Melanie Douthit Art Studio

More Mardi Gras

2012-03-02T08:54:00.000-08:00

I'm still celebrating Mardi Gras! I have had three Mardi Gras Dachshund orders this week, and painted two back to back. These are for long-hair dachshunds, so - just in case you wondered - yes, I can paint your long haired doxie. You can order your custom Mardi Gras Dachshund painting from my Etsy Store.

All this Mardi Gras art has me longing for the French Quarter, so we've planned a trip in the next couple of weeks. I can't wait.

Busy weekend ahead - an art reception to attend, a "Dancing With the Stars" local event, and a few days later another "masked" event with a twist. And I will be featuring an artist here on my blog this month. I can't believe it's March already!

Thanks for stopping by and have a great day.

Mardi Gras and Murder Mystery Dinner

2012-02-25T16:03:00.000-08:00

This has been a jammed packed month with heart themes, mardi gras and mystery. Over a week ago I attended the local "Go Red" event for the American Heart Association. The day before the event I had the privilege of assisting the coordinator and her team in decorating the venue for an expected 350 people. They chose a Mardi Gras theme of "Krewe de Rouge", and had red mardi gras mask centerpieces, gift bags, red chair covers and other beautiful decoration. I love event planning, so this was right up my alley. Some local artists donated paintings, pottery and other hand made items for a silent auction. My "Felt With the Heart" painting was purchased by a Louisiana Senator and his wife. I was so honored that they chose my piece for their home. Another highlight of the night was meeting Jenna Bush Hager. She was the keynote speaker for the event and was just as beautiful, if not more, in person.

As soon as that event was over, I had to get busy for my own Mardi Gras themed event - a murder mystery dinner! This special dinner for eight included gumbo, muffelettas (New Orleans Style), king cake, and a Mardi Gras Ding Dong cake, something I put my own unique spin on. The ficticious setting for this party was a New Orleans Garden District mansion and included a notorious gothic author, a southern beauty queen, a Las Vegas trailer trash gold-digger, a French Quarter street musician, a bayou boy, a lawyer and last but not least, hired help in the way of the chef and the maid. My husband and I took the roles of the hired help. I love how my friends took the time to dress the parts of the characters. No one read the scripts beforehand (including myself) so we were in for hilarious surprises throughout the night as we tried to guess who the murderer was. If you have never done a murder mystery "game", you can't imagine how much fun it was. We can't wait for the next one.

Meanwhile back at the studio, I have a mardi gras dachshund custom painting in the works along with some canvases that I haven't decided what they will be yet. Want to take a peek?

I have another fun event to attend next week and hubby is already planning our spring break vacation. I told him to surprise me! I'm too tired to think about anything but I will be ready for a new adventure soon. Thanks for stopping by. I promise I'll have more new art up soon. Have a great day!

Felt With The Heart

2012-02-13T20:14:00.000-08:00

Today has been designated as the day that "love" is celebrated. Happy Valentine's Day to each and every one of you that is reading this. If you have come here via the Fly Tribe Blog Hop - a special welcome to you. Please, please don't forget to leave a comment so I will know you stopped by.

I want to start today's post with a beautiful quote from Helen Keller:

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.

I was inspired to incorporate this quote into a painting I created for an upcoming American Heart Association silent auction. I wanted the painting to reflect the "go red" theme, so I painted one of my favorite subject - red poppies. If you look closely, you can see the quote in between the stems, and a hint of wording at the top.

"Felt With The Heart" 24" x 30" ©Melanie Douthit

I think the painting would make a cool greeting card. What do you think?

Speaking of greeting cards, how many of you remember the cute adorable valentines we used to exchange in grade school? Here is one that brings back memories.

And here is one more little valentine images. This is a photo my hubby took a few weeks ago when he saw that his toothpaste splatter that landed in the sink made a heart. I mean, how many times does that happen?

Thank you for stopping by today. You can continue the Fly Tribe Blog Hop by going to this link. Have a wonderfully creative day.

It's Mardi Gras Season

2012-02-10T08:15:00.000-08:00

It's Mardi Gras time in Louisiana! Our local Mardi Gras parade is tomorrow. I have friends that will bring their camper downtown sometime today, park it and have a spread of food there tomorrow. Mid afternoon is a Mardi Paws pet parade (can you say "aawwee") - with the parade later in the evening. It's a fun time for family and friends, and very different from what you will see in New Orleans. It's the "G" rated version of Mardi Gras. :)

Last week I created this painting for a silent auction fundraiser at a local Mardi Gras ball.

"Let the Good Times Roll!" (Laissez les bons temps rouler.)

Size: 20" x 20"

I'm planning something fun next week for Mardi Gras. I've always wanted to host a Murder Mystery Dinner, so I'm organizing a "Murder at the Mardi Gras" mystery dinner. We are all excited about this fun evening. Everyone has been assigned a character with a description about them. I'll post about it afterwards.

Next week the Creativity Tribe is having a blog hop. Be sure to check back. I'll have links posted to the main sight so you can follow all the participants. Our theme is "Love".

Happy Friday, Everyone and Laissez les bons temps rouler.!!!

Born This Way

2012-02-03T06:09:00.000-08:00

I titled my most recent peacock painting "Born This Way". Think about it: the peacock didn't decide to be a magnificent looking bird - it was, in fact, born that way. I got to thinking - are artists born? or are they made. There is much debate on whether artistic ability is genetic or learned, and it seems that it can be both. But if it can be learned, can "all" people learn to be artists or are certain people more likely to be be "better" at being an artist than others? I'm sure that can be a long debate, too.

I decided to go back to the first known accounts of artists in the bible. Bezaleel and Aholiab. Exodus 31:1-6

AND THE Lord said to Moses,²See, I have called by name Bezaleel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.³And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom and ability, in understanding and intelligence, and in knowledge, and in all kinds of craftsmanship,⁴To devise skillful works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in bronze,⁵And in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all kinds of craftsmanship.⁶And behold, I have appointed with him Aholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and to all who are wisehearted I have given wisdom and ability to make all that I have commanded you:

I've always understood this passage that the talent and ability was from the Spirit of God. The children of Israel had just come out of a few hundreds of years of bondage. They were slaves and forced to make bricks. I don't think there was a lot of time to learn wood carving and fashioning things from gold. Their talent had to be given to them by God, either from birth, or at a later time. So, does this mean that all talent comes from above or was that just a special occurence. What do you think?

Here is the before and after of "Born This Way"

"Born This Way" 20" x 20"

Born this was was sold to a smart collector of happy art about 30 minutes after I shared it on my facebook page. I love it when that happens.

Keep up with my latest studio creations on my Facebook Page. Just press the "Like" button and you will get my feeds directly on your page.

And now you can shop my Etsy Store directly from my website. Here is my Shop Link.

Thanks for stopping by today. Have a wonderful weekend!

Routines and Calendars

2012-01-26T05:50:00.000-08:00

I know many people won't agree with this, but I actually love January! It's the end of the holiday hustle and bustle and a time to start organizing and getting back to "normal" (whatever that is). I've already filled up my new datebook through March, but I like planning ahead. It makes it so much easier when something pops up unexpectedly. If it doesn't fit in the calendar - I politely decline. It feels much better than over extending myself. It also helps so much with commissions. I can pencil in my non-commissions pieces around my schedule. It helps keep me on track from week to week.

