100 Artists of the Mid-Atlantic

Early last year I was contacted by author E. Ashley Rooney to contribute work for a book she was planning about Eastern seaboard artists. Thank goodness this was not another "pay-to-play" publishing offer (many of us receive them almost daily), but a real book by a real author; Ms. Rooney has written and edited a number of acclaimed books on art and other subjects.

It arrived recently, and I am blown away by the quality of the work, reproduced with stunning accuracy. Nearly all mediums are represented, and Rooney has selected an astounding group of artists to illustrate the creative talent of the Mid-Atlantic states. Truly a volume to be proud of, for the artists, author, and publisher. (I circled my pic on the cover!) 224 pages on very high quality paper, hardbound, complete artist information and bibliography, foreword by Charles Yoder. Available from Schiffer Publishing Ltd, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other booksellers.

Manoir de Maison Blanche ~ Paris

Last week I conducted a 5-day class at one of the world's premier workshop destinations, Manoir de Maison Blanche, in the Dordogne region of France. Created and run by Alain and Véronique Duvivier, the Manoir is a magical place combining unparalleled atmosphere amongst 16th C. architecture, fabulous cuisine, and instruction from the top artists in watercolor such as Janine Gallizia, Alvaro Castagnet, and Joseph Zbukvic. A wonderful group of painters came from France, Belgium, and Spain, convening in the ancient barn converted to a modern studio. Translation was provided by the lovely and charming Berice whose talent for several languages was indispensable. I had the opportunity to finally meet some internet pals, and reunite with Janine (champagne time, see pic!) The week also included a side trip to a renowned foie gras farm where I made friends with a llama. Superb apertif hours, extended dinners, games, singing, and general frivolity provided a lot of memories that I'll hold dear. Oh...we did lots of painting, too!

I'm thrilled to return to Maison Blanche next year for another week, June 18-22. This workshop will sell out quickly, so contact the Manoir early for reservations.

After the workshop, I relaxed a few days in Paris to soak up even more inspiration. C'est magnifique!