The Pursuit of Crushing It!

A few years back, I read in a book by John C. Maxwell that one of the things that fosters success in life is to study successful people in my chosen field, study their history and everyday life, and then think of practical ways to apply it to my life. I took this admonition to heart quite literally. My chosen would-be mentor was Nelson Shanks, the great contemporary American portrait painter. I read every internet and magazine article available, studied all of his painting images in print and online, and aspired to go to the US to participate in his Studio Incamminati under the watchful eye of the Maestro himself. My admiration of Mr. Shanks has not changed, but my direction for my art has.

This change in direction is primarily attributable to life. The everyday, get up out of bed, go to work, deal with problems, rejoice over the good things kind of living. Back when I imagined someday painting like Nelson, my plan was predicated on my then three teenaged kids and two twenty-something adult children enjoying a productive, relatively trouble-free, make good choices kind of life. I did not anticipate all the health concerns, the big wedding, the birth of three grandchildren (and not by the couple in wedded bliss either), the devastating relationship break ups, and unexpected(and costly) changes in tertiary plans. Then, of course, we addressed the issues caused the tragic stroke of my brother back home. And we cared for aging parents, both mine and my husband's, with costly and time consuming journeys taken to offer support.

Indeed, Oil Change and Noble People, Treasured Land, two solo exhibitions of which I'm really pleased, were realised during this trying period. But, still I dreamed of retreating into my sanctuary studio and shutting my family out, with all their problems, for a solid 8 hours a day, 5 days a week painting Valhalla. This fantasy included Puccini arias lilting through the atmosphere, ala Nelson Shanks, with Bill graciously offering warm refreshments at the end of a mutually enriched and productive day. (According to one article I read, Shanks loves enjoying Opera whilst painting; his wife guards his painting sanctuary, occasionally proffering edible sustenance . This is not suggesting, however, that this is all there is to Shank's phenomenal success and talent!)

Instead, I faced morning after morning cognizant that I would forgo spending any time in studio in favour of helping a family member with another pressing problem. And, dear Bill!!! He spent hours patiently listening to my lament. When is everything going to settle down? When will everyone let me paint? When will our loved ones make "right" choices?

Now there are the economic realities. I do bring in income, but nothing near what I did as a Project Manager. There is also the world money crisis to consider!!! My vision seems so distant...so unrealisable.

In my quiet moments of reflection, I groan with the teacher of Ecclesiastes, agreeing that all pursuits do seem to be a chasing of the wind. Job reminds me that whilst my family has problems, they are still in this world, and I still have possessions, unlike his catastrophic losses. And yet he still believed. Intriguing. Psalms, a book of praise and heart felt response to the human condition, was largely written by David, a hot blooded man who murdered a man after sleeping with that man's wife. He really had enemies, including his own son and his kingly predecessor. Yet, I read where Jesus holds him up as an example of one who sought after God the most.

So, what does Jesus say about difficulties? He agrees that, indeed, in this world you will have troubles! What is His great philosophical reply to this dilemma? "Cheer up!" Basically, get up, get over it and move on. Yes, pray. Do what you know to do. Then leave it in God's hands.

This is not always easy for me, but I find it does bring a sense of relief and peace. Is my life any less hectic? No. In the past three weeks, three people back home have gone to the hospital for various life-saving procedures, and we still cope with physical and emotional situations from time to time in my New Zealand family. People continue to come around to visit at inconvenient times, and cars, dishwashers, and refrigerators still break down(and all in the same day). And money is still tight. Oh, and our Bichon lovely dearSuzy-Q was killed early this month...and she was set to breed soon. There goes another source of income. But I believe. God is faithful.

So, how does this relate to an adjustment in artistic direction? Well, I've become very philosophical. Most of the perceived problems I have are problems of prosperity. Poor, destitute people do not worry about not having enough time to paint artwork. They don't bemoan the time and resources required for a joyous wedding. I'm glad for friends, and, aging parents are a blessing. Poorer societies are often plagued with high early mortality rates. They worry about not having enough food. I remind myself to be grateful for a refridgerator that does occasionally break down. And I make sure I give to help the poor.

I mull over the importance of what I do with my life. What do I do each day that justifies the price paid? That price is the time I can never get back. I can "make" money, but I can't "make" time. Why should I spend it worrying? Humans have worried for millennia. Across the centuries, those worries, not matter how dire they may have seemed to the individuals or societies, have died with those people and civilisations.

Another aspect that has changed in my thinking is this. There are always going to be "things" that clamour to get in the way of my success. There will always be problems to solve. Now, I resolve to not let them stop me from moving forward. I have determined no matter what, I will move forward everyday towards achieving my dreams and goals.

I believe that my contemporaries suffer unknown setbacks and challenges. Yes, I enjoy looking at their beautiful artworks and studios, but I can't help but smile to myself imagining about all the stuff they probably stuff away as well when visitors come to the studio.

I'm more prone to listen to Stanley Clarke, Jean Luc Ponty, Pat Metheny, Al DiMiola or Billy Cobham or enjoy Sebelius, Mozart, Beethoven, or Bach on my computer speakers while I paint. And my husband, well he brings me coffee in bed on Saturdays, and is very likely to go out in the cold, dark, night to fetch a needed ingredient from the grocery store for me without complaint.

