Carol Allen Anfinsen Blogs

A wood stork went fishing in the pond behind my villa. She waded out only a few inches, her gangly legs stilt-like above the surface of the water. Thinking her fishing expedition would require time and patience, I turned away; but a flash of white ... 

In the 60s, I saw with my own eyes the stunning perfection of the most famous sculpture of all time: The Pietà. According to Wickipedia, “In 1964, The Pietà was lent by the Vatican to the 1964-65 New York World's Fair to be installed in the Vatica... 

There is a rhythm to life. It starts in the womb with the beating of two hearts: the mother’s and the infants. The cadence continues even when the two separate. The constant heartbeat within provides a backdrop for the rest of life. Some people ar... 

I hadn’t heard the word kerfuffle in years; so when it tumbled from an attractive newscaster’s lips, I chuckled. People of “little import” cause a kerfuffle. They try to make a big stink out of nothing, but end up looking foolish themselves. Thes... 

There are scenes that almost jump out and grab you, and you know you have to paint them or write about them. At other times there may be only a vague inclination that you’d like to try something new and so you go with it. Either way you must ask your... 

I have a long list of paintings I want to create. Whenever I get an idea, I quickly jot it down. Some of these gems blossom and some wait in the wings; never to become more than a fleeting wisp of ethereal brain matter. Many good ideas are beaten ... 

The ugly truth is out! Unless you have a bank account like Jane Fonda or Cher, eventually you’re going to fade, rumple and sag. The time will come when you can’t hide your age behind a MuMu or a Caftan. Sing the bye-bye blues baby because gravity tak... 

I delight in painting children. There is such a freshness and openness in their faces. No masks to hide emotion. No walls to put distance between them and us. Their innocence invites us to experience life anew as we once did when we were children. ... 

After I did the blog on painting food, I thought that it was sad that we couldn’t actually smell the tempting deliciousness on each canvas. That got me wondering if anyone had ever tried pairing a fragrance or scent with a painting. I did a Google... 

If your paintings could talk, what would they say? I think mine would want me to set them free! They would want me to let loose instead of trying to control every move. We’ve all been taught to think carefully before we make a brush stroke and to k... 

We all love to eat. Food is the essence of family get-togethers and camaraderie. Dining is our point of caring, celebrating, and nourishing those we love. There is an intimacy in eating together and sharing succulent morsels of exquisitely prepared f... 

In the process of making goals and plans, I’m reading two books that I would highly recommend: The first is “Transform: Dramatically Improve Your Career, Business, Relationships and Life: One Simple Step at a Time” by Jeff Haden, a motivational styl... 

I may be the odd woman out, but jewelry is not my cup of tea. Topping an outfit off with a smashing pair of artist-made earrings is more my style. Expensive gaudy jewelry is not. I prefer an understated look. I was never into ruffles. They make me... 

The title: “Nail it down, make it clear and let it happen” is good advice whether you’re a fine artist, a performing artist or a writer. If you don’t nail down those ideas, they may scamper away forever. A brief note, a sketch, a few notes on a blank... 

I’m a saver, a scrounger, and a lover of nature. If there’s an unusual seed or leaf out there it ends up in my house. When we were in Phoenix for my grandson’s wedding, a black twig caught my eye as we were out walking. My son thought it was a tw... 

I know an art teacher who also owns an art store. One day he showed me his paintings that were hung around the entire shop near the ceiling. He used these in classes for examples and demonstration. “My paintings used to go so fast, I couldn’t keep... 

If you live around water or near the ocean, you’re probably familiar with channel markers. They warn you about shallow water and keep your boat in safe passage until you reach the deeper water. Sometimes these signposts protect wildlife such as manat... 

I was intrigued by a recent study about people’s fears. It was done broadly (worldwide) to see if there were any differences in race or culture. The conclusion was that what people fear most, no matter who they are or where they come from, is darknes... 

I have a file on my computer called “Stuff” where I put down ideas for blogs and articles. I get a one-word idea, and then ramble on with it to see if it has substance. Some of my one or two word ideas really take off; others fizzle out after one or ... 

I’m a fan of Shark Tank on CNBC where entrepreneurs show their wares and try to convince the Sharks (investors) that they’re worthy of their financial support and expertise. Several artists have won favor. Take the guy I call the “Cat Man.” He starte... 

As an artist, I’ve thought a lot about that statement. What is it that makes me create and why do I do it? Perhaps my answers will also be yours: An artist wants to share what touches him or her visually and emotionally, and may find it difficult ... 

Waiting is frustrating. It’s boring. When nothing seems to be happening, our nerves frazzle with despair, doubt, and fear that our dreams will never be fulfilled. Patience is a virtue. We’ve heard that most of our lives. Americans are not patient ... 

Every year there is a stir of excitement when the Ghost Orchids bloom at the Corkscrew Sanctuary in Naples, Florida. Here’s a quote from their web site: “Drawing attention from near and far as the largest ghost orchid discovered so far. It has d... 

My husband is a hummer. Sometimes it can drive me crazy, especially if he hums when he’s nervous. At other times, it’s his way to stay calm as he moves through his chores (It's almost always the same tune). People use music for a variety of reason... 

When we’re young, we test the rules and skirt the ragged edge of danger. We experiment. We try on different styles and personalities. Some of us flaunt the rules and go into the unknown only to reap the consequences of our experimentation. But for mo... 

I received an email from a friend that was a copy of an Obituary printed in the London Times. If you haven’t read it, you may enjoy its wisdom as much as I did: “Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with... 

We’re back! The morning after the long drive home, we went for our usual three mile walk. It felt so good! I was delighted to see that the Bob Whites had returned. They were flooded out four years ago, and this is the first glimpse I’ve seen of them ... 

I don’t know about you, but I get frustrated with myself. I seem to learn everything the hard way. “Why can’t you do it right, the first time,” I chide myself. “Why does it have to be so doggone hard?” Not until I’ve done something more than a few... 

My son, Sidney, had a curious and active mind. Most of his teachers appreciated this, but some of them didn’t. He was a wiggly and energetic child who could get into mischief unless his exuberance was channeled . As a mother, I answered his endless... 

When I ask a salesperson if they have any wiggle room, I’m really saying “Are you willing to make a deal?” I’m hoping he or she has the authority and the willingness to give me the best price possible and at a much lower cost than the current offer. ... 

My husband and I decided that putting new cabinets in the kitchen and vanities/sinks in the bathroom was a must this year. The original woodwork was a slapdash effort by the builder 20 years ago to come in under budget and on deadline. We were not aw... 

I was unable to discover why these flowers were ever called “Tiger” Lily in the first place. Since they are covered with brown spots, why not Leopard Lily? I got so caught up in thinking about this I wanted to do a painting called “Namesake” and dedi... 

In the 60s, I saw with my own eyes the stunning perfection of the most famous sculpture of all time: The Pietà. According to Wickipedia, “In 1964, The Pietà was lent by the Vatican to the 1964-65 New York World's Fair to be installed in the Vatica... 

We all want the perfect life, the best husband or wife, wonderful children, and a great job. If you’re a creative, you also want a bestselling novel, a T.V. series, or a show in a prestigious gallery. That perfect project is almost within reach, you ... 

If you’re like me, you form a strong opinion after meeting someone for the first time. Unfortunately, our impressions are not always accurate, yet we remember these fleeting feelings for longer than we care to admit. These vague notions may affect ou... 

There have been many tributes this past year, but I can’t let Maya Angelou’s passing go without voicing my own accolades. Even if you didn’t agree with her politics, you have to agree that her spirit and message were magnificent. As a young woman,... 

There is a rhythm to life. It starts in the womb with the beating of two hearts: the mother’s and the infants. The cadence continues even when the two separate. The constant heartbeat within provides a backdrop for the rest of life. Some people ar... 

Ideas are the lifeblood of artists and writers. They come and go and we must nail them down before they get away. I’m consumed by ideas every moment of every day. I have difficulty answering a question or following a conversation, especially if I’m i... 

It wasn’t that long ago that people said “men never make passes at girl’s who wear glasses.” Pity the girl who believed that saying because her self-esteem was sure to plunge. Now career women everywhere wear glasses whether they need them or not.... 

There are times in our lives when we feel drained, empty, and fatigued like we have nothing else to give. Instead of slacking off, what we really need is a new project. Once we’re slapping on the paint, everything else seems small and insignificant. ... 

