CAROL CHRETIEN - A Spot 4 Art

2012 ...A Whole New Year

2012-01-17T10:44:00.002-05:00

My first chance to create an update here and I just wanted to say that 2012 has started off with a bang ....pretty much continuing where we left off from the previous year.

Life is hanging in the air right now with some unfinished business that is taking up my energy to complete and involving other family members with issues.

In other words, putting out fires as new challenges arise and keeping my artwork and my involvement with RESCUE on the back burner for now.

I am truly hoping that by APRIL I will have a good sense of where I stand with life in general and what I will be able to do to begin my return to the passion and purpose I was once so happily involved in. I do miss painting and the freedom of creative expression.

So please visit the site www.carolchretien.com if you are interested in PRINTS ....all the images in the print pages will have the full price donated to RESCUE.

Please stay in touch via email if you want to drop an Hello my way. I am always able to be reached at carolchretien@aol.com

All my best to you in 2012 and hope to be able to show some new work in the coming year!

Carol

LET's GET OUR ELF ON!

2011-11-30T07:59:00.003-05:00

(Under the Tree - original oil)

Carol Chretien

2010

***

Today is the end of November...it is going out like a lamb!

For New England, 60 degrees and more is a gift at this time of year.

It is saving us heating costs and letting us get out and get things done without freezing our ornaments off!

***

Times are tough for many but it is the season of giving.

Please remember our shelter pets along with the other charitable giving that you normally do at this time of year, or all year, as is your way.

***

Your local shelters and rescues have needs lists and donated items are always appreciated and/or any extra dollars donated goes a long way.

Please keep them in mind as you make your lists and check them twice.

***

On a personal note: this year we lost our beloved Emmi cat. She is missed but I will be giving in her name so she lives on. That brings happiness in memories.

***

I continue with my "Frozen Shoulder" rehab and am finally see the light at the end of the tunnel! I have much improved range of motion and all the time and money spent working on getting "my painting arm" well is paying off.

And...

My part-time job is almost over and I will be saying good-bye to 37 years of my old life in "health care" in exchange for a great new period of happy creativity making Art my joyful focus.

I welcome that Peace filled heart and soul work!

***

I KNOW in 2012 I will be back in the studio beginning from scratch with some new work behind the scenes to get those artistic muscles back in shape.

I will not be selling work right away but I WILL be working on my craft and finding my Muse with hopeful anticipation, again.

I do expect a good period of time when I will be reacquainting myself with my love "of painting just to paint" and perhaps be able to help once again with the charities I love.

That is what my hope for the new year will bring.

Health and a Peaceful Heart.

SO...GET YOUR ELF ON

as we kick off DECEMBER and celebrate the magic of the

CHRISTMAS SEASON

of light and hope.

All my very best,

Carol

ART, LIFE, and A PERSONAL NOTE

2011-10-04T06:29:00.005-05:00

Up Before the Sun This Morning...

Sunrise somewhere in the universe...(photo credit Morguefile.)

Life has been a rollercoaster in 2011...not horribly "bad" but definately challenging. Physically, mentally, spiritually ... a challenge.

Make no mistake, there are many more things in my life to be thankful for than not. So I am not really complaining but just trying to make sense of things and find a way to express it.

My studio is closed into 2012.

I make this announcement with mixed feelings ... I do miss painting and having a schedule and purpose and being able to make donations as I have in the past. That last is the biggest change to deal with.

Some of you know that while I painted almost a full time schedule I was also supported by a part-time job as a nurse working evenings for the last 33 of 37 years. These hours allowed me the freedom to paint as much as I pleased and the freedom to give as much as possible while covering our health insurance with my part time job.

That job has come to an end and now and I am in the process of wrapping up an entire portion of my life and restructuring the way I have done things for so long.

There are many changes involved in this for me in all spheres. Not in the least is trying to envision a whole new life plan. It would seem that it would be simple, "Just Paint" ...but the practical elements need to be addressed first and eventually it will come to painting again. That is my long range plan.

Knowing that this job change was coming, I have been preparing for this for a while but there are so many unknowns just ahead. I was working myself into a frenzy thinking I had to have everything figured out and wrapped with a bow, having everything in place and knowing every move ahead of me. I can't. I realized yesterday that this was just not possible. But...I am a Capricorn and that is always my approach.

Yesterday I had a moment of clarity regarding "plans" ...I do not know exactly what the plan is going to be just yet except to say that I am going into uncharted waters for the first time. As a nurse, I will be unemployed. Having never been unemployed it is a whole new world for me.

As an artist, I will be beginning from scratch when I reopen my studio at a future date and make Art my full time passion once again.

My "job" in the next year will be to sort out life details, see what works for us here, and find my way again. These changes have wrecked havoc with my creative abilities and keeping focused, so rather than force things I do not really feel where art is concerned it is less stressful to just step away.

Saying goodbye to a whole segment of my adult working life, and more importantly, the people who inhabit that life, is more difficult than I ever imagined. I thought it was a matter of just substituting one schedule for another. No so.

I am learning as I go...I will get to that place of reconcilliation with change and find light on a new path. I am learning to rely on my internal compass in a whole new way.

I will be putting a notice on my WEBSITE and if any prints should sell from the site ALL profits from the sale will go to charity of the buyer's choice.

I will be working behind the scenes and when the reopening is ready I will let you know.

Thanks for following my work all these years and helping as you do to give homeless animal rescues funding through art.

This message will go out through several outlets, you may receive a duplicate message if you are on also in my opt in list from the website, for that I apologize.

ALL MY BEST,

Carol

Gifts ~ who is the REAL beneficiary?

2011-09-17T07:41:00.005-05:00

MEET

BIG POPPY!

I did...he is a beautiful and gentle boy cat who meets and greets you by climbing into your lap and giving you so much peace and joy just to pet him.

PURRFECT companion for the person who wants a feline friend to sit with, read, watch TV or a movie and find your zen moments with.

WHERE IS HE?

at the

BRISTOL ANIMAL SHELTER

10 Minturn Farm Rd

Bristol RI

http://www.friendsofthebristolanimalshelter.org/default.asp

and Friends of Bristol Animal Shelter

(raising funds for the new facility)

have only one thing that you need to know....

THEY CARE ABOUT FINDING FOREVER HOMES

for

HOMELESS ANIMALS IN NEED.

Below is the link to the FACEBOOK PAGE of those needing homes.

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/media/set/?set=a.1738889082042.99085.1533113486

****

Recently they put out the call for DONATIONS of cat food.

Always, there are cats and kittens needing care and a place to stay while awaiting adoption.

Several people stepped up to the plate and stopped by (see address above) to drop off some food.

THANKS on their behalf.

YOU ARE WONDERFUL!

***

Times are tough for the whole country...every little bit helps.

Whatever you can do...one extra bag while you shop or a Grocery or Walmart gift card designated for pet food. ANYTHING! is SO appreciated for THIS shelter or YOUR local one.

It's all good.

Please give what you can. Time is also something these non-profits can use.

Walk a dog, pet a cat.

~*~BELIEVE ME~*~

YOU will be the beficiary of the Blessing!

***

Those of you who know me...

(Keeper of Secrets)
oil
...know I have a passion and mission to use my artwork to help wherever I can.
You also know the last year has been pretty tough for me to be able to do that with a miserable shoulder injury that I am fighting my way back from.
I was given the GRACE to paint this little painting above (using my Rainbow Bridge cat Emmi as my inspiration, yes, she is STILL helping homeless cats!) and to my great surprise it sold internationally almost as soon as it was listed.
(PLEASE visit ART HELPING ANIMALS , link is on the page here, to see the work of artists with a passion to help!)
That little painting helped
TABBY's PLACE & BRISTOL ANIMAL SHELTER
with all proceeds going to both.

So who gets the true blessing?
In this case ....ME!
I got to give once again to honor my EMMI who provided the inspiration,
and do the work I seem to be called to do.
***
Give what you can, the delight in doing it is multiplied many times.
Help homeless animals...they need us!
Thanks so much!
and please check out the animals in your shelter who are looking for your love.

Twice Blessed ~ Print gallery updated!

2011-09-08T06:30:00.005-05:00

These three images as well as others have recently been added to my website

you can access here:

http://carolchretien.com/large-multi-view/PRINTS/1638451-1-24018/PRINTS.html

The sizes and prices are as listed. A donation to charity is given as always.

I recently purchased the Dachshund Print for myself to frame and donate to a fundraiser (more to follow about that) for homeless doxies...and I was very pleased with the quality of the print.

I have had good feedback on the Dalmatian print also.

Any questions? You can always email me.

These make a great gift or print art for yourself.

Two weeks approximately for delivery. My print arrived to my PO box in a secure mailing tube.

I will be adding more prints from sold work in the future.

Thanks for helping animals in need through a purchase of art!

Carol

After the Storm

2011-08-29T09:32:00.004-05:00

Sometimes you are the Wave pounding the rocks, Sometimes you are the Rock being pounded by the waves...

In the end the light shines through again and the waves and rocks are covered by light and calm.

Being that I (like everyone else) am a living work-in-progress...we get to play all the parts in our passion play. Roles shift, superficial identities change but underneath it all we remain who we basically are, that minimal canvas we get to work from.

The good news is that we always can work to achieve more in our becoming...building on the basics of our core beliefs and modifying our positions on things as we evolve.

I am always in awe of the opportunities I have been given in my life. I am thankful and hope always to be able to find a way to give back. Why else am I here?

We just came through the Storm known as "Irene"...the havoc it wrecked on many lives is too much but it could have been so much worse. Really wish it had just stayed over the seas and away from people and land but so glad it was not as bad as predicted.

Giving thanks again today for the beautiful day after the storm. Sending up prayers for those who have been dealt severe consequences of Irene's path.

Glad for the good people who find ways to help others at this time. Looking ahead to days of calm.

How we shape our life and time is up to us. When we are dealt a hand we never wished for we play it out or fold and see what good we can do with the next one.

Wishing everyone brighter times ahead.

Old Visions ~ New Options!

2011-08-24T08:11:00.003-05:00

"All things old are new again"

...I have added some new PRINTS to my website

they are available now with others that will follow.

I have the "print on demand option" for approximately 8x10 sized prints.

Welcome Home

(original sold to help rescue)
***
You are able to view the enlarged version on my website for greater detail.
As ALWAYS my work will generate funds for rescue.
***
I am currently reviewing and updating my site to reflect and acknowledge the changes in the economy. As my artwork is the means of my ability to donate as much as I can to non-profit rescues, I am trying to find a better approach to helping than just Original Oils.
***
I am offering Original Oils again as my main focus as an artist and will be accepting commissions again in the near future as I return to full time painting and my passion for using my art to help others.
***
I am offering FREE DOMESTIC SHIPPING on all my original oils
and have included the PAYPAL option that accepts payments of all types with each piece on my website.

The PRINT feature is pre-programmed through my site host (ArtSpan) and has the shipping calculated for the work. They will ship to you directly.

Original Art purchased from me is set for free domestic shipping as noted.
If you ever have any questions please do not hesitate to email me at any time.
carolchretien@aol.com
I am always available.
***
So please take a moment to consider a PRINT of my original work at a reasonable price and I will make a donation to the rescue of YOUR choice from every sale.
http://carolchretien.com/large-multi-view/PRINTS/1638451-1-24018/PRINTS.html
***
I will be adding more and more work as I revise, review and yes...paint new pieces!
Stay Tuned for Updates
All my best,
Carol

Enjoy the Sunny Hours...

2011-08-21T10:42:00.002-05:00

Dachshund Print

from original oil painting

"Beach Days"
***

The studio is getting prepped for re-opening as I look forward to starting some small pieces to try out my rehabbed shoulder.

The plan is to go slowly and small and see what I can build myself up to.

The goal is Full Time once again.

I was just telling my husband that I have started to entertain the ideas that my Muse is sending me ...I have a few thumbnails drawn and I am getting that excitement to begin, building up in my gut.

I was staying away from new inspiration while the shoulder healed and now the dreams are coming and the ideas are finding me once again.

The end of the season will soon be with us and the time of new beginnings is right around the corner.

Now paintings are swirling around at the edges and I am seeing some great possibilites.

This new time is going to be amazing and fun!

Hope you come along for the ride.

As ALWAYS...my work will help homeless animals in need.

