Five Years Later

The disastrous aftermath of Hurricane Katrina is still fresh in our minds, five years after that deluge. People died, a legendary American city was vanquished, and Gulf coast natives lost their homes, property, jobs and loved ones. We are still recovering from this devastating event.

I have not forgotten it. I recently challenged myself to paint a series based on present-day disasters. One of those paintings sprang from Katrina. While painting, I remembered riding through Gulf states a few months after the hurricane, flying over the region when I left, and witnessing a ravaged New Orleans. I returned a few months ago and was pleased to see NOLA recovering, slowly but surely. Imminent Threat 3 perhaps represents my modest tribute to the families affected by Katrina.

Back From A Workshop

This past week I attended a Directed Individual Study workshop with my art coach, Steve Aimone, and 10 other artists at central Florida's beautiful art refuge, Atlantic Center for the Arts.

We had the opportunity to paint and work 24/7. It was intense, great fun, and we all found new colleagues or deepened old friendships. I've included a few of my photos from this wonderful retreat.

If you are looking for a fun event, think about attending the opening of 100 % Pure Florida in Melbourne, FL. On September 3rd, this popular annual show opens at Fifth Avenue Art Gallery, located at 1470 Highland Ave., Melbourne, in the Eau Gallie Arts District. The gallery and the district come alive with music, refreshments, entertainment and, of course, this juried opening. This year, the competition was fierce: of more than 260 pieces of art, only 64 works were selected for this show. The opening reception will run between 5:30 and 9 p.m. My art is once again featured.