47 of 50 "For You Daddy"

"For You Daddy", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"    SOLD

I was probably only 8 years old when my folks, my brother and I took a trip to Sacramento to see my Aunt Helen & Uncle Ralph. We were all very excited to see the "BEST" store on Arden Way. Household items were on the list but my Dad decided to buy a banjo. It came with a music book to teach you how to play it and "pick" a few tunes. This painting is very symbolic as it includes "paintings on the wall" of the American flag, his love for fishing, working in the oil fields and being on the tractor day and night to raise many crops plus Bell Carter Olives. It also got printed on his new business cards. He gave one to Robin at the coffee shop saying "This is my life". She was very impressed. This one's "For You Daddy". Thank You for all you do!

#46 of 50 "For You Mom"

"For You Mom", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"   SOLD

Aloha! I love Hawaii. As soon as I step off the plane, I feel "almost" like I'm coming home. My Great Grandma was born in Maui and my Grandma was born in Hilo. Though they came to Califorina when she was only 2, there is still a huge connection to the islands. Mom and I had a great trip there in 2008. We sipped Blue Hawaiian's and Peach Daiquiri's and enjoyed lots of seafood almost every night. The luau was spectacular and the cruise around Diamond Head was beautiful. However, the best memory for me was being under the Banyan Tree in Maui knowing Great Grandma and Grandma had also enjoyed the island breeze in that same spot. This one with the ukelele in it is "For You Mom".

#45 of 50 "Joy"

"Joy", Watercolor & Acrylic, 5"x5"   SOLD

"Joy"  .... to the New Year! The day I painted this in December, it was raining. The sky was cloudy with bursts of blue trying to peek through and the rain would come and go. How do you capture rain or the feeling that it rained in a watercolor? Well, that speckling across the keyboard I hope represents that feeling. It's been a "bird year". Mom and I were in Portland, Oregon in 2010 and we noticed that all the shops had bird designed items. We saw cocktail napkins with birds, notepaper and tablecloths with birds; even bird artwork in the hotel where we stayed. This past Christmas was still carrying on that theme in wrapping paper, gift cards and bags. This bird is happy to bring musical charm and joy to you this new year!  

#44 of 50 "Club 77"

"Club 77", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"  SOLD

"Club 77"  Some paintings just happen the way they are going to happen. Colors work, dimensions work, things come together just right. I'm happy with this one. It has a bit of a theatrical background which seems to set off the sign well. Where is "Club 77"? Well, actually, it was almost titled "A Very Good Year" because it celebrates the year 1977. This was a special commission for a 35th Anniversary. The two wine glasses are sitting upon monogramed cocktail napkins and there is a special heart in the bass. I had to include it in my "50 Series" since it was for such a special couple. It was a surprise special order that became quite a surprise.  

#43 of 50 "1st Date"

"1st Date", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x5"    Available

"1st Date"  Happy New Year! This has been a very busy studio year. I'm proud to announce that I did finish the "50 Series" with a bang. You'll see what I mean after I post the next 7 paintings. I hope you all had a very special Christmas. I'm very excited about a new watercolor/acrylic palette, new brushes and new pens. The best part of Christmas is always spending time with family...especially since it's my Mom's birthday!
Maybe some of you will be out on a "1st Date" this New Year's Eve. Whatever you choose to do to bring in the New Year, may it be with those you love, good food and great music. Cheers!

#42 of 50 "Light & Lively"

"Light & Lively", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"   Available

"Light & Lively"  One thing I always notice at any musical or theatrical event is the lighting. It probably comes from all those years I re-adjusted lights at my gallery. This painting has been in my head since I walked in the sand at Doran Beach, Bodega Bay last weekend. I wanted to do something jazzy with directed light. I really debated about the black background. I didn't want it to get too dark but it actually makes it pop. The stage is highlighted but it's the instruments that are the focus. My month of May focus is to walk up town more often, clean up my patio and finish this series. I made a huge list a couple of months ago of things I wanted to accomplish this year. I then divided them up month by month. What is your focus this month?