I hadn’t heard the word kerfuffle in years; so when it tumbled from an attractive newscaster’s lips, I chuckled. People of “little import” cause kerfuffles. They try to make a big stink out of nothing, but end up looking foolish themselves. These ... 

I have a long list of paintings I want to create. Whenever I get an idea, I quickly jot it down. Some of these gems blossom and some wait in the wings; never to become more than a fleeting wisp of ethereal brain matter. Many good ideas are beaten ... 

The ugly truth is out! Unless you have a bank account like Jane Fonda or Cher, eventually you’re going to fade, rumple and sag. The time will come when you can’t hide your age behind a MuMu or a Caftan. Bye and bye, gravity takes its toll. The ide... 

Someone once said: “The basis of good art is drawing. If you don’t know how to draw, you’ll never become an artist.” The question is do you believe that? And if you don’t, what is the basis for your opinion? Throughout the years there have been... 

Sitting at the salon waiting for a haircut made me lament the amount of time it takes for pure “maintenance.” Not only do we spend hours keeping our body’s clean and our fingernails and toenails trimmed and polished, but we spend time each week exerc... 

I used to think my ex mother-in-law was an old fuddy duddy. She was a rock hound, of all things, who spent precious time polishing stones. She also made fragile sand paintings inside of bottles that disappeared in a heartbeat if one of them got pushe... 

I was a tomboy growing up. I preferred monkey bars or playing cowboys and Indians to playing with dolls. When my mother couldn’t find me, I was usually up a tree, literally. I viewed every tree as a challenge that must be conquered. My favorites w... 

Sitting at the salon waiting for a haircut made me lament the amount of time it takes for pure “maintenance.” Not only do we spend hours keeping our body’s clean and our fingernails and toenails trimmed and polished, but we spend hours each week exer... 

Why is art one of the most popular methods used in healing? We certainly don’t need more artists in the world. What is it about the practice of touching brush to canvas that heals the soul? My conclusion is the “focus” that painting requires. The ... 

Advertisers use symbolism to help viewers relate to their products and to help them remember. Their purpose is to “endear” their wares to potential buyers. It seems to work. Who can forget Apple’s logo: the apple with the bite taken out of it, or Tar... 

It’s true! You can’t be sad or angry when you’re laughing. When you laugh, you feel better – it’s a given! So why don’t we do it more often? We get in a hole that we can’t dig ourselves out of. When everything looks bleak, we shut ourselves off fr... 

I’ve watched a few reality shows in my day. After awhile, I get tired of the arguments, the scheming and the pettiness. But if that’s your cup of tea, you probably like the cutting edge changes this season. The Discovery channel is pushing the env... 

I completed reading the book: “A Shoemaker’s Wife” by Adriana Trigiani; a delightful tale which takes place in the Alps of Italy. I was intrigued by this story having traveled to this area and adored the beauty and the people of that region. I wro... 

Don’t underestimate the power of selection. Seemingly insignificant choices made each day can have an enormous affect not only on the present moment, but on future outcomes. • Take oversleeping (or under sleeping). Both may have an effect on produ... 

A myriad of artists on LinkedIn argued over, under and around the use of the color black. Most believe black is taboo and should never be used, preferring to mix their own. Renoir called black “the queen of all colors.” Black is loved. It is feare... 

Artists, Small business owners and entrepreneurs are getting hoarse trying to hawk their wares in an overcrowded marketplace. As they vie for attention, their petulance is showing up in ads, and in their names. “Angry Orchard” is a new brand of ap... 

Have you ever tried to plug up a leak? No matter how hard you try, if there’s a weakness, the water (or air) will find a way to escape. My bicycle tire had a minute leak so small we couldn’t find it; but sure enough, by the time we were half-way to o... 

We hear a lot about addiction these days. Marijuana is being legalized in many states. Drugs are now consumed by more young people including children much to their detriment. Despicable people are lacing those drugs with exceedingly harmful substitut... 

In my guest closet is an unfinished quilt, a box of ideas for future paintings, and some amateur canvases I’ve painted over waiting in the wings. I have an online folder titled: “To Paint” with saved photos, sketches, and ideas I don’t as yet feel pa... 

Sometimes the most mundane things can trigger the subject for an article. While I was mulling over what to wear Friday night, my eyes fell on my choice of shoes. The weather was colder than usual in Florida, and I was lamenting the fact that all I ha... 

Some artist’s are making a big splash. They are non-conformists doing things their way. Not afraid of criticism or worried about “staying in line,” they follow their gut instincts; and in the process, they’re making money. Wish that were you? Self... 

Some time ago, Public Broadcasting aired a delightful British Comedy called “Last Tango in Halifax.” I enjoyed the feature immensely. The story revolved around an older couple who met, fell in love, and planned to be married. The catch? They each had... 

If you're a creative person, it's inevitable that at some point in your career you're going to bump up against a blank wall. That feeling can be frightening, even devastating, but it doesn't have to keep you down. Over the years I've discovered a ... 

I haven’t checked out a library book since I purchased my Kindle a few years back. I must say, my experience was a refreshing change. I’m more at home in a library than anywhere else in the world next to a paint store or an Office Depot. I love th... 

Veils have been with us almost since the beginning of time. Certainly they had religious significance. For example, in the Biblical story of Salome, Jezebel’s daughter, Salome danced with seven veils to seduce her father so she could ask for the head... 

December art show: “The Human Spirit – a Celebration of People and Places.” In my paintings, I choose to emphasize the goodness and light that exists in small and simple things, in ordinary people, in the lives they live and the choices they make. ... 

A few days ago, I received a pocket calendar for 2014. I flipped through its blank pages like a “deer panting for water.” The days were glistening white; unmarked by crowded schedules, important appointments, or family birthdays and anniversaries. ... 

One of the Newsletter’s I subscribe to comes from the artist, Robert Genn. He suggests that we shouldn’t wait around for “inspiration.” We should just dive into our work and see what happens. Sometimes waiting for the “muse” or that perfect idea is a... 

In my last blog; I discussed the positives and negatives of different leadership styles. I’m going to continue that discussion. When running a business no matter how large or small, leadership is key to success. Whether your employees are relatives o... 

Parasites prey upon other living things. They feed upon the life-giving properties of their host in order to sustain their own life. Some people imitate this behavior by sponging off their friends and relatives or by eating up their precious time. ... 

My last foray into an art store for needed supplies gave me “sticker shock!” I was in need of Turpenoid (odorless turpentine) to use as a paint thinner and brush cleaner. The price had escalated by 50% since my last purchase! I left empty-handed hop... 

A debate is ongoing in LinkedIn about this question: “Do you need a degree to be a successful artist?” The initiator of that question was not necessarily supporting this idea, but simply generating discussion. She even suggested that perhaps amate... 

Creating art becomes a challenge this time of year in Florida. It is in fall and winter that the art scene comes alive. Finding time to create artwork, on the other hand, is limited. Art Shows, juried competitions, and transporting paintings to and f... 

My blog title perfectly describes “change-out” time at the Art Council of Southwest Florida Cooperative Art Gallery at Coconut Point. On the first Monday of each month, new paintings are brought in and paintings which have not sold are changed out. T... 

Giving up is easy. Getting discouraged is human. Persistence is the gold that separates the “men from the boys” and what distinguishes the earnest from the whiners; the strong from the weak. There’s a fine line between persistence and stubbornness... 

I recently got an announcement for a Christmas project and I haven’t even planned for Halloween and Thanksgiving. Do you ever see your life just whizzing past; the constant hubbub of what to buy and when turning your calendar pages into an animated b... 

You will never “arrive.” Get that thought out of your head. If you’re not learning, if you’re not growing and adding to your knowledge, you are backsliding. Sure experience, and technique once mastered, gives you an edge. But if you don’t stay on ... 

Are you guilty of comparing yourself to someone else and then thinking you’re not as talented or as skilled? Do you try to copy others work; not just to learn, but because you fear your ideas are not good enough? Welcome to the world of self-defea... 

I love routines. I always have and I always will. Routine gives me security. Routine makes me feel safe and helps me develop habits that keep me on track. Staying on task helps me accomplish what I set out to do. Routines are delightful because y... 

If you’ve never done it, now is the time to start! If you want to become adept at drawing people or doing portraits, “quick studies” offer a way to focus on what’s important. Beginning with gesture and motion, focusing on the way a person’s body l... 

An artist suggested that all paintings begin as puzzles. You have an idea of what you want to do on canvas, but once you start to fill in the shapes and the shadows, the painting takes on a life of its own. The shapes sometimes change, new colors are... 

