Vinlhaven Pines, and a sad story

Vinalhaven Pines, 2012, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on archival board, 8" x 10"

Vinalhaven Pines 2, 2012, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on archival board, 8" x 10"

These pines come out of another period of my life, when Vinalhaven, Maine was just a ferry ride away, and sitting on the rocky shingle by the crashing waves, collecting pinecones on the shore, and searching for bits of sea glass was a part of my children's childhood. 

My daughter would like a larger painting of the pines, so thought I would practice up a bit and try out some ideas.  The light is strangely Floridian, but I'm pleased with the results, and these two paintings will be part of an exhibition, Mainely Marco, at Harmon's and Barton's Gallery on Congress Street in Portland, Maine.  There'll be a reception for the First Friday Artwalk on August 3 and I intend to be there. 

The previously scheduled wordless paintings of the last month deserve some explanation, but there is none to give, except that the marsh paintings painted and named themselves in spare moments of time, as my dear love slipped slowly away to an unknown place.   He was a good and wonderful husband who brought joy into my life.  May he rest in peace.

Tulips

We lose friends this time of year. They"ll be back, but people we become very close to in the fall cast us aside and go back "North" for the summer. North can be anywhere north of the Florida line, but if you're from New England, it means anything above the Mason-Dixon line. Some go because they can't stand the hot, humid summer weather, some dread the potential hurricane drill, and some go to reconnect with family and friends in a place that will always be "home." Those of us left here will enjoy less traffic and the less frantic pace of social life.

One couple, good friends and lovers of my art, left this morning and took with them a painting for their new condo in Maine and a painting of tulips for a loved daughter-in-law. I did two of the tulip paintings, quite different. They picked one, and there's one left for you!

Tulips
7" x 5"