A wonderful day at Weir Farm in Wilton CT with the Connecticut Plein Air Painters Society. It was early autumn when just a few trees have started to turn. There were about 8 or 9 of us painting throughout the day. We were spread out on the 280 acre property. I would making my rounds to see how all the painters were doing. I enjoyed meeting several new artists.

 I was able to complete a quick block in for this painting and finished it up in my studio. I love this spot behind the main house where the Ranger's office is. There's a stone potting shed, sunken garden and a few smaller buildings in the back. I set up my easel in the shade of a large oak tree and right next to a stone wall. 
Painting at Weir Farm is so inspiring especially when one learns about the history of famous American painters who painted right there on the farm. Julian Alden Weir was the owner of the property and he would invite his friends to join him for an artist's retreat. I absolute love this idea because it's a secret dream I hope that one day Dean and I could own a small farm and hold Plein air painting artist retreats. 
Here's the link to read more about Weir Farm and the History. - 

what also makes visiting Weir Farm special this year is that the Farm has been selected as a National Park for the Arts and a US coin has been minted with a picture of Weir farm on the back! Thanks to the Friends of Weir Farms for selecting one of paintings to be on the cover of their mailers!

We will definitely be back to paint at Weir farm especially in the Winter and Spring seasons, I  can only imagine how beautiful and so different the place will look.

I'll be putting together a short video of our paint outs at Weir farm for CPAPS website. I'm just gathering the image and I have a few short interviews to include - I'll post it on our social media page for public viewing.

Thanks for being apart of my art journey - I hope it's inspired you to get creative and try something new!

Warmest regards,
Linda


P. S. Don't forget... Open Studio Visits are going on for the month of November and December 2020 - register for a visit - come and see the new artwork I've been creating all year and purchase a painting for yourself or as a gift. Art makes the best gift!

Our second painting out with the Connecticut Plein air painters society was at the New Britain Museum of American Art in New Britain, CT.

We met up on Saturday September 26- it started off rainy and drizzly on my way up to the museum but by the time we unpacked our gear and found a place to paint the sun came out and it was just a perfect day to paint - together.  

I've just stepped into the role of President for CPAPS and there's a lot to learn and organize. I'm hoping we'll have a board soon so that jobs can be delegated and the work load is a little lighter. But I enjoy gather with my fellow artists, finding new places in Connecticut to paint and seeking new ways to showcase our artwork.

This is our 25th year but we plan to celebrate next year because of all the restriction due to Covid.  I'm looking forward to meeting new painters and checking out all the beautiful spots in our small but picturesque state!

It was great to be back at the New Britain Museum of American Art. 12 years ago I in the educational department with a great group of ladies. Maura, Morgan, Linda M and Heather. We had such fun and worked hard to promote the education programs and events at the Museum.

​ If you live in Connecticut and have never visited NBMAA I would recommend that you do -It's a hidden gem of our wonderful state and offers an amazing collection of American Masterpieces. A few of my favorite collections are the Illustration Collection, The Ash Can Artists Collection and of course, the American Impressionists collection. 

​Forgetting  to turn the clocks back an hour for Day light savings time, we were up even earlier than usual this morning. Dean had the early morning shift at work. We finished off one pot of coffee and contemplated brewing a second pot.

On our 10 minute commute, I had my eyes on the skyline while Dean had his eyes on the road. With the purplish - grey-blue clouds resting higher in the sky a colorful band of golden yellows, warm oranges and pinks peaked through on the horizon.

I knew the perfect place to catch this beautiful fleeting scene. I headed down Harbor Street to Branford Point. There’s a slight bend in the road with a dip that opens up to the Branford River. Open marsh area on one side and on the other is the Branford River. The view faces directly to the east which offers magnificent reflections in the water and silhouettes of the trees near the condominiums.  

What also caught my eye in this scene was the colorful refection on the side of the boat. The condos posed a challenge as to how much detailed should I add in. Should I paint every window and balcony? I tried to keep the brush strokes loose and not clearly defined and added in two small lights glowing from the windows to break up the building pattern.

I’m pleased with the way this painting came out, I just wish I could figure out how to photography it better. Each time I shoot a picture the darks are either too dark or they get washed out with reflective light.  Conclusion: it’s best to see this piece in person :)

thanks for being apart of my art journey!