I like to put people in my paintings. When a painting or landscape doesn’t include people, they come up missing in my book. I find that peoples’ expressions and body language contribute to a scene and “round out a paintings’ story.” The more I pai... 

Jewelry makers understand the necessity of tying secure knots that secure the placement of beads on a strand and strengthen the finished product. Knots are not only functional. They are beautiful. A singular knot, if well done, can serve as the focal... 

In a marketplace flooded with artists and a decreasing number of buyers, it’s no surprise that style matters. Affordability often moves decisions, but having a unique flare or approach may make the difference between recognition and sales. Many ar... 

Get a group of people together and their number one problem is time, or the lack thereof. It isn’t a lack of ideas. It isn’t money, although, this is a restricting factor. What concerns small business owners the most is time. Every decision that is m... 

I remember vividly where I was on 9/11, do you? I stood with my fellow co-workers in front of a large-screen TV and wondered what was happening to our country? We watched in horror and disbelief as the replay showed a plane plowing into the first Twi... 

In years gone by, detectives were referred to as “gum shoes.” The nickname stuck because they wore rubber or crepe soled shoes as they stealthily crept into dark shadows to pursue a suspect. Gum shoe cops were thorough and diligent. Their persistence... 

I’m always amazed at the ingenuity of artists. When budgets are tight, they still manage to find a way to create art. A fantastic artist by the name of Mark Powell creates meaningful portrait drawings on old envelopes and photographed legal documents... 

You’ve heard it before, and I’ll say it again: success is all about networking, networking, networking! The necessity of connecting the seller with the buyer and the advertiser with the consumer goes without saying. Plus your product must be availabl... 

I come from a long line of teachers, and take pride in having five teachers in our family today. I revere teachers and respect their profession. As the mother of six children, I had a lion's share of parent-teacher conferences and PTA meetings. Over ... 

I'm not a fan of art shows. • They're hard work. • They take lots of muscle. • They require lugging heavy paintings and supplies long distances over bumpy terrain and several trips in the process. • The weather is unpredictable. At one show, a... 

Ideas are fragile. They come and go. If you don’t lock them down, they can disappear forever. I used to keep a small notebook in my car for jotting down ideas driving to and from work. The only problem was, I could only write while I was sitting a... 

Of course, there is no such thing as perfect hair or there wouldn’t be the expression “bad hair day!” If you study the way hair frames the face and falls, you’ll see that to get the hair right, you have to get the shape of the head in proportion firs... 

Whether it’s an article, a work of art, or a product, we can all relate to that feeling of pleasure and accomplishment that creation brings. Something of ourselves enriches the finished work and adds a sparkle of originality and freshness. That’s w... 

Stuff happens! Calamity is waiting in the wings – it’s a given. The only thing we can’t determine is when. My most recent scrape happened with an innocent and perhaps ignorant download of a so-called “preview” of Microsoft Windows 8. That preview ... 

I downloaded Windows 8 for preview and now I'm not able to use my old Microsoft Word and many other links. I hope it's temporary. Please check out my blog and my artwork @ http://carol-allen-Anfinsen.artistwebsites.com p.s. the photo is a shot ne... 

My Grandson owns a coffee shop online and one in the Great Northwest called “Café Solace.” The beans are from Costa Rica, and there are many choices and blends that are absolutely delicious! On a recent trip there, Bryce took a photo of the coffee ... 

I viewed an abstract painting yesterday in the Red and Blue Group at Fine Art America. I was so drawn to the bright colors and shapes, I had to analyze my feelings to see why I was so compelled to linger? The composition was stunning. A red, red-o... 

My mother-in-law used to say: “A change is as good as a rest.” It might have been for her, but for me with my brood of six, sometimes change didn’t cut it. What I needed big time was a rest from the numerous demands on my time and the physical demand... 

When people find out you’re a writer or an artist, all of a sudden you become very popular. Everyone has a project or a need that only you can fill. Little by little these small favors and obligations eat away at your private time until you have no h... 

There are hundreds of outstanding artists who either have a disability or work at what they love with debilitating pain or discomfort. If that describes your circumstances, I want to hear from you. Artist’s have much to share with each other. When... 

I had made up my mind. I was going to enter a favorite painting in a juried gallery. All it needed was a frame; one that would complement the colors in the painting without being distractive. I had a framer already in mind, who never disappointed me.... 

Winter in Florida means a chance to see Manatees. They swim up the Orange River where warm water flows from the huge Florida Power & Light plant (FPL). A lovely park has been erected in their honor and thousands of residents and tourists flock there ... 

I’ve actually tried it. I painted a pelican on glass using acrylic paints. On the underside of the glass, I painted the water and some clouds. When it was dry, I cut blue cardstock for the backing and added a frame. It wasn’t the most exciting painti... 

Since the composition of a painting is critical to the overall success of a painting, I’m adding a few more helpful tips. There are essentially three basic types of composition; each creating a different effect: Sedate, Alert, and Dynamic. Your choic... 

There’s always a big “let down” after the holidays. The stress and excitement which builds and then climaxes is over. The tension is released, the fun is gone, and the aftermath of pine needles, discarded wrapping paper, and leftovers smacks us with ... 

I can feel it coming: when the celebrating is over, discouragement sets in. A look back reminds me of how many goals were unmet, of how much more I have to learn, and of how "average" my skill level is when compared to those I admire and try to emul... 

I took three paintings down to the art gallery thinking I was going to make an easy exchange; replacing those that didn’t sell for fresh replacements. Wrong! The gallery has gained so many new artists that they are more critical and discerning than e... 

Entering your work in a juried competition can be intimidating, especially if you’re a self-taught artist. Almost everything you’ve drawn or painted has come from grueling trial and error, and done while comparing yourself to artists with several deg... 

New apps and sites are popping up everywhere. Each one promises to do more for your business than the last. I’ve tried them all. Most of them are free, at least in the beginning. The success of the app seems to be in proportion to how much you are wi... 

Today many T.V. commercials are far from boring. Spontaneous belly laughs result from watching people like us make complete fools out of themselves in order to sell product. Watching these commercials unfold is not necessarily a waste of time. There ... 

Monday I delivered four paintings to the Art Council of Southwest Florida’s Coconut Point Gallery. It was like “old home week” as artist’s renewed their friendships and shared their latest artwork. There was a twinge of hope and excitement in the ... 

What’s in a Name? Ask a person who has had his identity stolen, and he’ll say everything! Ask a person who has just had her name dragged through the mud in error, and she’ll tell you how hard it is to regain her reputation. A small business or cor... 

When friends learned that I had been selling online, they were all determined to follow my lead. I was delighted, because I wanted them to feel that element of success when you overcome your fears, conquer the inevitable learning curve of uploading p... 

Two more galleries in downtown Fort Myers are closing. The monthly Art Walk has been a huge success for shops and restaurants, but it has drawn more art admirers than buyers; a definite sign that the economy is still in a slump. Some galleries are... 

We’re all eager to start them. We want our own public space in the sun to share our personal trivia or our hopes and dreams. Millions of blogs attest to that fact. But what happens when the enthusiasm fades, a blogger moves to another space, or just ... 

When people live alone, often the first thing they do when they come home is to turn on the sound: T.V., music, radio. They check text messages, voice mail, email, anything to break the silence, the emptiness. When people live with a spouse, par... 

“Use it or lose it” is an expression we’re all familiar with. We don’t always associate it with imagination, but it’s certainly true. We’re born with curiosity and imagination, but somewhere between adolescence and adulthood, we lose it. Unless we al... 

As we grow older, we realize that everyone has a story to tell. While we are all unique, we are not immune from problems and difficulties. Eventually, we all experience similar sadness, unemployment, weaknesses, and crises; no one escapes. Sooner... 

In the past century, the discovery and use of DNA has transformed not only our thinking, but our ability to distinguish one individual from another; a critical piece of the crime scene puzzle. Fingerprint recognition, which can easily be distorted or... 

I’m currently reading “Turning Pro” by Steven Pressfield; a quick entertaining read that helps an artist confront his demons. I’m reading it partly for inspiration and partly for needed motivation. The premise of the book is that most of us find e... 

I’ve talked about the importance of networking as you make your way in your career, and the importance of getting your artwork seen and your name recognized. But there’s another side of the networking coin that’s even more important. It’s called conn... 

Years ago, a retirement adviser suggested I diversify my portfolio. “The secret to success,” he said, “is to avoid putting all your assets into one basket.” He was right. It still didn’t stop me from losing money when the tech bubble burst. My mutua... 