#41 of 50 "The Writing On The Wall"

"The Writing On The Wall", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x5", SOLD

"The Writing On The Wall" I was sitting at the Tiki Bar in my patio sketching when I noticed that birds loved landing on these two stretched limbs. First I saw a Blue Jay and then two minutes later a Mockingbird. I immediately recorded it in my sketchbook and then added a little wash of color to bring it to life. I don't usually work from a color sketch unless it is a larger painting. This one just wanted to come to life capturing those inquisitive talking and singing birds. It captured someone's attention as you can see that it has already sold. All of these paintings in the "50 Series" are $100. each. You can scroll through the blog to see what is still available. There's 9 more coming your way when I have a chance to paint again this next weekend.   

#40 of 50 "Choral Bouquet"

"Choral Bouquet", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"   Available

"Choral Bouquet" The hot color this year is suppose to be coral. I woke up wanting to paint something in this color and this is what appeared. I have tried to do flutes before but this is the first that anyone has ever seen. My last attempt was ok until I added the drizzled acrylic over the top and then ... it just didn't work. I always wanted to play the flute. In school I played clarinet for 5 years but the first chance I had, I took a short summer class to learn the flute. At my gallery, Wolfard & Co., I carried an artist who made beautiful flutes. He made them out of exotic hardwoods like Ebony, Zebrawood, Mahogany and Koa. I treasure the Ebony Flute that I have on my piano. The wood makes it have a real grounded earthy tone.

#39 of 50 "Out Of The Blue"

"Out Of The Blue", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"    Available

"Out Of The Blue"  I wish I could of blogged this painting last night. It rained here all day and without sunshine my photo just didn't do it justice. Today's sunshine shows its true colors. It's a happy, cheerful blue, not a depressed rainy blue. Now that I'm back to completing the "50 Series" I find that I'm taking more risks like using atypical colors for the instruments. It was also fun to run the trumpet in and out of the piano keys. You know surprises are a joy to the eye ... and the heart. When was the last time you surprised someone you love? I recently sent a little gift to a girlfriend with a really special card for no reason. She was so surprised and the best part is that it was out of the blue.

First Ever "Jazz Day" is Today!

Kathleen Rose, Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x5"  SOLD

25. Concerto, Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x5"  SOLD

Well, I have to say that I've missed blogging. Since the show March 24, 2012, I've been painting special orders and dealing with life stuff that just piled up. I'm back on track and happy to be back! "Kathleen Rose" is a Sonoma County Harvest Fair Gold Medal winner. The proprietors of one of the Hudson Street Wineries special ordered #25 Concerto adding the feature of their winning wine and a black and white checkerboard floor. Check out their website:  kelleyyoungwines.com.  Today is the very first International Jazz Day - April 30, 2012. It is being celebrated in New Orleans, New York and Paris. Herbie Hancock, hosting the New Orleans festivities, says that jazz is a form of conversation; a dialogue between players and audience. Music is the universal language. This caught my eye because I say the same thing in my Artist Statement. You can take a look at today's news at: jazzday.com.   I'd like to Thank All Of You who purchased a painting from this series so far. I was very touched when someone in Virginia sent me 2 of their CD's to add to my rotating 60 CD player. He plays bass and his wife plays piano. Great treat and more inspiring music! The wine country is gorgeous in this California sunshine. I trimmed my 3 tiered topiary on the patio but otherwise painted all weekend. #39 of 50 in the series will post next.   

New Paintings Start This Friday!

Lori Mole ART SHOW Sandwich Board

Lori, in red blouse talking with Ed Bible about my work

The second Exhibit Wall after the Reception - a total of 21 sold so far.

The Show Recap: March 24 - April 2, 2012
I just took down the show tonight. I'm just amazed at the response and the amount of people that saw the exhibit. The winery said that people who couldn't make the reception continued to stop in. It was up for two very full weekends with wine tasters and even a 75 member Rotary Dinner that filled the exhibit space in the Barrel Room. After the initial reception, I did go in the next day and rehang the show. I brought in some larger work and placed it all on the first wall and rehung "The Music Series" small paintings on the second wall. Still another 4 sold after the reception. Thank you so much everyone for your support. Thank you to Hudson Street Wineries. They said they were so pleased that they would be interested in doing it again. Thank you to Kathleen of Kelley Young Wines who coordinated the show with me. Thank you to Rebecca of Hudson Street Wineries who rang the sales and assisted in the success. I'm anxious to start painting again this Friday. So keep watching. The last 12 paintings are coming your way via this blog, as well as, any special orders that happened through the show. Cheers! 