I choose for my mentors those like Abraham Lincoln who started out poor and experienced many failures and political setbacks, and was saddled with a spouse notorious for her difficult disposition. He struggled on and eventually because President. I think about Harry S. Truman. Harry had a clothing store that went bust. Instead of claiming bankruptcy, he vowed to repay all the monies owed to his creditors. He kept his promise and went on to become "The Buck Stops Here" President of the USA. I also look for modern-day innovators. I admire Gary Vaynerchuk and his "crush it" attitude and appreciate his willingness to share his thoughts about the power of social networking and the opportunities the internet offers. John C. Maxwell and Joyce Meyer continue to be heroes as well.

I search out other artists as well, contemporary and historical. Just the fact that I can go to my paint drawer, grab out a tube of beautiful paint and start painting is certainly nothing compared to the preparatory routine of ancient masters who had to grind their own pigment and mix it with oils. They boiled rabbit skins and added lead powder for gesso to use as support primer, before they could even think about painting. And, they did NOT have cameras. I can't even begin to imagine creating art without using my camera for reference shots.

In summary, I realise life is short, and my life is good. I want to make my life count. I want my art work to be significant, to have meaning, and maybe even be a bit controversial and thought provoking. I will not allow my problems or inconveniences to stop me from accomplishing my goals. In reality I have few. These thoughts on this post helped birth and shape the concept for "Ephemeral Perception". I invite you to my website, BeverlyClaridge.com to read the Exhibition Statement to learn more.

I suppose I'd better post this now and get on to more paperwork so I can get back to painting tomorrow. I've had a great but challenging day of painting, with more interruptions than you could shake a stick at...but I always returned to my easel. For that little action of returning...I am victorious...again!

A Fruitful Absence

It's great to be back!! And it's been a busy absence.

First, I feel I had to support the blackout in protest to the "Guilt by Accusation" law in New Zealand. As a result of the widespread pressure, the government is giving the ISPs about 30 days to come up with a workable law, or the whole amendment will be shelved.

Then, I am slowed down for a week with what my husband calls the "100 day cough" although I'm inclined to disagree. According to my Google-ing, that name belongs to a form of whooping cough. No "whooping" here, just alot of "hack, hack, hack"! Hard to get a good night's sleep.

During all this period of supporting the black out and tending to my own hacking and coughing fits, I also manage to really make some good progress on my Ephemeral Perception series of paintings, plus enjoy some important networking, thanks to Chrysalis Seed Arts Community created by Chrysalis Seed Trust.

Peter and Jessica Crothall, Directors of Chrysalis Seed Trust, seek to visit as many New Zealand Christian artists, tertiary schools, and churches as possible on their epic journey through both big Islands. Their aim is to encourage serious artists in their walk in the Christian faith, as well as to help mitigate the isolation often experienced. I am thrilled to have hosted this dynamic couple in my home for a meal, eager to learn of their vision. I ask them how I can help. Their response? What can we do to help you? I am quite amazed. They have found other believer artists in Invercargill, and now it's up to me to take their good work and move forward .

I've been engaging in a bit of light philosophy as well. Principally, I'm pondering exactly what is a Christian visual artist? A person who paints overtly religious things? Are we to create images of Jesus? I hope not, because I sincerely consider paintings of Christ that I've seen so far incongruous to the Isaiah passage about the Messiah having no particularly handsome or attractive physical features. Or, is an artist of faith simply one who happens to be Christian, daily and earnestly living the walk of excellence in everything, including the act of creating art? Or is it something all together different from this? Perhaps it is an amalgamation that includes these ideas?

I'm reading "Visual Faith: Art, Theology, and Worship in Dialogue", by William A, Dyrness to see if I can find out. Given to me by Peter and Jessica as a gift of Chrysalis Seed Trust, the book explores art and art creators in relation to the Christian faith. I'm into the first chapter, a slow read for me, admittedly, due to all the ponderous statements and information.

Late last week, on Chrysalis Seed Arts Community site, I notice newcomer Jason Goroncy's blog simply announcing .pdf lectures are posted. I download one about hope and despair entitled "Pablo Picasso and Romans 5:1-5", where the author cites works of theologians, poets, novelists and painters to explore the theme. I like what I read, so I download them all. I learn of a Sunday trip Jason is making to Invercargill. Well, stop in for a cuppa and see what I'm doing in my studio, and meet my art patron....my husband! Whoa!! I still can't believe I invited him! Normally, I'm quite shy, but this is the year I am stepping out in faith to try new things.

Jason Goroncy, a lecturer at the Knox Centre for Ministry and Leadership in Dunedin, also possesses a degree in Fine Arts. What an excellent fellow. I especially enjoyed the challenging dialog with Jason regarding my paintings. Ever the gentleman, Jason is not afraid to ask probing questions, even uncomfortable ones. I love it. I need it.