Down through the ages, writers and artists have tried to describe the pain one feels when a heart is broken by sadness, abuse, or neglect. A tale told in our community was “Cipher in the Snow.” A story about a young boy who had been kicked around fro... 

Down through the ages, writers and artists have tried to describe the pain one feels when a heart is broken by sadness, abuse, or neglect. A tale told in our community was “Cipher in the Snow.” A story about a young boy who had been kicked around fro... 

Before I begin a painting, I see a finished product in my mind. I know how I want it to look, what colors I want to use, and almost everything about it. So why does it change as I go along? In the grip of creating and expressing, unexpected things ha... 

Every day we fight fatigue, interruptions, resistance, competition, and our own ineptness. If you think I’m joking, I’m not. Sometimes we hit a stone wall so strong and so deep that we can’t get past it. We bang our heads on it for awhile and the... 

In the 70s, I had a hallway that had light green walls, white baseboards and door, and a black table. Flipping through a current “Better Homes and Garden” magazine, I discovered the same colors being used teeming them up with hot pink accessories or ... 

Everything is shrinking! Literally. My income, my stature, the size and quantity of the things I buy and what I can afford. Everything is shrinking but the price. Like you, I’m paying more for less. My favorite things have gone from 8 oz to 7 oz t... 

In a previous blog, I told you that two art galleries had closed in downtown Fort Myers. The good news is that two more have opened in their stead. The art community is not giving up just yet! As a member of Arts for ACT, I will display two painti... 

I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of curious people wanting to know how much I earn as an artist. When I was honored with a feature, including links and recognition, it was the same: “Did you get paid?” Somehow if I didn’t, I got screwed; forget ... 

My oldest daughter, Pamela Torres, has written a middle-grade book. When she asked me to illustrate it, I was thrilled. Pam also writes book reviews for middle-grade authors, and has a following of writers, authors and publishers. Collaboration ad... 

If you’re in business, and art is a business, you must stand by your product, your word, and your promise. A neighbor was interested in having a dog portrait done of her Schnauzer. Some years ago, she had sent a photo of her dog and the cost for a... 

We recently drove through what other people had described as a “bad neighborhood.” According to them, crime had skyrocketed in “that part of town,” and it wasn’t a place you wanted to stay for long. Since we couldn’t avoid it in order to get to our d... 

I visited my daughter in Texas recently. Her husband is stationed at Fort Hood and is now in Afghanistan. I had visited them before; but on this trip, I focused my artist’s eye on the lookout for possible paintings. The Lone Star State is all they... 

I took a portrait painting class in oils. The technique was classic. Using a live model, we first coated the canvas with a film of oil and burnt umber. Then we proceeded to wipe out form and light. Before I knew it, I had “wiped out” a head, a bod... 

When I first started painting, I’d get so excited once the drawing and under painting were finished. Even more excited when the first real coat of paint; the sky, the background items filled the canvas. “Why, I’m almost done:” I foolishly replied. ... 

I pride myself on being organized. I had to be with six children! I prepared meal plans so I wouldn’t have to think about “what’s for dinner?” A monthly meal plan gave me an edge. Shopping smart and planning ahead kept our meals on time and within bu... 

What do you think of when people say “roots:” that it’s time to recolor your hair? That your newly planted vegetable garden is bursting into life? Or do you think of your child’s stubbornness when he or she plants those tiny feet firmly on the ground... 

I’ve always been an avid reader. From the moment I discovered the Public Library and got my first library card, I’ve been in love with books; only now I have a Kindle, and I download my favorites. Still, there’s nothing like the smell and touch of... 

According to the press and the wordsmiths on television, we are at war: a war on women, a war of words; a cultural war pitting one set of values against another in order to prove who loves God or Jesus the most. On top of that, we have the age-old ge... 

What is the fine line that separates art from pornography? Can you feel it? Sense it? What is vulgar to one person may be beautiful to another. I was surprised and excited when I took my first class drawing with a live model. I blossomed! My linear i... 

It's always gratifying to sell an original canvas from FAA. Love selling the prints, but an original puts you in direct contact with the buyer. Putting out your own invoices and mailing product gives you more of a sense of running a small business, w... 

I’m working on some illustrations. Aside from the story line, I’m creating purely from imagination. The more I create, the better it gets! The secret is to see clearly an image of what you want to paint or draw. In this way, an artist breathes life i... 

Exercising imagination is critical to the artist’s life. Whether you write, perform, paint or draw, working from research and knowledge is not enough. An artist must interpret, design, and create. An artist’s work must represent his unique perspectiv... 

When I first started painting, the glow I wanted to shine from my artwork escaped me. Why didn’t my paintings sparkle? Why didn’t they seem “alive?” I painted a shiny coat of gel or “Liquin” over the top to revive the paint. It still didn’t work. ... 

I’ve always enjoyed looking at the artwork of children. It’s raw, emotional, and bold. Children’s thoughts link directly to their hand and arm movements; unfettered, unedited, open and joyous. Their enthusiasm is unequalled. What they depict often... 

It has been said that illustrations are literature, even without the words. With or without text, illustrations may sharpen a child’s perception, stimulate imagination, and make them aware of their surroundings. Add humor which increases a child’s en... 

I enjoy watching American Idol. It’s fun to witness frightened, insecure wanna-be’s grow and develop before your eyes. It’s miraculous to see what happens when someone with potential is provided with money, opportunity, and support. Their skills incr... 

We have a terrible problem with mold and mildew in the Tropics. We go through gallons of bleach in the same way that most people do milk. We scour our sidewalks and driveways with bleach. We use it in our sinks and toilets. We set our air conditione... 

If you could choose anything you wanted, what would it be? To the cancer ridden person, it would be health. To someone who recently lost their job, it would be employment. To a widow, it would be comfort and peace of mind. We all have different wa... 

Do you believe in angels? I do. The Bible mentions angels many times including this favorite passage: “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” (Heb 13:2 KJV) After taking a long hiatus away from... 

I admit that I’m “technically challenged.” Unlike my younger sister who can wire and change an outlet switch, fix a toaster, and repair a toilet; I’m a complete idiot when faced with anything that requires a screwdriver, a key, pliers, or a drill. ... 

When I sold my painting “Broken,” the buyer said it reminded her of the people she saw in Haiti and in the Dominican Republic. The mother and child in the painting inspired her and renewed her compassion for the people there and for their hardships ... 

Renting space in a cutting edge mall is expensive, using an empty space free is even better; the perfect set-up for an artists "co-op.” Volunteers staff the Gallery including hosting visitors and handling retail sales. A wine, cheese and champagne r... 

We all have our babies: those wonderful concepts we develop in our minds and create on paper or canvas to present to the world. But what happens when those adorable children land with a thud on the floor of reality? Let’s face it. Criticism hurts.... 

I have an artist friend who is an expert on perspective. She can spot an error in someone’s painting immediately. She has no trouble with her own artwork because perspective comes so naturally to her. Others of us must work at it, study it, and pr... 

Do you believe that there is only one right relationship, one perfect painting, one right way to live your life, one opportunity that when lost is gone forever? If you do, you’d better change your perspective. If there’s one thing I’ve learned it is ... 

Last night I was supposed to attend a demo by well-known artist Charles Miano at the Alliance for the Arts. But after a very hectic week, what with doctor appointments and other classes, I ended up with a migraine and nausea. Feeling wobbly, and fear... 

The title of this blog came out of a fortune cookie from P.F.Chang Restaurant. I liked my fortune so much I kept it in my billfold. I found it today, and thought of all the other Confucius sayings that have affected my life. I was one of a million... 

I’ve been a Popeye fan since childhood. My father, an avid comic book reader, mimicked the “old salt” whenever he could. My mother reminded me to eat my spinich so I’d be strong like Popeye; however, I preferred Olive Oyl’s lanky svelte figure. Po... 

So why do ideas get away so quickly never seeing the light of day? Because most of the time, we ignore them or forget to write them down. They slip away unnoticed as silently as dandelion fuzz in springtime. Add our own insecurity and some ideas s... 

Our street had a "block" party, and my artist friend and I decided we would have an "art walk" prior to the dinner and festivities. We both sold cards, prints, and I sold my original painting titled "Broken," a mixed-media 11x14 work, framed. Try ... 

Lisa L. Cyr’s first book: “Art Revolution; Alternative Approaches for Fine Artists and Illustrators” is a wonderful way to rev up your artistic engine. Cyr’s book is filled with examples, techniques and ideas featuring many different artists. The boo... 