If you are an artist, what do you do to help organize your studio time?

And for those of you that are enduring bitter cold winter storms, remember, it soon will pass. Here's a quote that I just love.

Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. - Helen Keller.

I just finished up one large commission and have another one to start right away. I'm loving that we have an unusually warm January here in the South. I have natural light in my studio and these bright sunny days make it such a cheerful atmosphere to work.

Here is a piece I finished last month. It has already found a home with a collector.

"Quite Contrary", 20" x 20" (in private collection).

We are getting ready for Mardi Gras here in the South. Just for fun, I'm in the middle of planning a fun Mardi Gras themed dinner party. Sssshhh.. Can't give away details just yet.

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful weekend!

Happiness is....

2012-01-17T09:39:00.000-08:00

I love to post on my facebook page about the little everday things that make me happy. You know - the things that make you smile and say "how cool is that?". Especially when you stumble upon things unexpected. Unexpected "happy surprises" are really the best, aren't they?

Happiness is when I walk into a local home improvement store to get bird seed (you know, to make the birds happy) and stumble upon a paint sample freebee.

Happiness is.... taking your daughter to Books A Million and stumbling upon 50% of date planners, and not just plain ones, but artsy ones and one tailor made just for me.

Happiness is.... opening your art show reception guest book to find the word "happy" peppered throughout the comments your guests made about your work.

See what I mean? Things that just make you smile.

Here's a piece I created last week. I started working on it during a couple of rainy days here in the South. This is in the early stages.

And below is the finished piece. I love including a positive quote, phrase or lyric in my paintings. This one says:

"It may be raining, but there's a rainbow above you."

"Rainbow Above You" is 20" x 20" with 1.5" deep sides painted to match. and has already been claimed by a collector who likes happy art. That makes me happy.

Thank you for stopping by. I'd love to know you stopped by, so please leave me a comment, and if you are an artist, include your blog link so I can stop by. Have a great day!

Art Reception and Scrapbook Clippings

2012-01-12T05:35:00.000-08:00

My art reception was this past Saturday, and the weather was warm and bright and sunny. What a blessing for a weekend in January. I propped the doors open and we hung flower balloons on the sidewalk, which appropriately matched the flower shaped sugar cookies. Three of the new pieces I created for the show sold, along with the Mardi Gras dachshund painting that someone had put in the window display. Thank you to all my friends and family and collectors that came out. I even got to see one of my former art students from 10 years ago - all grown up! Here are a few pics from the event.

After reading the comments left in my guest book, I now describe my art style as:
"Happy art with a twist of funky"

(just so you know)

I was pleasantly surprised that my hometown newspaper not only included the information about the show and reception in their paper, but they took up almost half a page for it - and in color! This page is definitely going in the scrapbook.

If you are out and about, please stop by the Ouachita River Art Gallery this month to see the show. One of the sold pieces is still there (the collector generously offered to let it hang for the next few weeks). The gallery is at 308 Trenton Street (Antique Alley), West Monroe, open Tues-Sat 10-5pm.

If you haven't already seen the artists' blog hop I recently participated in, scroll down to my previous blog entry for New Year's inspiration.

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great week!

Art and Artists' New Year Blog Hop

2012-01-08T16:02:00.000-08:00

Last year I connected with a group of fabulous artists through the participation of Kelly Rae Roberts' ecourse. We have continued our interaction which has resulted in support, advice, inspiration and The Fly Tribe Girls Blog Hop!

We were asked to choose one word for 2012.
My word is: inspiration.
Websters defines inspiration as:
-the action or power of moving the intellect or emotions
-the act of influencing or suggesting opinions
-the act of drawing in; specifically
-the drawing of air into the lungs

What do you draw inspiration from? Is it music? Are you inspired visually by taking a nature walk? Do you paint from your feelings deep within?

I love the definition that Webster's uses of "drawing in" and especially "drawing air into the lungs". Sometimes I feel I can actually "breathe in" inspiration. It can be either from sounds (music), visually (color combinations) or even from smells. I draw or make a note of the inspirations so I don't forget them and use them for later.

I also want to BE an inspiration. I love hearing from someone that they have been inspired by me, or by something I said or something they saw me do. If we all inspired others, it would be a chain reaction that would never end.

I have been inspired by music lately. There is scientific proof that light, color and sound are related, and I don't doubt it one bit. I met a blind artist a few months ago that said he "hears" color in music. Close your eyes and listen to your favorite music. Imagine what colors you can "hear". What color sounds happy? What color sounds energetic? Learn to tune in all of your senses in your art.

Here is my "inspiration" piece. It's called "Life's Been Good", and it was inspired by music.

"Life's Been Good", 20" x 20" (sold to private collector).

Thanks for stopping by my blog today. I hope you received some inspiration. Feel free to leave me some feedback in the comments section, then continue on with the blog hop by linking back to the Fly Tribe Blog Here.

Time for a new Calendar!

2012-01-03T05:35:00.000-08:00

Wow - what a year! It was a couple of days after Christmas when I realized that I forgot to get a 2012 calendar. I went out to the mall to where for eons we had a calendar vendor set up every year, but they weren't there! Found a funky one at Hobby Lobby.

We celebrated the new year at our home with family and friends. I was digging up New Year traditions and found out that it has often been thought that the first visitors you see after ringing in the New Year would bring you good or bad luck, depending on who you keep as friends and enemies. That's why most people celebrating on New Year's Eve often do so with friends and family.. What a blessing it was to have spent this time in such good company. We spent the evening doing fireworks with the kids, eating too much, playing some games and just enjoying each others' company.

I'm still running pretty much full-blast here. In just a few days I'm having a little reception at the cooperative artists' gallery that I belong to. I'm the featured artist for January. There is no better way to start the year with another party, right?

This is the piece of art I used on the cover of my invitations. The theme I chose for my art pieces is "Secret Garden".

If you are local and would like to attend, the event will be held at the Ouachita River Art Gallery, 308 Trenton Street, West Monroe, Louisiana on Saturday, January 7, 2012 from 2-4pm.

I hope everyone has a wonderful new year. Thanks for stopping by!

The Day After Christmas

2011-12-26T05:27:00.000-08:00

I have a term for the days following Christmas - I call it "Christmas afterglow". It's the time when the hustle and bustle comes to an end and when we smile and reflect on our blessings. We had a water pipe burst the morning of the "day after Christmas" last year, so we missed out on that special time. In return, my living room has been completely redecorated from floors on up, so this was our first Christmas in a "new" living room.

We added one last piece for the year to our living room. When I saw the grape carvings in the woodwork, I was instantly in love.

As you can tell from my lack of blogging that it has been an unusually busy month. I worked on commissions right up until December 23, and had to turn down a few. I'm already booked into mid January, so please, if you know you want something, even a few months from now, contact me right away.

I look forward to bringing in the New Year with some close friends and getting ready for an art reception. I have some new art pieces that I can't wait to share.

This is one of my favorite pics of the season - my kids on Christmas Eve. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. Our family is truly blessed.

Something stirring in the studio

2011-12-09T06:20:00.000-08:00

Yep - something is stirring in the studio! While the family is nestled, all snug in their beds, visions of artistry is dancing in my head.

well, it was worth a shot.