Reception Cupcakes

My Dad, Jim Mole, guarding the cupcakes & enjoying the show!

Cupcake Link  I just posted the link to Marcie's Cupcakes and it is coming up wrong. Here's the correct link: marciescupcakes.com Check it out! They are incredible. The frosting is light and airy, the cake is moist and the sprinkles are devine. In the photo is my Dad who attended the reception. The ambiance of the winery with all those barrels was perfect. There were little string lights overhead and the space easily fit the crowd. That vase of Lily's was a surprise from my brother Bryan and his wife Kim. I wish they could of joined us but Bryan works in Malaysia - that would be quite a commute!

Exhibit Wall at Hudson Street Wineries



The 2nd Wall of the Exhibit "The Music Series", Hudson Street Wineries



The Exhibit Continues through Monday, April 2. Stop in to taste up to 20 different wines from 5 "boutique" wineries and enjoy  the art. hudsonstreetwineries.com  I am still so overwhelmed at the reception attendance. All of the paintings have been updated with SOLD signs in their title captions. If you see a piece that catches your eye and it is SOLD, remember I can do a special order for you. The paintings are $100 each (plus tax/shipping). I'm still enjoying a few of the mini cupcakes from the show. They are "little works of art" created by Marcie Anderson. Check it out at: marciescupcakes.com.     

Reception & Exhibit at Hudson Street Wineries

"The Music Series" Exhibit at Hudson Street Wineries  My art reception was amazing Saturday, March 24 from 2-5pm! It was a sprinkling, misty rainy kind of day that shined in attendance. In the 3 hours, more than 75 people enjoyed the ambiance of the winery and my show. I am overwhelmed with the success and support. I'm pleased to announce that at this point, 19 pieces sold and I have 6 special orders pending. These small work "gems" found perfect homes and I'm honored to see how the pieces spoke to their new collectors. The art was "colorful", the Jazz CD piped out lively tunes, the wine was delicious, the hors d'oeuvres were tasty and the cupcakes were devine!! It was a special day filled with family, friends, art lovers and music aficionados. Thank You All. The show is up through April 2. The winery hours are: Thursday-Monday 11am-5pm and Sundays 12-5pm.


   

#38 of 50 "Banjo Love"

"Banjo Love", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

“Banjo Love”  Well, I have to Thank my Dad, Jim Mole, for his constant stream of ideas and ongoing support for me to paint. This painting was sketched from my Dad’s banjo. He bought it some 40 years ago. It came with a songbook so now and then he gets inspired to “pluck” a couple of tunes. This 5 string instrument has a lot of character. Daddy loves the sounds of Roy Clark, Jerry Van Dyke and Johnny Ray.  This is painting #38. Watch the BLOG for the next 12 paintings to emerge. A poster will be created at that time representing all 50 images from this new Music Series. It will then be sent out to all of the major Jazz Festivals throughout the United States. See you this Saturday, March 24 from 2-5pm for my show at Hudson Street Wineries!    

#37 of 50 "In The Mood"

"In The Mood", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

"In The Mood" This is the painting that was inspired from going to the Musical Revue the other night. I sketched it in the dark which is challenging. I've done many other sketches in the dark at other concerts, theatre performances and even on a full moon tram ride in Yosemite National Park. They become more of a gesture drawing. You don't know where one line begins and where one ends. This painting is #37 so I have a "Baker's Dozen" to go. I have some great new ideas for the next few and I know what I want to do for the 50th! So stay tuned as the countdown continues. And "Save The Date" to see all 50 at my upcoming show at Hudson Street Wineries, Healdsburg, CA on March 24.

Sketching in the Dark

Concert Program, Sketch & Painting in Process, Lori Mole, 2012

I have a great excuse why I didn't blog last night. I was at the Wells Fargo Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa with my Mom seeing the 1940's Musical Revue titled "In The Mood". It was fantastic! The band consisted of 4 saxophones, 3 trombones, 3 trumpets, a bass player, drummer and a pianist. They played all the greats of the era as dancers performed and sang "Chattanooga Choo Choo" and "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy". I did many sketches in the dark which is always challenging and this one made it to my studio painting table. It's not quite done but that will post tomorrow. It is truly what you would call "A Work In Process".   

