Deb Kirkeeide

"Black As Night. Raven's Flight."

2012-01-08T19:01:00.002-06:00

"Black As Night. Raven's Flight."

18 x 18 Oil

Happy New Year everyone! I hope this year fulfills every hope, dream and promise for you.

I certainly didn't mean to be away this long, it amazes me how time gets filled with so many things. Maybe I just have too many things in the works! This and a couple other paintngs have been in the works for some time and have gone through several evolutions, one reason they have taken so long I suppose.

I was looking at this painting and a few of my other bird paintings and noticed many are all flying in the same direction. Interesting. (I wonder where they are all going?) But it reminded me of a comment one of my previous employers made many years ago "complaining" that all my animals were left handed.

I hadn't realized animals were left or right handed.

Apparently being left handed myself, the drawings faced the wrong direction for their purpose of becoming a novelty brooch that you would be wearing, which evidently etiquette calls for wearing

on your right side. I think that is discrimination against all of us left handers!

If interested in this painting please email me at kirkeeide@mac.com

Thanks!

Grace

2011-11-27T22:16:00.001-06:00

Grace

16 x 20 Oil

This may look a bit familiar. This is a larger version of my earlier 6x6 study from a few weeks ago. I was experimenting in textures on this one. Still haven't hit of the exact combination of winning

tools and technique but it is fun trying new things.

I hope this long Thanksgiving weekend was good to you all! I know I'm thankful for many things in my life and a big part of that is all of you. Thank you.

After The Rains

2011-11-07T21:53:00.001-06:00

After the Rains

15 x 30 Oil

This is a larger version of a plein air study I did earlier this summer. Always a challenge for me, painting on such a large scale. I've been working on this all summer, adding, subtracting, changing approaches - more or less experimenting and ending up painting it all with a knife. It's not quite the vision I had in my head - but it feels very peaceful to me in all it's muted tones. I remember that day out painting plein air with Outdoor Painters of Minnesota (OPM). Early morning, after a night of rain, the air heavy with moisture and the good company of fellow painters.

And speaking of OPM....for all of you local people looking for an art filled evening, we are having our opening reception on Saturday the 12th at The Frameworks Gallery in St Paul. Hope to see you there!

Swan Study

2011-11-06T22:15:00.000-06:00

Swan Study

6x6 oil
©2011 Deb Kirkeeide

Wow, I guess it's been a while since I posted. It's been a busy month with lots of great things going on. I finished up this year's Motion Poem animation, which I'll try to post in the next day or two.

I've also been asked to animate another piece for Blank on Blank interviews. This one will be fun and I'm excited about this one. More about that later. I also will have one of my raven paintings gracing the cover of a book of poetry being published next year. Lots of things happening!

And I've managed to get some painting done as well. This little one is a study for a larger one coming up. Hopefully soon.

Purchase here.

A Spot of Color Along the River

2011-10-03T22:19:00.001-05:00

A Spot of Color Along the River

8x8 Oil

We didn't venture far for this. Just a short walk to the river on the ranch. Now, what to paint....hmmm... I know! I think I'll pick one of the more difficult things here. I started painting and the result to me was just a big mess. So in a last ditch effort I pulled out the pallette knife and went for it. It's still a bit of an abstract mess but I really kind of like this little spot of color along the river.

Over the Fence

2011-10-02T20:08:00.000-05:00

Over The Fence

8x8 Oil

Another from the trip out west. Just a small part of the panoramic view before us. It's hard to decide what to paint when the world lays before you in all its glory!

Purchase Here!

Basin Trail

2011-09-29T20:13:00.001-05:00

Basin Trail

12x9 Oil

We followed this little one lane trail - way beyond the view you see here - and then drove halfway back. Along the way we stopped at the ranger station to ask where the trail led. Our fine cowboy ranger gave us some good information but we lost him during the debate to travel further or to just pick a spot before the light went flat. He said we lost him on that discussion and headed back to his cabin. (darn!)

We opted to paint and explore later. I love this view and the resulting painting. It was very inviting.

We did get a little nervous and wondered if we might have to head to the cars upon listening to some very vocal cows and a very distressed donkey off in the distance. I can be perfectly comfortable moving around the city but out there I was always looking over my shoulder for bear. Though towards the end of the week I was starting to feel a little more comfortable.

SOLD

Thanks for visiting!

Morning on the Creek

2011-09-27T22:34:00.000-05:00

Morning on the Creek

9x12 oil

I'm back from Wyoming where I spent some time painting at the 7D Ranch in Cody. This is the third time I've been there and it's always a great time. Our band of merry artists was smaller this time but it's always a treat to spend time with this group as we've formed a special bond over the years.

The weather was perfect, as was the scenery. Pretty much every waking hour was spent outdoors. I just couldn't seem to soak up enough of the peaceful beauty of this area. No bears this year, though there were plenty of bear attack stories told around the fire. (thanks, John!) The extent of wildlife was limited to the mouse in my cabin and the cows from the neighboring ranch. They broke out and hung out around the cabins for a while until the cowboys showed up to wrangle them home.

This was the first painting of the trip. Standing on the bridge overlooking the creek, the morning started out calm but soon the wind picked up and I had to finish quickly while holding down my easel.

More to come!

Purple Finch

2011-08-30T21:53:00.001-05:00

Purple Finch

8x8 Oil on linen panel

This guy seems to be a cheeky little fellow! I love his attitude. Due to my recent interest in birds (besides the ravens) I've been paying attention and find myself being more observant of their presence.

I'm also learning more about them from various websites and blogs One such source is Sharon Stiteler, aka The BirdChick. If you're interested in birds, be sure to check out her website and blog.

Friday night, we had our opening reception for the exhibition of this cycle for Project Art For Nature.

It is an awesome and beautiful show. So many diverse styles. I'm inspired to try some new techniques

and mediums. My experimentation will have to wait until I finish a few projects. I've got an animation I need to create art for and I'm headed out to Wyoming in two weeks with a group of artists to spend

5 days painting in the mountains. I'm really looking forward to our time back out at the 7D.

If interested in this painting you can make it yours right here.

Thanks!

August Morning

2011-08-25T16:20:00.000-05:00

August Morning

6x8 Oil

This was my morning warm up piece from our paint out at the winery. Since I don't go out and paint terribly often, I'm always a little rusty and tend to dive in for a quick study just to warm up.

I think I would like to try this one again a little bigger. Hopefully I'll have a chance to go back soon.

There's something very intriguing and poetic about the path leading through the pasture and into the woods. I wonder where it would have led me to.

Orchard Delight

2011-08-23T19:28:00.001-05:00

Orchard Delight
6x8 Oil
©2011 Deb Kirkeeide

Another from the day at the vineyard. I was tempted to pick one, but I was good. I love this time of year when the apples start coming in. A sure sign it's about time for the State Fair, and fall is right around the corner and after that...well, I refuse to think about that yet.

Purchase here.

125 + SH

The Winery Barn

2011-08-22T00:35:00.000-05:00

The Winery Barn

9x12 Oil
©2011 Deb Kirkeeide

This past Saturday, Outdoor Painters of Minnesota had our paint-out at Parley Lake Winery in Victoria, MN. I have to say it was a fabulous event with over 20 painters showing up to paint. It's a beautiful

area with rolling hills, orchards and vineyards and wine tasting!

Add award winning wine, live music and art on display to a beautiful day and great camaraderie,

the day couldn't get any better!

This is where they make the wine. I heard they were serving wine slushies inside - I never had the chance to check it out. Though I did have a glass of the Frontenac Gris in hand while I painted this.

Purchase here.

Grace In Gravity

2011-08-15T21:49:00.000-05:00

Grace In Gravity

16 x 20 Oil

I've somehow tuned into Blue Herons and the White Egrets this year. Being fairly common along our lakes and ponds, the herons and egrets have captured my interest. It's amazing how these large birds can gracefully maneuver its surrender to gravity and set itself down in the reeds along the shoreline of our lakes and ponds.

This, along with some previous paintings, is off to our Project Art for Nature (PAN) exhibition coming up at The Phipps Center for the Arts in Hudson, WI. Aug 19 - Sept 25. Opening reception Aug 26.

If you are in the area please be sure to stop by!