I belong to a network called LinkedIn and participate in various discussions with other art professionals. Most of the chit chat is ongoing, and artist’s type in their opinions, links, and advice which is viewed and shared by all. One recent discu... 

I belong to a network called LinkedIn and participate in various discussions with other art professionals. Most of the chit chat is ongoing, and artist’s type in their opinions, links, and advice which is viewed and shared by all. One recent discu... 

I belong to a network called LinkedIn and participate in various discussions with other art professionals. Most of the chit chat is ongoing, and artist’s type in their opinions, links, and advice which is viewed and shared by all. One recent discu... 

Inspiration and fun highlighted a demonstration by the renowned artist Art B. Cunanan; a watercolorist from the Philippines who lives in Ontario Canada. Once longing to be a comedian, Art’s wife, Lu, suggested he stick to painting. A professional oil... 

You may have read about my grandfather in my biography and artist’s statement, but to know the man was to love him. He had more granddaughters than granddsons and he made each one feel important. For decades, he was a sixth grade teacher who had a... 

I can't help myself. When the calendar reaches January, my mind conjures up images of winters past with snow and blowing cold. Even though I live in Florida, come January I get that "rumbley in my tumbley" for a crock full of homemade soup. I love so... 

It’s a “down” time of year: that ebb between the hoopla of celebration and the impetus of New Year’s madness. We pause. We evaluate what has been and what will be. It is a somber time. Some people get depressed after the letdown of holiday’s end. ... 

Thanks to my grandfather, a former biologist and teacher; my uncle, a former professor of entomology at Berkeley; and my father, a fly fisherman of great reknown; I was born an environmentalist, a lover of nature, and a lover of God’s remarkable hand... 

We never see ourselves as others see us. I recall when I was 12 years old picking beans with a group of kids for a local farmer. During our lunch break, a teenage boy looked over at me and said: “You have beautiful eyes.” I ducked in embarrassment... 

NorthLight Books recently offered a free drawing demo online to promote the artist Sandra Angelo and an upcoming course on the basics of drawing. I decided to link in and see what she had to say. Viewers were allowed to type in questions and the a... 

I remember many years ago, when I was taking classes at the community college where I lived, one of the artists asked me to go out sketching plein air with her. So that Saturday, we met at a local park, sat our butts down on the grass, and began to d... 

Our art league tries to offer our skills to the community and to share our talents with others. This month, we did just that: We hung our artwork in the Regional Public Library for others to enjoy. On Saturday we brought six each more paintings and h... 

We all want to feel fulfilled. We search endlessly for a life of joy and happiness. We begin this quest at birth, taking our first steps and exploring all avenues. At times we slip through the cracks; the slippery ways that wind into the dark places ... 

“On October 11, members of the Administrative Regulations Review Subcommittee voted unanimously, by a 7 to 0 vote, to approve a plan to allow sandhill crane hunting in the Bluegrass State. With this final approval, Kentucky will join thirteen other s... 

During a difficult period in my life, my friend Alice gave me a prayer plant. “It will remind you of where your strength comes from,” she said. Sure enough, every evening as the sun went down, the prayer plant extended its leaves upward. I was remind... 

Ingres, a great French painter, said “How you paint depends on how you draw.” He was so right! Drawing is the basis of every good painting. However, today artists must close the time required to paint in order to make any headway on profits. Most ... 

Just when you’ve found your niche and you feel comfortable doing what you’re doing; take it to the next level. That’s right! Complacency can kill you; or at least your creativity. Once in awhile, we all need a “jump start.” We need to change thing... 

Nothing excites me more than putting a few lines and a little paint on canvas and watching them come to life. Talk about power! I will tell you that when this “miracle” happens, I bond with my painting. The people, the animals, even the vegetation... 

That’s right! Doodles are good for your brain. People who make a habit of “doodling” when they are at rest, increase imagination and brain power. An artist friend shared this advice from a former teacher. Her brain was in freeze mode, and she wanted ... 

My “India Rising” Series gave way to a wonderful exploration of Indian culture and traditions. The question I ask myself is this: “Is the featured painting today an end to my India series?” I have no idea. My research has already entranced me with In... 

When you have a blog, a website, and belong to several social networks, you become a target for junk mail. Spam and viruses invade your inbox. Your name ends up on countless mailing lists. Today I received a magazine called “Beyond the Bean” a resour... 

Of all the things I've painted over the years, I've loved the birds as much or more than anything else. I loved listening to the birds outside our upstairs window when I was a child and should have been taking a nap. I loved rescuing them when one fe... 

I didn’t imagine when I finished my painting “The Lost” that it would end up being the first in a series. What happened between that last stroke of paint on canvas and my decision to do another? I was haunted, not only by the abandoned street urc... 

Do you ever feel “fragmented” as if everyone wants to take a bite out of you. I was reminded of this feeling upon receiving a phone call this morning asking me to collect funds in our neighborhood for a good cause. There are many good causes. I recei... 

A Sculptor chips away at a block of stone struggling to unearth the life within. Painters “chip” away at a blank canvas, but instead of removing they are adding-to using brush strokes, color, form and shape. “Chipping” away symbolizes toil, tenaci... 

Some artists want to be the next Salvidor Dali, or Thomas Hart Benton. Others look to gallery representation in well-known salons worldwide. The rest of us ply our trade and hope to produce something meaningful or beautiful that will please those who... 

How do people grapple with fear, anger, frustration, disease, death and destruction? In this climate – who thinks about art? Unless, and that’s a big “unless,” art helps people to deal with these immediate frustrations? This is our time artists. ... 

Color, brushwork, empty canvases waiting for a splash of paint and inspiration; these are the basic elements of painting. What happens after that determines the success or failure of the artist. In order to sell, to be seen, to attract buyers, an ... 

It’s sea turtle nesting time in Southwest Florida. For some people that means an inconvenience and a nuisance. Beaches have restricted areas flagged and protected. Residents with beach homes don’t have full access to their own property. And all outdo... 

My list of favorite artists could go on and on. But how could I leave out Thomas Hart Benton? For almost 20 years, I lived in Kansas City, Missouri, where Benton spent his later years. I admired his paintings in federal and state buildings and in mus... 

It is only when you finish a painting that you realize it’s a process. Up until then, you have several visions dancing through your head, and each one seems viable until you face the canvas. My model is my granddaughter, Amelia, sitting on a sette... 

In my dining room, I have a large framed print of Renoir’s “Dance at Le Moulin de le Galetta.” After spending so much time with this painting, is it any wonder why Renoir is one of my favorite artists, and why I like people present in my paintings? ... 

Georgia Totto O’Keeffe (09/15/1847 – 03/06/1986), a feminist in her day; considered a “modernist” by some, and most certainly an original. One of the few artists whose career was celebrated before her death at age 98 in 1986. Born in Sun Prairie, ... 

French Artist Jean-Honore’ Fragonard (1732-1806) is best known for his painting: "A Young Girl Reading." Although this painting is part of the “Rococo” period, it is anything but frivolous. The young girl is enraptured by her book. She has a serious ... 

Someone remarked that some of my paintings reminded them of Mary Cassatt, the renowned painter (1844-1926). I was flattered, of course, but I have to say she’s probably one of my all time favorite artists. Our styles are different, but she influenced... 

I wish I’d collected all the fortunes I’ve gleaned from my Chinese cookies over the years. There’s a lot of good wisdom in those crunchy sweets. My latest: “It is a silly fish that is caught twice with the same bait.” How often we are “caught with... 

This is a drawing of my granddaughter on her first birthday. I gave her a pink ruffled bonnet, and she spent the next few minutes trying to get it off. I did manage a few photos before she succeeded. I followed this drawing up with an oil painting, b... 

From the time that crows started picking the bones of dead people during the “black plague,” both crows and ravens have been the brunt of superstition and fear. Labeled “harbingers of death,” “bringers of doom,” and “murderers,” crows have never outl... 

I fell in love with paper somewhere between third and sixth grades. I remember the excitement of making that first mark on a white sheet and wondering where it was going to take me, either to capture a vision I saw in my head, or to write a few words... 

An incredible look at a young artist who at four years of age, still remembered being with God. She has been painting him ever since.  

Painting is a process. We perfect our skill as we practice our craft: mixing colors, choosing the right brush, understanding the principles of drawing and composition, etc. Here are some important things I’ve learned along the way: Never put y... 