Last week I visited the Riverton Arts Centre to see Deow's "A Balance of Options" exhibition for the second time. This exhibition may have ended this last weekend, but the exhibition and Danny Owen, aka Deow, are worth a mention. I lost my notes from the first visit and was too busy meeting folks or coughing my head off to return before last Thursday. The return visit is well worth it. You are invited to read my coming soon review on An American in Paradise: Observation and Information on Deep South Visual Arts. At least treat yourself to a view of Deow's website at http://www.deow.co.nz/, although I have to say his site does not do justice to his work. Through email today, I've learned I'll get to interview him for this blog either this week or next, so stay tuned.

By the way, my friend , Robin McNeil, fellow violist and renaissance man extraordinaire, suggests I partially rename my review blog by replacing "Deep South" with "Great South". He says it has more positive connotations...sounds more majestic! What do you think??

Why my profile picture is black!!! Important stuff for all New Zealanders!

Please join me in the blackout protest of the Section 92 of the Copyright Amendment Act, dubbed "Guilt by Accusation" bill which goes into law at the end of February. Read all about it by clicking here.

This law will affect everybody in NZ, including you!! If you are accused, not convicted, of downloading anything copyrighted, you face having the ISP forced to cut your internet connection. I support copyright protection, but this threatens personal freedoms. Draconian punitive actions are taken without being proven guilty by a jury of your peers. Scary stuff. It becomes law late this month. Please join the blackout protest by blacking out all of your profile pictures online to symbolise the dark age New Zealand will enter if this bill becomes law. Kiwis only please sign the on-line petition at http://creativefreedom.org.nz .

BeverlyClaridge.Com is online again!!

My base website, BeverlyClaridge.com is finally back up and running after a lengthy hiatus. My ISP changed things a bit, and family life changed a lot!!! Till lately, being a webmaster just didn't seem so important as, say, painting a picture or helping a family member with a problem.

Now, I'm back in the studio almost full time, and the family is up and about and getting on with life, thank God! BeverlyClaridge.com is a simple website created using MS Publisher. I know everytime I mention I use a Microsoft product as a web editor, you can almost hear the friendly ISP telephone customer service rep moan. In fact, when I set up the site a few years ago, they did moan loudly. Now, instead of using Front Page or Word, I'm using user friendly Publisher, mainly because it's free and I understand it. I'd appreciate advice on a better (and cheap) web software.

So, it would be really good of you to check out the updated website and let me know what you think. In the meantime, I'm back in studio painting like mad!!! And I love it!!!!

Kia Ora!

Gnawing a Bone

I'm still thinking about Rita. That's how my mind works...like a dog gnawing a bone until it is thoroughly crunched to bits. Now, observing our four Bichons, I know dogs sometimes bury the bone for later, presumably to keep other dogs from stealing the bone. But, I don't want to bury the " bone". I want to study it and chew on it...to taste every last bit of flavour. And, I want to share what I savour rather than hoard it.

Why my mind is stuck on Rita can be linked to observations made in my last post regarding my visit to the exhibition Rita Angus--Life and Vision at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery. Rita influenced New Zealand art. She was passionate about her causes. She was single-minded in her pursuits. She made herself vulnerable for her cause. She went out of her way to make excellent art. She networked with others. These are mostly good things that I, admittedly, am aiming for. Aim being the operative word. I shrink a little at posting these ambitions. I don't want folks to think I'm full of myself.

However, my pursuit of being a more excellent person has led me to study several leaders, including John C. Maxwell and Joyce Meyer. A few of the principles they expound upon is to dream big, don't limit yourself, and find someone who is successful , study what they did, and then adapt what you've learned to your situation. Which brings me back to Rita.

The caveat about Rita as role model is to realise that, as great as she was artistically, she also had her known foibles. Most notably, it appears to me, her self-centredness. And, I ponder a comment by my artist friend, made after reading my last post where I admit admiring Rita's vulnerability. He stated he thought it would be wonderful for artists, especially those who believe in Christ, to display a Christ-like vulnerability, while not burning bridges. Burning bridges. Is that what Rita did? It doesn't seem far fetched...someone like Rita...with such passionate causes. I need to read more.

I want to be passionate about my causes and be single-minded in my pursuits; however, as a follower of Christ, I also want to want to prefer others before myself. So sometimes my passion and single-mindedness takes a back seat. Difficult for a self-confessed melancholic who must work her plan!! And that vulnerability thing...such a difficult one for a recovering perfectionist. If I'm vulnerable, I open myself to the possibility that things will go awry...and they sometimes do . Then I find I must fight off that perfectionist's despair during those times. Thank God, for the grace to moderate those feelings!! Ok, burning bridges. I feel I've done enough of that in my life, thank you, so much so there may be enough charcoal for grilling steaks from now to the end of my time. But, I don't want to be smug. Some bridges need to be burned, especially if they lead you to places you know you don't want to go again. However, I do want to be vigilant. It's easier to keep friends than to win back enemies. And, how do I fit all this philosophising into my living, breathing, every-day pursuit of an art career.

This is why I'm thinking about Rita in the first place. Looking at her successes, her failures. Examining my successes. My failures. Wondering about my planned steps from this point.

So, what do you ponder in the quiet moments of your life? What thoughts cross your mind in the bid to make this four score and then some years of life significant? Please tell me. I'd love to know. Really. I would. Who has recently influenced your thinking about your job, your life, your legacy?

