June Joy and Better Habits

New Better Habits. Give More by Saying “NO”
“What?” you say!
June is a month of celebrating achievements and anticipating new frontiers. I am learning from my new isolation habits!

What are you celebrating and looking forward to?  How are you nourishing your creative flow?
From the past months, I have learned...

• To be more comfortable with time alone in my studio.  I am more confident saying, “No” to events and offers, knowing that when I keep my schedule less filled,  I am able to give more to each activity and individual that comes my way.  I am able to work better, smarter and with a healthy, encouraging nod to the process.

• We can meet friends and fellow artists in distant states and countries on a regular basis via platforms like Zoom.  We continue lively discussions about technique, mediums, sources and sharing our work.  Although I will teach in-person workshops this fall, I think my Zoom Art group is here to stay!  In fact, this week an elderly friend said she is so happy to continue meeting via Zoom!  

• To appreciate driving less! We knew online shopping was possible and certainly tested the system. Each purchase eliminates travel for art supply shopping and saves miles! What are your supply resources? Some of my favorites are:

          Blick Art Materials
          Jerry's Artarama
          Cheap Joe's Art Stuff

• Clearing out is healthy! I am clearing out the studio!  Keeping only what gives you JOY is a good idea. (And make purchases thoughtfully!)

June is a time of completion, celebration and some reflection. As you look forward to summer,
What are you doing in the studio?
          Will you Paint? Sketch? Write? Play music?
To whom do you turn when you need to share—art talk and more? 
         Create a circle of painting friends to meet (in-person or virtually) and paint, chat, eat and share!
Sometimes we just need a fresh start:
See my YouTube video: 

We will be sharing some of these techniques in my Art Zoom.
​Contact me if you are interested in joining; I charge a small fee to cover the Zoom cost.

I am delighted to be teaching In-Person Workshops this fall:
Art Groove Camp for Grown-Ups September 10-15, 2021, Angelus Oaks, CA
Desert Institute Class  October 16, 2021 Joshua Tree National Park (Black Rock Campground), CA


​So, for the first time in a year and a half, it really feels a bit like “June is Busting out all Over!”
Happy Graduation and end of the school year to those in the academic world! Thank you for your dedication.
Happy Father’s Day!
Celebrate Juneteenth or Freedom Day, a holiday which connects us to our roots, both joyful and regretful.
Celebrate summer’s longest day, Summer Solstice!
June also boasts some lesser known holidays:
June 1 – Mint Julep and World Milk Day
une 3 – European  Bicycle Day
June 4 -  Hug Your Cat Day
June 6 -  National Yo-Yo Day
June 9 -  National Rhubarb Pie Day and Writers Rights Day
June 12 -  National Peanut Butter Cookie Day
June 14th -  National Bourbon Day…to name  a few.
​If you missed one, it's ok to go back and celebrate!~
In France, La Fete De La Musique is a day of music celebrated on June 21—musicians (of  all levels, cultures  and genres) are encouraged to play in public places. Musicians of all levels, cultures  and genres are encouraged.   World Music Day has spread to many countries. Create your own Day of Music!

I hope June finds you healthy with the prospect for creativity and some leisure. Nurture friendships—finally we can visit safely in small numbers! I hope you will soon see those loved ones whom you so desperately wish to hug!  
Schedule special visits or issue an invitation!  Wishing you a joyous June!

Inspired by all of you!

I invite you to visit galleries on my  website and online store currently offering specials. 
Matted Originals 
Desert Cards 
Original Paintings 
Etsy Shop French Press

Local? My art is available at:
Cactus Mart  Morongo Valley, CA
Rainbow Stew Stew Yucca Valley, CA
Soul Connection Joshua Tree, CA

Recently, I had a fun opportunity to visit the home of art collectors, who own several of my works and art by many other Hi Desert artists.  Herman and Dina Platzke graciously invited me into their home and nurture many artists! Herman is also exploring the painting medium and doing well.  I love this painting of his granddaughter in front of the iconic stone at Jumbo Rocks! Thank you art patrons!