Morning Serenity

2011-07-20T22:13:00.000-05:00

Morning Serenity

16x8 Oil on Linen

Same island. Different time. Different morning. Different surface.

This was painted on a linen panel which seemingly sucked up the paint as fast as I could put it down. Much different approach than the previous painting and panel, which didn't seem to absorb anything. I like how the surface dictates the style of the painting. In this case it was perfect.

For someone who is typically not subtle - I love the quiet and mysterious energy in this.

Island View - Minnesota Landscape

2011-07-19T10:14:00.001-05:00

Island View

8x16 Oil on Panel

I recently spent some time painting and enjoying one of our many Minnesota lakes with artist Kristin Grevich. The weather was hot and humid but that made for some great blues and grays mixed in with the abundance of green we have here in our Minnesota summer landscapes.

This was painted on a very textured panel and the result is somewhat watercolor- like in nature. I'm liking the looseness of it. It was fun to get out and paint outdoors again. I have to say the view, the location and the company I was keeping, didn't hurt either!

To purchase click here.

Lesson Time - Wood Duck painting

2011-07-12T20:57:00.001-05:00

Lesson Time

Triptych

8x8 oil

I was out painting one day and spotted this little wood duck family. I originally saw mom and one duckling but as I moved closer to take some pictures she swam out and revealed the rest sitting on the log. "Lesson number one, my little ones - stay away from the woman with the camera!"

Mom

8x8

Eyes to the Front

8x8

Wait for me!

8x8

Great White Egret Original Painting

2011-07-10T22:00:00.000-05:00

Great Egret

18 x 18 Oil on Canvas

This is a larger version of the earlier 6 x 6 Egret Flying I did a few weeks ago. I'm creating some new

pieces for our PAN show at the Phipps Center for the Arts in Hudson, Wisconsin. This was an Egret I observed at my site in Carver County. Though these birds are pretty common and I've often seen them along the shores of marshes and small ponds, these and Great Blue herons have really captured my interest this year.

I've got a few more in the works for the show and will be posting those soon.

Hope your weekend was fabulous!

Peony Bouquet

2011-07-04T20:44:00.000-05:00

Peony Bouquet

6x8 Oil on Linen Panel

This has a completely different mood than the previous floral. It still amazes me how many different styles seem to flow through at any given time. I wonder what contributes to that? Just like our moods are in constant flux, it makes sense that any number of environmental and emotional responses influence the outcome of our artistic expression.

This is from a recent bouquet I received from Monsieur Trader Joe.
He's just the nicest, isn't he??

Peony Bouquet

6x8 Oil

$130 + 12 S/H

Bright Eyes

2011-06-30T23:34:00.000-05:00

Bright Eyes

6x8 Oil on canvas panel

Speaking of journeys in the last post... I journeyed to Utah for a visit with my daughter. It was great to get away. We mad a couple trips up the canyon to cooler temps and spent one afternoon on the patio watching the skiers. Yep, they were still skiing as of June 29th!

I've painted a few small pieces lately but I've been a bit behind in photographing and posting. This little piece makes a nice little companion to an earlier piece.

Sunkissed

6x8 Oil on canvas panel

Both paintings are available. Each priced at $130.00 + $12.00 S/H. If you are interested in both, I am offering both for $230.00 and free shipping. Happy Summer!

Bright Eyes $130 + 12 S/H

Sunkissed $130 + 12 S/H

Summer Celebration $230 / Free Shipping

It's all about the journey

2011-06-20T20:50:00.000-05:00

Misty Morning in French Regional Park

8x16 oil
© 2011 Deb Kirkeeide

This is the result of a paint out with a few OPM members. It was a a pretty misty, grey day and it was early, but it was close to home and I decided it was time to get my butt out there and paint. I haven't

painted en plein air for over a year. I'm really glad I did. There were only four of us but it was a great way to spend a few hours on a Saturday.

In three separate conversations, the phrase "it's not about the end result, it's about the journey" came up.

Three times! That to me, is a definite message from the Universe to pay attention. Also mentioned was the book Art and Fear, which has prompted me to revisit that book. I'm only partway through it but I'm realizing a few truths here - stayed tuned... I'm expecting a big awakening here!

I have to admit, this Saturday, I let go of the results and just enjoyed the journey. And I have to admit I've gotten a great response from this painting.

Hope you all are focusing on the journey and havin' a blast!

Egret Flying

2011-05-25T10:16:00.001-05:00

Egret Flying

6x6 oil

On one of my recent trips to Carver Park Reserve, I spent some time watching an Egret feeding in one of the ponds there. She wouldn't let me get too "close" (not at all) and would take off and fly to the other end of the pond if she thought I was too close for comfort.

But I managed to watch her for a while and got a few reference photos. They are so beautiful.

I mentioned before that I was interested in these and the herons, among others, and have been researching areas where I can observe them. One such place was a heron rookery just north of downtown Minneapolis.

Yesterday I found out the rookery had been destroyed by the tornado that hit here recently. There were close to two hundred nests and all are gone. I believe they've managed to rescue about 7 chicks that managed to survive the storm. By their estimates, over 300 chicks were lost. A whole generation. Most of the adults survived but it was reported after the storm many of them circled the area looking for their nests. It's heartbreaking to see the destruction - from the many homes that were destroyed in its path, to the beautiful big trees and the animals.

Let's all stay safe from the storms, okay?

SOLD

Tiger Lily

2011-05-24T07:32:00.001-05:00

Tiger Lily

6x6 Oil
© 2011 Deb Kirkeeide.

Another little Tiger Lily for your viewing pleasure. I can't help going back to my childhood and Tiger Lily as one of the characters in Peter Pan. She was always my favorite and I always wished I had a cool name like that!

For purchase:

Tiger Lily $125 + SH

Two Tiger Lilies

2011-05-20T09:09:00.001-05:00

Two Tiger Lilies
6 x 8 Oil

Still experimenting. The photo isn't quite capturing some of the transparency and texture of the paint in areas so I might have to try again.

Two Tiger Lilies

$100 + $10 SH

Wild Daisies

2011-05-18T20:59:00.000-05:00

Wild Daisies

6 x 8 Oil

This is a little wild - thus the name. I'm experimenting and playing with some different surfaces and a looser style. Of course it feels a little foreign so it's still in the development stage. It was fun to try something a little different. Where it goes remains to be seen!

Daisies $100 + $10 SH

On another note, I wanted to share a couple birds I met this past weekend. I am an artist with Project Art for Nature and I've been exploring areas latley for study. I've decided I want to make my focus on birds - right now -herons and cranes.

And raptors.

These are two birds that are taken care of at the Lowry Nature Center in Carver Park Reserve. During an educational seesion I was able to get pretty close for some pics. The top one is a Merlin and the other is a Barred Owl. Definitely different personalities and both amazingly beautiful.

Thanks for visiting!

Summer Bloom

2011-05-05T22:07:00.002-05:00

A Summer Bloom

6x6 Oil

©Deb Kirkeeide

SOLD

I painted this a while back and forgot to post it. It is one of the new pieces shown in the recent studio tour this past weekend. In spite of the cold and rainy weather it was a good turn out and I really enjoyed having it on my own turf. Thanks to all who made this such a great weekend. The best part of the weekend was when my daughter flew in from Salt Lake City to surprise me. Loved that!

For those who didn't make it, here's a little peek at my house/studio in it's role as a gallery. You can see this painting (and others) framed below.

Now that it's all over, I've got some new things I want to try and I am anxious to get started. Once I figure out where I put everything to make space!

Stay tuned, I'm going to extend the tour online and offer some of the paintings at special tour prices.

If you are interested in this painting please contact me. It is framed in gold.

I See Spots - Original Oil Painting of Rooster

2011-04-17T19:49:00.000-05:00

I See Spots

12 x 16 Oil

I've discovered fancy chickens. I never knew there were so many kinds. And I just found out a friend of mine has a neighbor who is raising fancy chickens so I will be making a trip over for a photo shoot soon!

I've been getting my studio ready for the upcoming Lake Minnetonka Arts Tour April 30 and May 1st.

So I've been cleaning, and moving furniture and framing and hanging - and here I thought it would be easier to be a host rather than a guest!