STAY TUNED

***

the painting above sold to help Dachshund Rescue...

This print is available on my website.

http://carolchretien.com/large-multi-view/PRINTS/291234-1-24018/PRINTS.html

August ~ Dog Days

2011-08-05T13:12:00.006-05:00

One of my old favorite Beagle paintings.

***

The thing about August is that you know what comes later!

For me, it is always the time of anticipation of things to come...new times, new places, new ideas, new plans.

I think it harks back to being a school kid when September was the true start of the new year. I know that was a long time ago but it is so ingrained in me.

Also, I am all about autumn so that adds an energy of spirit to my thoughts.

So as I plan for the future and the re-opening of my studio this fall I look back and see where I've come from and think about where I want to go.

***

One big change for me will be painting without my studio companion, Emmi.

Something tells me that she will somehow be with me.

It is an adjustment for sure even though.

I have a few things I have to do for behind the scenes prep as I gear up to start.

It is a little exciting starting over...and that is what it feels like...so we will see where we can take this.

My goal remains to help as many homeless animals as I can with my artwork.

I am looking forward to what lies ahead.

STAY TUNED...

as always

ALL MY BEST!

Carol

Two Weeks...and then...

2011-07-31T10:49:00.002-05:00

EMMI

Two weeks have gone by since Emmi crossed the Bridge and it still seems like she will come walking into the room at any moment.

I got some nice cards and emails of condolence...thanks so much.

This past week I got a chance to stop by Bristol Animal Shelter and got a huge reminder of just how adorable kittens are and the temptation was great but with Lizzie being 13 yrs old in a few weeks, it is just not the time to go down that road.

But...the joyfulness of cats and especially kittens...oh my! They have 2 little tigers (and many other wonderful animals for adoption, I might add) that are about the age of when I brought Emmi and Dinah home.

I was in heaven watching them pounce and tumble and play together. Ahhh.

I can't help it but I keep thinking of girl names....hahahaha!

Someday...someday....

I also think about the paintings that will come from that whole experience so I DO look forward to when the time is right.

In the meantime...Lizzie is more precious than ever...and I am so thankful for her generally good health. The age issues are manageable.

Leo and I spend a fair share of time kissing her and showering love and attention, as if she would ever be denied!

I am also looking forward to Fall and returning to the studio with new eyes.

I am hoping that starting out small and testing the waters with some painting time will work well with all this therapy to the right shoulder.

Somethings got to give.

That is the intention I have put out to the universe...so we shall see.

Who knows where it might take me.

***

The painting above is one of my personal favorites ...I painted this one many years ago of my Emmi and it was the painting I used to teach myself about painting eyes.

It is 14x18 and it hangs in our living room in the Lizzie and Emmi collection of portraits.

I am very fond of the close-up contemporary composition of this painting.

It is not a large piece but it commands attention on the wall.

Fun to paint with all the color, strokes and details in a small format.

So happy now that I did this piece. She had "the look" and it still gets to me.

~~~

Oscar UPDATE!

2011-07-25T05:38:00.004-05:00

Oscar's "mom" Pam reports that her boy is home and trying to run and play "as if nothing happened" to him.

He is doing well as he recovers from surgery at home with his family.

It really is wonderful when you know you can bring them home from the Veterinary hospital and get to enjoy and appreciate every moment of their lives.

What a great thing when you can share GOOD news!

Get Well Oscar!

2011-07-23T06:48:00.008-05:00

Oscar recently had emergency surgery this is a shout out to say we wish him a quick recovery.

***

I have had the pleasure of using his likeness to create some fun paintings

that have generated funds for helping homeless animals. He is an inspiration and has helped friends in need!

Oscar's images have always been used with permission as with all and any references for paintings.

***

We wish our friend Oscar a big

GET WELL SOON!

Dachshund Blues

(model in the painting: Oscar)

The Jimmy Fund ~ Help Make a Difference!

2011-07-20T07:43:00.008-05:00

What do you do with negative energy that you feel with personal loss?

I have always turned it around with a focus on CHARITY for others...It is a purely selfish way for me to help me feel better! And it has always worked.

REFOCUS off my own wallowing misery and blast the negativity with POSITIVE energy. Unfortunately there is no lack of need for charity in our world.

One of the threads that runs through my life is Cancer and Cancer Treatment.

My family has had its share just as many other families have. It is a horrible common denominator. One I wish we never shared.

My sister, father-in-law, nephew, cousins, aunts, uncles and dearest friends have been down that road. Almost all have been treated in Boston, Ma. We have been fortunate to be so close to world class care.

Massachusetts has the DANA FARBER CANCER INSTITUTE that treats people from around the world. http://www.dana-farber.org/

My own cousin Pat has been the most current patient in the family who is in a treatment plan at DF that is keeping brain cancer at bay. We are thankful for what they have been doing for her for the last 5 years. It is a miracle of healthcare.

And then there are the Children....

The JIMMY FUND is another part of the cancer care of Dana Farber's outreach.

You can read about them here: http://kids.pmc.org/

Children and Cancer...it's just WRONG.

We need to keep beating the hell out of those cancers with support of funding for treatment and the good work they are doing to keep kids surviving and thriving.

I am supporting the August effort of the PAN MASS CHALLENGE.

If you would like to make a donation to help Children through the Jimmy Fund you can read more here.

http://www.pmc.org/profile/CG0090(our Vet, Dr Cathy Grossi is riding in the challenge and we support her effort.)

THE PAN MASS CHALLENGE

http://www.pmc.org/

I will be posting this on TWITTER and FACEBOOK and if you feel like sharing it with others PLEASE DO! Helping comes in many ways and sometimes it is just to get the word out...you never know on what fertile ground those seeds will fall!

As always...thank you for your support and friendship through the years!

Carol

The Light In The Darkness - Dr Cathy Grossi DMV

2011-07-19T07:59:00.008-05:00

I want to say a warm and public Thanks to Dr. Cathy Grossi from Acoaxet Veterinary Clinic in Westport, Ma.

She first saw Emmi in May when I thought that we were going to have her euthanized. Emmi had a sudden respiratory problem that I thought might be her heart and lungs giving in to old age. I was wrong.

Dr. Grossi gave us the option to try an antibiotic and see if it would help...She determined Emmi's heart was strong and her lungs seemed clear...she was so right. Emmi rallied and we were given the gift of time.

Dr. Grossi showed us the most compassion and care that we have ever encountered in first hand Veterinary care. We have had many capable Vets help us but this was the exceptional care you could only wish for in this kind of situation.

Emmi went back in once more with one more attempt to stem the tide and buy a bit more time and once again it was granted. ALWAYS with the idea that ONLY if it was the best thing for Em. We did hospice care this last week. Emmi died at home with us. Peacefully on her terms.

Yesterday I dug out the old photos...pre-digital...and scanned in a few gems of the the "girls" ...those pics did not make me sad at all. They brought back the FUN and light hearted moments of Emmi and Dinah...Leo and I laughed at the memories. We had such good years with them. So Thankful.

Dinah left us much too soon and has never, for a moment, been forgotten.

Em and Di are now reunited I am sure.

Many, many thanks go to Dr. Grossi for her compassionate care of Emmi and of us. There just are not enough words to say what we feel about her. She is gifted in her work. She was the light in our dark time.

Emmi two months after she became ours. Look at that little face!

Emmi and Dinah circa 95

The princess in 97 ...pre-Lizzie.

She never gave up the top spot in the pack order.

LOL!
***

RESCUE AND ADOPT!

Emmi Chretien ~ 1993-2011

2011-05-26T04:33:00.009-05:00

Today at 6:15 AM July 17th Emmi crossed the Rainbow Bridge. She did it HER way at home with Leo right beside her. My husband is the very best of the best and his wish was that she stay home with us until her last day. He has stayed with her for the last week every night downstairs in the fish room where she was most comfortable. She was not alone, she was loved until the last.

Emmi gave us everything she had. She rests now out front under the holly tree with her companion cat Dinah.

I wanted to share a few of the paintings Emmi inspired that helped a lot of animals in rescue. She was my constant companion in the studio. My sweetie.

"Ironic...Isn't It?"

***

"Pick Me Up"
(should read, "Feed Me")
***

The Story Teller

***

A Nap Among the Toys

***

And my very personal favorite
and an actual studio portrait...in my collection...

Catching Butterflies

***

and...

This is our Emmi herself in her

is-ness...

Emmi in the studio (photo from 2002)

Emmi's Story

In 1993 a little gray, peach & white kitten became part of our family. We named her Emmi and she was the most adorable addition to our life. She was the wildest and funniest little kitten among 2 big litters in the pet store.

Yes...I bought her and her "sister" Dinah from Rumford Pet Center in East Providence, RI. That was before I knew about shelters and adoptions, and it was also at a time when that store took in litters from the local neighborhood...average domestic non-pedigreed cats and sold them for 19.99 each with first shots and worming AND a 5 lb bag of kitten chow. You might just as well say they were adoptees.

When I went to pay for them at the register the cashier yelled across the store to a co-worker "SHE's TAKING THE LITTLE GRAY ONE!" that was hint of the fun to come. And we did have fun.

We lost Dinah to cancer at age 12, it came about seemingly suddenly and then she was gone. Dinah was a beauty, very elegant, sleek and graceful, shy and regal. Emmi...not so much.

Short little cobbie cat. Short legs and round body, the most beautiful fur and what a little clown.

Personality enough for a dozen cats, a lovable and chatty character who loved to climb as high as possible. Where Dinah would NEVER venture above chair seat height, Emmi often would leap up to a beam 12 ft high in the kitchen and would almost give me a heart attack when she had to get down from there. I would grab a sofa cushion for the top of the china cabinet so she wouldn't pound down hard on her legs from so high.

Loved to eat, always wanted to be first with my attention, over the years loved to put our dog in her place (Emmi was a little Thug in that dept) but she loved Leo and me. She had so many nick-names, "Emmi-tubba-lada" or Thuggie, or Cranky Pants Emmi or Emmi-kins or just... Sweets.

In '93 Those kittens came to us when we were suffering so much grief, we had lost both our Dad's in 2 years...then all 3 of our elderly pets inside of a month, 4 months after my Dad's sudden death. Our house was so empty and we were so sad I can't even describe the incredible feel of the blackness. Joyless and quiet with no feeling of life in our home.

5 days of a no pet home and then we found Emmi & Dinah. Suddenly we had joy and laughter and antics that only 2 adorable little kittens forever playing together could bring back to a home. We loved them from go. They had 4 years before Lizzie our Dalmatian joined the crew. But it all worked out. I would not have traded a moment of them in my life even for the bleakness of the last day.

My very constant studio companion, Emmi pulled through a near fatal bout of hyperthyroidism a few years ago and we were greatful for the time with her...knowing that the reprieve was a gift of time.

She gave us all she had. We will miss her more than words can say. I hope Dinah came to greet her...at the Bridge.

Emmi was the inspiration for many, many paintings that ultimately gave funds to rescue and helped other cats in need. She was my muse, my model extraordinaire.

She will always have a piece of our hearts. There will never be another Emmi.

Life and Making Choices...

2011-04-05T09:47:00.006-05:00

Hello my fellow travelers...life is a journey and you are either on board with that or not. Right now I am like the painting subject above...looking out to sea and wondering what is coming over that horizon in the next blink.

Some of you know that I have been trying my best to manage a miserable orthopedic problem with my right shoulder that is just not working out for me.

With the help of a wonderful massage therapist I have taken it as far as it can go and have given it a good fight to keep from even a hint at a surgical solution.

Yesterday I finally gave in and now my next step is to have an orthopedic surgeon weigh-in on what will happen next.

I am suspending my painting for now and just wanted to let you know that I have so appreciated you following and supporting my efforts on behalf of the animals in rescues that I have been privileged to work with.

I am hoping that I will be back at the easel before long if things go well with whatever options I am given and path I must take.

You can always send me a Hello on my FaceBook page or email anytime.

Thanks for your friendship and support and I will catch you on the flip side!

All my best...Carol

(I will also post this in an email through my website ...sorry if you get to see it twice!)

Scout....a work in progress

2011-02-28T10:14:00.007-05:00

SCOUT

A work in progress... The very rough beginning to convey the idea. I start with some simple lines to place the subject on the canvas.

Finding the personality and emotion.

I like to go straight to the eyes to start. It is eerie when you have vacant eyes of a living subject and also I find that I am in "their company" once they are "there" with me in the studio. All the inspiration, for me, comes from the subject and what they mean to their person.

Now we are getting somewhere.

Color for background and collar have been discussed and approved. Scout is taking shape for sure and I am enjoying the process.

This canvas is 14x18 and a pleasure to be painting him in the close up format.

He has very beautiful eyes and markings and this will be a keepsake portrait that will draw the viewer in and touch the heart of Scout's mom.

This is the 3rd pass, and with another session or two I will have completed the piece.

Like negative space, the time between actual painting sessions gives you a chance to study the work and where you want to go next. This is all part of my working process.

***

This has been posted with permission of the client to share the process.

ABOUT THE SUBJECT:

Scout is an almost 10 yr old hound/shepard mix who was adopted out of a Washington DC shelter. His "mom" says he started with, and still has, an over abundance of energy.

Scout has a few hobbies that include "counter surfing & snagging" and taking things from the bookcase, along with rifling through a purse or two and finding money! He LOVES the park.

But..."he makes me happy, he is like a little person and understands almost anything you say, even when he doesn't want to listen to you" ...Scout is "stubborn, spoiled, and has the most personality his mom has ever had around"...that is a testimony many of us share about our beloved companions. (just ask my Lizzie! LOL)

Scout is a "velcro" dog. :o)

***

All my work provides a donation to a rescue when completed.

PLEASE consider an adoption from your local shelter...it saves lives.

And if possible, consider supporting a shelter with needed items, time, fostering or donations.

Thanks for looking and supporting rescue with art!

Loose Ends and New Things....

2011-02-19T08:56:00.007-05:00

Munchkin's Painting for Falmouth Friends of Dogs rescue in Falmouth MA

has found its home.

I received a nice email that they forwarded to me from the winner of the fundraising raffle.

A true coast to coast effort, the painting is now in New Mexico.

Ellen B. loves the painting and the work done by this rescue and the knee surgery that gave this dog a better future.

It is nice to know that people help from all over the country!

"MUNCHKIN"

****

On the easel:

"HALIFAX"

(a work in progress)

This week has seen some requests for commissions in my inbox...I have been moving slowly since the first of the year. Some of you may know from my FaceBook postings that I have been
doing some therapy on my "painting arm" and trying to get back into the work of helping rescue with art but the pace is slow.

One of the commissions I started a few weeks ago is of Halifax the beagle.

( I have permission to share some work in progress from Hali's dad.)

This painting will be done this week. The charity that will benefit will be BONES at the client's request.

***

New work is about to start. I look forward to "picking up the pace" and getting some

good rescue work going.

Thanks for looking...updates coming soon.

Happy Valentine's Day...

2011-02-14T08:00:00.003-05:00

Wishing everyone a day of Love.

And have a wonderful day.

***

Please support your favorite rescue,

Give your heart to a pet up for adoption.

Sponsor a pet in foster care.

Volunteer with a local group.

Help comes in many ways...

2011-02-08T10:26:00.006-05:00

Dayna Hilton (please see this link to learn more http://www.sparklesthefiresafetydog.com/ )

is a firefighter dedicated to educating children about fire safety.

Sparkles, a wonderful Dalmatian teacher, traveled the country with Dayna helping in this endeavor. Now Siren has stepped up to help carry on the teaching with her buddy Tango, Dayna's other fabulous dalmatian helper.

Siren, still a pup but growing fast, is a beautiful dal in training for the tasks he will assume and I was lucky enough to have permission to paint him in hopes of helping with some fundraising for the cause. I was inspired by his beautiful eyes, the idea of him answering a call to duty, and also as a tribute to Sparkles' memory.

All proceeds go to the fund.

Dayna blogged about the painting here: http://sparklesthefiresafetydog.blogspot.com/2011/01/painting-arrives-from-artist-carol.html

And now...

I want to share this link that will help provide the funding that takes teaching children about fire safety to schools around the country.

http://www.cafepress.com/sparklestfsd/7650100

If you would like to help please shop here...and share the links ...every bit helps raise awareness and can save lives.

It's a New Year!

2011-01-13T09:09:00.005-05:00

" Bobby Boo"

detail

a Christmas commission 2010