I'm working on a new series for an upcoming show. Let's just say I hope it puts a smile on your faces during these cold winter months. I hope to have something to share soon.

Meanwhile - if you are planning on going to the Great Artists Collective anniversary party tomorrow, please take lots of pics and share them with me. We have had a change of plans and won't be able to make the drive down. I'm sad about missing this, but relieved to have more studio time.

Thanks for stopping by today and have a wonderful weekend!

Artist Meet and Greet in New Orleans

2011-12-06T05:13:00.000-08:00

To my friends who will be in New Orleans this weekend, you are invited to celebrate with us at the Great Artists Collective on Royal Street in the French Quarter. Many of the artists will be there for you to meet in person.

The Great Artists Collective is at 815 Royal Street, just a few blocks from Jackson Square. My friend owns Royal Street Deli on the corner of Ann and Royal, just a few doors down from the gallery. They have wonderful red beans and rice. I can't wait to eat there again.

There will be numerous people from Northeast Louisiana visiting this New Orleans that weekend because two of our high schools are playing in the championship games at the Super Dome. I'm so excited to be able to visit the French Quarter during the Christmas Holidays.

Speaking of Christmas - the Christmas on the River Parade and events this past weekend were fun. Here are a few of the many photos I took.

Thanks for stopping by. Have a wonderful week.

Christmas on the River

2011-12-02T06:28:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is Christmas on the River in Downtown West Monroe. The festivies include a Chili Cookoff and the annual Christmas Parade. I had the honor of working with the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor's Bureau in designing and hand-painting the spoons that will be awarded as prizes for the cooking contest.

My daughter went with us to the Christmas on the River Sponsorship dinner. This is the adorable dress we found for only $32 at Burlington.

It wouldn't be a Christmas party without Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus.

The theme for this year's event is "Candyland Christmas", hence the delicious candy table.

What a fun way to start the Christmas Season! We have another party to attend this weekend, and in another week we start another theatrical production. Fa la la la la. Enjoy your weekend and thanks for stopping by.

Tis the Season

2011-11-30T18:11:00.000-08:00

I'm barely getting in one more November blog post before the calendar page turns. It has been the most action packed month ever! We all enjoyed being involved with the Anne of Green Gables cast and crew the previous weeks. We chose the best ever performance to be involved with.

In the midst of performances, I participated in a well attended art event called "Art With A View". I had a room with a view on the 3rd floor of one of our city's beautiful buildings, right down the hall from several gallery coop members that I work with.

Unfortunately, I left my camera on the counter as we dashed out the door to this event. Thank goodness for friends with cameras and the good old cell phone. :)

I sold my Poppies from Oz, The Not in Kansas (Dorothy and the Dachshund), the Tinman and Scarecrow from my Cellphone Pics from Oz, but the biggest hit was the Bon Appetit Y'all Signs (you can see a couple in the right corner of the below pic)

I'm still filling orders for more signs while my Christmas tree is lighted yet undecorated. I've been hit physically with something that I'm not quite sure I caught at the theater or something that breezed my way the day after black-friday shopping. Hmmm....

I have more fun pics to share soon. Thanks for stopping by!

...and all is right with the world

2011-11-17T05:31:00.000-08:00

We are getting down to our last three performances of Anne of Green Gables at the youth center. It's been an awesome experience in every aspect for all of us. We have all learned new things, have been stretched and have been amazed.

My daughter created the artwork that was used on the show poster. We put a quote from the play into the painting and offering raffle tickets to win the painting. That's her painting at the top of this post.

Meanwhile, I'm preparing for a huge local art show. Can't wait to post photos from that event. Have a wonderful weekend everyone. Thanks for stopping by.

The Friday Goodies Go To...

2011-11-11T08:05:00.000-08:00

It's Friday!!! Yipppee. Thank you to everyone that left comments on Melony Bradley's guest blogger post as well as Jacquards facebook page and my art studio facebook page. It's time to announce the winner of the giveaway. (drumroll) My daughter had the honor of picking a name...

The lucky winner is

Congratulations, Carol Bray! I will need your mailing address, so if I don't send you a message, be sure to contact me via my facebook page or at art@melaniedouthit.com.

Thanks everyone. Have a wonderful weekend!

Theater Art

2011-11-09T05:41:00.000-08:00

My family has immersed itself into theater life thru the Christmas holidays. Our first production starts this weekend. Anne of Green Gables, at the young actors theater, starts this weekend. My daughter has her first speaking part in this play. Behind the scenes, hubby has been helping create the stage, while your truly has been creating faux wood panel walls, and (yikes) a mural! Here are a few photos from one of the rehearsals.

More pics from this production to come later. Today is catch up time in the studio. Thanks for dropping by and do NOT miss out on the Jacquard Paint giveaway I have on my blog post HERE. You have until early Friday, Nov. 11 to enter. I'll draw a name that morning.

Thanks for stopping by!

My First Guest Artist, and a Give-away!

2011-11-04T04:32:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be welcoming my first ever guest artist on my blog today! Co-incidentally, she and I share very similar first names. In fact, what first connected us was when one of the craft magazines we both design for accidentally got our checks mixed up. How is that for happy accidents? You will love her beautiful creations. There is a give-away, too, so be sure to follow the instructions to double your chances of winning.

Fellow blog readers, I would like to welcome Melony Bradley as my first guest blogger.
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Tell us about yourself and who you design for.

On the professional side, I have been designing full time since 2004. On the personal side, I am newly single. I recently moved from the Memphis, TN area to the South Georgia area. Getting use to the mild seasonal weather is hard! But my family is here and they have been super supportive of my recent changes. I am also excited to be setting up a large studio here, however, so that is more silver lining. I primarily submit and write for print publications such as Stampington Pubs (Green Craft, Sommerset Life and Altered Couture), Crafts n Things and Create and Decorate to name a few. I had my first project published in Cloth Paper Scissors Gifts this year (excited!). I also work on a number of levels with Jacquard Products, a manufacturer of high quality paints, dyes and inks (and a lot of other cool stuff).

How did you get started in your creative journey.

In 1991, I sent a pair of halloween confetti earrings to the then-editor, Julie Stephani. She accepted them and I was stunned! I had a few other projects accepted but did not really know how to make the transition from the corporate world to the design world. I worked in marketing for about 20 more years. The experience the business work gave me was an invaluble part of my journey, which I am still on. After I was laid off from my corporate marketing job, I decided to take the plunge and combine my two loves in life- marketing and crafting. The first two years were spent mainly marketing myself, getting to know the creative industry and how I fit in. The next two years took off for me.

What advice would you give to artists that are trying to find their own style?

Experiment with a number of different styles until you find what seems to come easy to you. Don't give up. When finishing a piece, my test is "do I want to keep this?" If I know the answer is yes, then I know I have designed true to myself and style.

Another thing I do is design according to MY current decor style, fashion style, etc. If it doesn't fit, it was probably forced and that will show in your design work. If I have a vintage style decor theme, why would I be making a pillow in pink and orange? Design with your heart!

