New paintings, hot off the easel, and some thoughts on art and life ...

Two of my favorite art events are coming together this September:  a 30 in 30 painting challenge and my Red, White and Roses Sale.

Red, White and Roses is an online sale that I do every February and July. I offer any painting that has roses, or any red or white flowers, at sale prices. Then I donate part of the proceeds to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

I confess, I forgot to post my usual July sale this year, so I decided to move it to the month of September and combine it with Leslie Saeta's 30 in 30 Painting Challenge. My theme for 30 paintings will be "All Things Red" and ALL the paintings will be for sale with part of the proceeds going to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. As a retired scientist, I know how important research is, and I support St Jude's mission to find new cures for childhood cancer, and to treat sick children without regard to their ability to pay.  

These 30 in 30 challenges always move me forward. If you're an artist, maybe you've tried one yourself and know what I'm talking about. The downside is that yes, you sometimes produce work that is below expectations (OK, make that work that's complete crapola). But you also make some good paintings, you definitely form some good painting routines, and the kicker is that those work habits stick with you long after the challenge is over. I've noticed that I produce more good paintings in the years that I do some kind of timed painting challenge. So I'm taking a deep breath and plunging in - wish me luck!