~~~~

Wishing everyone a wonderful NEW YEAR!

I am in the process of getting the studio up and running for 2011.

Commissions are already booked and work will resume shortly.

(every piece of work I do gives a donation to a non-profit rescue)

***

It was a crazy finish to 2010...

The old year ended not as planned...with blizzards and cold bugs and cancelled travel plans.

Not a great ending, I did however get all my commitments completed! WHEW!

The new year is a new beginning and hopefully we will be able to help many homeless animals again this year with sales of art and art related items.

and...

ART HELPING ANIMALS

continues to grow as well!

we have new artists joining us and new work to celebrate

we have almost reached the

80,000.00

mile stone of funds donated from artists helping animals in need.

~~~

I hope you can coninue to join us and follow our journey with art that helps.

***

Have a healthy and happy New Year everyone.

all my best,

Carol

We Wish You A Merry Christmas!

2010-12-17T07:37:00.002-05:00

A Healthy Happy New Year to All!

***

Our 2010 Charlie Brown tree!

Closing up Shop ....

2010-12-11T07:00:00.005-05:00

The Studio is officially "closed" for the year. I leave you with a few of the Christmas Commissions I have completed this season...a sampling, if you will.

I wish you and yours a wonderful Christmas and a blessed and healthy New Year.

It has been a year of struggle for many in this economy and the Rescues have felt the weight of the increase of animals in their care, and donations going down.
The next year will be just as challenging, and the need to give care find homes for the abused, neglected & abandoned, just as urgent.

My wish is to keep helping where I can with donations to the frontliners who save lives, foster, rehab & rehome.
I continue to serve this end in my humble way...Every painting I will paint will send a donation to a rescue in need...that remains my promise.

I hope you continue to follow the work along with me and join me if you can ....and...God bless us, everyone!

Lily

Sterling

Ashley

L'il Orange One

***

MANY BLESSINGS TO YOU AND FOR ALL THAT YOU DO

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

See you in 2011

Carol Chretien

Bristol Art Gallery ...for the animals

2010-12-03T07:39:00.005-05:00

APRIL BLUES AGAIN

THE CALL HOME

***

These two paintings will be on display framed and hung at the

BRISTOL ART GALLERY

423 Hope St

Bristol, RI

the weekend of Dec 10th.

www.bristolartgallery.net

***

Each oil painting is 150.00 framed ready to gift!

signed front and back with certificate of authenticity as original art.

***

the proceeds from the sale will go to help

BRISTOL ANIMAL SHELTER

***

This shelter has been working tirelessly to get the new shelter built and it will happen
in the near future thanks to all the people who have donated to the cause.

These rescue animals deserve to have the comfort that many have never known

as they are rehomed into loving families.

***

Coming in February is the fundraiser

Mardi Gras Ball

more info to follow.

thanks for helping homeless animals

THE GIFT OF ART!

2010-11-24T10:09:00.003-05:00

If you would like to choose a Gift for your loved one

this Christmas

AND

you want to support your favorite rescue...

(a donation will go to rescue)

PLEASE don't wait:

***

Available until DECEMBER 7th

I will send out to you a Christmas Box full of giving joy

as an announcement for an

ORIGINAL OIL PAINTING

CAROL CHRETIEN

of your giftee's favorite pet!

The box will be festive and ready for gifting.

***

details will all be included for them to contact me after January 1st

and we will create something they will treasure.

THERE IS NOTHING LIKE GIVING

A ONE OF A KIND

GIFT

something that will not get lost in the gifts under the tree

or forgotten in a few weeks!

***

GIVE THE GIFT OF ART!

Happy Holidays

email me soon to book a gift announcement!

carolchretien@aol.com

gifting that helps homeless animals!

Healing Art....

2010-11-21T11:32:00.006-05:00

We who love animals, are IN love with animals and are owned by our "pets" (if you remember your 101 Dalmatians you remember that "Pongo" called Roger HIS "pet")...same applies to our situation.

Our 2 animals are growing older and it hurts to see time passing. I am comforted by the fact that all the love given to them comes back to us 10 fold. They have wonderful lives.
It is our duty that we make it our duty to give them the best.

I have had the opportunity to make a friend on Facebook because of my love for all things Dalmatian and yet it is a little bittersweet.

I discovered Dayna Hilton, a firefighter and her dog SPARKLES the FIRE SAFETY DOG and all the great work they have done teaching children about how to stay safe and about fire prevention.

Sparkles passed on shortly after my finding out about her.
Dayna Hilton is going on with the work and has two beautiful Dalmatians in her life. One of them is Tango and one is a young pup named Siren.
Siren is a striking blue-eyed boy who has some big paw prints to fill.

When Dayna posted a pic of Siren I was so taken by him that I asked if I could paint him...I saw in him the idea that He would go on and maybe be the healer for her and be the light for lots of kids, maybe continuing with Sparkles' work going forward.
She gave me permission to paint Siren and below is the finished painting and my concept of Siren answering the call to duty.
I hope the painting helps Dayna's heart heal along with Sparkles' legacy....and all the good things that Siren will bring to many lives. This painting is my gift to Dayna and to help with her work.

Siren's Call To Duty

16x20

oil on canvas

gifted to Dayna Hilton in memory of Sparkles.

All proceeds from this painting's use will benefit the foundation for teaching children fire safety.

***

Why Oils?

2010-11-18T11:48:00.004-05:00

Why do I choose oils? I so admire many of the other mediums but no matter what I have tried, I always return to my first love...

Oil Paint.

***

Wild Woman

available oil on canvas

***

I fell in love with them in my teens and many decades later still appreciate the light and depth of oils.

They really depend on the lighting they are viewed in. You can move an oil painting from one source of light to another and see a whole different painting.

I notice this particular characteristic when looking at landscapes. The light in the painting changes.

This works because the light shines through the oil paint to the canvas and back out to the eye.

You will notice how certain passages will almost have a "light from within" warm light really brings the warm colors forward.

One of the challenges of taking photos, and now with digital sharing, you try to get the best light for images in afternoon north light.

What you see on your computer monitor may still be nothing like the actual painting.

***

When I send out my paintings to the client I am always hopeful they will see the work as so much more dynamic and full of life. Especially animals. Those faces and eyes are very lively and dimentional when you are looking at the actual canvas.

You also get the benefit of the brush and daubs of color that are missed in the digital example. Texture is also missed unless you are looking at the real thing.

But we must work with what we have and the images travel far and wide online and really have impact in audience reach.

***

One of the nicest and poignant comments I get is that my works makes the viewer emotional. That is pretty cool when you think that I am taking pigments and materials and arranging them on a piece of cloth to transform into something that has heart.

That is Alchemy in the truest sense. It is a magical, mystical thing even to me.

Where does it come from?

I really do have the best job in the world. Sometimes I don't even know what will appear on the canvas as I go. It often seems like it is already there and I just seem to uncover it. That is something most artists must encounter.

Hopefully.

***

Another of the attributes of oils is that the paint often suggests where to go next. This is hard to explain except to say it remains a teacher of sorts for me.

***

This is today's ramble. :)

If you would like to shop for a Christmas of Holiday gift that will provide a donation to help an homeless animal and make your giftee happy:

http://aheart4art-carolchretien.blogspot.com/

or email me to see about an after Christmas gift certificate for a custom painting.

Have a grace-filled day!

NEW ADDITIONS ~Christmas Art SALE!

2010-11-14T13:38:00.003-05:00

New Additions to the first STUDIO "C" Art Sale have been entered here:

"Waiting At the Gates" (above) is included!

http://aheart4art-carolchretien.blogspot.com/2010/11/new-additions-christmas-studio-sale.html

***

Click the link to see what paintings are available to purchase before

Christmas

GIFTING or PURCHASING

FINE ART

will be the distinctive gift under the tree!

You will help a rescue and be the best gift-giver ever!

Variety of subjects available.

Also see the PAGE 1 LINK

and which paintings are STILL available.

Some have sold and rescues have received donations.

Each painting is an original oil and each is 75.00

of which 15.00 goes straight to rescue.

Happy Shopping!

thanks for looking and please share the link with friends.

A Time For Giving...

2010-11-11T12:34:00.005-05:00

From now until the end of the year we are thinking about

How Can We Help?

***

The 14th Annual Four Paws Charity Auction for Homeless Cats and Dogs

November 20th 6:30-9:00PM

at HAWTHORNE COUNTRY CLUB

Dartmouth, MA

www.animaladvocatesma.org

These 2 framed prints of my original oils will be part of the Auction this year!

100% donation

If you are in the area, please consider this event for helping homeless animals!

There will be many different items available beside artwork.

They do a wonderful job all year long working to help homeless animals.

share your blessings!

That Christmas Feeling

2010-11-10T11:15:00.004-05:00

For me....Is about creating moments on canvas that will help homeless animals.

Giving with an open heart...these Christmas paintings will help rescue.

25.00 from each sale goes straight to rescue.

Free Domestic Shipping!

He's A Gift

12x12

125.00

25.00 donation to a BEAGLE rescue!

www.paypal.com

please send payment to carolchretien@aol.com

***

KITTEN CHRISTMAS

10x10

oil on canvas

125.00

25.00 DONATION to the rescue of YOUR choice!

www.paypal.com

please send payment to

carolchretien@aol.com

***

Cape Cod Beagle Christmas
SOLD

****
GIFT CERTIFICATE ANNOUNCEMENTS
available to
GIFT for the Holidays
Book a painting for the
NEW YEAR!
details below!
http://carolchretien.blogspot.com/2010/09/merry-christmas-oh-you-heard-right.html

****
STUDIO "C" SALE BLOG
details below!
http://aheart4art-carolchretien.blogspot.com/2010/10/first-ever-studio-christmas-sale.html

ART SALE! gifting and keeping....

2010-11-07T09:13:00.003-05:00

Introducing....Studio "C" ....my sale blog.

Did you see something I had painted before that you liked and want to gift or keep?

I am cleaning out some studio space and have a few unsold paintings to offer at a "sale" price of

75.00 and...

15.00 of every sale goes to help a rescue!

Free domestic shipping.

***

http://aheart4art-carolchretien.blogspot.com/2010/10/first-ever-studio-christmas-sale.html

Please ...take a peek.

Where everyone wins... It starts with US!

2010-11-05T09:47:00.007-05:00

All of us.
One of best things I have experienced over the last decade is having met some of the best and most generous and hard working people in the world. Big statement, I know.

Most of these "meetings" have been on line or by phone or email, but none the less, very special.
It has prompted me to want to work harder to raise money for homeless animals and work harder to be able to give all that I can.

The project we just finished together is one that helped People and Animals! It was a great idea lent to me by a Facebook friend (Rebecca) as I have mentioned before but it was also a way of helping me learn about another wonderful rescuer.

Judith Farrar was the winning name that came out of the hat. I had never heard of her before the raffle but have heard alot about her since! :o)

She has been one of the best helpers and "foster Moms" for Dalmatian Rescue Tampa Bay.
I was told by Susan and Pat of DRTB that she has fostered 24 dalmatians for that rescue! That is 24 dogs that definately have been given a headstart of a new life.

She does not have a dog of her own, much less a Dalmatian! She has made herself available to helping reshape the lives of these rescue dogs so that they may be ready to go to their forever homes.

What a gift of a volunteer she is to that rescue. Judy told me in an email that she has a siamese cat "Simone" that is the official "Cat Friendly" tester for rescue dogs who stay in her home. A little 8 lb cat will let her know who is the dal that will go to home with a cat in the family.

Judy...it is so great to "meet" you. The painting is on the way!

So once again...EVERYBODY WINS! and I am so proud to know so many good people.

A packet of info that went out with the check.

YOUR donation mattered and YOU can claim it on YOUR taxes.

I will not be claiming that check on mine.

Your gifts were so appreciated!

Carol Chretien

Munchkin ...a dog with a chance!

2010-11-02T06:08:00.005-05:00

Meet Munchkin!

12x12

oil on canvas

Munchkin Gets A Chance

***

FALMOUTH FRIENDS OF DOGS RESCUE

Falmouth MA

is helping this dog have a real chance at a comfortable life.

Meet Munchkin (below) and read the story of what they are doing for this wonderful young dog.

***

Bilateral Knee Surgery Dog With a Chance At a Good Life!

http://www.friendsoffalmouthdogs.org/munchkinsurgery.html

5.00 or the cost of a fancy "drive-thru" coffee will enter your name in the raffle for this painting.
I hope you can see some love in those eyes.
Munchkin is a dog who has some good people on board to help.

If you love to help and love Original Canine Art...this is a WIN - WIN for you.
***
ALL THE PROCEEDS HELP SUPPORT CHARITY
Please click the link above and do what you can.
The drawing for this painting will be done in January.
Please pass this link forward to anyone who might be interested in giving Munchkin a Chance.

Many Blessings To You!

We have a Winner! Thanks so much!

2010-11-01T11:25:00.002-05:00

Judith F of Florida

you are our painting raffle winner!