(Photos Courtesy of Melony Bradley)

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Thank you Melony! Melony has graciously offered a fun giveaway for my blog readers - a Lumiere Exciter Pack by Jacquard Products! The Lumiere Mini Exciter Pack contains eight 1/2oz bottles of Lumiere, a lustrous metallic paint that can be used on fabric, leather, paper and wood. Pack includes: Pearl Turquoise, Pearl White, Metallic Bronze, Halo Violet-Gold, Metallic Olive, Halo Pink-Gold, Pewter and Metallic Gold.

In order to have your name in the drawing, leave a comment below telling us which one of Melony's creations would you most likely want to create. And if you would like a second opportunity to be entered in the drawing, go to Melanie Douthit Art Studio's Facebook Page
, "Like" it if you haven't already, then look for the Lumiere Exciter Pack giveaway post and leave a comment there. One for one more chance at winning, go to Jacquard Products Facebook Page, "Like" it and leave a comment that says "Referred by Melanie Douthit Art Studio". Three ways to get your name in the drawing. You have until next Friday, November 11. I will be picking a winner after 8am central time and announcing on my blog and on facebook.

**note, if you have trouble leaving a comment on this post, please try another browser. I've also noticed that if you select "preview" , the comment goes through easier.**

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your weekend!

Art With a View

2011-11-03T05:28:00.000-07:00

I'm still trying to figure out how to put the breaks on November. (smile). I need another 3 weeks of October, please.

It's been a busy week in the studio. Here is a peek of what I've been working on.

I'm also getting ready for an art fundraiser for the Monroe Symphony Orchestra. The event is called "Art With a View" and is held on several floors of a large office building. There will be art from numerous local and regional artists there, food and music. Doesn't that sound like fun? If you are local, please come. You can find info in the link.

If you missed the art blog hop, go to my previous post and visit the links of the artists listed. Be sure to leave a comment to let the artists know you stopped by. Have a wonderful day and thanks for reading today.

Lions and Tigers and Bears! Oh My!

2011-11-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

First of all, today's post is part of a blog hop. At the end of this entry, be sure to see the links to continue on with your artsy reading.The blog hop was inspired by the friendships developed by various artists that recently took a creative business e-course by Kelly Rae Roberts. If you aren't familiar with Kelly, you will love her work. She recently offered the e-course"Flying Lessons: Tips and tricks to help your Creative Business Soar" where she shared everything she has learned in her journey into starting her own creative business. From that course, the participants (fellow creative people) have continued to network and share ideas. (thanks, Kelly!). This is our first blog hop!

What I'm sharing today is (Oh My) my newest crazy idea that I've named "Cell Phone Pictures from Oz". If you haven't figured it out, it's picture Dorothy would have captured on her cell phone if she had one. These are 5.5 x 2" wood blocks and perfect for kids rooms, or those that are still young at heart.

My last mini-pic to do will be the (you guessed it) ruby slippers! I mean, that IS what all the fuss was about, right?

Today is special for another reason - I'm featured blogger on EBSQ's Art Blog!

Enjoy your blog hopping and thanks for stopping by.

To continue to the next blog, visit Michelle Dwyer's Blog.

If you came across the hop by accident, here is a list of blogs to visit

Amaranthine Violet: http://magic-gypsy.blogspot.com/

Amy Hillenbrand: http://amyhillenbrand.blogspot.com

Beatriz Peñas B.: http://beatrizbepe.blogspot.com/

Beth Cougler Blom: http://sobliss.wordpress.com/

Carmen Patti: http://carmenpattistudio.com/wordpress/

Carol Bray: http://theredpaintedcottage.blogspot.com

Christina Fajardo: http://christinafajardo.blogspot.com/

Cindy Jones Lantier: http://www.lantier.org

Connie Rawlins : http://www.dabblinginlife.blogspot.com/

Dana Brock: http://www.dzynbydana.blogspot.com

Deborah Velásquez : http://deborahvelasquez.blogspot.com

Elissa Brown: http://thefreckledarmy.blogspot.com

Hillary Courson: http://www.hillarycourson.com

Jacquie Williamson: http://www.jacquiewilliamson.blogspot.com/

Jane Paynting: http://inkspiredwings.wordpress.com

Janet Forrest: http://tatterednworn.wordpress.com/

Jennifer DeVille: http://jenniferdeville.com/blog/

Jill Lambert : http://www.jill-lambert.blogspot.com/

Julie Hamilton: http://spaark.wordpress.com

Kanchan Mahon: http://Kanchan-Mahon.blogspot.com/

Karen Claverie: http://giddyupletsride.blogspot.com

Kari DeSaulnier: http://karidesi.blogspot.com/

Kathleen Conard : http://newfromoldcreations.blogspot.com/

Kathleen McKinnon: http://harmonyschoolhouse.com/expressions-blog.html

Kathy May: http://kathymaydesigns.org

Kelley Miller: http://www.kelleymillerartworks.blogspot.com/

Kelly Corso: http://birdinatreecreations.blogspot.com/

Kelly Hoernig: http://www.kellyhoernig.blogspot.com/

Kim Hyer: http://www.apaperaddict.com/

Kris Lanae Binsfeld: http://cherishdesigns.wordpress.com

Lenore Angela: http://www.lenoreangela.blogspot.com/

Linda Barutha: http://lindabaruthadesigns.blogspot.com

Lisa Michele Products:
http://www.lisamicheleproducts.blogspot.com/

Liza Zeni Baker: http://lizazeni.wordpress.com/

Lynn Richards: http://alittlebluesky.blogspot.com

Lori Leissner: http://leissnerart.blogspot.com

Lori Moon: http://lorimoonstudio.blogspot.com

Mary Cottingham: http://www.barnbugstudio.blogspot.com/

Mary Sterk: http://justmarydesigns.wordpress.com

Megan Schmitt: http://www.schmittenwithwords.blogspot.com/

Melanie Douthit: www.douthitgallery.blogspot.com

Michelle Dwyer: http://www.magnetisedbylife.com/

Michelle Reynolds: http://shellsinthebush.blogspot.com/

Rachél Payne (Rae): http://collectingyourself.wordpress.com/

Rain Hannah: http://honeyandollie.com/

Rhiannon Connelly: http://www.starrybluesky.wordpress.com

Ruth-Mary Smith: http://patchworkfamilieshub.blogspot.com

Sherry Richert Belul:
http://simplycelebrate.net/cherry-blossom-soup

Shirley Ann: http://leonardarenaissancewoman.blogspot.com/

Stacey Chadwick
Brown: http://staceybrownarts.blogspot.com/

Susan M. Walls-Beverly:
http://www.susanscharmingtrinkets.blogspot.com

Teresa Cash-Czech: http://www.asmilemaker.com/

Tina Carlborg: http://www.tinachicky.blogspot.com/

Tonya Love: http://passport2creativity.com/

Ursula Smith: http://www.EasyScraps.com/blog

Zulma Cadena: http://edustory.wordpress.com/

Mary Cottingham http://www.barnbugstudio.blogspot.com

Have fun!

I'll Sell Ya the Brooklyn Bridge...

2011-10-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

I'm serious... I actually can say that I have the Brooklyn Bridge for sale. I created this 30" x 40" Brooklyn Bridge painting because I kept envisioning it. I've learned to just do it so you can move on to the next creative muse. I completed it this past summer just in time for a group show at an area Bistro. If you are interested, let me know. I've shipped paintings this large before via UPS and they've arrived safe and sound.