I recently attended a Twins baseball game in their new stadium. It was amazing! Right in the heart of Minneapolis, this huge stadium of bright green turf nestles between tall skyscrapers and towering glass. We had dinner at the Lion’s Pub, and aft... 

BLURB BOOK PREVIEW Inez Ibis Flies Again by Carol Allen Anfinsen, Written and Illustrated And yes, I have a plan. During the summer months, I try to do more plein air sketching and painting. I try to sharpen my drawing skil... 

Have you noticed that tragedy either brings out the worst in people or the best? Our nation, in fact the world, has experienced one tragedy after another these past two years: floods, fires, tsunamis, earth quakes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions, canc... 

I'd like to share my new works with you:  

Every person asks themselves the question: "What do I Have to Offer?" at one time or another. We compare ourselves to the competition and wonder if we’re up to the task. Oftentimes, we allow fear to essentially blow us away. We give up. We quit. We t... 

Designers and artists are constantly looking for new patterns, shapes, and textures. Some search for patterns already created in hopes of adding a new twist or variation. The local fabric store is one place to look for these designs. Fabrics and text... 

The model for my new painting has a delightful personality and more moods than “Carter has pills.” (Boy does that date me!) I’ve used her before, and hope that her mother, and grandmother, will allow me to paint this wonderful child again. When I ... 

Surrounded by old photographs, my past envelops me with a sudden rush of remembrance. Here we are family and friends captured in a brief, fleeting moment singled out from the countless hours, days, and weeks that make up our lives. How happy we lo... 

The girl in the painting could have been me as a child. I brought home stray cats as fast as my mother could tastefully get rid of them. But some of them, she let me keep. Stray cats are a ravenous bunch. They crave both food and affection. I ador... 

Every now and then, we all run into a wall, either of our own making or because of circumstances: health and time constraints, personal obstacles, an awareness that we need something; a jumpstart, a class, some inspiration. I have reached that poi... 

Life is made up of small bits of knowledge, built up over time; increments of learning that cling together and form a picture, a memory, a smattering of trivia and truth. Where does this knowledge come from? Everywhere! Yesterday, I was taking my ... 

I do it all the time. I stress over a project or painting and feel I’m not up to the task. Before I know it, I’ve tied myself into a bundle of nervous insecurity. Oh, I know the drill. I’ve read all the self-help books, spouted the mantras and pra... 

We’d all like to capture time and dispense it when and where we choose. As the song says: “There never seems to be enough time to do the things we want to do…” I live in Florida. What that means, especially in “season,” is that overnight guests ar... 

I recently read two disparate articles on the subject of religion and art. One author said the only reason religion became part of art history is because it was forced upon artists by the Popes and Kings of former generations in order to decorate the... 

Most of my wildlife paintings and drawings come from real-life scenes I’ve photographed. I usually make a quick sketch or a more developed one before I incorporate it into a painting. I also study the birds and wildlife and get more information onlin... 

We can’t change the world, but it will change us if we let it. The turmoil and chaos can and will affect us; so people, beware! It’s difficult to remain calm when everything around us is changing, and around the globe the grip of panic and turbule... 

A fellow artist told the story of a friend who at 19 years of age won an art competition. The judges and her mentors raved about her work and suggested that she continue in this field. They encouraged her to push herself a little further and delve in... 

Here is the painting revamped. See earlier blog titled: "Reincarnation--a Painting Reborn." I moved the egret to the left, covered up the egret that was placed in the middle (error in composition), and brightened up the color temperature. I hope you... 

In a previous blog, I showed you a painting that I was less than satisfied with. Looking back, I probably should have moved the egret to the left and quit; but once you begin brushing paint on -- it's no holes barred. For better or worse, here is my ... 

Painting is a process not a destination. You have a plan, a vision, but the creative mind and hard work either make a mess or magic; if a mess, an opportunity to create something else as equally beautiful. An FAA artist recently sold a painting of... 

Welcome to a promotional video produced for a gallery show where I was featured. I had six paintings in the show.  

Inez Ibis Flies Again by Carol Allen Anfinsen, Written and Illustrated | Make Your Own Book 

Take heart artists! Some paintings are selling these days, and most of them are “edgy.” If that’s a new term for you, you’re not alone. My first experience with this novel art form was when I saw two paintings gobbled up by art collectors; one a blue... 

Painters and Artists League at Gateway (PALS), held a Wine & Cheese this month for the community; an event where we could show our artwork and mingle with friends and neighbors. In addition to serving wine, shrimp and appetizers, cheese was the featu... 

In my “With These Hands” series, I chose a young African American girl for this painting. I used the title: “Hope” because it represents the spirit that helped African Americans survive and endure many years of injustice and persecution. I was at ... 

I love roses! They’re old-fashioned. They come in many unique variations: floppy, ruffled, exquisite and perfect. Above all, they are fragrant. Whenever I’m seated at a restaurant with a white cloth on the table and a live rose as the centerpiec... 

My December issue of “Better Homes and Gardens” got me into the Christmas spirit, until I saw a photo-list of shrubs to plant for Christmas color. After reading their suggestions, I was enraged. More and more, I’m becoming at least a “conservative” e... 

No matter where you live in the world there are unique customs and traditions that mark holiday and religious celebrations. In this blog, I’m sharing some of mine with you, and I invite you to send me yours. I’ll feature them here or you may add them... 

I almost called this painting: “Amelia at the Barre.” When I saw my granddaughter in her beautiful costume, I knew I had to paint her. Not only did she awaken my love for the ballet and for the energetic works of Degas׳, but her picture brought... 

When money is tight, and the economy is hurting, artwork is the last thing people think about. It was and always has been a luxury item; something people buy after food and rent. It’s not a staple. You don’t need it to survive. When all is said an... 

Here is a recently posted painting called: “Anhinga in Paradise.” The anhinga in the painting is a female. How do I know? Because the females have a buff colored head, neck, and chest while the males are black in those areas. The male has a larger wi... 

Long before the words: “Feng Shui” or its premise came to America; I was the Queen of Green: a nature lover at heart and most alive when outdoors or surrounded by green and earthy wood tones. I experienced first-hand the effects of green as a healer ... 

I don’t know about you, but orange always makes me think of food; you know carrots, oranges, squash, and especially pumpkins in the Fall. Blue is the Complement of orange. Use blue in a room or as sky in a painting along with orange and both colors w... 

Shadows – they follow you wherever you go. They reflect your size and shape, but they aren’t you. The sun and the ebbing twilight distort your shadow as the hours tick by. Indoors, shadows cast by a lamp or an overhead light are blurred by distance... 

I have some white knit Capri pants that I love. They have a pocket on one thigh for coins and they hug my hips snuggly making me feel sleek and thin under a Tee. So why can’t I find them? I search frantically through my drawers as the clock ticks inc... 

Last spring I featured some pictures in my blog of the Poinciana tree, a lovely import from the West Indies that produces brilliant red flowers each year. Today I’m sharing photos of the Golden rain tree, an elegant beauty that produces yellow cones ... 

I love that Ford commercial where the masculine trucker, Mike, walks out and says: “People ask me, Mike, why Ford? Why Now?” In a last ditch effort to keep Ford afloat and truck buyers buying, Ford is still pitching woo in spite of a lagging economy ... 

Fall has always been my favorite time of year: the turning of leaves, the delicious first bite of a Jonathan apple fresh-picked from an orchard. Cider newly made, corn shocks, hay rides, a pot of chili on frosty nights and toasty memories of bonfires... 

Hope is a bird flying on the upward thrust of a ball. Will the thud of pigskin on metal send the ball hurling outward in a disappointing loss? Will the ball circle the rim and teeter on the brink of success or failure? Or will there be the triumphant... 

I wanted to get this painting up and running on Friday, but it was more complicated than that. In the process of “catching up” after my vacation, I discovered some unresolved issues at my church where I’m a web master. To make a long story short, ... 

Paint pigments are of the earth making paint a living thing that can perform magic. The quality of any artwork is in direct relationship to the skill with which the artist applies the paint to canvas. Imagination and style separate one artist from... 

A recent trip to Minnesota, reminded me of the scenes that inspired my painting: “Americana.” Since I’m in between paintings, I thought you’d enjoy seeing the motivation behind the painting: a combination of nostalgia, history, and emerald green farm... 

Let’s face it; life isn’t always “peachy keen,” even though we’d like it to be. I didn’t get my second illustration finished, but I did get a drawing on the panel that is really “spiffy.” So if you’re not too “hotsy totsy,” you can take a peek. Yo... 