~~~~

EVERYONE:

Many thanks to all who participated in this spur of the moment campaign to paint for

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS.

On October 15th the idea was supplied as a suggestion by Rebecca Gott who asked if I had a Pink Dalmatian for BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!

Well I did not...but then a half hour later ...I did have a start.

Using the inspiration from her idea and the pose of her Dal I was compelled to paint this little 10x10 Special Edition, one of a kind oil that allows us to send the donation to the cause that enables free mammograms for early cancer detection!

I could not resist the idea and now I think we could double that NEXT year and maybe do something completely different for this event.

You all are wonderful giving people.

we will keep paying it forward.

Remember...early detection helps save lives!

Friends of Falmouth Dogs...

2010-10-30T06:43:00.004-05:00

When I am asked to help a rescue with Art I try to give it my all.

It is why I do what I do.

***

The last fundraiser for

FRIENDS OF FALMOUTH DOGS

http://friendsoffalmouthdogs.org

I offered a pet portrait as a one of the gifts for donations.

I want to share what the result of that offering was:

"PORTRAIT OF TWIGGY"

12x12

oil on canvas

is now completed and will be off to her home soon.

Her "mom" likes it!

That makes my job gratifying I can tell you.
Helping with oil painting...My passion and purpose!

****

This painting below has also been painted for FFD rescue

and they will be telling you how you can help them raise funds for the dogs they save

soon.

You can join them and me on FACEBOOK!

and keep up with all news as it happens.

Thinking about

GIFTS OF ART THAT KEEP ON GIVING?

The holidays are around the corner.

For the love of dogs and all pets...

Keep an open heart,

they depend on us.

Recent Work ....And More!

2010-10-28T07:21:00.006-05:00

Art that keeps on Giving!

The latest oil for rescue!

BLUE BOY BULLY

available

email me: carolchretien@aol.com

125.00 for this 10x10 oil on gallery wrapped canvas

no frame needed ~ FREE domestic shipping

25.00 goes directly to BAMA BULLY RESCUE!

http://www.bamabully.org

***

APRIL BLUES

12x12

oil

the 4th painting in my ongoing Year of the Cat series

this painting will be framed and hung in a Christmas show.

that will benefit

BRISTOL ANIMAL SHELTER in BRISTOL, RI

visit: http://friendsofthebristiolanimalshelter.org

I will be showing several pieces in the exhibit for this rescue.

***

Commissioned Work

BROUX

11x14
Recently completed and delivered commission of this wonderful little

cairn terrier

Broux.

Donation went to the Col. Potter Cairn Rescue

****

It is the season of giving that is shortly upon us.

Consider the GIFT OF ART that will also benefit

HOMELESS ANIMALS IN NEED

fa la la la la la la la la la

;-)

Oh Happy Day! an UPDATE

2010-10-27T07:36:00.003-05:00

" WAIT, LOVE, PRAY... FOR A HOME"
12x12

oil on canvas

***

I am so happy to report that the

DALMATIAN RESCUE TAMPA BAY

"Dall-o-ween"

Event

Oct 23rd

http://www.dalrescuetampabay.org

was a success and that the painting above helped raise

$500.00

for the rescue.

***

There is nothing like the feeling of a successful project that has been completed! You start out with the best of intentions and just hope that things fall into place and truly can help.

The volunteers of the rescue work so very hard to make a difference in the lives of these animals.

Dusty, the inspiration for the painting above has not been adopted as yet...you can go to their site and see who still needs a home...they did have some adoptions take place and will be telling their tales on the site.

THANKS TO ALL WHO SUPPORTED THE EVENT

and

THE ANIMALS IN NEED!

Many Blessings!

Monday, Monday...

2010-10-25T05:57:00.005-05:00

...its all good

TWIGGY

***
It's Monday Morning again....a new week of work and another chance to get things right!

I have been doing a lot of painting but it has been mostly commissioned work and I have not been able to share it but this piece is one that the recipient has now seen and likes and it is, in fact, the results of a donated "Custom OIL Painting" from a fundraiser for
FRIENDS OF FALMOUTH DOGS.
This painting is a 12x12 oil, it was won at a fundraiser, the winner sent me her photos and this is the result of the prize. A one of a kind work of art of a one of a kind dog.
I am just about done...need to give it a touch or two and then sign off on this work.
~
Working to help homeless animals is my mission. We have so much need to provide for these innocent refugees more than ever!
They are losing their families at insane rates due to the economy. They never asked to be born. People still, in this time of "enlightenment"... do not spay and neuter as they obviously should and we still have Puppy Mills cranking out lots of pups. Pitiful!

Add to that, through no fault of their own, those people who have lost income, jobs and homes and have to surrender their family pets.
Some of them are elderly pets, some are elder people who can barely care for themselves.

We, who love animals stand together and try to help where we can. For some, it is their special breed, there are some WONDERFUL all-volunteer non-profit groups who go to the moon to help save these lives.
Others are all-breed (or who knows what breed) rescues who step up and help by pulling pets from high-KILL shelters and transport them to safety, provide medical care and rehab them to get them family-ready. And even breed-specific rescues often take in special need mixes because they can't let them die.

I am not any of the above...I am a painter who has a penchant for animals, wants to use the ability she has to take a bunch of oily colors from tubes and smear them around to create moments caught in paint that may touch a heart, cause a donation to happen from a sale or supply a "unique prize" that might help to save an innocent life from certain death.
All that to say I help raise funds and a little awareness through my art. At least that is my goal.

So Monday, Monday it is...yet again...and I have a chance to help make it count.
I am truly blessed.
If you got this far ...thanks so much for reading. If you have one of my paintings or have booked a commission...THANK YOU FOR HELPING!
you make what I do count for something more than just another pretty picture to hang on a wall.