Ok. Back to preparing evening tea for the family. Then to the studio. For this time in my life, "Ephemeral Perception" is my celebrated cause.

Meeting Rita

This is the first week this year I have actually spent real painting time in studio. It feels good. Really good.

Today, however, I had unexpected business in Dunedin. Alas...a slow, sputtering start to my push to paint! Oh, but don't be a negative Nancy, I chide myself, this is a great opportunity to visit the Dunedin Public Art Gallery. And because it is not truly in the Deep South, I don't feel compelled to write up a review!! Yeah, a visit just for the fun of it!!! Even better, the Rita Angus exhibition from TePapa is featured. Yes!!!

I enter the first floor display via the elevators, right into the "middle" of the vast exhibition. (For my non-New Zealand readers the First Floor is actually the second level in the building. The Ground Floor is the ground floor or first floor in the US...just an aside)

The grandeur of what I saw was overwhelming, actually. I've seen printed photographs and web images, and have encountered only one Angus face to face at Anderson Park in Invercargill. But, now I see Rita's entire life on display. And magnificently so. On every wall, from where I stand, on into cavernous rooms and alcoves in all directions. Oh my. I didn't know it till now. I love Rita Angus. I am not ready for the next thought. Look at all this!!! What makes me think I can paint? Breathe. Come on. Breathe.

Honestly, my secret thoughts before todays meeting with Rita.... what is the big deal about Rita Angus? I know now. Now that I look her straight in the eye. Straight into the many, many, sets of eyes of Rita Angus and friends and family.

I am immediately struck by the clear artistic vision consistent throughout the body of work. Rita's paintings reveal a willingness, even a mandate, to experiment, yet each stays true to her own inner vision and beliefs. And look how willingly she has put her life on display. Beautifully. Masterfully.

I study each piece, walking down the foyer toward the entrance. There it is. The title. "Rita Angus---Life and Vision". Of course. Her work evokes in me the exact words of the exhibition name. Without seeing it beforehand. Wow.

Walking along, reading each bit of information offered about Rita, I am amazed. Envious even. No wonder she could paint all this (and more, I'm sure). No kids. Then I see them. The studies. The spectacular pencil and wash ones, created soon after the tragic, soul crushing miscarriage. Oh my. And they're nude. Of Rita. She deserves every accolade. I am not willing to expose myself so vulnerably.

Rita is a grand tutor today. I want to be a good student. What do I learn from her?

I must stay true to my vision and to myself. Try new things. Experiment. Always search. Make friends with artists. Family and friends are important. She loved her family deeply. Family and friends are featured heavily her work. Be excellent in my artwork. Rita deftly painted gorgeous yet traditionally confident still lifes, florals, and landscapes in addition to the better-known Rita-styled works. And, paint, paint, paint. Rita was obsessed with painting.

I'd better leave. My daughter is waiting patiently in the foyer. Good by Rita. I'll be back. Class dismissed.

Embracing Change for the Better!

That God would help me to accept the things I cannot change, and to help me change the things I need to change, and the wisdom to know the difference, has been a meaningful part of St. Francis of Assisi's well known prayer for me for a long time. It is one I've decided to take to heart come last November.

November in the Southern Hemisphere, especially in the home of a high school teacher(my husband teaches chemistry), initiates a tremendously hectic season. Extra duties given to me by my husband to help him meet his end of the school year obligations, trying to prepare for summer and the holidays, plus, this year, the much anticipated homecoming of an offspring from a distant university, and many normal daily activities have engendered an increased sense of frustration for me as an artist for a few years. It is simply too frenetic for me to leave my easels remaining erected My huge lounge(which also serves as my studio), with my treasured artworks-in-the-making perched on them. Creating art comes to a screeching halt.

This year, sensing that change is something that God wants me to embrace in my career, I've taken this period of time to really reassess exactly what I want to achieve in my life and with my career. To what purpose am striving when I awaken each morning?

Instead of greeting each morning grumpy because I'd really rather be painting instead of taxiing, cleaning, cooking, or performing any one of a myriad of other summertime duties required to keep a large family going successfully , I decided, with God's grace, to do what Jesus did for his disciples when he girded a servant's towel around his waste, kneeling to wash their feet. I needed to serve my family with joy and gladness. Not easy for a strong melancholic like me.

This period of simple servitude also gave me the mental space to really consider the more weightier issues of purpose mentioned above. Each evening, brimming with mental energy not used in the daily activity of simply getting things done for my family, I re-examined my career goals, set up renewed plans and significantly revised my artist statement. I've also learned more about the business of art. Additionally, I've expanded my social networking on the internet, and hopefully in flesh and blood reality...something I've needed to do for a while. Simply put, I haven't socialised enough, which is something I think most artists need in order for people to know what they're up to in the studio.

So, what's new on the net the you can check out?

Firstly, I've posted my new artist's statement on nearly all the websites in which I participate, including the following:

• My Portfolio on Gallery Direct

• My Page on The Big Idea, a NZ artist site

• BrushSpace, a site where artists display and discuss their work with other artists

• My Chrysalis Seed Arts Community page, A place to share everything about contemporary visual art and faith. New and highly recommend. You need to join in order to view my page.