If your in the area, stop by - I'm studio 17 on the map.

Sun Kissed

2011-04-05T17:23:00.001-05:00

Sun Kissed

12 x 18 Oil

This may look familiar - it is a larger version of a little study I did a few weeks ago. I love these heavy sunflowers - there's something kind of sensuous and feminine about this one.

Today is definitely sun kissed and feeling like spring. It's amazing how the sun gets the energy flowing after the long winter. Spring fever has definitely set in, I have daydreams of traveling west to to the mountains to paint. Or maybe to the southwest to visit Santa Fe, paint the light there and absorb the art culture or...maybe the Pacific Northwest - so many places to go! I would love to pack up the car and hit the road for the summer.

Daisy On Blue

2011-04-04T11:59:00.001-05:00

Daisy On Blue

6x6 Oil

©Deb Kirkeeide

A bright spot of joy on this cold, rainy Minnesota Monday.

There's something about daisies that are just so happy.

SOLD

Sunday Backyard

2011-03-27T19:33:00.000-05:00

Sunday Backyard

6x8 Oil

I've been painting all day and happened to look out my studio window and loved how the shadows were casting across the snow. So I tried a little indoors plein air. Really difficult as the snow was pretty blinding in the sunlight. And my eyes weren't quite adjusting back and forth to the colors. But all in all

I like this little study. I haven't done that in quite a while (plein air, that is)

I can't believe the weekend is over already - just when I'm getting into the groove of it! Hope yours was a good one.

$145.00 + $12.00 S/H

One Summer Day

2011-03-22T22:22:00.000-05:00

One Summer Day

6x8 Oil on linen canvas
©2011 Deb Kirkeeide

This is a painting I did a while back but never posted because I wasn't really happy with it. So I decided to sit down and have a little chat with it. We came to terms after I reworked it a little and we're both pleased with the outcome.

The title is a bit of wishful thinking - at this moment I am writing to the sound of sleet and snow hitting the windows.

$145 + $10 S/H

At the Movies....

This weekend I saw a movie called Seraphine. The film is based on the true story of French painter Seraphine Louis de Senlis (1864–1942). I admit I was not aware of her work before this, but I found her story fascinating. Hers is one of passion and in her words she was sometimes frightened by what came through her onto the canvas. I recommend the movie and checking out her work.

And Then There Were Three

2011-03-08T17:16:00.002-06:00

Raven Number 3

6x6 Oil

The last of this little study. It gave me a good idea of how (and if) I want to approach a larger

triptych of these guys. I see I need to warm up this particular bird to match the other two, but after seeing them together, I like this little trio. Can't wait to do a larger version!

Raven Triptych Study

After my PAN (Project Art For Nature) orientation on Saturday I have to say I'm really excited about this project and the fabulous and diverse group of artists. I was very inspired and am now wanting my studies to include more birds - especially the Sandhill Cranes. I am dreaming of a telephoto lens and trips out west to Yellowstone for more reference shots of the wildlife!

Raven Number Two

2011-03-04T16:09:00.001-06:00

Raven Number Two

6x6

This is the second study in my little trio of Ravens.

The First of Three

2011-03-03T11:22:00.001-06:00

The First of Three

Raven Triptych

6x6, Oil

This is a small study for a triptych of ravens I plan to do in a larger format. I wanted to experiment a little with texture but I think 6x6 is too small of a playing field for what I was thinking. But I still like

this little series of paintings. I even have the frames already picked out and think they will make a nice

little grouping.

In the news, for me, is that I have been juried into a group of Minnesota and Wisconsin artists for the next 3 yr cycle of Project Art For Nature. This Saturday is our orientation and I'm looking forward to participating in this worthy project, as well as meeting and working with other artists. Along with the exhibitions of the project, I'm considering starting another blog that will chronicle my own art and observations in the field. I'll keep you posted!

I've also been asked to participate as an animator again in this year's MotionPoems. You may remember my little animated piece from last year. This years work will be in partnership with Scribner's Best American Poetry Anthology which is published each year. So that's pretty exciting that they are getting national attention.

Really? More snow??

2011-02-21T15:36:00.000-06:00

Shy

6x8 oil

As I look out on the latest 16" of snow we've just been blessed with, I am brought back from the false sense of spring that we were lulled into these past couple weeks. *sigh* but our warm spell did melt
all the ice dams on my roof and the snow is very pretty ....
And I have been painting - mostly little warm ups, getting back into the swing of things. I have to admit, I feel a little rusty. But, I did just finish another St Nick commission. (I know, just when you thought all the Christmas decorations were down...) but I'm pretty happy with this one and given our snowy weather I think he's appropriate! Maybe you can think of him as just another happy Norwegian with a thing for red.

Nicholas

8x10 Oil

SOLD

Hope all is warm and bright in your part of the world. Here's to dreams of spring!

The Winter Queen

2011-02-09T09:51:00.000-06:00

Winter Queen

11x14 Oil

I have received a gentle nudge to post something new.( Duly noted, friend) While this is not new, it will have to do for now.

The Winter Queen still has us in her icy grip here in MN as the temps today-7 with -400 below windchills. (okay, maybe I'm exaggerating, -200) Cold is cold! But there is promise of above freezing in the days to coming.

Artist's block has had me in her grip as well. And I'll be honest, it has been a great struggle to find the inspiration in my painting. It's been hard to make anything work in spite of my cajoling and begging of my artistic muse. It has been extremely frustrating. Not sure what is behind it, but I'm working with my coach to get through it. And it is slowly coming back. In baby steps. And I will say the skills are very rusty and I haven't been too thrilled with the results.

I suspect there are several reasons behind my block. Sometimes we just plain burn out. I have a day job that demands creativity and it's wanted yesterday. This sometimes leaves very little at the end of the day when I want to come home to paint. I also suspect that as much as I love winter, I am sensitive to the lack of light (vitamin D and a sunlamp anyone?) and I won't even attempt to go into the games the psyche likes to throw into the mix!

I think one of the things we need to remember is to allow it, take this time to rest, replenish the well of creativity and not be too hard on ourselves. Easier said than done I know.

So, my question to all you artists and creatives out there, what do you do when you hit the artistic wall? What has helped you push through it and find that artistic mojo again? Please share! I'm sure I am not the only one to struggle with this. Maybe we can all help each other!

In the meantime, please be patient with me - I do think I will have something new to post very soon.
Rusty or not.

Happy 2011 Everyone!

©2011 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T08:53:00.000-06:00

A Very Merry Christmas to All

I wish you all, the treasures of Joy, Wonder and Love now and for the new year.

~ Deb

Peonies

2010-12-15T20:08:00.033-06:00

Peonies

6x6 Oil

This started out as the beginning of a commissioned piece a while back - I can't remember why I abandoned it and started another, but it was here and unfinished so I used it to warm up the brushes and

play with a different background color.

Peonies

Early Winter on Minnehaha Creek

2010-12-15T09:24:00.001-06:00

Early Winter on Minnehaha Creek

8x16 Oil

During our Snowmageddon storm last weekend I decided to test the shoulder and painted this. The shoulder is feeling pretty good (in spite of a lot snow shoveling) so I'm hoping to get back on a more regular painting schedule after the holidays. I stayed pretty loose with this and I like it at this point - maybe a just a few more tweaks. I painted another little floral - just trying to saty loose and not over think it. I'll post that tomorrow. This is going to be my new mantra for painting. Allowing it to dictate how it wants to be painted instead of me trying to control it so much. Easier said than done for me.

You can tell what's important here - the collapse of the metrodome roof and the cancellation of the Vikings game last Sunday is what made national news with our storm. Never mind the 18 inches we got hit with. Travel is still a pain in the a** on many side streets - there's nowhere to put all this snow! and we have 4 more inches predicted for today and tonight. Whee! And it's not even officially winter yet.

Please contact me if you are interested in this or any other pieces.

Good Grief Charlie Brown....

2010-12-07T23:36:00.000-06:00

She

Digital Sketch

I sure didn't mean to be away for so long. It's about time I checked in and said hello.