Peace and Cheers!
~~~
carolchretien@aol.com
love hearing from you

Re-post ...My Error! Boo!

2010-10-23T08:18:00.002-05:00

SO SORRY!

in my zeal to let you know about DALL-O-WEEN I posted the link wrong....

PLEASE VISIT:

http://www.dalrescuetampabay.org/

to read about today's special day!

DALLOWEEN DAY IS HERE!

2010-10-23T08:01:00.005-05:00

DALMATIAN RESCUE TAMPA BAY

it is

DALLOWEEN

DAL - FEST DAY

see their info here!

http://www.dalrescuetampabay.org/

to READ ALL ABOUT it.

IF you are in FLA and can join in the fun there today....please see their location.

IF you cannot....but want to support their cause and make a donation

PLEASE DO!

I do!

they are a wonderful and hard working bunch of volunteers who save Dals and others

working tirelessly and for NO PAY!

****

HAPPY DALLOWEEN!

Dalmatian In Pink - COMPLETED

2010-10-19T14:20:00.002-05:00

10x10

oil on gallery wrapped canvas

DALMATIAN IN PINK

***

Drawing to win this painting is

NOVEMBER 1st

5.00 entry will go to

THE BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION

***

If you would like to JUST donate the cost of a cup of fancy coffee to support someone you know who is battling cancer or honor one who has passed and not enter for a chance to win this painting... you can make the donation and just note that in your paypal.

the link to donate is:

http://carolchretien.chipin.com/breast-cancer-awareness

Art That Helps....join me....

2010-10-16T04:35:00.004-05:00

Breast Cancer has a face...

too many beautiful faces, in fact.

It is not impersonal, abstract or unfamiliar...unfortunately.

We all know those who have fought this battle and we can all put a face on the subject.

Kathy...the angel-face in my studio, my dear friend.

***

I use my art to help animals but this one is for the fight against

Breast Cancer.

If you would like to give a donation and win an original oil painting

details are below:

Enter the Drawing for this Original Oil Painting

(click the images to enlarge)

Any and ALL donations will go to:
www.nationalbreastcancer.org

This organization provides mammograms and education see the details of how donations are used on their site.

****

CHIP IN!

drawing for the painting raffle winner is NOV 1st!

any questions just email me

carolchretien@aol.com

October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-15T11:59:00.005-05:00

PAWS FOR A CAUSE

10 x 10

oil

wet in wet

CAROL CHRETIEN

Inspired by the suggestion of a FACEBOOK friend Rebecca,

using her Dal's pose as inspiration, we have here a "Dalmatian in Pink"

***

Thanks Rebecca!

25 years of education and awareness

and

saving lives

visit http://www.nbcam.org

to learn more about

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

5.00 donation to win this painting

ALL PROCEEDS GOES TO THIS CHARITY
http://carolchretien.chipin.com/breast-cancer-awareness

On The Easel.....A Gift....work in progress

2010-10-07T11:51:00.003-05:00

He Is A Gift

One of the Christmas themed paintings that will be offered for

beagle rescue as soon as it is done. I am about halfway there with it.

The most fun for me as an artist is receiving a vision of what I would like to paint, find the story in the painting and then go for it.

The VERY best part of art for me personally is to make someone happy, to touch their heart or experience but even more.... is to paint for a purpose.

I have had the pleasure of doing both. My joy is found in the win-win situation of connecting someone who appreciates my efforts on canvas to the benefit of a needy animal or the rescuers who are saving them.

My inspiration for the painting above was Sam-wise and you can read about his rescue and story here. GREAT READ and info!

I learned a LOT about this situation and the wonderful "mom" who rescued him!

http://withoutavoice.net/Sam.html

To honor Sam-wise I have painted the beagle subject with Sam's coloring and the rest is all imagination.

If you would like to place a hold to purchase this painting or want to book a painting or give the gift of art for next year... as a gift for Christmas please

email: carolchretien@aol.com

***
And while I have you here...please don't forget about

A LATTE ~ A LIFE

and the chance to win an original oil painting that supports

DALMATIAN RESCUE TAMPA BAY

by going to their link and for the cost of a LATTE (5.00) throw your name into the drawing

for my painting and the

RESCUE GETS EVERY CENT!

***

details found here:

http://www.dalrescuetampabay.org

Store Up Your Treasures

2010-10-01T13:48:00.004-05:00

12x12

oil on canvas

CAROL CHRETIEN

***

Available

150.00

free domestic priority shipping

***

If you know my love of still life and particularly this subject you can understand

that this is always a joy for me to paint.

This one was for the good of my artist soul.

Not a topic for everyone I realize but if it is, and you would like to purchase it, I will donate 20% to the charity of your choice.

It would also make a lovely gift for the person on your list who has a fondess for glass marbles.

***

When I was little my brother and I had ongoing games every Saturday morning trying to win each other's most beautiful prized marbles.

Happy memories are treasures you really should store up.

***

We are our memories.

email to purchase and name your charity:

carolchretien@aol.com

Merry Christmas! oh, you heard right...

2010-09-30T08:41:00.006-05:00

A Christmas Carol

Christmas is coming

the goose is getting fat,

Please put a penny in the old man's hat.

If you haven't got a penny,

a ha'penny will do,

If you haven't got a ha'penny...

then God Bless You!

~~~~

GIVE

THE ONE GIFT THAT WILL NOT GET MISSED

AMONG THE OTHER PRESENTS!

You can COMMISSION an original OIL painting to give this Holiday

if you book with me by

NOVEMBER 1st.

The closing date for a painting that you will receive in time for gifting is

firmly set at NOV 1st.

***

AND...

EVERY Painting will give a SECOND GIFT,

a donation to your or the giftee's favorite charity.

win-win-win

For homeless animals and your favorite giftee!

***

The images above are also showing what you can give

(if you would rather send)

GIFT ANNOUNCEMENT Gift Box!

& let your giftee decide what they would like painted

for themselves.

Closing date for me to mail out the Announcement Gift box

as seen in the example above:

DECEMBER 7th!

***

email me today (or VERY SOON!)

for a consultation

and details!

carolchretien@aol.com

Time is precious and the magic of the best gift under the tree awaits!

Lost in the Labyrynth...so it would seem.

2010-09-28T06:13:00.002-05:00

"Like a Spiral in a Spiral..."

(sold oil painting)

~~~

Just an illustration of where the rest of this month has driven me.

Funny I should say "driven" as I have one dead car sitting in my driveway just as I was in the final stages of replacing it with another one.

(Annoyed.)

But...I keep asking myself as I resolve this little matter ...What is the Universe telling me. Last week I was under the weather and rested. Then I wasn't going ANYWHERE literally!

I am not a person who believes in randomness. I do believe there is meaning to be had from life's experiences. So is it telling me to go slower? To stop and look around at what I am doing?

To be more deliberate? WHAT?

I am in the middle of 10 things and the last two weeks keeps sending me to the bench.

So I have to step back yet again and try to sort this.

I will do it. It will be all resolved.

I am asking for the powers that be to lend a hand, toss me a rope, give me a boost up...Patience?

maybe that is the lesson.

I will ponder that as I go through the day.

Wishing everyone smooth sailing today!

(Hopeful.)

Moon Madness! What does that get you?

2010-09-22T07:11:00.003-05:00

Dalmatian Moon

(SOLD)

Because this is an ART BLOG as well as a chatty patty blog I share this painting that sold last year to help DRTB to illustrate how this week has made me feel!

Yesterday it was a day of taking a step forward and hopping about 6 steps back.

ARGH! Frustration!

I really hate days like that but I ask myself what can I make out of it?...I ask this once I get a little distance, a little perspective, a glass of wine maybe.

So this morning after a good night's sleep I am able to say that the

Waxing Moon, that will soon be full and bright, just slowed me down to a reflective state instead of a high energy, buzzing around and bull in a china shop momentum.

Well what did that get me? a chance to decide to catch up with some life and home things before they get away from me.

It made me rebalance.

I could stop being frantic and realize that I have work that is getting finished and ready to go.

I have work in progress that I personally like and I have a plan to begin the 30x48 dalmatian seascape that is a commissioned piece.

So in other words... in a note to me from the Universe...

CAROL, SLOW DOWN AND BREATHE!

Take a break, take a pause, take a look around. Look at the bigger picture.

Oh,.... OK. I can do that.

I tend to jump up and run in 10 directions at once and wonder why I hit the wall every so often.

So I will heed the wisdom of the Universe...

I will howl at the moon and pay attention and find a pattern of order.

It's there I just have to SPOT it.

this is the way to enjoy the process that gets lost in the flurry of confusion of activity.

The Universe is Wise when you step to the side and stop and listen.

~~~

Have a great day...go at your own pace and remember to breathe!

If you have a minute please check out the fundraising event at

http://www.dalrescuetampabay.org

and

See where the cost of a LATTE can help save a LIFE!

PEACE & CHEERS!

Carol

Labor of Love...

2010-09-15T16:39:00.003-05:00

The Call Home

12x12

oil on canvas

CAROL CHRETIEN

***

This is the updated version of the work in progress.

This painting is based on the idea that each animal is accompanied over the Rainbow Bridge on their way Home with a guardian that helps make the transition easier for them.

I love painting my vision of Angels with Animals...it gives me great joy while I paint this topic. I know we are surrounded by the grace of angelic presence throughout our lives and their assistance is always available to us when we need it most.

~~~

This painting is available

150.00

with 25% of the sale going to

Friends of the Bristol Animal Shelter

http://www.friendsofthebristolanimalshelter.org/
***

Please visit their site to see what pets are ready for adoption.

If you would like to purchase this painting and help the rescue just

email me.

carolchretien@aol.com

Art Helping Animals

The Call Home - a work in progress

2010-09-11T14:06:00.004-05:00

The Call Home

new work on the easel

CAROL CHRETIEN

***

The latest work in my continuing theme of Angels and Animals.

This painting is at its start and will help support the work of

FRIENDS OF BRISTOL ANIMALS

with 25% of the sale going to the rescue.

If you would like to reserve this painting before it is listed for sale at the finish

just email me.

150.00

carolchretien@aol.com

25 % to rescue!

free domestic shipping

~~~

The style of the painting will be soft and luminous with a serenity that is part and parcel of

the Rainbow Bridge

where all our pets wait patiently for us.

~~~

On this day of 9/11

wishing all a day of reflection for us and prayers for our fallen

and support of our heroic citizens and soldiers who fight insidious evils for the good of our country.
God Bless America

A Latte ~ A Life... ANNOUNCEMENT!

2010-09-10T05:45:00.003-05:00

"WAIT, LOVE, PRAY...FOR A HOME"

original oil

CAROL CHRETIEN

ART TELLING A STORY... ARTWORK SAVING A LIFE

ART HELPING ANIMALS

In the truest sense...

Most every artist (in their chosen sense of self expression )has their own reasons for sharing what they create with those who will make a judgement of the value of their work.

I have spent the better part of the last 10 years using my skills with oils to help rescues save animals. I have done this work with love and dedication.

Mostly I have been in awe of the great hearts and souls of the frontline rescuers and have gotten to know some very hard working and hard loving people who I can now call friends because of this work.

It takes a lot of hands and invested humanity to pull a discarded pet from a kill shelter, provide a safe haven, medical treatment, transportation, forstering in a real home and them finding the right family to match the pet.

It also takes CASH, lots of DOLLARS, plenty of MONEY and most of the time the one saved pet is replaced in that same Kill-Shelter by 10 more just like him...yet we must keep trying to win.
~~~

DALMATIAN RESCUE OF TAMPA BAY
is hosting its yearly

DALLOWEEN event on OCTOBER 23rd

details will be found very soon on their site
http://www.dalrescuetampabay.org/
this painting is part of the fundraising effort.

FOR THE COST OF A COFFEE

you can support the rescue and WIN this original Oil Painting
inspired by Dusty, a Dal-mix, painted by yours truly with
100% of the proceeds helping this wonderful rescue.

***

My work is all about how fine art can help impact a life in a real way.

I am very fortunate that I can create a piece of artwork that lets me be able to donate real money to save homeless animals so that rescuers can continue their work.

My contention is that each life should get a chance to thrive.
We can help one at a time but when we all pull together we can multiply the odds of doing so much more!
~~~

This painting is stunning in person...the eyes will draw you right in.
It will compliment your dalmatian or canine art collection
It is 12x12 on canvas that does not require a frame.

YOUR ENTRY of $5.00
can be gifted to

DRTB via Paypal
or by Check to their address
details on their site soon.
~~~
Thanks for helping rescue with fine art!
http://www.carolchretien.com/

I am a proud founding member artist of
ART HELPING ANIMALS
http://www.arthelpinganimals.com/

Updates!

2010-09-08T11:24:00.004-05:00

SOLD!

Donation has been made to:

Cascade Beagle Rescue (east)

please visit their site to see who is ready for adoption!

http://www.cascaderescue.org/east.html

*****

The painting in progress below is shown updated but only hints at luminosity in this digital image! More to do, spots to paint.

THIS PAINTING HAS BEEN RESERVED!

donation will go to

DALMATIAN RESCUE TAMPA BAY

they have inspired this painting.

Please visit their site to see which dogs are ready to go to their forever home!

http://www.dalrescuetampabay.org

*****

Please scroll down to see other still available work on the easel...

OH SO MUCH MORE TO COME

so much more work to do to help rescue with fine art!

Please...

STAY TUNED!

What's On The Easel? Variety!

2010-09-04T07:45:00.005-05:00

Sharing some work in progress is always fun for me...these are in varying stages of completion and all currently on the easel. Thanks so much for looking!

Under the Autumn Moon

is a doggy noire for Fall...the story of two friends wandering under a rising moon at the farm.

In a state of near completion this will soon be offered to assist

Cascades Beagle Rescue.

***

Early in the Morning

This oil is in a very early stage and my plan for it is to convey the promise of sunrise with my favorite breed (Spots have yet to be placed) catching the early rays. Enjoying the different colors

for this seascape from my usual blues and greens. Like Dalmatians waiting for adoption there is something about the colors of morning that convey hope.

Dalmatian Rescue of Tampa Bay inspired this one.