Secondly, I've created a FaceBook group

• An American in Paradise: Beverly Claridge, Fine Artist. If you're a FaceBook member, please join me...it's an easy way to keep up with what paintings I've completed, and in general what I'm doing in my career

Third, I've created a new Blog,

• An American in Paradise: Observations and Information on Deep South Visual Arts , as a place to be informed about visual arts in the South of New Zealand.
  

The fourth and final kind of web presence that I worked on is marketing.

• I've established a Yessy On-line sales portfolio, originally created for my now abandoned plan to sell daily paintings. I'm mainly keeping it now for the exposure, preferring to handle my sales through Bob Martin at ArtSouth in Gore(or through other galleries with whom I hope to establish a business relationship this year).
  

• My RedBubble account is an easy and affordable way to purchase cards and paper prints of your favourite Beverly Claridge paintings and drawings.

I hope you'll check out all one or maybe even all these sites, and let me know what you think.

So, in the spirit of the St.Francis' prayer, I gladly accept that November through to the end of January, each year, for this time in my life, is a period of servitude to my family, and an opportunity to genuinely consider the direction of my art career and my life. I hope and pray, with God's guidance, to continue to embrace the changes I sense he calling me to in both my career and life. I invite you to stay tuned. Blessings.

P.S. I've decided, for now, not to get upset over the fact that I have not mastered Blogger formatting. So, from what I can see in the editing preview window, all text may not be the proper colour. I know you won't really mind now, will you. A bit of an adjustment for a recovering perfectionist living abundantly in grace.

A Trip Through the Middle

Family life, as I have averred on this blog before, is a hefty factor for many if not all artists. Our son had finished for the year his studies at University of Canterbury in engineering. And because of all the stuff he had amassed, he needed us to come retrieve him and said stuff.

Oooh, there goes another painting day...but wait!!! If we take the inside route through the middle of the country, we'll get some rather spectacular scenery perhaps!!! Well, we did it. We left early last Saturday...well early for us 7 a.m. rather than our intended 5 a.m. with the intent to catch sunrise in the fabled McKenzie Country. And 18 hours later, we arrived back in Invercargill with young man, his stuff and some photos in hand.

Most people associate New Zealand with lush green hills, bush and spectacular beaches. In my opinion, this country has nearly every clime that there is back home in the States. A lot of it, though, takes place in the middle of the two islands. In the South Island, there is Central Otago, and the McKenzie Country. Both known for their vast starkness and rich earthy colours and mountains. Lots of them. On this particular trip, we went up through Gore, then over Moa Flats, descended into Ettrick, Roxburgh, Cromwell, Pukaki, and Tekapo. These towns play a part in New Zealand's hydroelectric scheme. The area surrounding the mighty Clutha River and her tributaries as well as these lakes are remarkable. Here are a few shots from that trip.

This is coming down out of Moa Flats and coming down into Ettrick, where there is a fruit industry(as well as in Roxburgh and Alexandra). Those 3 white spots on the lower right part of the photo are reasonable sized farm sheds, to give you an idea of scale.

This is the beautiful Aririri River. If you look carefully, you will see the thousands upon thousands of purple, yellow and pink lupins on the silt isles. Wonderful perfume!

This is right outside of Cromwell, which had a great portion of it intentionally flooded in a very controversial Clyde Dam project back in the 70's I believe. I love the magenta wild flowers growing every where. There is also wild roses and wild thyme all around the area. A delight for the senses!

This is coming out of the Cromwell area into Alexandra. Most people do not associate this starkness with New Zealand. But it is quite beautiful.

Lake Pukaki in early afternoon. The blue in the lake is from the mineral runoff(glacial, I believe) into the lake. In the distance is Aoraki or Mt. Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand.

I did not take any pictures of the McKenzie country as we were racing to come back to Pukaki at sunset to take some splendid shots of that time of day. We were not successful, which is sad because there was some fabulous shadow play in the McKenzie country. Oh, well, such is life.

It will take a while to get anyof these or the other photos I took in this expedition due to the fact that with all the grown children at home, there is no place to paint. Therefore, I am now doing plein air painting. More about that next week!

Puppy Love and Ladybug Giggles!

One of the ways I'm able to support my art career, outside of the paintings flying off my walls and onto the walls of collectors, is to raise Bichons. Although they are a quite a bit of work, they provide a great amount of joy.

And joy was what I needed upon my return from a visit to my daughter living in Otago. A family emergency arose and I was glad to be able to support her. But, oh how I missed my easel!!! In order to get the creative pump primed, I decided to start on a couple of almost, well...sort of daily paintings that I aspire to.

So, I used Barney, one of our 12 week old Bichon Frise-Bichon Maltese pups as subject matter. What fun! I opted for an impressionistic style seeing that a strictly realistic style may seem a bit stilted for such an energetic wee man. I wanted to show his energy as well as his cuddliness. I think I did it. I'd love to know what you think.




Everytime I look at a ladybug up close, I get a little urge to giggle or smile. They seem to embody happiness. All those spots. I thought it would be fun to juxtapose this critter on a background of fun spots. That's why I called it "On the Spot". I like it. What do you think?