Don't Forget:  Shoreline Arts Trail Open Studios - November - December 2020

Schedule a studio visit through our Shoreline Arts Trail website - www.shorelineartstrail.com

One hour appointments are available on Friday, Saturday or Sunday -  Hope you can visit!

10 x 20" acrylic on canvas
framed in a gold tone frame - other framing options are available

What a picture perfect autumn day at New Pond Farms in Redding, CT. It was my first time visiting the farm and I'm glad my friend John invited me to join him and several other artists. We painted on Sunday October 11. I found a nice spot up on the hill near the Educational Center. There's an enormous Weeping Cherry Tree to the right of me, something to keep in mind for a springtime painting when it's in full bloom, I can only imagine right now how beautiful it will be with all the pink petals!

What an incredible place with the most spectacular views of the rolling hills, pastures - the barns and chicken coop are not your typical red barn, these are painted a light yellow with white fencing around the grounds for the animals and an old white farm house. They have many programs all year round for families and schools.https://newpondfarm.org

Definitely on my list to return again. There were so many views and just not enough time to paint. 
​. 
*** Partnership Program** - if purchased online through this website - 35% of sale of this painting will go todirectly to New Pond Farm as a donation to their organization.


Purchase an original piece of art not only makes you feel good, you're also helping to support local artists and art organizations. It's a win-win-win!


Free shipping in the US or Free delivery in Connecticut.
Secure packaging and certificate of authenticity is provided.

​Thanks for being apart of the journey!

The Waveny House is an iconic landmark in the town of New Canaan. Growing up in New Canaan we spent many wonderful Fourth of July holidays watching the fireworks on the grounds, playing on the terrace and flying kites in the fields. So many fond memories and it's always a pleasure to return to see how so much has truly stayed the same. 
I've participated in this event with Carriage Barn Arts Center for the past two years. Capturing New Canaan and enjoyed it very much. It's a wonderful art organization that does a great job supporting the artists and local artists. 
This painting along with 2 others will be in the Capturing New Canaan Sale and Exhibition at the Carriage Barn Arts Center in New Canaan, Ct from October 22 to Nov 4, 2020. Purchase through the Carriage Barn Arts Center in New Canaan, CT or through the Partnership program.
*** Partnership Program** - if purchased online through this website - 40% of sale of this painting will go to The Carriage Barn Art Center in New Canaan, CT.

The Inspiration behind this painting began with the sounds of the water gently bubbling over the fountain sculptures. The one large fountain that is not shown in this painting was to my right and directly in front of my easel was a green patio umbrella and two Adirondack chairs.  (see photos below)

I would have loved to include all these elements in my painting but the canvas just wasn't big enough! So, I focused my attention towards the back corner of the Fountain Garden. The large round sphere sculpture and the three stacked planting pots took center stage. I included the mixed metal  pinwheel sculpture and the sign. Although the sign would not have been necessary, the space was so well designed that one could easily tell its main purpose: a place of rest and relaxation. But,  the cream color sign with green lettering  was welcoming touch that graciously invited any visitor to this visual oasis.

The sound of the bubbling water from the fountain was the initial pull but I was also captivated by the color harmony, the various plant textures and the contrast of the light and darks between the base of the Japenese Maple tree.

Although I am not a gardener, and have very little knowledge and experience of successfully growing a garden. I can still appreciate and marvel at the work of the experienced gardener's hands. Master gardeners like the folks at Acer Gardens have the ability to visualize a space similar to the way and artist visualizes a painting. Using the same principles of shape, color texture, composition and focal points. I love seeing how others use their imagination and create beautiful spaces for all of us to enjoy.

A small group of us from the Madison Art Society gathered that day, a little overcast but still worth going out to see my fellow artists friends, explore the beautiful scenery and painting together.. 

Plus, we were invited back - always a great sign!
Look forward to painting a winter scene - perhaps with snow and wreathes and Christmas trees! 
'Thank you Acer Gardens!

Link to Acer Gardens Website: https://www.acergardens.com

Painting Details:

• Painted in acrylic paints, with a protective coat of varnish
• Size: 11 x 14" on canvas panel
• frame: shown in a gold and dark toned frame - other framing options are available
• Certificate of Authenticity will be provided to the buyer
• Free shipping in the US or free delivery in the state of Connecticut
• free gift wrapping is available
• Includes a sturdy box and packaging
• CT sales tax included

for purchasing online go to the online shop here - or contact me directly by email or by phone 203-444-5705
​

Oct 21 -  Nov. 4, 2020 Capturing New Canaan - Sale and Exhibition at The Carriage Barn Art Center in New Canaan, CT. I have three pieces in this show. Here's the link for more information carriagebarn.org

Shoreline Art Trail 20 -Open Studios is ON!! For the month of November and December the Shoreline Art Trail artists will be opening their studios, for one on one scheduled visits.

