Paintings With Soul

"Blue," roughly 8" x 10", acrylics on a shield shaped wooden panel (yes, the painting is this shape and roughly 3/4" high), my personal collection. I'm not letting this one go anywhere!  Message me   if you would like information on commissioning your own pet's portrait, or maybe you want something like this, in a special shape. Portraits start at $400. Trekell Art Supplies   has a pet portrait contest where submissions must be painted on their panels. I hadn't worked with Trekell previously, although I have been intrigued by their panels' delightful shapes for quite some time. I bought a couple extras when I ordered this, along with a larger fancy medallion one and a shrine shaped piece, just to have fun with. I don't know what I will put on them yet, but they are sitting here, waiting patiently for inspiration to hit. Meanwhile, I hope to finish 2 other commissions tomorrow. I know it's technically a holiday here in the states, but I...

"Hooligans," 18" x 24" x 1", acrylics on a museum quality cradeled panel, the newest installation in my studies of light and dark, $1500. This one is impossible for me to photograph properly - I'll have to hire a professional. But trust me, they are spectacular!  In process photos here  and  inquiries may come to me . I met these three youngsters on a green drizzley day several springs back. I'm hoping to return to their farm this spring with camera again in tow. There's nothing like a herd of Gypsy Vanners set against fresh green. Unless, of course, you place them in a dark alley and dial up the color. Thanks for following along with my artwork, Kim ksantini@turtledovedesigns.com

"Rose" 8" x 10," acrylics on a museum quality panel, depicting a sleepy-eyed Nancy Ann Story Book doll (does anyone know this doll's original name?). In process photos can be viewed here . Inquiries may come to me . Today didn't go as expected. Kids home (no power at school) and bouncing emails were just a couple of the surprises. (And for those of you in the path of last nite's storms, I hope you have a warm place to stay and all your loved ones are accounted for.)  I rolled with the punches, did lots of yoga breathing, put out all my fires, and found myself mid-afternoon with some time at the easel. I could have worked on a commission, but didn't trust the fates to leave me alone. So I chose a little doll who seemed to match my pensive mood. Here's hoping tomorrow is not a repeat of today! Kim ksantini@turtledovedesigns.com

    At Peace (Gracie May), 12" x 18", depicting our neighbor's dog. I started this painting at my Dragon on the Lake demo in August of this year - it was a hot and windy day, which led to a little excitement as I painted with one hand steadying the canvas on my easel. Today Gracie made it to my studio easel for the finishing touches. This painting can be yours for $639. Inquiries may come  to me .     On any given day I can peek out my studio window and catch a glimpse of Gracie May sunning herself at her home across the street. Usually with a shoe nearby.   A rescued dog, Gracie's of uncertain ancestry - she's much taller and lighter boned than a typical lab, but has their sweet disposition and fondness for cookies. Lumpy and stiff with arthritis, her tail thumps upon your approach and she rolls for a good belly rub.   If I'm especially lucky, she'll get up, drop her head, wiggle her butt, and howl with anticipation when ...