We had a very busy weekend and I think it will be that way for the next 8 weeks. We had dinner with friends while listening to the debut a new band our friends started, the Tommy Jaxson Band. We had dinner on the deck and the weather was perfect, as well as the music, food and company.

Then we had a tailgate party Sunday. I made cajun dressing (upper right corner and it was gobbled up). Our team cooked various items, including the bacon wrapped duck "popper" pictured in the bed of rice. (Can you believe this awesome plate of food only took 2nd place?)

My daughter has been asked to create a very special project, so I can't wait to show you that as it unfolds. Busy week ahead and lots of commissions to get done in addition. I hope to have something new to share soon. Have a great week and thanks for stopping by.

Friday Inspiration

2011-10-21T10:06:00.000-07:00

It's a beautiful fall day. Yes, fall has finally arrived! Date night tonight with hubby and friends and a live band (yes). Sweater weather, spooky decorations in the neighbors yard at night, and sneaking halloween candy from the stash that is supposed to be for the treaters next week! Wish we could have October for a couple extra weeks!!

Just sharing a painting I completed this summer for a show. I love New Orleans in the fall.

"Cafe Dumonde" 30" x 24" acrylic on Canvas, by Melanie Douthit

Our downtown art crawl was last week. We had live music from the wonderful Amanda McDowell, and a huge crowd. Several people commented that the crowd we had was the largest ever. It was so much fun!

me and mindy

And I made the EBSQ Art Blog for Friday Five! Check it out!

I'll be working on more commissions next week and also something new a different. I'll update soon. Have a great weekend!

A couple of business firsts

2011-10-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

I recently created some painting for the Franklin Medical Center Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser event. I included the images in this blog post. I was contacted two weeks ago by my contact at the hospital to tell me that my image made the front page of the Franklin Sun newspaper.

Since my painting was an honorable mention, this was a complete surprise. The event was the next week and when we walked in the door, we were greeted by this image:

The painting was used for a promotional poster that will hang in the lobby of the hospital. What an honor to have my art used to inspire others. The event was wonderful. The art was beautiful and the people, as always, were so friendly.

Thanks for stopping by. Have a wonderful Monday. :)

Friday Inspiration

2011-10-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! I just wanted to post something inspiriting today. One of the artists from my flying lessons course shared this with us and I love it.

“There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. " ~ Martha Graham ~

And some visual inspiration!

This is "Happy Hour for Two", original painting by Melanie Douthit, 28" x 22" with gallery style framing.

Have a great weekend and thanks for stopping by.

Another Day in the Vineyard

2011-10-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was so special. For the first time ever, my hubby and I threw a joint birthday party. Our birthday parties are eleven days apart and for some reason we've never done this. It was so much fun. We held it at our local vineyard (I still can't believe we have a local vineyard!) that holds concerts through the season. This concert was an all doctor band, and my hubby works with some of the doctors in the band.

The weather was great and the fellowship was fabulous.

Our theme was "Mad Hatter n Alice" (why not?).

My daughter slid down a hill in the vineyard on a cardboard box (only after touring the vineyard at least twice). See my fleur des lis pewter dish? Can't you tell we love Louisiana!

Most of these photos were edited with my new favorite toy - befunky.com.

It's been a busy month and I don't see an end in sight, but that's a good thing. If you haven't found me on Facebook yet - please visit my page here.

Have a great weekend and thanks for stopping by!

I Believe In Pink

2011-10-10T08:46:00.001-07:00

I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day and I believe in miracles. ~Audrey Hepburn~

"Words to Live By" 20" x 20" by Melanie Douthit (Honorable Mention)

The Franklin Medical Center in Winnsboro, Louisiana is holding a silent auction to benefit Breast Cancer Awareness this week, Thursday, October 13. I created the above painting and the one below for the art competition. These paintings along with 8 others will be auctioned. If you would like to bid, they will take your bid via mail, website or phone. Call (318) 412-5265, Charlotte Boone. The website is www.fmc-cares.com. They are also on facebook. Bidding starts at $50.

"Pink: It's an Attitude" 22" x 28" by Melanie Douthit

Reposting from their facebook page: The winner and honorable mention will be used in a marketing and educational campaign to promote Breast Cancer Awareness.Funded with a grant from Northeast Central Louisiana Susan G Komen for The Cure we have begun a campaign at Franklin Medical Center to bring mammograms to more women in our communities. All of the art submitted and donated will be auctioned at the Gala on October 13th. Proceeds from the auction will placed in the "FMC Breast Cancer Awareness Fund." to provide mammograms to underinsured or uninsured women in our communities. We hope to see this fund continue to grow through generous donations from community members and future grants.

We provide digital mammography services right here in your community. Please schedule your mammogram today.

It was 2 years ago this month my my husband lost his cousin to Breast Cancer. We all know someone who has been touched by this disease. Please spread the word to your friends to get regular check ups.

Thanks for stopping by today!

A Beautiful Day in the Vineyard

2011-09-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

We spent a beautiful day this weekend sitting outside with friends listening to a live Cajun band on the grounds of Landry Vineyards. It was so good to be outside and enjoy the cooler temperatures (finally).

I found some fun photo apps that I experimented with. My friend took this photo but when she saw the sun coming through behind us, she didn't think the pic would turn out. I was going thru the photos later and actually loved the effect. I used Instagram for the vintage look and frame.

For the photo collage, I used the PicFrame app. This is a fun one (thanks, Hilary!)

For the rest of the photos, I used a free online version of befunky.com. I love the effects you can create with it.

We loved the band!

I love taking pics with other "melanie's". :)

Girls, girls...

...and more girls.

...really love this effect. I think it was called grunge.

Do you have a favorite photo app? I'd love to hear about it. If you have a blog with pics showing what you've done, link 'em up here in the comments. I'd love to learn more creative things to do with photos. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful week!

First weekend of fall

2011-09-24T09:14:00.000-07:00

It's the first weekend of fall! What are you going to do today? We will be going to a local vineyard (betcha didn't know Louisiana had vineyards!) to listen to live Cajun music with friends. After such a long hot summer, it's finally beautiful weather so we are going to enjoy it as much as possible.

We are rotating the art in Ouachita River Art Gallery this weekend so I've been busy creating some French Quarter paintings. I'm planning on going back to New Orleans soon, just because I miss it. Meanwhile, I'll enjoy Northeast Louisiana with family, friends and maybe have some jambalaya.

Here's a little sneak peek I put together of some of my new art. (Now I'm craving a crawfish quesadilla from Marigny Brasserie and beignets from Cafe DuMonde).

Enjoy your first weekend this fall. Thanks for stopping by!

All About the Taylor Swift Speak Now Concert!

2011-09-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

I saw the most amazing concert last night. I took my daughter along with a friend to Taylor Swift’s “Speak Now” concert. Charlie Worsham and Need to Breathe opened the show and they were awesome. But nothing compares to the show Taylor puts on. She oozes with creativity and I just breathed in as much as I could.

She (or her creative geniuses) put so much “Taylorship” into the set, the stage design, the bells (literally - bells) and whistles (figuratively) that make me - for lack of better words - go WOW! Pyrotechnics, acrobats, ballerinas, talented musicians of all forms, dancers and hair-whipping energy! I loved it all.