New Photo of #36 "You 'n Me"

"You 'n Me", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

"You 'n Me" I'm posting last night's painting again. I had a chance to photograph it today in the natural sunshine; the best way to really capture the true colors. If you compare it to last night's blog, you'll really see the difference. Today I painted a flute with a keyboard and a rose. In the last 1/2 hour, I decided that it needs to go to the dead painting pile. The concept and composition were good and I was pleased with my first painted flute. When I got to adding the drizzled acrylic over the top, it just went on wrong. This goal of 50 paintings has had it's casualities and today's was the fifth fatality. I guess it says that I'm human and shows that with daily paintings sometimes "it is what it is". Fresh start tomorrow!  

#36 of 50 "You 'n Me"

"You 'n Me", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 500# Paper, 5"x 5"

"You 'n Me" Someone recently told me that he plays bass and his wife plays piano. I wanted to try to capture what we hear in the notes by blending the 2 instruments together to form "You 'n Me". It's 7pm here and I just finished it. I wish there was sunshine to photograph it because it really pops. Today my cowboy and I went to Hudson Street Wineries to measure the walls and check out the space for my show. I brought a framed piece so we could really visualize the wall space. The winery owner wanted to buy it! It's going to be so amazing to see all 50 pieces up on the wall together. It was busy there today because it is "Barrel Tasting". You can catch it again next weekend. Check it out at: hudsonstreetwineries.com.   

#35 of 50 "Luthier's Pride"

"Luthier's Pride", Watercolor & Acrylic, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

"Luthier's Pride"  I am 50 tonight!!! I had a great day! My cowboy and I saw my folks; they took us to lunch at Ruth McGowan's Brewery in Cloverdale and then we had the best homemade apple pie by my cowboy's Mom! After returning to Healdsburg, we lucked out with a live TRAIN concert on TV!!!  I just have one thought and one prayer and that is that the next 30 years are better than the past 30. Since my 30 year high school reunion, I would have to say I'm on track. This painting makes me smile. I almost titled it "Lean On Me" but after attending Healdsburg's Guitar Festival I can't help but thinking this was "Luthier's Pride".  

#34 of 50 "Special Request"

"Special Request", Watercolor & Acrylic, 500# Paper, 5" x 5" SOLD

"Special Request" I played the clarinet for 5 years in school and this is the very first time in 20 years that I've actually painted one. I don't know why. I like the clarinet and have sketched it many times but it just didn't appear in any paintings until now. I took Band from Mr. Fairlee, the Music Teacher from the 5th - 9th grades. Necia, Kelly & I sat in a row with our clarinets in position keeping our reeds in place. We traveled and marched in parades. Great memories! This painting feels like someone has just asked for a "Special Request" tune while they enjoy a glass of Chardonnay and take a peek at the appetizer menu. You'll notice the silver accents on the clarinet; I actually used a silver acrylic paint to make it shine.  

#33 of 50 "New Orleans Jazz"

"New Orleans Jazz", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"    Available

"New Orleans Jazz"  This morning I woke up wanting to paint loosely with color. I painted this standing up; it allows my arm to be free and creates a more expressionistic look. It's N'Awlins flavor reminds me of a trip I took visiting the French Quarter. Pat O'Brien's has dueling piano's and great drinks next time you're there. Visit: patobriens.com. The sky was blue and the saxophone players seemed to be at every corner. The doors and windows of every establishment were open so the music fills Bourbon Street. My sketchbook got a workout on this trip! I took a Swamp Tour and was relieved when the crocodiles weren't showing up in the murky brown swamp waters. But "Captain Terry" surprised us all with a baby croc on board! I remember screaming!! 

A New York Moment with Dr. Ruth at Serendipity

Lil Mole, Dr. Ruth, Lori Mole in front of Serendipity, New York 2000

Well, I just couldn't pass up this opportunity to post this picture. Last night I mentioned that Mom & I had met Dr. Ruth at Serendipity. She was there to attend a Valentine wedding. We entered the restaurant at the same time so one of her bodyguards agreed to take this photo of us. She thought it was great that Mother & Daughter were traveling together from California. Some blog updates ... Painting #6 and #11 now say SOLD. And you can now leave "Comments". It's easy - just click on comments and you can be published. Many of you leave comments on Facebook which is great. I see them all but for those of you who aren't on Facebook, you too can have a voice.