I wasn’t around in the roaring twenties. I wasn’t even a gleam in my daddy’s eye. In fact, he was barely a glimmer himself. But I’ve always viewed the 1920s era as fun, lively, and provocative. And then there’s the jazz—born out of sorrow, etched... 

I get that question a lot! The answer is "no;" but the truth is that my latent talent must have been simmering just below the surface. Before I learned how to paint and draw (or should I say: before an art instructor taught me how to see?), I used... 

The dictionary defines process: “as a natural phenomenon marked by gradual changes that lead toward a particular result or end; the result of growth.” Sounds a lot like Life, doesn’t it? My “in-progress” painting is also a process. First the penci... 

When Lightning Strikes--Look Out! Florida is the lightning capitol of the world. Yes, really! Every year, lightning strikes and kills more than one unwary tourist who pooh poohs the seriousness of the threat. “Just one more shot,” they think as th... 

"Beach Buddies" the painting is finished. To refresh your memory, here are two “in progress” shots of the initial acrylic drawing and washes and the first oil paint application. Compare them to the finished painting above (on my blogspot blog). Th... 

When my dad came home after a long day at work, he sat in his favorite chair and devoured the comic books: “Bugs Bunny,” “Donald Duck,” “Daffy Duck,” “Alley Oop.” Dad was a welder and worked physically hard in addition to driving long distances to an... 

I grew up around farms like the one depicted in my 16x20 acrylic painting: “Americana.” Farms where chickens, hollyhocks and morning glories were allowed to run wild, and gates and front doors were left wide open to welcome neighbors and friends. Ame... 

Brown pelicans, once endangered, are now at risk again; this time from the BP oil spill. Like many of you, I am sickened by the photos coming out of the Gulf. Pelicans also battle for survival with fishermen who call them “pesky” and compete with ... 

I finished my "rooster" painting. The progress of this mixed media piece was tracked on my blog at http://AnfinsenArt.blogspot.com/ I used a photo I received from a friend for inspiration. Her daughter is a vetrenarian who has a pet rooster named: "... 

The latest painting in my "With These Hands" series is still wet, so the shine created some white specks and glare where it shouldn't. I will take another photo before uploading it to my gallery. This 18x24 canvas is oil over acrylic, and will be ti... 

This oil spill has all of us on the Gulf in a tizzy! We're hoping it won't reach our beaches, and we're praying for Louisiana and Pennsecola. The beautiful ocean and the beaches are the reasons we moved here, that and the weather. There's something ... 

This is the second work in progress on my "With These Hands--Love" painting. Now I will begin layering and molding the lighter values and the details. The little girl needs some lighter values in her hair and some fine-tuning of detail. I will move t... 

I ran a contest on my blog at http://anfinsenart.blogspot.com/ for a model in my "With These Hands" Series. I selected a winner and posted the photo on a previous blog at FAA. This is the first "work in progress." I started the painting by using a... 

I decided to run a contest on my blog at http://AnfinsenArt.blogspot.com/ I was looking for a model for my next painting in the "With These Hands" Series. The photo on this page is the winner selected by me. She will receive a free print as a prize,... 

I sold a card of this painting last month, and a print yesterday! It's my turn to do the happy dance! This young cowgirl is the first in a series of childrens paintings I call "With These Hands." I dubbed her "Wonder." I ran a contest on my blog ... 

I had to try the new technology! How great is this?  

I'm not a fan of art shows. • They're hard work. • They take lots of muscle. • They require lugging heavy paintings and supplies long distances over bumpy terrain and several trips in the process. • The weather is unpredictable. At one show, a... 

A not-so-great photo of me--my apologies! This is me at my current event: Gateway Country Club through the month of May. The one good thing is they're having an open house and big BBQ shebang this weekend, so even though it's not "season," and many ... 

My husband's neice is an art therapist at Belview Hospital in New York. Troubled individuals in her care find release for their feelings in non-verbal ways. They use paints and brushes to express what words can never say. Art provides a voice for the... 

There is definitely a curve in learning how to draw and paint well. Not only is practice involved, but learning from professionals who have been there--done that. I want to thank my first art teacher (I've forgotten her name). A professional art educ... 

I will be displaying a few of my paintings at the Gateway Golf and Country Club during the month of May. The display is in their lobby and space is limited, but the exposure is good. Most Snowbirds will be gone by then, but it's better than nothing. ... 

In the real world, stress is real. We battle traffic. We quarrel with a spouse or a teenager. We juggle schedules. We face deadlines, and we fight our own demons all at the same time. How do you keep all the balls in the air without losing your grip?... 

If you're a creative person, it's inevitable that at some point in your career (or hobby) you're going to bump up against a blank wall. The feeling can be frightening, even devastating, but it doesn't have to keep you down. Over the years I've dis... 

Inez Ibis Flies Again by Carol Allen Anfinsen, Written and Illustrated  

Artists and writers are complicated people, albeit strange. They see and hear things that others sometimes miss; hence they enlighten and uplift society in countless ways. Being both a writer and an artist makes me a little weird, I guess. I can ... 

People don't normally name the birds and animals they encounter, but after watching one ibis for over six years, I simply had to. Inez was the name that I gave her. What was it that made her stand out? First of all, she had a bad limp that made it di... 

Here are some shots of the gallery where our art league has paintings on display from February through March. The glare of the windows made it difficult to get a good picture, but you get the idea. Several paintings have been sold from this location.... 

I'm usually reluctant to show an unfinished painting, but in this case I wanted to introduce a new series of paintings I'm planning. The photo is the first in the series titled "With these Hands -- Wonder." As I've told you in my blog, I paint in my ... 

He was pink, blind and featherless when I saw him lying in the bright spring grass. His three-inch body brought back a rush of memories, and I was eight years old again, looking down on another fragile newborn. The bird had fallen so far from the ... 

When I was a child, I loved cats. In good weather, I brought home every stray cat within walking distance. My mother was patient and supportive. She placed a litter box in a recessed nook on one side of our big kitchen and indulged my love for cats, ... 

Valentine's Day is upon us. T.V. ads bombard us with ideas for gifts of love and the way love should be rewarded; schemes are rampant, manipulation games are playing, and the "fix is in." Okay, so I'm being cynical. But are gifts of love important? A... 

Proud of our paintings that were hanging in the windows of the Harlowe Gallery, the members of Gateway Artists were saddened when they got rained out on Fort Myers weekly Art Walk. On Saturday, with a break in the weather, we headed for Ponce d'Leon ... 

While the rest of the nation hunkers down for more blizzards and freezing rain, those of us in Florida are content with a few extra blankets on the bed or a warmer jacket when we go outside. Fifty degree weather feels pretty cold to those of us who l... 

It's easy to start something new; a relationship, a romance, a life, a story, a painting. It's not so easy to finish. My computer is filled with half finished stories. My closet shelves are overflowing with supplies and half finished projects that d... 

I don't know which is more fun, the excitement of making plans or the actual participation in an art show event. Our art league is abuzz with plans ranging from serving cocktails or margaritas to what we should wear as we scramble to put the finishin... 

I moved to Florida to avoid cold weather as did many others. A few nights ago we had the coldest night on record, and our power was out for almost four hours. This would have been a piece of cake when we lived up north; but now that our blood has th... 

Nature is a good teacher. When a spider's web is torn down either through weather or malicious intent, it rebuilds. When an ant hill is crushed or flooded by rain, the ants work together to rebuild it, grain by grain, lifting more than twenty times ... 

Announcing a NEW Ebook and childrens picture book titled: "Inez Ibis Flies Again," the story of a courageous ibis who never gave up. COPY THE LINKS AND PASTE INTO YOUR BROWSER: http://smashwords.com/b/8340 and www.blurb.com%252Fbooksto... 

Ibis fortitude A white Ibis with a crippled right leg lives in our neighborhood. She hops about on her good leg and drags her useless limb behind her. Like all Ibis, she pokes at the ground with her long curved bill foraging for food. Her bill is ex... 

A question I'm often asked is "where do you get your Ideas?" Mine come from many places, but most come from inside my mind and heart when inspired by a "trigger:" a response to someone, somewhere, or something (an object, surroundings, a memory). ... 

It happens every New Year. When the celebrating is over, discouragement sets in. A look back reminds me of how many goals were unmet, of how much more I have to learn, of how technically challenged I am when it comes to computers, and of how "average... 