I have several half done paintings waiting to be finished. Unfinished in part due to frustration, I hadn't seemed to get them to work past a certain point in the painitng. And now in some ways I'm kind of liking the halfway state that they are in. So maybe a new style is evolving. We'll see how that progresses. As soon as I am able, I will revisit them and get them to a state of being finished. I've somehow sprained my shoulder and it is a bit painful to paint. So on doctors orders...I'm giving it a rest. In the meantime I've been contemplating the state of my art and sketching. Hopefully I'll be back at it again soon.

This image is the result of a bit of downtime at work. Just a little doodling and sketching in Photoshop. I think it has potential to evolve into an oil painting.

Now, if this darn shoulder will just get better...

...and my brushes will decide to cooperate.

Or....

maybe it's more about me cooperating with the painting and brushes.

I had mentioned earlier that I had been invited to participate in a group show with 10 other very accomplished and talented artists. Our opening reception was Saturday night and we had a fantastic turn out for the show.

Two Crows Redux

2010-11-08T21:33:00.001-06:00

Two Crows

12 x12 Oil

This is an earlier painting that I just couldn't leave alone. So, essentially it's had a face lift. I like it much better especially with all the texture added in the grasses.

Sweet Persimmon

2010-11-07T22:32:00.000-06:00

Sweet Persimmon

6x6 Oil

Oh where, oh where does the weekend go? I really do think the weekends should be longer. I just didn't get as much done as I wanted to.

I gave the persimmon another go and in the process I have found that I prefer painting on a linen surface rather than canvas. I always have had expensive tastes!

My latest news is that I've been invited to participate in an oils show in December/Jan. I'm looking forward to sharing gallery space with some top area artists. I'll share the details soon.

I hope everyone else's weekend was longer than mine!

The Mysterious Persimmon

2010-10-31T22:07:00.002-05:00

"The Mysterious Persimmon"

6x8 oil

A still life! Something a little different for me. It's been a while since I've painted one. I love the colors in the one and am pretty pleased with how it turned out.

Not much to say about these little fruits. I've only painted them, never tried them. What do you do with them? Make pie? Jelly? I just find them to be intriguing and mysterious... there's got to be some kind of story in the mysteries of this luscious little fruit.

To all you writers out there - the challenge is on!

If I Were A Flower

2010-10-24T17:15:00.000-05:00

"If I Were A Flower"

18 x18 Oil

I think if I were a flower I'd want to be like this - showy, lush and of course, red. A stand out in the crowd!

If this looks familiar, it is. I had done a small version of this earlier and decided I wanted to try it in a larger scale. As is the process (for me, anyway) in going from small scale to large scale my technique changes a bit. This has lots and lots of texture.

And here's a little picture of my little visitor from the other evening. After enjoying her time on the deck she headed out for a leisurely stroll. She was a bit annoyed that I called after her and took her picture - thus the stare she's giving me.

Lila

2010-10-17T23:42:00.000-05:00

Lila

8x8 Oil on Linen

This is a commission I finally finished up for a co-worker. I have to admit, this is Lila v.3

as it took me several attempts to get to this one. She's a cutie!

Thanks for stopping by!

What I've been up to....

2010-10-11T19:16:00.001-05:00

It may not be a lot of painting lately but I did finally finish my animated piece for Motion Poems.
I designed, illustrated and animated the entire piece.

The screening was on Friday night and a good time was had by all! Many wonderful entries this year and it was a great night hanging out with that big room of creative minds and talents. Of course we celebrated in style with Lienenkugle on tap and popcorn!

My poet Todd Boss is one of the co-founders of MotionPoems and his poem was a love poem to his wife. He, and most importantly, SHE, loved my interpretation. That's what I always love to hear!

So now you know a little of what I do by day when I'm not painting.

©2010 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Into the Woods

2010-09-22T14:02:00.000-05:00

Into the Woods

6x8 Oil

Long time no see, eh? I just returned from a great vacation in beautiful Asheville, NC. Went on a whim

not knowing what was in store, but I have to say it was a good choice. The area is gorgeous with the Blue Ridge Mountains all around, heavily forested. This is a little painting I did from the front porch of my cottage - you would think i was in the middle of nowhere - but I was only about a mile from everything I could ever need. I didn't paint as much as I would have hoped but I did lots of exploring - of nature and of the great culture of the city. I crashed an art reception, went to several galleries, watched street musicians, went hiking, met some great people and had some fabulous meals (wouldn't be a vacation without them).

I'm getting the urge to tackle some new paintings but I have some projects to wrap up first and I'm hoping after this week I can dive into it again. In the meantime I thought I'd at least post this little one to prove I am still alive and kickin' and do kind of remember how to push paint around the canvas.

Living Large

2010-08-31T22:33:00.000-05:00

Living Large

30 x 30 Oil

I was gently reminded the other day that it was time to check in and post something. It's nice to be missed. :-)

I've been using my creative juices in other ways. I've been working on graphics for a new TV show for the 12-16 yr crowd called M@d*About. I think it airs next week. I have also been trying to meet the deadline for my animated Motion Poem, so I've been putting in some later hours. Slowly, but surely it is coming together. I'll post more on that another time.

And this, my giant Sunflower painting - well, it just took a long time due to my messing with it. This is one that looks more dynamic in person. I have decided I have to give up that notion of making these large paintings look like the smaller versions. Or get some giant brushes. And start lifting weights in order to wield them. I'm picturing myself as Zena, Warrior Princess with a giant brush in place of a sword. Hmmm...maybe that should be a self portrait!

Thanks for your visit!

Lazy Sunflower - A Warm Up

2010-08-15T18:04:00.000-05:00

Lazy Sunflower

5x5 oil on canvas

It's been so long since I felt even the smallest urge to paint, that I wondered if I would ever return to the easel. So I started out small - really small - to see if the brushes still worked. The last time I tried, they didn't and I literally put everything in my studio away to ride out the Great Storm of Artistic Frustration of 2010 (so dramatic, aren't I?)

They worked this time and I started a much larger version of this little warm up painting. It will be interesting to see how it turns out, since 30 x 30 doesn't exactly translate into such an economic collection of brush strokes as a 5x5.

And in the news... two of my raven paintings recently found a home in Alaska. Which seems very fitting since a lot of Raven stories originate from that area. And my large Raven painting "You Talkin To Me" just got juried into the fine arts show at the MN Fair this year.

Ravens Rock!

Thanks for visiting!

I'll Fly Away

2010-07-25T18:04:00.001-05:00

I'll Fly Away

20 x 16 oil

I was trying to think of what to name this one and my iTunes helped me out by playing I'll Fly Away by Alison Krauss and Gillian Welch from Oh Brother Where Art Thou. The meaning of the song is much different than the painting, but the title fits.

Fly Away. I think I'd like to take flight! Just take off and soar. Seeing where the winds take me.

Somewhere with cooler temps and less humidity. I'm definitely ready for fall - maybe that's what's behind the golden trees in this painting.

I'll Fly Away framed

I came across this frame last weekend and actually painted most of the time with it on the painting.

First time I've done that and I found it gave me more focus on what I was painting. Actually framing before the painting is done.

Please contact me if interested in this or any other paintings.
Thanks for your visit!
©2010 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Bird on a Wire

2010-07-14T21:47:00.001-05:00

Bird on a Wire

6x6 oil on canvas

©Deb Kirkeeide

I have a wren (probably more than one actually) that serenades me all the time. He sits on the wire just outside the porch. I love how big he sings for such a tiny little bird. We should all sing big songs!

I've been feeling a little like Austin Powers lately - looking for my lost (painting) mojo! Anybody out there seen it?? I'm trying, folks! It certainly has been elusive. It's not from a lack of wanting to, seems to be in the forgetting how! It seems to take me about 3x as long as I think it should. But I am working on a larger piece and that always takes longer. Ah yes, learning to go with the flow here - a lesson in patience.

on hold

Thanks for visiting!

Grandfather Tree v.9

2010-07-06T21:18:00.001-05:00

Grandfather Tree v. 9

6x8 oil on linen panel

Version 9 of my backyard tree. Someday I'll have a wall filled with these little plein air pieces. Right now they are side side by side along the upper ledge of my studio windows.

While waiting for my house guests to wake up one morning this past weekend I decided to set up the paints and take advantage of the somewhat cooler weather and managed to get it done in time to head out to the coffee shop.