Barney and On the Spot are both available for purchase via Yessy. And I'm happy to package either one and send them internationally as well.

Three "Daily" Paintings

My daughter recommended I give this some genitalia name, just to get stir up a buzz. I'm not given to that kind of palaver, actually. So, "Cozy Rhody" it is!




The next one is entitled, "Sunny Trio".



The third one is actually the first "flower" piece I did. I was reasonably happy with my attempt, but found it all rather boring. So, I decided to add a juxtaposing type of background(I was going to say non-sequitor, but I couldn't get spell check to help out and my daughter and I couldn't agree on spelling.) I like the result. Entitled, "Can't Change Your Stripes".




The size of all three are 200 x 250 mm, or about 8 x 10 inches for all my non-metric friends.
They are available for purchase on my Yessy site. Go to http://www.yessy.com/beverlyclaridge

Gorgeous Spring Time Down Under!

While Northern Hemispherians are enjoying their Sunday drives through spectacular display of autumn leaves, down under we are enjoying the beauty of spring.

Here in Invercargill, the Parks Department seems to outdo themselves each year with their displays of tulips intermingled with all variety of annuals and perennials used as annuals. Most any drive through town will afford the opportunity to enjoy floral beauty everywhere.

Queens Park, which I consider to be one of the most beautiful parks I've ever been in, is home to what I'm sure is some of the largest rhododendrons on earth. Some of them, over 100 years old, are larger than many two story houses...fair dinkum...or down under for...I ain't lyin'!!! In fact, if you ask me to, I'll see if I can dig up the photos of my daughter standing in front of one of them. It'll be a bit of an undertaking because my computer died a few months ago that contained most of my photographs. I think we've rescued most of them. At any rate, I could just drive over and take photos if I had to.

My purpose for bringing all this up does relate to my quest to complete a painting daily. For my daily efforts, I've decided to go back to painting flowers, which is the first kind of thing I drew when I came to New Zealand, back when coloured pencil was my medium. I was simply blown away by the abundance of incredibly gorgeous flowers of all varieties everywhere.

I've also come to another decision. A painting a day to me does not necessarily mean starting and completing it in one day. If I'm not happy with it, and a few extra licks of paint the next day, or the next, will make it better, then so be it. So far, I've started two rhody works, almost completed one to my satisfaction, and I'm finishing up on a painting of a calla lily. This is in addition to working on two Stewart Island paintings and doing a lot of mulling over two paintings for Ephemeral Perception.

So, yes, I've been one busy artist, which is why I've been late this week with my post. I'm not going to post any of these paintings until I'm happy with them, which hopefully should happen by tomorrow or the next day(which is Saturday for me... with daylight savings on, we are now 5 hours behind and a day ahead of my folks back in Kansas...don't try to figure it out :) )

I'll see if I can find a picture of some of the gorgeous flowers around.

Kia Ora!

...and Blessings!

Resolve and Reality...

Faithful Morning. Oil on Board.

A painting a day....yeah...ummm....no, not yet.

It has been an interesting journey from the point of deciding to do a painting a day.

The first part of that journey took place in a conversation with Bob Martin, the owner of the gallery that represents my art, ArtSouth . He questions the need for me to complete a painting a day, more or less saying he feels my skill level is already more than enough. And he's wanting me to finish my "Ephemeral Perception" series in a timely manner, I suppose, without distraction. Not the exact conversation, mind you, but something to that affect. Or at least how I understood it. While I appreciate these notions, and they were very complimentary, I really want to increase my speed with which I produce my paintings. He expressed concern that speed would diminish my skill level.

The second part came from a response to a post from one of my favourite newly discovered artists, Mark Adams , an amazing, yet humble artist, who wrote in his response to me saying he inspired me to try a painting a day, replied to me on his blogspot of daily paintings:

"Beverly, The daily paintings are a great discipline, just don't let it stress you out on those days that you just can't create or have a social obligation. Rather than scratching out something you aren't happy with, I find it is better to let it go rather than get frustrated. Others find that pushing on is a better philosophy. What ever works for you."

Good words from someone I admire so much. Bob Martin, painting as Robert John Martin, is no slouch either. His paintings of swans, kiwis and trout are masterful, plus he successfully running a gallery with international clients out of Gore, New Zealand.

And the, of course, there is the biggest part of this artist journey with which each practitioner much successfully contend, if that is the right word...family life.

We are blessed to have a couple of my adult children live with us as they complete tertiary studies. They along with my husband, a highly regarded Southland high school teacher, are all home on break before the fourth and final term of this year commences. This situation eliminates a lot of needed quiet time for me.

I work best when I can hear myself think, with few distractions, and perhaps a bit of classical music on the stereo. I am one of those artists that does a lot of painting in my head before a brush hits the panel. All those "I just want to tell you this" interruptions cause me to lose a lot of the mental imagery that I had previously collected. But I love them and try to treasure everyday I have with my family members and so put up with it...but still.

Then we were fortunate to have our lovely wee granddaughter Lori Lee come to stay visit this week, resulting from a last minute decision. Of course we were delighted...but oh my idea of a daily painting...on top of the "big stuff" I need to complete. But I love wee Lori Lee and as a person who has lived more years of her life than she likely has left, I realise the time to form a lasting relationship with her is now...not later when we perhaps watch her go down the aisle with her future husband. Life passes by so quickly! Plus our other granddaughter Nova visits weekly as well. So family life is full.