The new year is a good time to re-evaluate who we are and where we're going, but sometimes the process elicits more questions than answers. For instance, why do we worry about the environment: is it getting warmer, is it too cold, are the polar be... 

This painting is an oil on 16x20 oval canvas. I would never do an oval canvas again. For one thing, it is difficult to hang straight. For another, frames are difficult to find, and buyers even more difficult. I really like this painting. It's a t... 

I can't help myself. When the calendar reaches January, my mind conjures up images of winters past with snow and blowing cold. Even though I live in Florida, come January I get that "rumbley in my tumbley" for a crock full of homemade soup. I love... 

I fell in love with paper somewhere between third and sixth grades. I remember the excitement of making that first mark on a white sheet and wondering where it was going to take me, either to capture a vision I saw in my head, or to write a few words... 

Every December our church and some generous volunteers, put on an unconventional nativity titled "A Walk through Bethlehem.". The characters are asked to read the Christmas story as found in Matthew, and a script suggesting possible action and dialog... 

ANNOUNCING I will be in an art show on Patio De Leon in downtown Fort Myers on Saturday, January 2, 2010. I will be showing on Friday, Feb. 5, 2010 on that same plaza in a gallery window for Art Walk and for the entire month of February along with ... 

When I lived in Kansas City, we had a backyard garden of sorts. We grew tomatoes, peppers, radishes, lettuce and squash. But the main staple of our garden was green beans. I was ever so proud when we had enough to can (if I wanted to), and enough to ... 

Emma is a delightful person. She has spent a lifetime raising her children and serving her community and church. That's where I met her, and worked with her on the newsletter committee for several years. We still consider her a member of the group, ... 

This is the season of giving. The season to be jolly. But sometimes it seems that everyone has their hand out, from organizations and charities to people in actual need. Between flashy advertisements to buy, and pleas for contributions, our cheer and... 

What can I say? I'm a Leo. I love sunshine and bright colors, especially yellows and reds, and I'm crazy about sunflowers. Come to think of it, sunflowers look like miniature lions, only instead of hair their mane is ruffled petals. I remember... 

People say that my paintings are bright and colorful. Of course, they're right. I guess I see the world that way. Take people; I like to assume the best in them, even when they prove me wrong. Some may call that gullible, others naive. I admit I'v... 

A client picked up her painting on Thanksgiving day. There is always a certain amount of worry involved in this. Will she like it? Will the colors suit her, etc.? When you paint for someone else who has a definite idea about what they want, you wonde... 

For three years in a row, we have made the trek to Sarasota, Florida to meet other family members and share our Thanksgiving dinner in a small Amish restaurant named "Mom's." Mom's lives up to its name. The servings are more than generous. We each... 

Fortunately, this little piggy does not go to market. Feral pigs run wild in Florida, usually under the cover of darkness. Other names for these oinkers are "wild boar," wild hog," or "razorback." Sound intimidating? They are if confronted. Their t... 

"Rufous" seems inadequate to describe the coloring of this radiant bird. The brown thrasher's orange red feathers almost glow in the sunlight. And they can sing, as well as mimic other bird song; but the variety and range is more limited, and the son... 

Another beautiful day in paradise. This is what living in southern Florida is like; there's always something to see, another new thing to learn, a wealth of nature's bounty right at my doorstep. Today was no different. The Alligator Flag are in fu... 

I did preliminary sketches for “Window on Pine Island” plein air, and followed up with photos. The actual painting was done at home. I was captivated by the light on the water and the trees that surrounded this scene. There was an actual wooden pl... 

The loggerhead shrike, a saucy bird with an unusual song is both striking and endearing. Slightly smaller than the mocking bird, but with similar coloring, they are often confused one with the other. There are distinct differences. The loggerhead ... 

Each day, I walk by a small cypress copse that juts out into the lake. Sometimes the branches are filled with migrating cormorants looking for a free lunch, or with egrets and herons returning to their nests. Together the mated pair clean and fix-... 

Have you ever noticed how tenacious birds of prey are in pursuit of their supper? A red shouldered hawk frequents the southern oaks behind our villa. I observed him sitting on a nearby branch for at least 15 minutes. I assumed he was waiting for o... 

When I spotted the two birds, they were running alongside the chicken wire fence, hidden beneath the Brazilian pepper, the hedgerow, and the Spanish moss which draped from their lower branches. When the birds saw me, a soft chortle started up in ... 

“The heavens declare the glory of God. The skies proclaim the works of his hands.” (Psalm 19) On my daily walk, I watched a turkey vulture swoop overhead and land on a hot tile roof a few feet away. The buzzard spread its wings to soak up the sun ... 

Michael Jackson died a tragic death. Despite his iconic fame, he couldn’t feel the love of his fans who adored him. The people closest to him were users – most in it for the money. Jackson was way beyond talented with a popularity that defied history... 

I sailed over the wooden bridge on my bicycle and slid onto the gravel pathway that skirted Willow Park. The trail wound through marshland, giving visitors glimpses of wild geese, ducks, and birds in their natural habitat. I stopped my bike and w... 

I lived in a small town where doors were left unlocked, people waved and chatted over fences, and children were allowed to roam the streets at will. In winter, I walked across town to ice skate, returning in the dark of night, never worrying about th... 

My mother could whistle better than any guy, and long before it was fashionable. She even whistled through her teeth while playing softball with a local women’s team (unheard of). Later, she “whistled while she worked” around our house. I thought ... 

I missed my local art league meeting two Wednesdays in a row. My tail was dragging, I had a migraine headache, I didn’t want to lug my stuff around; and so it went. The following week, another excuse popped up. I had no car. I was planning to pai... 

Florida living provides me with an endless supply of stories and artistic material for painting. Every day I see a wide variety of birds, animals, plants, and aquatic life. Take this morning. I wasn’t expecting to see a black racer snake devour on... 

People wonder why I have such an insatiable love for all things nature, and wonder why I paint so many birds, etc. Here's one of the reasons: I grew up in an emerald green valley ringed on all sides by a craggy strip of mountains known as the Wasa... 

I like raccoons. They’re cute, perky and smart. But like mischievous children, they can get under your skin. They tip over garbage cans that “go bump in the night.” They invade people’s attics; and when confronted, they may get downright mean and nas... 

When I’m not painting, I’m drawing. I use my small sketches on cards and for illustrations in the picture books I’m working on. One of my favorite sketches is a raccoon head that I drew after a close-up encounter with one not long ago. I wanted to... 

Over the years, I’ve subscribed to several different art magazines. Each one inspired me, taught me, and gave me something to shoot for; a dream, a goal, a future. Truth is, today I live in a basement-less villa with scant storage space. In the of... 

Today a pair of pileated woodpeckers landed on our cabbage palm; their arrival a breathtaking flash of blink-bright red and black. Observing their skinny necks and hammer-shaped heads made me think of another time and place, when prehistoric bird... 

The strange muffled squawks caught my attention first, and I stopped to scan the woody branches of the gnarled southern oak. The source; a trio of fledgling blue jays, fluffy and fat, bouncing on a slender finger of new growth. Their croaks only a su... 

A wood stork went fishing in the pond behind my villa. She waded out only a few inches, her gangly long legs stilt-like above the surface of the water. Thinking her fishing expedition would require time and patience, I turned away; but a flash of... 

Our two favorite sandhill cranes gave birth in early summer to a fluffy yellow chick (at least this one survived). Several weeks later, they introduced her to the neighborhood, strutting proudly across the golf course with their wobbly chick sandwic... 

I never thought I’d be grateful for vultures and buzzards, but I am; even though their menacing black descent into my back yard ignited first repulsion and then indignation. I grabbed my broom, determined to shoo them away; but as I opened the bac... 

Armadillos are the miniature knights of the underworld. Their strange armored bodies are usually seen early in the morning or at dusk; a scurrying blur in front of headlights or as road kill the day after. When I finally get to see one wrapped i... 

NATURE UNLEASHED The air smelled heavy and earthy. The sun melted the last wisps of morning fog and warmed my back as I stood in the wet grass. A few yards away, a pair of male redwing blackbirds sparred in the underbrush, rising and falling like ... 

The redwing blackbird is a year-round resident of Florida and of Minnesota my second home. Its red shoulders and ebony black feathers make a striking contrast against the rolling sunflower fields of the upper Midwest where they flock in great numbers... 

“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge;” (Psalm 91:4) Robins are not particularly fussy about where they build their nests. I’ve seen a nest cradled in a wreath on someone’s door, and a nest wedged between a...