If you live in the area of Connecticut, New York , Mass or Rhode Island,- come and visit my home studio. Appointments are made through an easy to follow online app and you can choose the day and time that works best for you. Days and times are Friday- Sunday 10-3pm.  
I will have my latest work available for sale, some framed and some unframed. With special pricing on older works. 

Open Studio Appointments will be available for scheduling on November 1, 2020. - 
or sign up for my newsletter to be the first to hear about latest works and news. Sign up here -


Like always, thank you for being apart of this journey!
​Linda

Painting Detail:
30 x 36inch on gallery wrapped canvas.
Sides are finished. Wired and ready to hang. 
available in online shop here


This painting is based off of a plein air piece I did one evening while my husband Dean was fishing at Stony Creek, Branford, CT. A favorite place for us to just hang out and relax after a long week of work. Only minutes from our home, we often take an afternoon walk along the trolley trail or just grab a bit to eat and sit down by the water to watch the sunset.

It was busy this evening, we could smell the fresh baked pizza pies from the Market across the street. Folks were filling up the grassy area with lawn chairs and coolers. Chatting away and enjoying each others company. The children played in  the sandy beach and splashed in the water.  

I tucked myself away on the other side of the gazebo, down near the water in a small sand bar. As the tide shifted from high to low more rock formations appeared.  As the sun dropped lower in the sky the bright pinks, oranges and yellows peaked through the soft hazy purple clouds.

I could see in the distance the lights of the coastal homes flicker on as the evening progressed. It's early September now and the days are getting shorter as the fall season approaches. Sunrise is a little later each day and sunset a little earlier. But no matter how long or short the day is, taking the time to enjoy a gorgeous sunset brings a sense of tranquility and peace to my soul.

When I asked my husband, what should I name this piece? He quickly replied Tides are Changing. Hmmm... I like that! Now that was easy. That's not always the case though, naming a painting can be very challenging. Trying to condense all those thoughts and ideas of what this painting is to convey in just a few words can be tricky.  

For my husband, he likes to think more literally. That was exactly what was happening when I painted the plein air study. But for me the title Tides are Changing has an even greater meaning.

This year has been a year like no other. Who could have ever predicted all that has happened in our Country and around the world in 2020. Without getting into the details and rabbit trailing to the negative, I want to focus on the beautiful things that can transpire from something so damaging.

How we as humans can go through such distressing times where things are turned upside down and we're in the middle of a storm yet we make it, one day at time, one foot in front of the other. Where we can look back and say that's behind us and instead we fix our eyes on what's ahead.

We can feel the shift in our spirit, that as the day closes we can say, we've made it through another day. And as each one of these days fills the calendar pages our confidence is found not in anything we have done but when we put it in the hands of our Creator. The one who loves us. Who cares about us and who is there for us. All we have to do is search for Him and he is there.

We ride on the wave of hope knowing that there is God of Universe who is for us and not against us. Yes the tides are changing and it's for the good. Faith over fear.

This painting and two others will be featured in an upcoming show at Friends and Company Restaurant in Madison CT.  Sept 9 - October 19, 2020.

I've asked 7 of my artist friends to join me in a Plein Air Art Show based on our Wednesday Morning Plein Air Group with the Madison Art Society. Each week a few of us would gather together to paint at various locations along the coast and surrounding towns.

We will be holding a Paint Out and Demo for a Show  Reception on Sunday Sept 13, from 3-6pm - All are welcome to join us. To see the rest of the show and enjoy a meal at Friends and Company it's best to call the restaurant for reservations.

Address: Friends and Company Restaurant
11 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 

Thank you for being apart of my art journey - hope to see you at the show!

#artshow #MadisonArt Society #pleinairpainters #FriendsandCo #madisonCT #LindaSMarinoart #lindamarinoartist 

I painted this piece en plein air in two sessions with finishing details in the studio. 
One of my favorite places to paint is on the Guilford Green in Guilford, CT. It's truly a classic New England town setting with churches, the library, town hall and quaint shops that line the parameter of the large grassy green. 