So, no daily paintings this week. Instead, I have managed to expand my "social" artist network. I am actively involved in BrushSpace, which showcases some brilliant artists and allows each of them to "follow" other artists on the site. Quite a little community is being built. Chrysalis Seed Trust, a site dedicated to help artists of the Christian faith in New Zealand interface with the world at large, and Yessy, a site set up to easily show and sell my paintings. Seeing that art is a rather solo pursuit at times, I figured it was time to get a little more sociable whilst viewing some great artwork and actually discussing philosophical notions. Maybe even sell a painting or two or three...or four!!!

So all I can say, I suppose, is stay tuned. I do plan to manage to do almost daily paintings soon. In the meantime be sure to check out some the links I've put down. And enjoy looking at one of the paintings from my Stewart Island series. Until then...blessings!

Okay!! Daily Paintngs...Well, yes....

I realise that it has been almost a year since my last post. My fourth quarter of the year resolution is to update this blog at least weekly, if not daily.

Why my new resolve...well, a lot of it has to do with BrushSpace(click on to the link at the side of my page). I received a rather innocuous email a few weeks back asking me to be part of a 4 week old website for "top" artists. Couldn't resist the "top" hook and so I checked it out. What I saw was almost enough to make me want to throw away all my brushes, paints, and pencils!!! There are some phenomenal artists on there. Most notably, for me, Mark Adams, Chris Stott, and James Neil Hollingsworth just to name a few!!

With fear and trepidation, I joined the group, uploaded a few of my better images and, sure enough, received enough "followers" of my artwork to keep me going!! More importantly, as I am want to do when I spot a good artist on the inet, I started visiting the websites of these outstanding artists to perhaps gleen something I could use. To get some inspiration...

What I discovered was a real community of artist using the internet to network. More importantly, I discovered many of these amazing artists participate in the "painting a day" movement. Now, understand, I paint very slowly, so for me to agree to try to do a painting a day is a fundamental change of work habits. Especially considering I'm in the thick of painting my series of 1000mm x 800mm artworks for "Ephemeral Perception", my next solo exhibition. But, I want to paint better, so, here I go!!!

I'm not up to the painting per day yet, but I've completed 250 x 200 mm(I think 8x 10 inches in the old money) paintings. One of a tea cup...not so successful and one of Oreti Beach on a windy day. (I almost lost my car to the surf, as it surged and surrounded it...with me in it!!) I've also completed a couple of works that for some reason or other I had not managed to. Plus, I've started two more "Stewart Island" paintings. All in addition to working on two 800 x 1000 mm (roughly 2.5 by 3 foot works). It all makes for a full day. I've also joined Yessy in order to sell my Daily Paintings. So if you see something you want to purchase from me, google Yessy and insert my name in their search. I've yet to figure out what the html for my page on Yessy is.

So, I'll post all I've completed so far, and when I get a photo of it made, will post the tea cup...all in the spirit of fairness, I guess.

Group Show at ArtSouth in Gore New Zealand

Group Exhibition at ArtSouth in Gore New Zealand!!

Beverly Claridge
Julie Greig -
Michael Holland -
Daina O'Hagan -
Jane Riley -
Louwenda Robinson


From my perspective, this is an interesting mix of artwork on display at the beautiful gallery at the historic Old Post Office upstairs in Gore, New Zealand. Bob Martin, gallery proprietor, and his university summer intern, Paul, cheerily provides advise and information on all the artists and artwork there. For me, it is worth a journey just to visit with these two knowledgeable gentlemen.

In this exhibition, I am presenting my Stewart Island series, as well as providing three studies from my current series slated to be on display in early 2009. The series has the working title, "Ephemeral Perceptions" and explores visionary aspects of human existance, such as hope, aspiration, values, and ideals. I can't remember when I've had so much fun in studio, and can hardly wait to premiere this group of works. They are all slated for national contests next year, with the finale of hosting the entire collection in the exhibition at ArtSouth.

Whew! What a Blessed Year!!!

It's been busy, but blessed 18 months!! One daughter married! Two others blessed us with a granddaughter and a grandson and our two boys are in their last year of highschool! Of course, then there was our trip to the US and a kitchen remodel when we returned. Then google did some remodeling of their own and I couldn't access my Blogger. But I've finally worked it out and here I am.

And now, I'm gearing up for exhibitions next year and the year after. The working title for my solo exhibition in "Ephemeral Perception", which will explore our everyday lives alongside the vastness and expanse of the universe. It is a more visionary direction for my artwork.

Included in this post is an image of one of the preparatory studies I am doing for the exhibition. I'll upload a slightly larger jpeg as soon as I locate it on my computer. I'd love your comments.

There's No Place Like Home

I love returning "home" to Kansas. To my roots. I've lived a few other places in my life...Kansas City, Ohio, California, and now New Zealand. Southland, New Zealand is now my real home...where I hang my hat. Where I've decided to be happy for this part of my life. But a trip to Wichita really helps me appreciate some of the family influences in my life.