****

A Gift for the Season

Ah yes...Oscar my little Muse (Pam A's Boy) has the most expressive eyes...I love the light in his and his winsome expression...can he be resisted?

The colors of the season will surround him.

He will be helping Coast To Coast Dachshund Rescue.
***

Store Up Your Treasures

A new oil still life in one of my favorite subjects that I just enjoy painting.

It is for my pleasure of working through the puzzle of patterns, reflection, transparency, light and shadow.

This is play time for me.

***

Thinking about a special gift? Considering a Commission?

email me!

All of the above will be available soon.

If you have a desire to purchase and want to reserve in advance

and wish to know more about them

Please just email me.

carolchretien@aol.com

All my work will benefit a charity.

***

Stay Tuned!

Your Point of View....My Point of View...

2010-09-01T13:48:00.003-05:00

The glass HAS to be half full....it allows you to keep going forward!

Today I had the wonderful experience of hand delivering a painting I had completed t0 the couple who commissioned the work. It is a little bit nerve wracking when you hand the painting over, they unwrap it and you hope they will love it.

Most of my work is done over the internet, I paint and ship and get feedback by email. It is something when you actually meet the client and see their reaction. People react emotionally to see their pet as Art.

A funny thing happened with this particular painting. I worked from snapshots. I used 2 of the better ones to try to capture the dog and meld my vision with what they described to me about this dog that had crossed the Bridge a few years ago.
When they saw the painting I explained that I did my best to recreate their dog on the canvas, the snapshots were a little distant so I did my best with them.

They say they see their dog looking back at them and couldn't be happier.

Then they showed me a picture of the dog that not only WOULD have been an excellent reference but my painting actually matched exactly! The client explained that she was afraid to send me the image incase it was damaged or destroyed and it was their favorite image of the deceased pet!
What a surprise for both of us...LOL!

I always explain to clients that it really does help me when they can tell me about their pet's particular characteristics it makes a huge difference in the quality of my painting if I can connect with the subject at a deeper level. There is nothing generic about painting portraits, be it people or animals. You have to find that spark or twinkle that makes them...them.

The other most wonderful aspect of this whole thing...I got to make a donation today to help homeless animals. The best blessing of my work selling!

Art helping animals....it really works. And is a Win-Win-Win!

thanks for following!

New Work In Progress - Dacshund Art

2010-08-29T14:04:00.003-05:00

This new oil will be offered to assist dachshund rescue. It is my first holiday themed piece of the season. Pam's Oscar is my model and her images of him are used with permission to help inspire me with ideas to assist raising funds for rescue groups.

In this piece I am concentrating on the eyes and the reflected light.

Thanks for looking and comeback and see the finish soon!

*****

Painting to help homeless animals with all the passion I can paint with.

Inqueries welcome anytime and commissions accepted.

carolchretien@aol.com

Portrait in Oils

2010-08-21T07:09:00.006-05:00

MONIQUE & PATRICK

14x18

oil portrait on canvas

***

In a recent commission I was asked about doing a portrait of a Bichon named Monique who had passed on a few years ago. They now have Patrick in their lives.

After some discussion they decided to have them together in a painting as one keepsake piece of fine art.

The oil portrait above is the result of the commission.

Monique was a sweetie with a loving personality and is greatly missed. They always adorned her with ribbons or flowers and she was the light of their lives.

Patrick is a lively youngster with a large personality and penchant for letting you know he is the Prince of their castle.

My goal in this piece was to try to distinguish the difference between the two and this was achieved by placing Monique behind Patrick, using her sweet expression and open look in her face while giving Patrick the spotlight, the side glance of mischief that might be brewing and a jaunty tie.

***

There is a challenge in painting solid colored pets. It is a matter of looking for colors and definition to their coats and to making the most of their eyes to convey life. It is one of the best parts of painting animals for me.

***

If you are thinking about gifting art this holiday season or wish to consult me about a commission for yourself of your own pet...

please contact me at

carolchretien@aol.com

All my commissions also provide donations to rescue.

Thanks for supporting the work of non-profit rescues with a purchase of fine art that helps animals.

A Gracious Welcome Home

2010-08-19T12:35:00.006-05:00

SOLD

A Gracious Welcome

10x10

Carol Chretien

oil on gallery wrapped canvas

***

You know from previous paintings and previous posts that this expresses my vision of the welcome home once they have crossed the Bridge.

I believe in the Divine Benevolence that animals must be received with when they cross the Rainbow Bridge.

***

It was difficult to get the accurate colors in the images...They are a bit more vibrant with much depth and texture. I added extra images to try to show the detail.

If this painting resonates with you and you want to add it to your collection then please contact me at

carolchretien@aol.com to purchase.

SORRY THIS PAINTING IS SOLD!

donation to

Dalmatian Rescue of Tampa Bay.

http://www.dalrescuetampabay.org/

to see the Dalmatians available and the great work being done there.

***

Thanks for supporting the work of rescue.

The way it all works...

2010-08-16T13:15:00.007-05:00

....Inspiration....your names are Annie and Oscar!

Annie (above) photo by Pam

Oscar (photo by Pam)

Yesterday afternoon after painting all day (on a commission and a piece for rescue) I sat and thought ....What will I work on next?

I stared at a blank canvas, I went through some of my old photos for inspiration and that just brought me to a trip down memory lane.

I spent over an hour totally lost in time. I looked back 20 or 30 yrs at people I love who have passed, at people who have aged...even my husband...I looked at images of our former pets and our current two, Lizzie and Emmi who are 12 and 17 respectively. Lizzie turns officially 12 in less than 2 weeks! Where does all the time go?

When I put the cover back on the box and realized I was back in 2010 it was such a sad feeling. I smothered our Lizzie with hugs and kisses (because she really loves this) and went off to make tea and cookies...we shared a cookie "party" and I felt resigned and better. I even added it to my facebook status. If that doesn't smack you with "2010" what will? LOL!

But then came today and the Muse was just waiting...I was working online and I stopped by Facebook and see my friend Pam's photos of her fabulous dachshund Oscar and one of Annie the beagle and I am instantly INSPIRED!

Pam always generously allows me to use her wonderful images to inspire paintings that help rescue and I am so anxious to work up the immediate visions I see when looking at these two faces.

They will be my first Christmas paintings for rescue this year.

A shout out to Pam for being such a great rescue worker.

She has helped get many beagles and others into good homes matching up families with the right pet. Pam has inspired some of my favorite paintings with the loan of her terrific photography.

Thanks Again ...PAM!

***
Come back in a little while and see where this inspiration takes us!

Inspired by Dusty ...Wait, Love, Pray...For a Home!

2010-08-14T12:43:00.005-05:00

" WAIT, LOVE, PRAY...FOR A HOME"
12x12
oil on canvas
CAROL CHRETIEN
***
Painting for
DALMATIAN RESCUE OF TAMPA BAY
where you can adopt the inspiration for this painting!
20% of the sale goes directly to the rescue.
125.00

Dusty is in foster care and is available !!!!
http://www.dalrescuetampabay.org
for information.

***
and if you want to purchase the painting email me:
carolchretien@aol.com
a lovely way to add fine art to your collection of dalmatian art while helping rescue!

Rainbow Bridge Art...WIP

2010-08-10T10:51:00.005-05:00

New

WORK IN PROGRESS

This close crop view of the newest painting on the easel is my vision of HOW our beloveds are greeted when they cross the Bridge.

This new piece will benefit Dalmatian Rescue when sold, 20% of the sale will go directly to the charity.

***

If you would like to reserve this painting before it is offered online in a

Gallery, please email me for details and how to purchase.

carolchretien@aol.com

I will mark the painting RESERVED

It will be posted as SOLD when the finished piece is shown online.

***

Thanks for following along and helping homeless animals with fine art.

And the Winner Is.....

2010-08-07T07:46:00.004-05:00

ABE

This year's winning custom portrait for charity was

painted to help raise funds for the

Lincoln D Lynch Memorial Scholarship Fund.

***

Abe spends his time with his family between MA and FLA

He is a lovable and well loved little Scottie and it was my pleasure to paint him for this worthy cause.

***

The scholarship serves students from the Middleboro MA school system where Mr. Lynch was an educator and the Superintendent of schools for many years.

This was the second annual Charity Golf Event for the scholarship fundraiser in his name. Allendale Country Club held the event in Dartmouth Ma.

Back to Basics

2010-08-06T14:30:00.004-05:00

In the beginning I painted Dalmatians to help Dals in need and today I am beginning the return to help Dalmatian Rescue of Tampa Bay.

This new painting just started today is a work in progress (WIP) inspired by one of their Dal Mixes named Dusty.

Sharing a couple of images in close crop format.

I start with basic lines to place the composition, I go right to the eyes to begin the connection to the painting for myself.

It seems more than a two dimensional exercise when the subjects eyes are watching you paint.

More to come and thanks for looking.

Please support your favorite rescues with a donation if you can. Many animals are being needlessly destroyed in this economy.

Wild Woman ...Completed

2010-08-04T09:46:00.004-05:00

WILD WOMAN

10x10

oil on gallery wrapped canvas

CAROL CHRETIEN

***

The sides of this canvas are painted for a contemporary feel

and can be displayed without frame.

***

Painted in my own realistic style with a touch of impressionism for flow.

I enjoyed painting the light in this piece and when sold it will give 20% of the sale to

the non-profit rescue of your choice.

A wonderful gift of art for the gardener in your life while gifting to an animal in need!

Please pass this link on to anyone who may enjoy floral art.

email to purchase.

This painting will be featured in support of

ART HELPING ANIMALS

8/12/10

Daily Painters Gallery

I'm BAAAAACK!!!!! Oh happy day!

2010-08-01T14:23:00.004-05:00

Well I am so very happy to make it official and say I am back to work again!

It has been an awesome weekend of painting for me. What a great start. I always wonder when I have been away from it for awhile how hard will it be to pick up again from where I left things. I used to be afraid I would forget "how" to paint. Each time I have come back better for taking the break. It always surprises me and humbles me when it works out.

First of all, the weather was perfect to have all the windows open, no fans or a/c needed and just great light all the way around.

Below is the second pass of this new painting:

"WILD WOMAN" is the title of this piece.

Very fluid piece of painting. All about the light as usual. It is so much fun painting the effects of light that create drama and hopefully draw you in.

100.00

WILD WOMAN

10x10

oil on canvas

email to reserve this painting.

carolchretien@aol.com

20% of the sale will help a rescue

I have several other things on the easel that are commissions and a very rough start to a Rainbow Bridge inspired painting. Will be posting updates soon.

SO GOOD TO BE BACK!

Thanks for looking.

And so it goes....

2010-07-17T12:06:00.003-05:00

As the minutes tick by with me watching my hiatus from the studio fade off into the sunset,

the latest reference images for new work are arriving, as we speak, into my mail box.
***
Like the painting above...I feel wistful.
I have enjoyed the time I carved out to get our home refreshed and in order and that lead me to exploring many other areas that also needed to be simplified and downsized:
Menu planning, reviewing budgets and savings goals, just having time to know what the heck is in the pantry and freezers...
I have found the timesaving of "tweets" and Facebook status updates very helpful with online time management.
I'm finally doing responsible things like reviewing insurance policies and making wills and wrapping up "grown-up" issues that are overdue on our end.
This was definately the year to redefine my whole environment and personal growth goals and find time to reorganize the details of living that will make this last third of my (our) life a bit more manageable.
You find yourself just at that age when it is time to "take stock" and really do the work on what needs to be done.
So now, when I am back in the studio I am not letting all the other things I need to keep up with get lost in translation.

There had to be a better way to reign it all in, sort it out and have some sense of flow. I think I have achieved this ...not perfectly, but I can at least see it all.
***
I will be painting on a regular basis soon. I am sure at first it will feel funny being back on "the job" with purpose and structure.
Many new subjects waiting to be explored with oil paint. I am excited to get back to making art with passion. All the pieces of my life are moving into place for the next game to begin.
August is on the way.
***
I look lovingly to Fall...my very favorite time of the year.
see you soon!

Past Glories...Future Dreams

2010-07-10T12:22:00.003-05:00

(this painting from last summer sold to help rescue)

***

I am still on self-imposed hiatus...incase you may have wondered. :-)

Seems like forever but I have been using my time, behind the scenes in my life, to get things in some kind of order as this decade of my life comes to a close. Ah yes....the 50's will soon be a faint memory.