#32 of 50 "The Banana Dance"

"The Banana Dance", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"    Available

"The Banana Dance"  We arrived in New York just in time for Valentine's Day 2000. It was the beginning of our 2 week annual Gallery Buying Trip. Mom and I had lunch at Serendipity. We had our photo taken with Dr. Ruth as we entered the restaurant together. She was there attending a Valentine Wedding held in the Serendipity bathtub with frozen hot fudge at their feet. That night we had reservations at Chez Josephine on West 42nd St., chezjosephine.com on "Theatre Row". Sketchbooks record everything even what we had for dinner: Asparagus & Mushroom Appetizer, Lobster Entree, Endive & Pecan Salad and for dessert a Chocolate Puff Pastry. Josephine Baker was known for her exotic banana dance in Paris.

#31 of 50 "The Red Carpet"



"The Red Carpet", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"    Available

 "The Red Carpet" Tonight is the Academy Awards and as you can see I got inspired by "The Red Carpet". This couple, however, are going to hear live music. They get the red carpet treatment of course. She has a very stylish, handbag don't you think? I have a purse pendant collection so when I can I like to add a purse in my paintings. I also like that the curtain surrounding the entrance is the keyboard. The painting that I was working on last night will post tomorrow night. The red carpet painting won the "Oscar" tonight. Actually the one from last night got scraped and I completely started it over late this afternoon. I basically changed the composition; you'll see tomorrow. Enjoy the Oscars!    

Work In Progress

Work in Progress, Painting at The Mole's, Feb. 25, 2012

Work In Progress A change of scenery is always good and the good news is that I'm painting again. I'm in the "Coolest Small Town in the USA" - Cloverdale, CA. My folks live here; it's only 15 miles north of Healdsburg. It was awarded this title in 2010 and actually placed 2nd in the USA but we think it is pretty "cool". Mom has this very bright tablecloth that I can splash paint on. It covers this table that has been around since 1970. Anyway, it feels so good to paint again. I had someone question whether I'll finish the series. No worries! The flu completely depleted my energy but I'm fighting my way back! In this photo is one of my travel sketchbooks. I'll finish the painting and tell you more about it tomorrow.  

Designing A Show

Show Supplies: Frames, Mailing Labels, Title Cards, etc.

Show Supplies How many art receptions have I thrown for other artists? Wow, I would have to guess roughly 200. This covers Chico State, Sonoma State, Redding Gallery, Wolfard & Co., STATEMENTS and T Barny plus other galleries where my work has been exhibited. So planning the upcoming March 24 show is a very familiar exciting task. The 50 frames came in from Aaron Brothers. Laura was most helpful in arranging such a large special order. I'm very pleased with their service and quality: aaronbrothers.com. Show prep ranges from ordering the postcard to getting balloons for the sandwich board. There's a lot of 'behind the scene' prep that takes place to make a beautiful reception happen right. All this plus paint! Exciting!    

Sedona Jazz Festival Poster

Sedona, Arizona Poster Design, Lori Mole, 2002

Sedona, Arizona's "Jazz on the Rocks"

Back in 1997, I had heard that Sedona was looking for artists to create their poster design for their annual Jazz Festival. So I sent in a few cards with my "Music Series" images. Their wasn't a contest or deadline; I had just heard that they accept artists images. I got a surprising phone call 5 years later. Their huge file of artists was being reviewed by the Board of Directors and they chose me. I flew down to the Festival and for 3 days I signed posters, programs and shirts. It was great fun meeting everyone and seeing some excellent jazz musicians. I remember one guy buying a poster insisted that I had created my design on the computer because it was so perfect. I finally got him to understand that it was my original watercolor painting. I have some of these posters left so they will also be available at my upcoming March 24 show at Hudson Street Wineries.

Save The Date: Saturday, March 24

You're Invited!  Save The Date: Saturday, March 24

Save The Date! I'm pleased to announce that the show is set with an "Artist Reception" on Saturday, March 24 from 2-5pm. It will be located at the Hudson Street Wineries which is a Tasting Room for 5 Boutique Wineries. Check out their website: hudsonstreetwineries.com. It is the perfect place for my reception and I'm so excited to think of all 50 paintings being up on the wall at the same time. Now I just need to paint the next 20 pieces. I will; remember I'm better under a deadline. Please save the date. It will be great to see you. There's always lots to do in Wine Country! Cheers! 