The red semi-circle curtain rose as the music started to play. I can’t even remember what song was the first. But there were 12 thousand cheering fans in this sold-out event.

I loved the elaborate stairs with the “s” scrollwork on the staircase, church pews and bridal party at the opening of “Speak Now” with the bride “yelling at a bridesmaid, somewhere back inside a room, wearing a gown shaped like a pastry” (Don’t you just LOVE the colorful lyrics? )

My favorite for this summer is “Mean”. (don’t we all know someone who is just plain old mean?) I especially love how she didn’t sugar coat the point she was making in when she chants…
“…All you are is mean, And a liar, and pathetic, and alone in life
And mean, and mean, and mean, and mean…” (take that, whoever you are that she wrote this song about).

And there was “Back to December”. Before the song started, snow-like white confetti started flowing down. She came from a trap door below with the white piano. As she did when she first sang this song live on TV, she interjected the lyrics “too late to apologize” towards the end.

The finale - OH MY STARS. She came back in a gold sparkly gown seated on a romantic sofa and sang “Fifteen”. Then the beginning of “Love Story” started and the balcony-like basket that was suspended near the ceiling (that my daughter saw when we were first seated), came down to the stage. And yes, she got inside and was lifted... up, up, up and around one side of the arena, towards the back, and back around the other side. She sang and waved as girls ran towards the railing to get a closer look. As she was lowered back down to the stage, confetti was showering her and the stage. Even tho there were a couple of songs I was hoping she would sing, I looked at my friend and said “That’s it. You can’t follow this with anything else”.

Thanks for enduring my off-the-beaten path blog post today! Have a great week and I hope you are creatively inspired by something new and exciting today.

Cookin' Up Something Different

2011-09-19T08:47:00.000-07:00

I love cooking and when it's football season, I cook alot of gumbo - especially when the Saints are playing. For those of you that are from outside the south, we sometimes spell gumbo "gumbeaux", spontaneously post "who dat?" on our facebook wall when the Saints score, and alway say "y'all" for "you all". What can I say?

I recently was asked to create a sign for a friend's kitchen. She told me what she wanted it to say, the color scheme, but gave me complete liberty on the design. I've since gotten oodles of requests for this. When I catch my breath, I will put a couple in my etsy store.

Thanks for stopping by today. Have a great day and Bon Appetit, Y'all!!

Reach for the Stars

2011-09-12T04:56:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been around someone that inspires you? Have you ever been around someone with what you would label as a "physical limitation" only to learn that the limitation in question is, ironically, their asset? My daughter and I spent a beautiful morning with one of the most fascinating people I've met. John Bramblitt lost his sight in 2001, and he is one of the most amazing artists ever... visual artist, that is. In order to understand this more, watch this video.

The Art of Living Gallery

John taught a workshop this past weekend. He challenged everyone to tap into their non-visual senses. To tap into the relationship of color and sounds, as well as tastes and textures. The students created while blindfolded. They listened to music and interpreted what they felt through color.

John sincerely went to each of the students and asked them to describe what they painted. He was genuinely interested in what color they used and why they used it. I will never create the same way again.

John's spectacular art will hang at the Old Post Office Museum in Winnsboro through the end of October. It's worth the drive to experience his work.

The art of Happy

2011-09-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

...or happy art.

I heard that word again this weekend: happy. I went into the coop art gallery where I'm a member and was greeted by a lady that recently bought one of my paintings. We had not met in person until that moment, and she described my art as "happy". I'm going to start journaling every time I hear that word.

"Spring Flowers" from Happy Dayz Art Series. Available for purchase. Contact me!

Two weeks ago I received a message from a collector that lives in the Northeast US:

Hi Melanie!! I just glanced up at my painting a minute ago and I just can't tell you how HAPPY it makes me, every time I look at it. It's so beautiful, and something about the colors is so invigorating..I think it is my favorite thing in the whole house. Thank you!!
Lynn Anne

Today I wish I were the owner of a artsy flowered covered vintage VW van so I could drive it around and watch people smile. Enjoy your Labor Day and thanks for dropping by today. :)

In search of the Mardi Gras Dachshund

2011-09-01T05:23:00.000-07:00

September, please bring cool weather quickly. (smile). The turning of the calendar days closer to fall, has me looking forward to cooler weather, even though it's still in the high 90's here. The changing season will still come. And that makes me happy.

To be interested in the changing seasons is a happier state of mind than to be hopelessly in love with spring. ~George Santayana

I want to do something fun. Years ago on my old (gone) art website, I had a page for people to sign in on when they found me by seeing my Mardi Gras Dachshund at Mimi's Cafe Restaurants. I want to do that again, but with photos.

She looks similar to this photo but has evolved over the years. If you happen to run across this jazzy dog, I would LOVE to hear from you - and even better yet - have a photo of it, or you AND the jazz dog (that part is up to you). Tell me which location you found the jazz dog at so I can put the location with the photo. I'd love to put them up on future blog posts. You can leave a message here. If you sign in with an e-mail address, the e-mail address will only be visible by me - or you can go to my Facebook Page and upload the photo there.

This photo was sent to me this summer by Jansen in Lakeland, Florida of her daughter with the jazz dog.

Linda from California sent me this photo about 9 years ago. I forgot what location she was in, but I think it was near San Francisco.

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great day and don't forget to turn the page on that calendar.

Small Gestures = Big Smiles

2011-08-29T06:13:00.000-07:00

Never underestimate the power of small gestures. A beautiful young lady (who happens to be the daughter of an old high school friend) gave me the sweetest gift this weekend. This young lady, Emily, recently had the awesome experience of backpacking across Europe. Backpacking - as in, all she took on her journey was a backpack. And yet, she still managed to bring me back a little something from her trip. A postcard. But not just "a postcard". A postcard with Alice. The Alice - the wonderland one. In order for you to understand the significance, read THIS post on my papercraft blog.

She got it in London and when she saw Alice and the flamingo, she immediately thought of the painting I completed right before she left for her journey.

And it makes me remember this quote by C.S. Lewis:

For, you see, so many out-of-the- way things had happened lately, that Alice had begun to think that very few things indeed were really impossible.

Have a wonderful day and a week full of possibilities. Thanks for stopping by.

Friday Fly By!

2011-08-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

Just stopping in for a quick "fly by" post. Been busy, busy, busy. I wanted to let everyone know that I have added a couple of art prints to my Etsy store. This is the first time EVAH to have prints available through Etsy. I will be adding some more in the next few days.

This one is "Pirates Alley" and is available here. This was my first really BIG New Orleans painting that belongs in a private collection now on Royal Street. It's been a favorite of mine and that is why I'm offering this print first. It's a 5x7 print matted in an 8x10 white mat. Great idea for Christmas, especially for someone who loves New Orleans.

I'm looking forward to the weekend. We've just been through our first week of school in our house and it's a big adjustment, and we are still suffering through triple digit heat. Have a wonderful day and thanks for stopping by.

The Dog Days of August...

2011-08-23T11:12:00.000-07:00

As summer is coming to the end, I'm reflecting on how FAST the "dog days of August" have gone by. It's usually one of the slower months. But this one has zipped by. The children's art workshop and having two art shows the first week of the month was action packed. The next week was recoup time and also time for the kids to prepare for school. August always holds two special dates for me: 1) the anniversary of when I met my husband (it's now been 24 years!) and 2) my oldest child's birthday. My son was born the day after one of our "meeting" anniversaries. He was due on our meeting-anniversary, which would have been cool, but I guess he needed his own special day.

my birthday boy!