...but don't fret...I will be kicking off the next one with style. LOL!

***

It has been long overdue. I had a lot of "stuff" to cull from my home and head.

I have wanted to spend more time with family and with my Lizzie who will be 12 yrs old next month.

She was the model for the painting above...by the way!

***

I have the studio all ready to be used ...Emmi, the little thug cat who rules the house has been keeping watch over the room and spending lots of quality cat-time energetically sleeping soundly in the rocker in there.

She is coming up on age 17 yrs in the fall. Cranky to Lizzie at times but adorable in my eyes.

***

Past Glories are the 300+ paintings that have sold to help homeless animals in need that I have created over the past few years...

Future Dreams are swirling about somewhere in the back recesses of my creative brain.

My Muse has been traveling abroad all these months and I am counting on her to bring back some new and fabulous ideas that will help me go forward in this decidedly punk economy when it comes time to donate my percentages to so many, many animals in need.

***

Currently I have promised 2 charities a 100% donation for fundraisers for the winners of a custom portrait and I will be fulfilling those promises as soon as said winners give me the images to work from.

In my heart I am hoping that it will give me the juice I need to get back to work with the passion that this kind of work takes to do well.

***

Hope you are having a wonderful summer so far and hope to be in touch with you soon.

ALL MY VERY BEST

Carol

oops! so sorry ....

2010-06-13T11:06:00.002-05:00

The updated version of

Our Lady Of the Roses

a work in progress...

(out of practice posting new work!)

Our Lady of the Roses ...wip

2010-06-13T10:53:00.002-05:00

Phase 2 ... still working it out....

Stay tuned.

It's Only A Beginning

2010-06-07T10:29:00.003-05:00

"Our Lady of the Roses"

****

You need to start somewhere, and for me, it is always difficult to return to painting when I have been away.

The only thing a painter can do is put some paint on the canvas and get to it.

This piece is in the works and we'll see where it leads...it is a start.

10x10 oil on canvas

As always thanks for looking.

feel free to comment or email me anytime.

Inspiration....YO Adrianne!

2010-06-02T09:13:00.009-05:00

You just KNOW you are going to have a great time with this crew!

This pic was taken just before we took off on a walking tour around the city.

The little whipper snapper in pink on the far left (Mom) kept up with everyone ...80 is just a number she says!

***

Most of us know the message of the " Rocky " movies... to keep going, to keep trying your best to be better no matter what roadblocks life can put in your path. My Hiatus from painting is coming to an end and I found some things to feed my Muse while I was away.

I just returned from a fun family vacation to PA, particularly the Philadelphia area.

Thought it would be fun to show a few pics of what inspired me.

I had my trusty iPhone cam to snap a few shots and here are some of them. :)

***

The steps of the Art Museum was on our bucket list. Inspiration comes in the form of my Mom (the figure in pink) who just celebrated her 80th birthday climbing the steps with her grand daughters! (I stayed at the bottom to take pics ;o) )

People I know re-creating the famous training scene from the movie "Rocky"
***

Here is Mom again in the Independence Visitor's Center with her French Lieutenant...it was her idea to take this one. :)

The center is full of greeters in period costumes who stay in character.

***

Just one of the MANY fabulous pieces of art in Philly. This one is near the art museum and it was incredible.

***

I just like to call this one "The Three Graces"... my glass flowers (!)...my beautiful nieces. They are my heart!
Just before we got on the most fun ever duck boat tour.
Ask for Capt. Stormin' Norman if you get to go! I'm STILL laughing.

***

One gorgeous shot inside Indepenence Hall. As I say...I am inspired!

***

This gem is where the founding Fathers did their work ...everyone should visit the city where so much began!
The chair on the dais to the left is the one George Washington used while they worked on our rights.

***

Some shots of the very beautiful city of Philly. Wonderful architecture. My Mom (in pink) and cousin are the little figures to the left of the statue...look at the size scale!

***

More of the beautiful architecture showing juxtaposition of Old & New design.

City Hall on the left.

Another view of the City Hall. It has statues carved into all the alcoves and ledges around the entire building. So beautiful.

I hope I get a chance to see this city again

We had a wonderful time in Philadelphia.

Big thanks to my brother who sent us off on this trip he surprised us and joined us on the last day :o) ...great blessing to be able to all be together and enjoy it with my Mom!

Lizzie Update :)

2010-05-20T10:31:00.002-05:00

This is Lizzie a few minutes ago making believe she does not see Emmi walking by ...LOL!

The vet trip was a good one. Not only did I get an appointment first thing in the morning with the Vet we like but she was only half as anxious as she usually is!

The exam was done, the urine spec was handed over and suggested a possible UTI.

She got a manicure (it takes a village to clip her nails!) and an antibiotic and is doing well.

No further bloody drainage noted from that first incidence ...when she finishes the med we resend a new urine spec two days after she is off the med.

Hoping everything keeps going in the right direction now. She seems back to normal and our best girl!

thanks for all the good thoughts and emails!

we so appreciate it... HUGS!

My Girl...sunshine on a cloudy day....

2010-05-16T08:20:00.003-05:00

Lizzie is "our" girl, "daddy's girl" and my very special Muse.

While I worry with today's latest finding that she needs to have a vet check tomorrow, and that we pray will be easy to correct a problem she is having.... We are so keenly aware of her age and the changes that come with it.

Up front we are thankful for a healthy, illness free life for her almost 12 yrs. More than many get. Still hard to accept when things change. And they always change. Thanks for all the well wishes and thoughts from our friends.

I thought I would share the "real deal" pic of Liz below and some of my inspired (you have seen them before but indulge me) by Lizzie works on canvas.

She is one of the greatest Blessings of our lives.

Photo from this winter.

I'll post how she makes out in the next few days.

keeping the faith

Along the way... and here and there....

2010-05-01T12:05:00.004-05:00

Above... Keyhole desk under the stained glass window of the front entry.

The front door is open here to let in the light for the pic. This is a light yellow "Whisper Yellow" that I really liked. Nice and soft. My portrait of Leo hangs in the entry.

The house was actually built around this window. It was a Christmas present from Leo the Christmas before we looked for land to build the house on.... '78 I think. He found it in an antique shop in Newport RI. Probably from an old church.

Coming up to the top of the stairs ...I found a nice chest for this little space and I was happy.
Pottery by Leo in college art class. :)

Lizzie demonstrating the Snooze before lunch. We are very casual in all things as you can see.

The little half wall behind her houses shelves with her toys :)

Liz in the kitchen. There are 2 paintings I kept of mine for the Kitchen. The other is on the tall wall ober the fridge.

When the TV bites the dust we will have lots of room for the flat screen spectacular. But ...no hurry. :) this is looking back from near the sofa bed.

Views of the living area on the second floor. Yes we did everything backwards...kitchen and bathroom on the second floor. It is where the view of the yard and river are. So again lots of light and space and yes...a kingsized platform bed (sofa?) in the living room. We gave up a normal couch and chair for a place where we can all hang together at night and watch TV or read or just relax and all fit together with lots of room.

We got rid of the table and chairs and built the island instead ...the pic is deceiving...it is 8 ft long and 4 wide. I do all my shipping and wrapping duties for paintings here. It has lots of storage under it with 2 cabinets on this side with drawers and 4 big cabinets on the other side.

And the last room I painted (pics at top) was the entry (foyer) all paint was BEHR premium plus. If you want great wall paint... I recommend it.

If Life goes as planned or near to it I should be back to the studio by middle of June. Some little things to wrap up and some family things at the end of this month to do ... Thanks for looking and see you soon. :)

Peace and Cheers!

Carol

It Is All About The Journey ...part 1

2010-04-28T14:43:00.002-05:00

I started this project in March but the long and winding road has had a few unplanned detours.
Here are pictures of the 1st two rooms and you will note that they loaded backwards...
Not in the order I thought these would load, the BEDROOM was the second room that I rehabbed. The STUDIO was the first ...it seems so long ago!

Below is 3 shots of the bathroom with the new color "Minted Lemon" I am very happy with the way it turned out. The very tall ceilings were a challenge ...the light is fabulous.

Nothing like having family photos in the bathroom. LOL! I used to have books there. There is so much space on that tall wall...there is a window up at the top so lots of glowing afternoon light. The color of the paint deepens and lightens as the light changes all day.

Lots of mirrors in this house. Have them on the closet doors and the one over the sink shows the shelves over the toilet.

It is nice that the toilet is in that alcove so the view from the living room is a bit more scenic! LOL!
****
(below)
The Bedroom was repainted a lighter color than previously painted...we now have "Hosta Flower" ...it has a soothing light. There used to be a ton of paintings in the space above the closet, they are now in my Niece's hands so just a few keepsakes up on top now.

Cleaning and polyurethaning those louvered doors was a real treat.

(above) Looking from the studio doorway, Lizzie looking back at me.

(above) Looking from the bedroom door back to the studio. Emmi is sleeping on the pillows.

Note the basket that she steps on, to the trunk and then up to the bed. She is 16!

The cat-tree allows her to sit up high and watch the birds. :)

more to follow in the next installment!

Off the Grid...Studio redo.

2010-03-30T15:39:00.003-05:00

This is the in-progress pic of the old color with the new color..."Grecian Urn" but I call it "blueberry" because that is what it looks like to me. I am leaving the aqua behind for clean and crisp. That rack is where I keep some supplies and drying paintings etc. Today I finished my declutter and it is super neat and peaceful. ahhhhhhhhhhhhh

These are not quite in order but you get the idea. You see my chair and table easel and my "media center" LOL a little HD TV and a dvd player and my iPod A bazillion movies a painting of my angel face niece Brittany and boxes with a variety of mediums all nicely labeled. That is my Emmi cat's perch where she lays in the sun while I paint. I had to keep that there. :)

Better look at my corner with the light behind me. I put up frosted panels when I need to.

Emmi herself. Monitoring my progress. She hates disorder and disarray in her world.

Another in-progress pic of my old colors vs new.

I am on to the next room ...purging more stuff and foolishness as Niecy Nash says!

:) so happy to start over fresh.

TIME OUT! ...Announcement

2010-03-21T08:24:00.002-05:00

I have been trying to decide how to possibly get some much needed work done here in my home and still try to keep all the balls in the air.

It has come down to taking one of my jobs out of the equasion.

***

I am going to close the studio for the month of April to give me a chance to do some work in in the house without the guilt and worry of not getting artwork done for my favorite rescues.

***

So when I return to painting in May I hope to be eagerly refreshed and ready to jump into my work with wild abandon and a freshly painted and organized studio, house and spring cleaned yard.

At least that is my plan.

***

STAY TUNED....I will be back soon.

THANKS TO ALL WHO FOLLOW MY WORK, HELP RESCUES WITH ART AND ARE JUST

ALL AROUND GOOD FRIENDS!

you are truly appreciated.

Point of View

2010-03-18T06:37:00.002-05:00

POINT OF VIEW

is the title of this painting that will be part of a mini-exhibit in Atlanta GA soon together with my fellow ART HELPING ANIMALS artists. Artist Andy Mathis is hanging this exhibit for us.

I was thinking about the Glass Half Full vs Half Empty way of looking at the world and thought that since it was a personal point of view it my be interesting to ponder...from a different perspective.

This was recently finished in oil on canvas.
more info will follow when all the paintings are together in Atlanta.

thanks for looking!

Feel the Burn...Out....?

2010-03-15T08:13:00.006-05:00

Ziegfeld Girl

circa 1920's

a look, an attitude...those eyes, those lips!

By now you are wondering...what the heck is she doing these for????
LOL! well simply put, I am pulling myself back from the edge of burnout.

These are my exercises of something to clear my mind, regroup, refresh, and just take a pause.

Little known fact but I never, ever, ever draw. I haven't since I was a tween. I went straight to Oils at 13 and never looked back. That was a million years ago.

On and off over the years I have taken long breaks from painting and most all other art work and as I have mentioned in other posts, have been distracted by Life and situations that took me down other paths.

Right now, after 4 intense years of total focus on small, collectible paintings or large commissions I have found a need to step off the path a bit and just stop and take a breath.

So for a little while I am moving at a slower speed, taking a pause and playing with some ideas and just relaxing my very tight grip on the brush.
I think in the end it will be a very good thing for me and the causes I serve.