My folks, Charles and Dorothy, are decent, rather ordinary human to all who would take just a momentary glance at them. But to those who really know them--those who have a history with them and know the story of their lives both together and before they met---they are quite extraordinary. Very strong, very determined, bedrock values and beliefs in God, Nation, Family and Friends. Mindful to help those in need. Well liked by most and well-respected by all who know them.

How do you embody all these things and more in a painting? I had to try. A painting of Mom and Dad on their own, to me, would be a hollow painting. I wish I would have had more time to include even more of the hundreds of people these two have influenced. I was spoiled for choice with the dozen photo albums, plus boxes of old photos.

I am pleased with these paintings. I see dad with his beloved dog, Maggie. I look at the atlases and almanacs, the subject of many dinner table quizes during my childhood. I am thankful because I know where most countries mentioned in the news are, thanks to him. I am grateful because he always embued in us love for books and probably a love for pets, too.

On my mom's painting, I love her arms. My mom has incredibly strong arms. They've always been used helping others and working hard, and they give the most wonderful hugs. On the table is her Bible. The sole authority in her life. I wanted to paint her laughter. She is always laughing. My memory of that is probably better than any attempt to express it in paint.

I am very fortunate to have two great persons I can call mom and dad.

Now I am back home in New Zealand. I've re-visited my roots and now have returned, busily establishing new roots here. Thank you, mom and dad, for such a good beginning.

Paint's a Flyin'!

(Jpeg shows Hapene)
I've been painting like mad since my last post. I have produced 4 paintings from my Stewart Island adventure and they are now on display at Stewart Island Adventure's Rakiura Gallery. They are also available by linking to my "Newest Artwork" gallery on Gallery Direct.

I've also achieved a sense of completion in finishing the "Wini Series", which are two paintings, "Hapene" and "Raranga", featuring well known and respect flax weaver Wini Solomon of Aparima, Riverton in New Zealand. I had originally planned to have this pair of paintings ready for "Noble People Treasured Land", but decided, as I got closer to the exhibition cut off date, I had to have more time to get it right, so I didn't include it. It was important to me for this project to be done properly. Well, I did complete it and it resides happily, for the moment, at Alan and Wini Solomon's "Maori Crafts Studio".

Besure to visit my online portfolio at Gallery Direct to see all my Stewart Island Series, plus I've completed a couple of paintings from a winter-time(southern hemisphere) visit to Glenorchy up in the Southern Lakes District of the South Island of New Zealand.

Beverly Claridge---Art Kudos --2006 Finalist!

Beverly Claridge's work titled "A Vintage Day" was selected as a finalist entry in the 2006 Art Kudos International Online Exhibition. Selections were made from more than 1000 works of art submitted by 366 artists representing 32 countries. A total of 107 works of art from 97 artists were chosen for the exhibition. On August 15th view the exhibition and the award winners selected by this year's juror, Shannon Richardson.

News Flash!! Beverly Claridge July 2006 Featured Artist at Gallery Direct

I am pleased to announce that I have been chosen by Gallery Direct (www.gallerydir.com) to be the July 2006 featured artist, with samples of my art and an interview. Click here to read THE INTERVIEW . You can discover a bit of the thinking that goes on inside my head when I go to create art.

For those artists who are looking to get onto the web, Gallery Direct is an excellent venue. For a very reasonable cost, you can present your art online in a professional, easy-to-use manner. No muss, no fuss, and very good customer service by Dave Yelen and Maggie Bresden.

Onwards and Upwards

For me, "Noble People Treasured Land" was a success. Sales of both some original artwork and reproductions, as well as comments, in general,were encouraging.

But, no time to rest in the afterglow. To quote John C. Maxwell, "Yesterday ended last night. Today matters." So onward and upwards in my career.

Earlier in June, I was delighted to be able to visit Stewart Island, New Zealand. My daughter works at Rakiura Gallery selling everything but the fixtures. Her employer is now exhibiting my artwork, "Kai Moana" as well as "Storm Rising" and Storm Ending" in their lovely gallery. My main reason for the ferry ride across the Foveaux Strait to Oban was to photograph this pristine environment in order to create artwork.

This was my first visit to Stewart Island. What a national treasure! Pristine, remote and lovely. The sunny winter weather, with the very few visitors to island, especially compared to summertime, added to the sense of experiencing something special. I especially enjoyed my water taxi ride around Patterson Inlet with Peter Cox. The water was still, the sun bright and the air crystal clear.

The next day I felt extremely privaleged to be able to experience Ulva Island. This small island inside Patterson Inlet is a sanctuary for New Zealand-only plants and animals. Because of the isolation, it is easier to keep predatory animals away from kiwi and saplings in the bush. It was simply awe-inspiring to walk through the bush. I especially enjoyed my encounter with the waka birds, a cheeky and bold cousin of sorts to the shy kiwi, which is flightless as well.

When you visit New Zealand, I very much encourage you to make the effort to visit Southland. Make sure you go the extra mile(or kilometer or so) and take the short ferry or plane ride to Stewart Island. If you love experiencing magnificent, pristine nature at it's best, you will not be
disappointed.