The weekend was great fun and one of the treats was getting to meet fellow artist and blogger Doug Daniels. (You may have seen him around , he goes by Double D)

Yes, folks...he lives and breathes! It turns out that Doug and his wife were in Minnesota and our schedules worked out and we got together for a little visit.

BTW - The invitation is open for any of you who finds themselves in Minnesota.I'd love to meet all of you.

Peonies on the Porch

2010-06-26T14:55:00.000-05:00

Peonies on the Porch

9x9 oil

I bought these peonies at the Farmer's Market and set them up in my "summer studio" (my screen porch) to paint. I love being able to paint out there. Just like being outdoors with the sights and sounds but with an overhead fan and a roof. Kind of a faux plein aire situation.

This painting started life as an 11 x 14 but the composition went astray so I've cut it down into this version. Funny how I don't often see the problems until it gets up on the screen. The phrase "step away from the easel" keeps running in my mind. I sometimes forget that in the process.

Please contact me if you would like to purchase this piece.Thank you!

©2010 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Two Stellas

2010-06-22T22:06:00.001-05:00

Two Stellas

6x6 Oil on panel

My Stella d'Oros are blooming like crazy right now and this is a little study from my garden. I painted this a couple nights ago from my deck.and while out there I met my new neighbor and his young daughter. He mentioned that he had some raccoons removed from around his house and that I should watch out for them on the move. I told him I have had several families living under my deck over the years. He said they had a family of four. And I told him more stories and then he told me about his family of four...his kids. whoops! I'm sure I've made a great first impression in my painting clothes, paint on my face and hands and unable to follow a conversation. Ah, well...

I must retract my unhappiness with my Gamblin paints - my mistake - it was a different brand. Sorry Gamblin!

Oh So Dreamy

2010-06-21T22:16:00.002-05:00

"Oh, So Dreamy"

6x6 oil

Happy Solstice! I celebrated by painting outside until the sun started to fade and the mosquitoes threatened to carry me away. I will post those later.

After painting tonight, I've decided that it's not me...or the studio fairies...it's the paint! I recently replenished my paint supply and I don't know if it is the weather or just unusually slippery batch of paint. I like buttery paint but this it is acting more like melted butter.

I'm not sure why this title came to me, there's no magical story and it didn't come to me in a dream (in fact it was a bit of a nightmare to paint) but as I looked at it the colors and brushwork looked like it was in a dream.

Tulipe

2010-06-17T16:59:00.001-05:00

"Tulipe"

6x6 Oil on panel

I couldn't think of a clever name for this one so I used the French translation.

I can't believe how foreign it still feels to be painting again. The studio fairies must have cast spells on all my supplies. The paint, the brushes, the canvases - nothing reacts the same!

Maybe it's the new easel....

...yeah, that must be it.

Glorious

2010-06-13T22:15:00.004-05:00

"Glorious"

6x6 Oil

One thing with being away from the easel for while is trying to get back into the swing of things. Mainly the paintbrush. It sometimes feels a little foreign. So I am trying to warm up with some small paintings. At times it feels like I've been scraping off as much paint as I put on.

But I have to say it's been a glorious weekend too. I finished up and delivered a commission piece for a friend's daughter to give to her husband as a wedding gift. They were both thrilled which in turn makes me happy. You always sort of hold your breath when they see it in person - well, I should say I do anyway.

And today I found out the results of the awards! "You Talkin' To Me" was awarded 1st place in the oil category. And "On Top of the World" was awarded Best in Show!

Wow! Needless to say I am thrilled! And one of the best things was to hear the judges process and hear him describe what he saw in the paintings. It really sounded like I knew what I was doing! All those elements of technique that I don't think of, and really don't know that I could point out. My process just doesn't include consciously thinking of those elements, so it's fun to know that they are there anyway.

Thanks for your visit!

Stepping Out

2010-06-08T21:32:00.001-05:00

Stepping Out

6x6 oil on stretched canvas

sold

The title seems to sum up the painting and me. Finally feeling the artistic juices starting to flow again. I was feeling pretty burned out and took a much needed break from it all. And while I haven't felt the inspiration at the easel, it's been flowing on the digital side. I am working on an animated project that is my visual of a local poet's work. Totally up to my own interpretation, and it will be shown at a screening with other pieces in the fall. It's really been fun working it all out.

So I have been painting, it's just been with pixels. Here's an earlier version of one of the scenes. It keeps evolving as I get further into it.

And even though I haven't been painting or posting, I have not been idle on the artistic front. I've been talking to an art rep and she's helping to get my work out there. And I just got word that I have won an award in a juried show I just entered! I'm not sure what that is or for which painting, but I will find out Sunday. But I have to say that it really gets me excited about painting again!

Thanks to those of you who have kept checking in here and rattling my chain via email -(that would be you, Doug) It's nice to know I'm missed and I appreciate it.

Flowers for Lynne

2010-05-13T23:16:00.000-05:00

Flowers for Lynne

6x8 oil

This is long overdue and I admit I've been taking a bit of a break. I participated in a show and a studio tour a couple weeks ago and other than wrapping up a couple commissions I haven't been painting much. The tour went really well but the best part was hearing from my new collector how happy she was that she stopped and how proud she was to have the painting hanging in her home.

I love her.

Mostly just taking it easy, with a little fun thrown in and catching up on all my lost sleep. But I'm starting to feel the itch to paint again (always!) and hoping to get some other projects and ideas in the works.

This is a little painting of the flowers from my daughter's wedding last year. For her mother-in-law.

Today will see the northern migration of thousands of determined Minnesota anglers in search of the elusive walleye... It's the Minnesota Fishing Opener, one the most beloved events in MN. The local news has just informed us that the Governer will be on the water at 7 AM and will be using a jig and minnow. I wonder if they Tweeted that? I should go paint a fish.

Go Walleyes!

Happy Birthday !

2010-04-27T13:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Krista!

Today is my daughter's birthday. She is one who celebrates her birthday for at least a week - (a month if she can.) It's her favorite day of the year. So far the festivities are into day 4.5

so far there have been surprise visits from a college friend and her sister from out of state, dinners with friends out, the symphony, camping in Moab, UT (all organized by her boyfriend - you gotta love this guy!) and the best looking birthday breakfast I've ever seen... I really should be there right now!

This painting is of her from when she was three or so. Hard to believe this little one is a grown woman now. When did all that happen??

Happy Day Krista! Hugs all over the place! maybe next time you and I will have some drinks and sing karoake to celebrate...

Flora, Goddess of Flowers

2010-04-22T23:51:00.000-05:00

Flora

24x18 Oil on Canvas

As this painting evolved, I wondered at what I was actually saying here (I'm still not sure, but does it really matter?) The name Flora kept coming to mind. So I wondered if there was a goddess somewhere by that name.
And of course there was! In Roman mythology she was the goddess of flowers and the season of spring. Being one of the fertility goddesses, her association with spring gave her particular importance at the coming of springtime. Her festival , the Floralia, was held in April or early May and symbolized the renewal of the cycle of life, marked with dancing, drinking and flowers. How else do you celebrate such things?

Anybody care to join me in a celebration?

Coming up:

Did I tell you that I was this weeks featured artist on Empty Easel? I got a nice little review on my animal paintings. Check it out - both my review AND the site. It's a great resource for artists.

Today marks the opening of the Spring Art Salon at Anne and Friends in Wayzata, MN with new nature inspired art. I was asked to participate with a wonderful group of artists. And April 30 is their ARTY PARTY to celebrate (with dancing, drinking and flowers???) Should be fun! Stop by if you are in the area.

And next weekend is the Lake Minnetonka Arts Tour in which I am participating. I will be the guest (I evidently don't live close enough to the lake, I am up for moving though) of another artist, sculptor Patty Carmody Smith. I love her work and it seems we both have a fondness for ravens, nature and the feminine spirit. Check out her wonderful art. And come and see us! We're at location 16.

