Leaving the nest.

It was very hard for me to let some of my first paintings go to other homes.  Although most artists love seeing the red tag that marks a painting sold, it can also be like seeing your children grow up and leave the nest.  So much energy goes into a painting that there is a feeling of emptiness when they are sold or gifted to someone else.

Today I'm traveling down through memory lane recalling some of the paintings that are now in new homes.  Some have recently left and others have been gone for a while.  What helps ease the pain of separation is knowing these paintings are hopefully bringing others happiness.

Here are just some of my "children" that have left the nest.

Going to the Dogs

Trooper

oil on panel 16x12

I have only painted a horse before and that was from a distance.  This painting is of Trooper, my brother Bob's dog.  Trooper passed away after having gotten a disease from a raccoon that ventured too close.  I wanted to give my brother and family a meaningful Christmas gift and thought a painting of Trooper appropriate.  Now after looking at this painting for a few days, I have decided to continue developing it.  I pray I don't ruin it but realize if I've painted it once, I can paint it again.

Ruggie

oil on masonite 8x10

I also wanted to give my sister, Dottie, and her husband a painting of their two dogs.  This is Ruggie. I thought I was done with this but again after looking at it for awhile, went back in and added a little blue to the background color.

Daisy

oil on masonite 10x8

Let me introduce Daisy.  Did I mention that my sister had two dogs?  Daisy is an American Staffordshire better known as a pit bull.  Although I've not met Daisy in person, is there anyone who cannot fall in love with that sweet face?  All three of these dog paintings were done in oil.