So, now back to looking up the origination of "dog days" of August. Wikipedia says: "Dog Days" are the hottest, most sultry days of summer in late August. Dog Days can also define a time period or event that is very hot or stagnant, or marked by dull lack of progress. The name comes from the ancient belief that Sirius, also called the Dog Star, in close proximity to the sun was responsible for the hot weather.

Okay, so now that I've educated you on that piece of information..... Moving on to some art. I recently finished one of my most favorite summer themed paintings - another mermaid. I had several people tell me they wanted me to do a brunette mermaid. This one is for a special collector. She's similar to the one in my etsy store.

"Mermaid Moon No. 2"

My favorite part is the texture AND glitter on the tail.

And to give you a glimpse of what my hands look like when I'm working..(mermaid tail colored hands)

Thanks for stopping by today. If you are in the heat-wave zone, stay cool. We know that the temps will come down eventually. Gosh - I'll be so glad when the triple digit days are over. Have a great day!!

I'm Taking Flying Lessons

2011-08-19T04:45:00.000-07:00

I'm taking flying lessons! I'm taking the e-course "Flying Lessons" from an artist that has deeply influenced me in the past 18 months, Kelly Rae Roberts. This five week course is backed FULL of information on how to let your creative business soar. It's as if we were sitting down one on one picking her brain. Oh, how I've learned so much in the first 2 weeks.

My journey will Kelly began about 18 months ago when I read a friend's blog about Kelly and her art. I was in corporate America at the time and my friend's post re-awakened my creative urges. Within just a couple of months I had Kelly's book and dove back into my art full-force.

Through this e-course, I've already networked with tons of creative people all over the globe and my mind is so full of creative ideas that I'm seeing new art in my dreams. Being able to share the day-to-day aspects of life as a creative person with others who can relate is invaluable. Kelly is so positive, and encourages you to develop relationships with people that are positive influences - those that "celebrate" your successes with you. (And a shout-out to any flying lessons peeps that have stopped by. I'd love to hear from ya! ;) )

I'm looking forward to the weekend. August is passing by so quickly - and summer is nearing to an end. (and my, my has it been a hot one). I'm posting one of my favorite paintings of the summer - my "Moonlight Mermaid". I was inspired to paint this after seeing the mermaids (well, the nice one anyway) in the latest Pirates movie. There is texture AND glitter on her tail. This is still available in my Etsy store. It's 20" x 20" and comes with a gallery style frame.

Have a great Friday and thanks for stopping by!

My First Mixed Media Art - In Print!

2011-08-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be able to share that my first mixed media art project has been published! It's a pair of Halloween Witch (cute - not scary!) wall hangings.

They are in the October 2011 issue of Craft n Things on page 70.

They are both 8" x 8" on gallery wrapped stretched canvas.

I used a variety of things from my scrapbook stash. Complete instructions for both are in the October issue.

They were so much fun to make. I'm thinking about putting them up for sale in my Etsy store soon - that is if I don't sell them locally. I'll post a link here if I list them (which will be soon). Thanks for stopping by today.

Snickerdoodles!

2011-08-14T17:29:00.000-07:00

I'm taking a detour from my "art" related posts today. I was talking recently to some gals in my pokeno group about cooking, and for me, it's a creative outlet. So, when I got in a creative mood today, (shhhh, I was really just craving something sweet), I decided to document it just for fun.

My daughter took a summer prep course recently, and her teacher made Snicker Doodle Cookies, which she loved. Her teacher shared the recipe, and I made them for the kids art crawl a few weeks ago. They were devoured.

They are easy to make, and the only thing you might not have in your cabinet is cream of tartar. It's a staple in mine now, although for years I never used it.

They are much like a chewy sugar cookie, but with cinnamon sugar on the outside.

We made a little over three dozen with our batch. I don't follow the "one dozen" rule on our cookie sheets. We basically put as many as we can get on a pan.

The only take about 8-10 minutes to cook. Just long enough to catch up reading someone's blog or two.

And the house will smell yummy.

And your helper will make sure to lick the bowl clean

If you decide to try these, come back here and let me know how you liked them.

Here's the recipe
Snicker Doodle Cookies

Preheat the oven to 400.

You will need:
1 c. butter or margarine, softened
1 1/2 cup suger
2 eggs
2 3/4 cups flour
2 teas. cream of tarar
1 teas. baking soda
1/4 teas. salt
(Coating: 2 tablespoons suger and 2 teasp. cinnamon)

Cream butter. Add sugar and eggs, mixing well. Sift flour, cream of tartar, soda and salt. Mix into butter mixture. Make balls of dough, roll in coating. Place on ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes at 400 degrees. Serve with a tall glass of milk!

Not in Kansas Anymore

2011-08-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

My Alice in Wonderland obsession has taken a twist and turn, and I've been inspired creatively by the Wizard of Oz. I call the "Journey to Oz". You can see some of my previous pieces in this post .

My latest creation is called "Not In Kansas". My husband is convinced it's a self-portrait. It might be. I feel like I've been through a whirlwind of changes in the past couple of months, and I'm on a new path, hence the not in kansas title. Since I started getting back into the art world in the past 9 months, things have been very past-paced. But the one thing that has been constant is this - my collectors have been absolutely encouraging and enthusiastic and I couldn't ask for anything more. thank you!

So, back to "Not in Kansas". As with my "Alice" series paintings, this is a mixed media piece. When I was deciding on what I wanted Toto to look like, I went straight to the creator, Frank Baum, and was surprised to find that he didn't specify any particular breed. Well, I took that artistic license all the way to my love of dachshunds and decided that, at least in my new painting, that Toto would be a dachshund.

I used papers, rubs and alphabets from my scrapbook stash along with paint and paint sticks. I just love coming across cute phrases and sayings to use in my papercraft box to incorporate into my mixed media work.

I listed this in my etsy store yesterday, and decided, just for fun, to create this dachshund treasury. There are some really fun long dog goodies out there (just to warn you!)

Thanks for spending time here today. I've blogged more in the past week than I have in a long time. Have a great day!

I now have art in Ouachita River Art Gallery

2011-08-06T19:16:00.000-07:00

With all the other activities going on this week, I haven't had time to mention that I've just joined a local co-op gallery in my city - The Ouachita River Art Gallery. The Ouachita River Art Gallery recently won the award for Best Gallery in the Delta. I'm so proud to be joining the other artists there. I'm not a stranger to this gallery. I was a member in 1996-1998. I mostly worked in watercolor then. It's nice to see many of the same familiar faces that are still a part of this group.

Here are a couple of the recent pieces I created recently and have hanging there. I've been working on a series called "Journey to Oz".

In my "Oz" painting, I have included Emerald City, poppies and more Oz flowers, a hint of the yellow brick road, a bird (well, you know - where bluebirds fly),the really big puddle amidst the poppies.. that's the melted witch, the twister, and amidst the twister you can see some trees that represent the forest. All in all, it was a fun journey to create.