There are several restaurants in the area that offer outdoor seating and a really cool hardware store that has everything in it! I've seen folks gathering on the grass of the green for their book clubs meetings or discussion groups, parents bring their kids to ride their bikes around and even yoga classes on the green. 

It was early on Wednesday morning in July I was out with the Madison Art Society Plein air painters for our weekly paint out. I walked all around until I found this spot. I just love the way the trees cast an interesting shape shadow on the yellow Mix Design Storefront. And the peak through to the red barn like gallery in the back, which is now BSK designs. 

As the morning moved on toward noon time more folks were out strolling around. I would quickly pull out my camera and snap some shots for reference photos. I also loved the way the red door, red barn and the red heart signs on the lawn lead the eye around the piece. But my favorite part of the painting, are the two golden retriever dogs. 
​
I love to add pups into the painting along with their owners. It just brings such joy when a piece like this comes together with the structure of the architecture, the light, shadows and the details of people and their pets.

this painting is available through my shop page here - or send me a message

Progress shots:

Here's a few additional photos of the painting in a frame and in an interior 

Sooooo excited to announce an upcoming Show!!

Finally! After so many months of shows cancelled, events postpones and this restriction or that restriction we have the green light to have an ART SHOW! Whoa! 

As you can see I'm super excited because I've been painting along with the Madison Art Society  plein air painters the past few months and we've been working hard to continue to paint scenes of our beautiful Connecticut. We meet up every week on Wednesday mornings at different locations and paint together. 

Now we have a wonderful opportunity to show our work at Friends and Company restaurant establishment in Madison. 

The show will start September 9th and run until October 19th -

And.... we're organizing a Sunday Afternoon Paint Out Reception on the grounds of Friends and Company. Restaurants are require to take reservations because they are only allowed half capacity because of the Covid restrictions but Friends and Company has a beautiful patio with umbrellas for shade. It's best to make reservations early.

I'll share more details in the upcoming posts and in my newsletter - if you're not on the newsletter - click here to join - stay in the loop!

Thanks so much for being apart of this art journey - I hope it inspires you -
warmest regards,
Linda




#guilfordgreen #guilfordCT #newenglandlandscape #mynewengland #pleinairmag #enpleinair #pleinairpainting #MASpleinair #MadisonArt Society #artforsale #localartistconnecticut #ctartist #oilpainting #originalfineart

Today my friend and student Lisa had our second plein air painting lesson. 

We joined the Lyme Art Association Plein Air Group on Tiffany Farm in Lyme, CT. The farm was once one of the largest dairy farms in Connecticut. This iconic farm has been in the family since 1848.  According to the Tiffany Farm website, in 2017 the dairy cows were sold and then in November the almost full silo fell. The farm now provides the best beef around (so I've been told) and a Saturday morning farmers market with a nice selection of local farmers and vendors sell their goods. We'll definitely need to return to purchase some beef and check out the garden flowers and vegetables.

The cows weren't out that day. 

It was very hot but we found a nice place in the shade to paint.

I decide the painting needed a friendly face of a cow standing by the gate so I painted it in when I returned to my studio.

A few years ago I painted a series of farm scenes and farm animals. It became an obsession of mine. I would drive around looking for different farms to paint.

New England and especially Connecticut have some of the most interesting farms. Perhaps because these farms have been around for years and probably passed down from generation to generation,  you'll find all sorts of stuff on these farms,

Yes, the classic old tractors and farm equipment, weathered barns and haystacks. But some will have rundown cars, rickety boats, an old bath tub or sink. You just never know when you show up to paint what you'll find. It's always a surprise!

At Tiffany Farms, all the painters stayed close to the road and side property so we really weren't able to peruse the property. There was construction going on that we might be interfering with. There was plenty of subject matter right from where we were standing. So we settled under a huge tree next to the side of the main white house. I could see a John Deere tractor near one of the barns behind the house, something I've been wanting to paint for years, perhaps another day.

It's fun exploring new places and seeing all the incredible beauty Connecticut has to offer.

Thanks for reading my blog - hope you get a change to explore your area!

Linda

Looking for a larger size of this painting? Contact me, I   would be happy to paint a custom painting like in the photo above  or custom prints is another option. Original art just makes each room in the house special and unique.

#tiffanyfarm #connecticutlandscape #connecticutfarm #ctpleinairpainting #cowandbarnpainting #onthefarmseries #artforsale #originalart #lymeartassociationpleinairpainters