Return to the Summer Queen

2010-04-20T19:49:00.001-05:00

Return to the Summer Queen

There are paintings that sit here and stare at me. They whine ("am i pretty? I don't feel pretty... why is she prettier than I am?") and complain. And the longer I look at them the more I want to try and improve on them. Quite often I realize I should have left them alone and have just sent them off on their merry way to the island of misfit paintings. (my daughters have declared themselves rulers of this island)

So, I kept looking at this one from last year and agreed she looked a little pale and washed out so I decided to give her a little makeover. I don't know that I improved on her, though she does have a lot more pizazz, I think. It gave me an opportunity to play and experiment with technique and it also ties in with another painting I've been working on lately, in theme and technique.

Obviously the summer Queen has no problem with hayfever. If this were a portrait of me, there would be a bottle of Zyrtec tucked in there. Spring has sprung with a vengeance here, pollen, pollen everywhere!

Sunny Days

2010-04-10T09:33:00.000-05:00

Sunny Days

18 x 18 Oil on Canvas

Another large painting - at least for me it is. I think I am still fond of smaller paintngs - I feel like I have more control for some reason. But one has to grow and stretch and try new things! Right? Lots of thick juicy paint on this one - I'm hoping it will be dry enough to drop of for a show in a few days.

I started watching the series The Impressionists last night. I highly recommend it. It's inspiring and it allows you to see these artists as human - just like the rest of us!

Here Kitty Kitty - a portrait of a leopard

2010-04-03T17:10:00.002-05:00

Here Kitty Kitty

a portrait of Sasha

12 x 12 oil on canvas

I thought I would try my hand at another "kitty". This is Sasha, a leopard that a friend of mine used to know. This was a bit of a challenge for several reasons. For one, I just haven't done many cats and am not all that familiar with their bone structure. But it was fun to do and I used both a pallette knife and brush for this one. I somehow feel compelled to use the knife when I pain larger. But I like the texture that it gives the painting.

This has been a challenging week with the loss of 3 family members in my close and extended families. Each unrelated, but very sad circumstances and it's been a rollercoaster of emotions with all being so close together. It's been a bit difficult concentrating on painting.

So I want to dedicate this in memory of Jill, Dave and Paul. Our hearts are heavy that you have left us but full of light because you graced our lives.

Here Kitty Kitty

12 x 12 oil on Canvas

$425 + 15 S/H

please contact me if you are interested in purchase.

Thank you!

Rule of the Roost

2010-03-30T10:39:00.000-05:00

Rule of the Roost

5x7 Oil on Canvas

He may think he rules the roost but I believe it's really those hens who are in charge. Another little study of our MN party animals. He does look like he's dressed for a party, doesn't he?

Little Red Hen

2010-03-28T21:22:00.000-05:00

Little Red Hen

5x5 Oil on Cnavas

I found this image in my reference files from a trip to the Minnesota Zoo a couple years ago.

I wanted to get some pictures of some "wild" animals for future reference.

Most of the animals were asleep that day, or in hiding. But the farm animals came through. They were there and ready to party. The Minnesota version of exotic and wild.

A Wild Hare

2010-03-22T20:20:00.000-05:00

A Wild Hare

6x8 Oil on linen panel

Wild hares keep coming to mind lately. It is very symbolic of fertility and new life - appropriate for this time of year.

In the Chinese zodiac the rabbit is a most fortunate sign, giving those born under it the ability to possess considerable power. In many cultures, it is a lunar creature with feminine energies whose outline can be seen in the face of the moon. (Which may explain why I've been thinking of the moon along with the hare). More to come !

A Wild Hare

6x8 Oil on Linen

$150.00 + 12.00 S/H

Out of the Blue

2010-03-21T22:22:00.000-05:00

"Out of the Blue"

12 x12 oil on canvas

I suppose the title can go for both the painting (if anyone has a better title, I'm open for suggestions) and the fact that I finally came up with a painting to post. Where does the time go?

I'm ready for flowers again. Our snow is gone and well, it is officially spring. If I paint them perhaps they will come!

Happy Spring everyone!

"You Talkin' To Me?" portrait of a Raven

2010-03-04T22:55:00.001-06:00

"You Talkin' To Me?"

Not much new to report except that spring is in the air and that gives one hope that all this white will eventually go away! My street is getting wider and I can actually see the surface of my driveway now. And the best of all - the news report the other night was talking about boating season! hard to believe

it could be a matter of a few weeks (if all goes well)

Love this raven. He's got attitude. He's really much more dynamic in person with lots of texture and brushwork and contrasting colors. I can't wait to see this one in a frame.

You Talkin' To Me?

18 x 18 Oil on Canvas

Thanks for your visit!

"On The Ball" Raven Painting

2010-02-28T22:30:00.002-06:00

On The Ball

11x14 Oil on Canvas

Another long gap in the action. (and here I thought I was back on track!) I've actually had three paintings in the works but not had the time each night to work on them. But lots going on and coming up. I have an art tour coming up in May and have been invited to participate in a show in April. And I'm working on some marketing pieces and ideas. And I wonder where my time goes....

This curious one was a lot of fun to paint. A bit more playful in nature with it's colors and texture.

fun to paint too! Used a palette knife on most of it.

On The Ball

11x14 Oil on Canvas
SOLD

"Sophie" dog portrait

2010-02-21T19:00:00.000-06:00

Sophie

12x9 Oil on Linen Panel

This is Sophie, a pretty little Bull Terrier. Her people asked me to paint her portrait and I have finally
come up with one I'm happy with. (I'll confess that it took me three times to get to this)
I'm hoping the posts will come more frequently. I think my winter resting period is coming to an end.

An update on the previous post for the entry for The Foot in the Door 4 exhibition. The painting Red Scarf was sold before the show so I entered the one below. It took two hours in line to drop off the painting and it turns out there were over 5000 entries. I skipped the opening reception (I had just gotten back into town from my vacation) A friend said there was not much parking and it was impossible to see everything due to the large crowd (probably all the artists) so he left. I will see it when the crowds are smaller. Most likely with my friend. It hangs until June. And in the meantime I have a piece hanging in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts Museum!

Pearl Necklace

6x8 Oil on Linen Panel

by Deb Kirkeeide

Red Scarf

2010-02-03T21:40:00.001-06:00

Red Scarf

6x8 oil

by Deb Kirkeeide

This painting is my submission for a Minnesota artists exhibition at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts called Foot In The Door 4. Each piece is limited in size to a cubic foot. Even at this small size it was a close fit once it was framed. I painted and posted this some time ago and has always been one of my favorites.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"Observer" by Deb Kirkeeide

I started a journal of doodles a while back. Just stream of conscious flowing from the pen. some of the results have been pretty interesting and on a double dog dare by a friend, I have posted one of them. So there you go, Jen. I did it.

Rain

2010-01-25T21:25:00.000-06:00

rain

rain falls
on watercolours

riverlets of paint
rushing to a pool of grey

a puddle of colour blurred
with no begining or end

such are her days....

Can it be? It's been so long...

I have painted and I have written. I think it is time to do a dance of creative joy.

Let's hope the love continues!

Rain

9x12 Oil on linen

Please contact me if you are interested in this painting.

Thanks!

What's Up?

2010-01-13T22:14:00.005-06:00

I wish I could say I've been traveling the world and have not been able to post anything lately but I'm afraid it just isn't true. I've come down with a case of the artist's block. For some reason my brushes just haven't been working and my inspiration has not been showing up lately. It's out of sheer determination that I have made this little one come about. Hopefully I will figure it all out again soon and get back in the swing of things. Hope you're all finding your inspiration.

What's Up?
6x8 Oil on canvas panel

©2010 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

I'm Sittin' On Top of the World

2010-01-02T17:29:00.005-06:00

While thinking of a title for this one and this song just came to me.

I'm sitting on top of the world,
Just rolling along, just rolling along.
I'm quitting the blues of the world,
Just singing a song, just singing a song.

It was recorded by many but I remember it from my Dad's set list back in the days when he was singing with his group.

I think sitting on top of the world is a great way to start the year out!

Sitting On Top of the World
16 x 8 Oil on Canvas panel

Thanks for your visit!

©2010 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

A Glad New Year!