Top 10 Realizations

Valentine Roses from My Valentine, February 20, 2012

I heard that California has been hit the hardest with the flu bug this month. I just can't believe that it got me. I was on such a roll with this challenge and then I'm stopped in my tracks. Top 10 Realizations While I Had The Flu:
1. Life Happens & Time Ticks On.
2. Deadlines Can Be Altered.
3. Energy is Everything!
4. This is how Resolutions get derailed.
5. Commitment = Focus
6. Mom's right: "There's Only One You"
7. Perfect time to brush my Persian.
8. My Blog allows me to have a Voice.
9. Turn Worries into Positive Thoughts.
10. Can't wait to post the next painting!
Even though I missed Valentine's Day, my cowboy made it special with a dozen red roses.

Taking a long "Look See"

#26 - #30, Pile of Paintings, Lori Mole, 2012

A Long "Look See" It is always good to stand back and take a look. I have to admit that these past 5 have been challenging. Part of it is ideas; part of it is my creative energy (which by the way got so run down that I'm a bit under the weather tonight). "Taking Care of Myself" today, as many have told me to do, I was on the couch enjoying a Christmas movie that I had recorded. It was about a painter, his mentor and the drive of capturing life, beauty, love and motion. My goal continues to paint with the feeling that you can hear the music. By the way, if you wish to see all of the first 30 paintings, just go to: http://lorimole.blogspot.com/

#30 of 50 "Dancing Keys"

"Dancing Keys", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

"Dancing Keys"  I'm pleasantly surprised by this one. In the 1990's, I did a small square in the center of paintings with various instruments, keys, even olives. I then had large lined sheet music behind the whole square that I "squiggled". It was a nice surprise to do this a little different with a fanned out deck of cards look and contrast the black squiggle to the charcoal background. Those keys are dancing tonight! Last night, I asked if you had any ideas for the next 20. Great ideas splashed across facebook and on the phone. I even had someone send great photos of his violin and guitar "posed". I look forward to the surprise of what might happen in the next 20. Thanks for your input and support!  

#29 of 50 "Talking Heads"

"Talking Heads", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD 

"Talking Heads" Did you know that the top of the guitar handle is called the head? Well, I do now. It seemed appropriate then to title this one "Talking Heads". The guitar in the wall art seems so serious but the 2 heads that are jammin' are having a great time. They have lots of energy. I took a workshop a few years ago and the instructor was talking about how much energy goes into painting everyday. They said you have to put limits on your time and re-charge yourself when you can. I totally know what this means now. These '50 Paintings' are becoming more demanding; it's testing my energy but also my ideas. If you have any instrument and/or scene requests, I'd be happy to hear them.  

It's Super Bowl Sunday

Lori's Studio - The Frames are coming in!

I just spoke to Aaron Brothers, the framing company. I special ordered 50 white frames for these 50 Paintings. I received a partial and the others are due to arrive on the truck next Thursday. Today I spent some time straightening up my studio. Before I started this project, I completely cleaned out my studio reorganizing everything. It has made it much easier to work on these daily paintings. I like that picture of my brother Bryan that is on top of the speaker. He works in Malaysia and that is a great beach picture of him there. When my folks first told him of my 50th project he said, "She'll do it". His favorite saying is: "Get 'R Done". So that's what I'm going to do...just had to take today as a mini break. It is Super Bowl Sunday after all.

#28 of 50 "Full Flavored"

"Full Flavored", Watercolor & Acrylic, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

"Full Flavored" I checked out a Healdsburg winery the other day that might be interested in exhibiting these "50 Paintings Before I'm 50". It actually may be the perfect space plus you would get to enjoy their delicious wines! I'll keep you updated. I guess I was inspired by the wine tasting room. Here's a very full flavored, robust bass with an equally full flavored, robust glass of red wine. I love my wine glass shadow. It's so subtle but mimmicks the shape of the glass. I'm taking the afternoon off today to spend some time with my Honey. He's got a pot roast in the crock pot so we're going to walk up town and enjoy the Plaza. If you haven't been to Healdsburg, check it out at: http://www.healdsburg.com/

#27 of 50 "The Cotton Club"

"The Cotton Club", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 5"x 5"    Available

"The Cotton Club" Duke Ellington's Band at The Cotton Club: He had a way of reinventing himself and his music, using Jazz to evoke certain emotions, or to describe certain places and situations musically. This painting just happened smoothly and appeared before me. I did try a painting about 15 years ago with the Cotton Club sign in it. It didn't ever get finished. I found it in my pile of "Works in Progress" and I don't even know what the design was suppose to be. The only clear part of it was the Cotton Club sign. There were no instruments in it and so it went obviously nowhere. This one includes 3 instruments and I hope it evokes certain emotions or describes certain places or situations just as Duke Ellington tried to do.    