I hope you stay tuned ...it will be as much a surprise for me as for you.

It is all about the HATS...

2010-03-12T07:53:00.004-05:00

As I continue to follow the Muse along with pencil drawing I am being lead (no pun intended! LOL) down this path to the beautiful Black and White photography and lighting of the vintage beauties of the early 1900's into the 40's.

I love everything about the 30's & 40's and swear my last life was during that time.

These renderings are based on images from that time with some redesign on my part when it came to the hats, particularly.

They were mad about hats in those days. I love them. It took some kind of self confidence to wear some of those styles!

In any case, these are fun drawings for me as I teach myself some textures and just ENJOY the process of working on these old beauties.

I have researched through some of the copyright free vintage image sites to pull some of my favorite classic beauties from the early 1900's and will use some of those public figures to do some more work in graphite.

I'm am interested to see where this is going...even I never know.

Stay tuned.

Back to the Drawing Board

2010-03-10T13:47:00.004-05:00

Vintage Beauty

pencil

CARO CHRETIEN

***

this is absolutely becoming fun for me.

I love the classical images and statues of angels and the look of vintage beauties.

today I was inspired by some vintage photography

and this drawing is based on a photo of a 1900's image.

I used elements from the original but put my own ideas into it as I drew.

Thanks for looking!

Today is for Charcoal....

2010-03-09T13:25:00.003-05:00

My exploration of different mediums continues.

My attempt at Charcoal today is a portrait of Trinity...a dog that is currently available for adoption through RIMROCK Humane Society in Montana.

Please consider adoption when looking for a wonderful pet.

***

50.00

To purchase the drawing,

50% or 25.00 goes to this rescue

email me to purchase

carolchretien@aol.com

TO READ ABOUT TRINITY OR THE RESCUE
http://www.rimrockhumanesociety.org/

Another day, another pencil...

2010-03-08T18:10:00.003-05:00

The exercises continue...today's work.

depicting glass with pencil.

Pencil work: Graphite (above) and Colored Pencil art (below)

Just for the Heck of It....rather sketchy

2010-03-05T07:26:00.006-05:00

As you can see ....not my typical work or choice of medium...this was an exercise of about 5 hrs of pencil drawing. Just wanted to see what it was like for a pencil artist to do their work. My hat is off to those who have the patience of saints to work in graphite. Not kidding!

Many painters do detailed sketch work before they start applying oil or other colored mediums to their supports ...I never do. You have seen the Work In Progress postings here, I may have an outline here and there but I leave all the creative happenings to the application of paint as I go. Lots of seeing as I paint.

Frankly I admire those who sketch out a whole plan...it is the map they use to get to their destination. I have always been in awe of that process but I think I have that urge to jump right in with color right off the bat that keeps me away from that path.

In any case, I did enjoy the exercise for the most part. Thought I would share it as I had nothing new to show in oils and it was interesting to me, thought it might be for you.

Today I am back to the oil paint. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. It is fun to take a field trip once in a while and the multi-media artists are so fortunate to be able to do their best work in many different ways...applause all around. :D

Me? I'm just an Oiler...dyed in the wool, paint clothes stained, squeeze those tubes out...oiler.
Back to the easel.

Stay tuned...something different coming up next. ;o)

COOL BLUE - First Look! UPDATE...

2010-02-28T12:01:00.005-05:00

RESERVED!

COOL BLUE

8x10

oil on canvas

This new piece is painted to assist DALMATIAN RESCUE TAMPA BAY...they are one active, engaged and dedicated bunch of rescuers you could ever hope to meet.

ANGELS AMONG US

***

I will be posting the finish and the story of my model "Lucas"

he waits for his forever home.

Have a pool? Need a great companion Dal?

contact the rescue!

http://dalmatianrescuetampa.tripod.com/

STAY TUNED!

Screeching Halt? or Life Gets In The Way...

2010-02-24T10:19:00.003-05:00

" Like A Spiral In A Spiral..."

(original sold)

You know that song...Like a Spiral in a Spiral, Like a Wheel within a Wheel... that is where I am today.

I have been digging through old computer files to find some of my favorite paintings before they are lost forever. Learning some more about print image sizes and my own camera (all time consuming things) that I didn't know.

Also...allow me to whine a little about the lousy cold wet weather (not as bad as if it were 40 ft of snow like mid-Atlantic states have gotten, I freely admit) but the rain did produce a rather large leak in my studio ceiling the last couple of days and that has pushed me back a bit in my production of work. Lucky for me that the paintings are out of harms way...my brushes and paint tubes all need to be rescued.

Always something. The weather is not looking good for a few more days...roof can't be fixed until the rain stops ...it is just being "managed" ...oiy!

Please stay tuned as I work around the maze.

Catching Butterflies

2010-02-20T07:07:00.004-05:00

This painting of Emmi sleeping in the studio was briefly offered for sale last Spring. It was a moment I caught of her at her most angelic time. I pulled the listing and decided I loved it too much to sell. I am glad I painted it and still have it in my collection. Emmi is 16 yrs old, she was 8 weeks old when we got her.
Hard to believe the time flies by so fast....but it does. She is still the feisty little thug we know and love (well maybe Love is too strong a word from Lizzie's view point! Ha!!!) but she is adorable in her own Emmi way.
I am so thankful she is still in our lives!

The original painting is not for sale but the print is now available on my website www.carolchretien.com if you are interested in seeing the prints I have included (so far) in that grouping...just take a moment to view.
As I go through some of my image files I will be adding more to the collection.
As with all my work a portion will be donated from sales as promised to help homeless animals.
thanks for visiting!

New Announcement... PRINTS!

2010-02-17T12:48:00.003-05:00

SLEEP OF THE INNOCENT

I just wanted to share that I have instituted the print function on my main

web site.

http://www.carolchretien.com

For the intial offering I have chosen to start with a print of this original oil from my own private collection.

This painting was exhibited in a show at the Cherry & Webb art gallery and remains

one of my favorite paintings.

It was photographed and included on the front page of the

Fall River Herald News, the city paper, for that exhibit. That was a nice surprise for me.

***

My art site host has started offering a chance for our clients to purchase prints separate from the originals we show there.

I have received emails asking me to offer more prints of my work and I plan on adding a good selection of past work and some of the new pieces too.

***

Please visit the site to see how it works.

The prices are reasonable and and there is a way to purchase either just the print or add a frame too.
If you have any requests...just email. It will take a little time to get some new things listed as I go through my images for the highest quality photos but they will be added soon.

Thanks so much for keeping the work I do in mind and know that a percentage of each sale will continue to help animals in need...no matter the subject matter I paint.

Stay Tuned!

Exercising My Art Muscles

2010-02-15T07:37:00.003-05:00

Sunday I was in the studio I worked on a couple of things that were close to being done. One was for our Atlanta mini show that AHA is going to do thanks to Andy Mathis our co-ordinator for that venture. One was the Penny Experiment...needed to finish that too.

So I did that. Then I sat.... and stared.... and sat looking and thinking.... had so many thoughts buzzing by, I wanted to paint something unrelated to animals or my usual...I have been having this image of an "African" inspired (ie: my version) head wrap and beautiful dark skin tones both of which I have never painted.

So the figure is a composite of many black women who are regal and beautiful and now I am going to find some great fabric to paint for the piece.

It is fun to do something unexpected...even for me. I was sitting there with that a blank canvas and was interested to see what was going to come out of the brush.

***

Today I will finish two Dal pieces and continue on my painting journey.

When the figure piece is further along I will post the update.

It has been a while since I painted a figure in this way but I am in love with the colors and can't wait to do the material. Should be fun.

***

Did I mention my Muse has been running around like a crazy muse waving her arms and shouting in my head with so many ideas that I can't do them all? I need to sit her down and have a chat. I LOVE the ideas but there are just so many hours in a day. And...some of them take some research and prep time. Yikes!

That was part of what happened yesterday. Even I was happily surprised when I started the painting above. Everyday something new.

***

Stay tuned!

Do the Clothes Make the Artist? :o)

2010-02-14T10:16:00.002-05:00

Just for Fun....

You KNOWyou have had a productive week when you are folding laundry and the largest pile is the "Paint clothes" [ ie: my basic wardrobe ] ..it was a good week!

The mainstays of my working wardrobe and fashion statement...Jeans and Tees.

A good artist friend, Tanya Amberson, sent me a Tshirt of one of my old

Dalmatian Christmas Designs for Christmas a few years ago...

once a paint splatter gets on the item it becomes an honorary member of my paint uniforms

club in my closet.

I wish everyone a day where you get to do what you

LOVE
***

Happy Valentines Day!

I HEART YOU

Updated work... Diversity of Friends ...dal pup

2010-02-12T12:12:00.003-05:00

The next phase of this RESERVED painting was part of yesterday's work ... painting in layers and taking my time.
This year my goal is to paint more deliberately and put my skills to the test. I am aiming for some more involved pieces.

I am researching a bit more on some themes I am interested in to paint in 2010. No need to hurry but I walk that line between wanting to paint for charity so to get the work out in smaller pieces and more timely....and wanting to paint for the soul and speak a little louder as an artist.

I am working it out....it is a happy challenge for myself. I like working it through...now to just do more prep work and express it in paint!

The work continues......

Updates and then some...

2010-02-11T11:41:00.004-05:00

Ok...these are done for all intents and will just need to get a tweak maybe if there is a need when I look at them tomorrow. For now it is "Back To The Beach" as I finish up the little friend making Dal Pup in the sand.

I really have a mardi gras themed piece nagging at my brain (it's the Muse but I am resisting) so that may be started later today...Or I will be finishing my 2 fish paintings.

So much to paint...so fast the time goes....

STAY TUNED! More to come! and as always....my heart felt gratitude that you are even looking.

Life Is A Party - completed!

2010-02-10T15:13:00.005-05:00

UPDATED!

SOLD

12x12

oil on canvas

CAROL CHRETIEN

***

A happy fun painting to brighten your life. Liver Dalmatian puppy who thinks life really is a party. Not True of all pets especially Dalmatians...in need of a forever loving home.

***

Sold to help Save the Dalmatians rescue.

email me: carolchretien@aol.com

thanks to Joan Murphy for letting her wonderful Dalmatians inspire the work!

This painting will be posted on the ART HELPING ANIMALS art blog

and Daily Painter's Gallery tomorrow.

Stripes for a Change!... a new direction?

2010-02-08T16:15:00.005-05:00

Last week it was SPOTS all over the place...

and I had also started a piece with a little different pattern. It changes it up a little and it is a lot of fun for me. So...stripes not spots today...while the other works in progress dry a little more before the next pass.

Painting still life is a meditative endeavor for me and maybe that is why I enjoy it so much. The oddity is that it is all a two dimensional practice no matter what subject... so it would seem strange that the subject lends itself to different experience for me as I paint.

I appreciate the magic of applying colored medium to flat white surface and getting lost in the patterns. I love being an artist!

Little Zebra

10x10

oil on canvas a work in progress

available soon.

any work can be reserved for sale by emailing me if you see something you like!

carolchretien@aol.com

as always

20% helps rescue.

And for Fun ... Work(s) In Progress

2010-02-06T06:57:00.006-05:00

******

UPDATE!

RESERVED

Liver pups inspired by Joan Murphy's images of her own Dals.

The top painting is based on a pic of her Hombre when he was a pup.

He has just the right pose and attitude for

"Life Is A Party"

I saw him surrounded by colorful balloons and his beautiful self making a fun design.

This oil is 12x12 and will be available in the next week when it should be finished. It is a fun process painting the balloons in thin glazes, this is at its second pass.

***

The seascape based on Brulee suggested a curious pup discovering a new "friend" in the tide line on the shore.

"Diversity of Friends" 10x10 oil It is in a drying stage waiting for the next session. The beauty of oil paint is that you can work on several at the same time which gives you a chance to make decisions of where you will go next, or in many cases, where it will take you on the next pass.

***

If you would like to reserve a painting to purchase when done...

email me: carolchretien@aol.com

If you REALLY want the painting for your own, please let me know because I always get emails after the painting has sold asking me if I can paint one like it. I don't. It doesn't work that way.

But I do appreciate the thought!

ALL my work when sold gives 20% to non-profit rescue helping homeless animals.

****

Stay Tuned!

thanks for looking!