2010-01-01T08:58:00.006-06:00

Wishing you all the very best in this new year. I hope 2010 fills your lives with beauty, love, creativity, passion and joy. Thank you all for being part of mine. I am honored. ~ Deb

Wufus

2009-12-26T10:54:00.005-06:00

This is Wufus. He has his own facebook page and lives happily in Salt Lake City, Utah with his human. Obviously, he is a very happy and extremely loved dog. I've had the pleasure of meeting Wufus (don't you love his name?) and he is a great dog to know.
My daughter commissioned me to paint this to give to her boyfriend for Christmas and now that it has been opened, I can finally post it for you all to see. It was a joy to paint.

Wufus
9x19 Oil on Linen Panel
SOLD

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

You Better Watch Out!

2009-12-24T10:39:00.003-06:00

This isn't your typical Santa with his turtleneck and goatee - but he's my Santa!
My Santa Daddy, that is. The model for this is my Dad. I always thought he could get a part time gig as Santa during the holidays but he's been happy just being Santa to all of us throughout the years.

I'm hoping the real Santa leaves me a snow free driveway Christmas morning. Phase one of our Christmas storm had me shoveling for a good part of the morning - and then the plow came by and buried the end again with even more - brought a tear to my eye - and not from it's beauty....

I hope you all have a wonderfully peaceful, magical and joy filled Holiday.

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Let There Be Light - Winter Solstice

2009-12-20T19:20:00.004-06:00

I drive by this area every morning on my way to work and have seen some spectacular sunrises over it. I thought it would make a good winter solstice painting and thought I would go there this morning to capture it. The light was flat this morning and if I had wanted to paint I would have had to plant my self on a snowbank by the road - so I did the next best thing and took a picture and came home to paint. I pretty much made up the lighting in this one. It's not the winter wonderland I remember from the other morning, but I do like it and it's abstract nature.

I'm happy to see Solstice and know the daylight will be getting longer. (can't you tell already?) And I tend think of it as the New Year, which in reality, being the solar new year and all, it is. So why isn't New Years today?

Happy Solstice! Enjoy the light!

Let There Be Light
8x16 Oil on canvas panel

Dreaming....of summer days

2009-12-17T07:51:00.007-06:00

This is an earlier piece but in light of (or lack of it) winter, I thought I'd bring out a little sunshine and color of summer.

This is one of my favorite paintings. Makes me think I should paint some flowers again - it's been a while.

A Peony for Your Thoughts
12 x12 Oil on Canvas
Contact me if you are interested in purchasing.

Thanks for visiting!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Hello Kitty

2009-12-11T23:34:00.006-06:00

What a nutty week. Work, snow, sub zero craziness. Finally got a chance to paint - My one calm in icy stormy waters.
I don't have a lot to say about this one. I decided to branch out and paint some other types of pets besides dogs. Just a pretty little kitty sitting in the window basking in the sun.

Hello Kitty
8x6 Oil on Linen panel
$135.00 + 10 S/H

Thanks for your visit!
©2009 /Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Early Fall Minnehaha Creek

2009-12-06T15:58:00.004-06:00

I've painted new ones this weekend but I can't show them yet. One is a commissioned gift so I have to wait on that. The other is not quite done, but I will post it soon. A bit different from my usual. But I've enjoyed painting it.

Here's another earlier landscape ready for adoption. This is from a bridge overlooking Minnehaha Creek. It is on a trail near my house so I walk by there often. This flows all the way from Lake Minnetonka, through Minneapolis and to the infamous Minnehaha Falls (well, infamous here, anyway) and into the Mississippi. I've heard people talking about canoeing the creek but I have yet to see enough water in it to get very far without scraping bottom.

Early Fall
8x6 Oil on Canvas Panel
100.00 free shipping US

Fill your walls with art!
Thanks for visiting!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

SunLight Basin - Landscape

2009-12-02T22:20:00.005-06:00

I'm bringing back some earlier pieces and offering them at some Holiday Prices to help fill your walls! Think of this as my Holiday Art Adoption Event.
This is of Sunlight Basin near Cody, Wyoming. I've always liked this little painting. I love that area and this spot in particular.

Sunlight Basin
6x12 Oil on Canvas
SOLD

Fill your walls with ART!
Thanks!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide.

Divine

2009-11-30T19:37:00.005-06:00

Maybe I should have named this Divine Bliss - she does look a bit blissful.

This painting - or idea has seen MANY incarnations. In fact I have painted and unpainted so many versions of this that I could have a whole choir of angels! I don't know why I wrestled so hard with this one, but this is how she shall remain. I think my problem is that I think I want to be the next Waterhouse or Thayer. I suppose they were painting a bit longer than I have been - so it will have to be a Kirkeeide.

Divine
9x12 Oil on Linen Panel
450 + 15.00 SH

Thanks for visiting!

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Gratitude

2009-11-25T21:36:00.005-06:00

This one turned out very loose and impressionistic. Sometimes I'm surprised by what comes out. Style changes day to day. Must reflect the mood. Sometimes loose, sometimes more controlled and sometimes a little uptight! I suppose that makes sense because it is our expression in that moment.

This one was commissioned as a gift of gratitude and friendship. Very appropriate for today.

Like many I have much to be grateful for, and as always I am touched by all of you who come by. For the friendships I have forged, for the incredibly gifted and talented people I have discovered and stood in awe of their work, for those who stop by offering their observations and support, those who quietly observe, those who collect my work and those who thought it worthwhile to get me in their inbox everyday! How lucky am I?
How fun would it be for all of us to have a big ol' party where we could actually meet in person? I would love that!
So thank you, all of you! Happy Thanksgiving!

Golden Willow

2009-11-22T22:13:00.004-06:00

Painting this week has not gone well!
The larger piece I mentioned in the previous post went through several incarnations and currently sits in the "to be burned" pile. And being determined and stubborn as I am to make this work, I started a slightly smaller version - and it now joins it's bigger sister in the pile as well! But I am determined to make this idea work! And it will probably show up later.
So I have been painting just not anything I'm willing to show at the moment! I hate when that happens!
This is another willow tree from last weeks walk.
Golden Willow
6x8 Oil on linen panel
100.00 + 10.00 S/H

Thanks for your visit!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Sunlit Willow

2009-11-17T20:42:00.005-06:00

Well it certainly has been longer than I had anticipated. I've been working on a larger piece that is challenging the you know what out of me. I decided to take a break and just finish a smaller one. This is the result. There is still a little color left these days mostly the willow trees. I was out walking and saw the sun lighting up this willow
and decided it should be painted. Feels good to have a piece finished.
Along with painting I have been busy with other things. One of them is being getting my Laughing Raven Studios website up. I'll probably be tweaking a bit as I go along but if you're interested check it out. And if you have any design needs let me know!

Sunlit Willow
8x16 Oil on Canvas Panel

Thanks for your visit!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Autumn's Last Gasp

2009-11-08T17:25:00.005-06:00

The weather was incredible this weekend - in the 60's. So I stepped out and did a little plein air piece yesterday. Literally out my back door. The colors are pretty much gone by now, with only a few leaves hanging on. But this was in yard to the back. The neighbor was fast and furiously blowing
(irritating noise - should be banned on beautiful weekends...) leaves as I painted. Didn't he know he was taking away my color as I painted? And the light...changes really quick this time of year. I'm going to have to learn to paint faster.

Autumn's Last Gasp
6x8 Oil on Canvas Panel
150.00 + 10.00 S/H

Thanks for your visit
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

A Thousand Stars

2009-11-05T21:44:00.005-06:00

A Thousand Stars

A thousand stars
rain down
into her dreams

Each one a wish granted
Each one a dream fulfilled
Each one a kiss against her skin

She smiles
filled with the sparkle of their love
and she takes her place among them

Where she belonged all along

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide

My first attempt at poetry - and my first attempt at painting in a few weeks.
Be gentle please....

A Thousand Dreams
9x12 oil on Canvas

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

More Pink!

2009-10-31T08:42:00.007-05:00

Think Pink! Think wellness!
Another for the cause. And another from the files.
The previous painting sold. Awesome! I thank you! Krista thanks you!
I am doing the same with this painting. All proceeds from the sale of this go to the 3 Day Walk for Breast Cancer. For those of you who may have missed it, my previous post explains what I am doing.

And if you would like to donate in another way I'm including my daughter's link for donations if you wish to contribute to the cause.
Krista's Donation Page

For more information about the Breast Cancer 3-Day, Susan G. Komen for the Cure or the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund, visit http://www.the3day.org/ or call 800.996.3DAY.
Thanks!