#26 of 50 "Making It Sing"

"Making It Sing", Watercolor & Acrylic, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

"Making It Sing" Golden warm moody colors make this saxophone want to sing. I'm not a big fan of the color yellow. I don't decorate with yellow, I don't particularly like yellow flowers and I don't wear the color yellow. But sometimes to achieve golden hues, I have to use yellow paint. You would think that yellow would sell in sunny California but at the Buyer's Market I had to be very careful not to buy it. My clientele at the gallery didn't decorate in yellow either. But, they loved Chico glassblower, Richard Satava's buttercream vases or the golden rich browns of Sonoma County's potter, Joel Bennett. The weather we are having this winter I guess has inspired those warm Tuscan colors. 

There's Always Blue Sky

From My Sketchbooks - Airplane Sketch, Year 2000

There's Always Blue Sky I was driving to work this morning and the clouds were low across the Alexander Valley mountains. But up high I could see blue sky. It reminded me of flying. If you get up high enough, there's always blue sky. Well, unless you're on a red eye. HaHa. I have to say I'm not a fan of flying but I love to go. To distract me from basic fear and stress, I sketch the inside of the planes. I have so many sketches of plane interiors that I could probably have a show of just that. One of my favorite paintings of Georgia O'Keefe's hangs in the Chicago Art Institute. It's blue sky above puffy clouds. She was inspired to paint this on one of her many trips to New York to see Alfred Stieglitz and his Gallery.

#25 of 50 "Concerto"

"Concerto", Watercolor, Acrylic & Ink, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

"Concerto"  #25! I'm halfway to my goal. Before I started this "challenge", I thought that maybe each one should reflect something significant from each year of my life. I could paint my little red tennis shoes that I had as a baby, the olive trees that I helped plant in our orchard or my travels back east to buy art for my gallery. I soon realized, however, that what  I've been wanting to do is create a body of work for my "Music Series". I've been painting musically themed designs since 1992. I've had shows throughout California, my work sold well at a gallery in Austin, TX and I was chosen to do the Sedona Jazz Festival poster. This "challenge" is demanding but it's evolving the "Music Series" to a new level. I feel so blessed and thankful to be painting - it's what I love to do!

#24 of 50 "Stand Up"

"Stand Up", Watercolor & Acrylic, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

"Stand Up" When I was painting this, I thought of Dave Matthews CD titled "Stand Up". Great music at a time when I needed great music! I like the mood of this guitar and the contrast of the grey forefront and backdrop reversing from light to dark. Last night, Mom & I enjoyed a delicious Chicken Marsala dinner with the sounds of the Gary Johnson Jazz Quintet at Ruth McGowan's, 131 East First St., Cloverdale, CA. It was such a treat to hear live music and we loved their spotlight solos. They played the saxophone & flute, drums, bass and an electric guitar. Music transports you in time and mood. What struck me is that the notes were so clear they resonated with the crowd. It's nice to be somewhere where everyone wanted to be there.

#23 of 50 "Blue Note"

"Blue Note", Watercolor & Acrylic, 500# Paper, 5"x 5" SOLD

"Blue Note" I did this somewhere early in the 20 years that I've been painting music. Back then I think I titled it "I Write The Songs". I can't say that I've ever been a big fan of Barry Manilow but it was a song that did inspire this design. Back then the pen was more like a fountain pen with a pointed nib. Now it represents one of my favorite pens; a Sharpie. I love a spiraled sketchbook so that my Sharpie rides within the coiled wire. Sketchbooks are very personal; they are visual diaries or journals of everyday life, travel and miscellaneous ideas. I have some sketchbooks that are just dedicated to Hawaii, Alaska, Yosemite and New York.