This little painting is 6x6 Oil on canvas
Pink Blossom
SOLD

Thanks everyone!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Think Pink! Team las Bombas - 3 Day Walk for the Cure

2009-10-26T20:52:00.013-05:00

I've been woefully uninspired to paint this week. Figured I just need to take a break and regroup but pretty sure I will back at it soon.

Until then I am pulling out some oldies but goodies!
Today's post is brought to you by the color pink. For Breast Cancer Awareness. And while I don't care to send any energy towards the disease itself, I am using that energy to celebrate spirit and courage and healing. And being well.

My daughter Krista is walking in the 2009 Arizona 3 Day for breast cancer. 60 miles in three days. She will be part of Team Las Bombas and has committed to raising $2300 in donations for her participation. So I thought I would help her spread the word. (Being the good and supportive mother that I am!)

The sale proceeds from this and the next pink painting are going to Team Las Bambas, particularly Krista's commitment, and to the Walk for the Cure.

I participated in the event 5 years ago. I walked to support a friend's healing from her own breast cancer. I'm happy to say she is healthy today. She has also told me of the importance of the research that this event supports and how it was key in her own treatment.
I have to say this was one of the most memorable and moving events I have expereinced. Not only for the feeling of doing something that helps, but for the celebration of spirit that permeated every part of this event. My extreme blisters after the first day were nothing. Okay, they WERE, but in comparison to other things they didn't seem to matter. And even though many of us were barely hobbling at dinner on the second night we were all up on our feet and dancing around the camp to the rhythms of the band that so generously entertained us that night. The support from the volunteers at all the rest stations and campgrounds, the pack of boy scouts who set up everyone's tents the second day, the people cheering us on along the route, our traffic "cops" who made sure we had safe passing at intersections, the hysterical giggling we fell into because we were so tired we couldn't think straight (and the fact that we just have a lot of fun together anyway) and the most amazing of all was coming down that hill to the state capital greeted by a sea of people, thanking us, cheering and clapping for us all as we made those final steps. It still brings tears to my eyes when I think of it. WOW! is all I can say. If you ever have the chance to participate - do it!

The painting is Tulips in Pink
6x8 Oil on Canvas Panel
SOLD!! Thanks Laura!

I'm including my daughter's link for donations if you wish to contribute to the cause.
Krista's Donation Page

For more information about the Breast Cancer 3-Day, Susan G. Komen for the Cure or the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund, visit http://www.the3day.org/ or call 800.996.3DAY.
Thanks!

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Sunbather

2009-10-18T13:48:00.007-05:00

I'm still on the dogs! I've had such a great response to my last post - here and on Facebook and Daily painters - wow! It's going to be hard to live up to that kind of pressure! But I am grateful for everyone's comments. Thank you!
It's always a wonderful thing.
I really love this one and have to say it came together pretty quickly and without much struggle, which is always a plus!

Sunbather
9x12 Oil on Linen Panel
SOLD

Thanks for visiting!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Can I Have My Treat Now?

2009-10-16T07:59:00.005-05:00

How can you resist this face? One look from this adorable one and you want to give her anything she wants!
So... two dogs now... I think I have a series going! And I feel more on the way.

And if you are looking for that special gift, for yourself or for another, think about a portrait of that favorite four legged companion! I can do that for you! If you want to see more or have any questions please ask.

"Can I Have My Treat Now?"
8x8 Oil on Canvas
Sold!
Thanks for your visit!

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

"Hunter the Magificent"

2009-10-10T08:19:00.005-05:00

I met Hunter at the Ren Fest. He was so regal and calm and had such a presence. His owner plopped a wizard cap on him as they walked off which he tolerated pretty well, but clearly it was beneath him. I think a crown would have been much more fitting.

Woke up to snow on the ground this morning and it is downright cold here. Please say it isn't so! I had thought I might want to go out and paint this weekend but I'm pretty much a fair weather plein air artist. So it's just not happenin'today.

Hunter the Magnificent
6x8 Oil on linen panel

Thanks for visiting!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Pretty Little Fairy Girl

2009-10-06T20:57:00.004-05:00

I went to the Renaissance Festival this weekend. Lots of merriment and fun was had by all.
Kings,Ladies of the court, artists, knights in shining armor, musicians, pirates a plenty, gypsies, tramps and thieves...and fairies! Oh...and ale.

This was inspired by one sparkly little girl who just seemed like she should be a fairy.

Me? I think I am ready to tune up my tambourine and join the gypsies.

Pretty Little Fairy Girl
12x9 Oil on Linen Panel
220.00 + 15.00 S/H

Thanks for your visit!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Ginger's New Earrings

2009-10-01T22:09:00.006-05:00

Ginger thought she looked stunning in her new earrings. Surely this would capture the attention of that hot new stud in the pasture, making her the envy of all the other heifers

The muse seems to have gone on another vacation this week, so the paint just hasn't been flowing too much. She takes more darn vacations.
Oh, to be a muse...

Ginger's New Earrings
9x12 Oil on Canvas panel
SOLD

Thanks for your visit!

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

River Serenity

2009-09-25T21:29:00.005-05:00

Another landscape from the Tetons. I believe this is the on the Snake River. What a beautiful site. Looks like we are the only ones there doesn't it? What you don't see is all the people watching the group of about 8 otters playing on the bank on the opposite shore. The best view for that show though, was the kayak sitting just off shore from where they played. Bet they wish they had a camera!
I think I would like to sit on my porch and see this view everyday - minus all the people of course.

River Serenity
9x12 Oil on Canvas Panel
SOLD

Thanks for your visit!

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

"Raven Walking" Raven painting by Deb Kirkeeide

2009-09-22T19:22:00.006-05:00

I've been trying to paint this in and around the activities of this last weekend. The dust has settled now and I think I can get back to my routine.
I have another larger piece in the works - stay tuned!

Raven Walking
10 x 10 Oil on Canvas

Thanks for your visit!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

How Come I feel Like Somebody's Watching Me? Raven Painting

2009-09-19T09:13:00.006-05:00

I got up early to get my painting fix in before the party begins here. What with both daughters home, and a day filled with festivities I wasn't sure when I'd get a chance to paint. This is just a quick study but it's getting me geared up for more to come.
I love my ravens! They are symbolic of my art journey and hold a very special place in my heart.
When I was in Jackson recently, I got up early with coffee in hand to sit in the town square and journal. I had decided I wanted to get into a gallery there, even though I'm not sure I fit the bill of a Western Artist. But it occurred to me that my ravens might be the way to go, which was affirmed quite strongly through an email and the fact that as I sat there writing the park was filled with ravens and friends. They were everywhere! I love it when the universe speaks!

How Come I feel Like Somebody's Watching Me?
6x8 oil on linen panel
135.00 + 12.00 S/H

Thanks for visiting!
©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Figure Standing

2009-09-16T18:52:00.003-05:00

Another figure from the archives. I'm really enjoying revisiting these, I'm thinking it's time to get in some life drawing time again.
I'm also thinking I need to get these framed!

Figure Standing
8.5 x 11 Pencil on paper

Thanks for visiting!

©2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved.

Figure Study

2009-09-15T20:54:00.005-05:00

I was going through some files recently and came across some drawings I did a few years ago. Well, probably a lot of years ago since I seem to have no concept of time anymore. Kinda scary!

I took figure drawing class at Atelier Lac. I remember trying to get used to standing at an easel and drawing. Something I had never really done before - which speaks volumes of my art education, huh?
All I could do is laugh! I felt like I had never picked up a pencil in my life.

It was fun coming across this - I will post another tomorrow. I also discovered folders full of sketches and ideas for works of art in all applications - lampshades (this I do occasionally - actually very cool, cut rice paper collages) sculpture (this I don't do, but when I do I will be prepared) a design for a mosaic table(still haven't gotten to but very feng shui)and various sketches of dreams and ideas that drop in to visit. I really need to get busy! So many ideas, not enough time in the day!

Hope your files and days are full of creative ideas!

Figure Drawing 1
81/2 x 11 Pencil on Paper

Thanks for your visit!
copyright 2009 Deb Kirkeeide. All rights reserved