"Oz", 30" x 24" , acrylic on canvas with gallery style moulding

I had so much fun with this painting. I used burlap to add unexpected texture to the poppies. My daughter walked in my studio after they were painted and said "Oh, mom, you added pizazz to your painting". Pizazz - I like that word.

"Poppies, Poppies.". 36" x 24", acrylic and mixed media on canvas with gallery style frame moulding

Thanks for stopping by!! I know I've had a lot of blog posts this week. Have a great day!

Children's Art Workshop and Show`

2011-08-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week, and July was a busy month. Not only was I working on getting six BIG pieces ready for the Bistro show, I was getting new pieces ready for the bi-monthly art crawl. Last week I taught a children's art workshop and they also displayed their art during the art crawl. The local newspaper came and took lots of pics. You can see the gallery here: Art Workshop Online Gallery

I wanted to share a few pics from class here as well as the art show "Outside the Lines". They were so thrilled to see their creations hanging and the people coming in to see their art. Enjoy the pics and thanks for stopping by!

Bistro Show

2011-08-04T12:48:00.000-07:00

The Bistro Show had a great turnout. It was nice meeting so many people from Ruston as well as the other exhibiting artists. The show will hang through October 1. If you would like to purchase any of the artwork at the show, please contact Executive Director Leigh Anne Chambers with NCLAC at 318-255-1450. They offer payment plans and will ship.

Here are a few pics from the show and some of my paintings.

Group photo of artists with the staff and/or board members of the North Central Louisiana Arts Council.

"832 St. Peter" (New Orleans Shotgun Houses), 30" x 24".

"September at the Cafe Dumonde" 30" x 24" with gallery style frame.

"Rainy Sunday at Jackson Square" 30" x 24"

Art Exhibit Opening at Bistro in Ruston Aug 3

2011-07-20T12:50:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited to finally be able to share all the details about this art show. This is what was posted on the NCLAC's facebook event page. I'll be posting photos the first week in August.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On Wednesday, August 3, from 5-7 p.m., the North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) and 102 a Bistro will present “Sifting the Exotic and Familiar,” an exhibition of recent work by regional artists Julie Crews, Melanie Douthit, and Jan Thibault.

Their works, while distinctly different, still complement one another, and while each of these women has a unique style, they share a passion for the creative process.

About painting, Douthit said, “I love the limitless possibilities that can be achieved through letting go and stepping ‘outside the lines.’”

Similarly, Thibault said, “Painting is a joy filled journey involving color, energy, and spirit that transcends everyday life. All can be abandoned to allow creativity to flow.”

Crews said that the advice and sometimes “rules” she gains from teachers and other artists influence her, but at the same time, she added, “Sometimes I paint and ask myself, ‘What rule can I break? Will I be successful?’ and I measure my success through my experience of the process and product. Did I smile, or did I stamp my feet and cry during the process? Was the product disappointing or in the end, was it beautiful?”

The artists will attend the reception honoring them Wednesday, so as you enjoy wine and appetizers, ask them about their work and what inspires them.

Afterward, stay and have dinner. Since it opened in April 2009, 102 has built a reputation as a place to experience great art and great food. More than just a restaurant, 102 is a unique cultural experience.

102 A Bistro is located at 102 N. Monroe Street, Ruston, Louisiana.

If you are interested in purchasing a work in “Sifting the Exotic and Familiar,” look for NCLAC’s Executive Director Leigh Anne Chambers at the reception, contact NCLAC at 318-255-1450, or stop by the Dixie Center for the Arts Tuesday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. We look forward to seeing you at the Bistro.

Best Artist in the Delta - FINALIST!!

2011-07-07T15:21:00.001-07:00

I've so badly neglected my blog in the past month or so. I have some exciting things going on.

First of all, I'm a finalist for Best Artist in our regional "Best of the Delta" voting. There are just a few days to vote. If you would like to vote, the link is:
Best of the Delta

My category is on page 6 or 7 (when the completion bar is at 89%). You do NOT have to vote in each category. There is a slide bar on the right of the voting page that you can move down until you see the "next" button.
(thank you)

My daughter and I entered some art in the Louisiana Peach Festival last month. We both received an honorable mention on one of our paintings. Hers was an elephant. Mine was the "Intellectuals" fish painting. It's one of my favorites. For now its on my mantle.

My most exciting news is that I was invited to participate in a three person art show in Ruston, Louisiana at an upscale restaurant, 102A Bistro. I'm working on pieces for that show this week and next. I can't wait to share all my new work.

Thanks for stopping by and please don't forget to vote for me for Best Artist. I'm thrilled to be a finalist1

Children's Art Class

2011-06-26T15:31:00.000-07:00

I taught an art class for children last week at the gallery. I haven't done that in years and for three years my daughter kept telling me to. The local newspaper came out and took photos. Here is the link to the slideshow.

Art with Melanie Douthit

Thanks for stopping by!

June Art Crawl

2011-06-07T21:20:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful art crawl last week. We had a steady stream of visitors in the gallery. I tried to sneak away to visit a neighboring gallery and ran into some old friends who came out for their first art crawl. It was awesome!

The artists at Mystic Art Gallery went with a summer theme for the crawl, and did their own spin on flamingo art. We had everything from feathers abstract art to trailer-trash flamingo art. That's what makes it fun! I did another Alice in Wonderland piece (with a flamingo) and a huge pink flamingo piece called "Paradise Is..".

We had several street artists set up outside the gallery and had a booksigning by a local author. Visit my facebook page to see more paintings. I completed a dogwood floral and a mermaid (thanks to the new pirates movie). Catching my breath for now and then will work on some commissions. Have a great day and thanks for stopping by!

I'm a cover girl!

2011-05-15T17:01:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot some fun news. The editor of my old hometown newspaper asked me and my artist friend (also from the same town) for pics and bio to include in their visitors and newcomers guide. We were both thrilled that they wanted to include our information in the publication. My friend called me about two weeks ago when she saw the first image of the guide posted online, and my art was on the cover!

This is THE FIRST time I have had a painting on the cover of a publication. They were generous with the space they gave me and my friend/artist, Jane Campbell.

I'm heading to UPS to ship some paintings out tomorrow. One to the east coast, one to the west coast. Spreading some joy across the country.

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great day.

Gallery Grand Opening

2011-05-11T18:23:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post a few photos from the Grand Opening / Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the Mystic Art Gallery last week. We gave away 8 door prizes, plus two books autographed by local author Annmarie Sartor. Thanks to everyone who came out!

Grand Opening of Art Gallery

2011-04-30T20:33:00.001-07:00

The gallery has been open for one month and we have our Grand Opening scheduled this week. The mayor of West Monroe, Dave Norris, will be there to perform the ribbon cutting ceremony. If you are in the area, please come!

Mystic Art Gallery Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Blessing
Thursday, May 5, 2011 from 4:30pm-7:30pm
229 Trenton Street, West Monrooe Louisiana (Antique Alley)

We will have live music, door prizes, food and lots of art!!

Thanks for stopping by!

April Art Crawl

2011-04-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

Our first art crawl in the NEW gallery earlier this month was fantastic! Everyone loved the new gallery. There were so many people coming through there. The time flew by so quickly. It was a blast. Here are a few pics of the event.

Coming up next - Grand Opening!

Back from the French Quarter!

2011-04-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

No new art to post today but I just wanted to share some exciting news. I just got back from the French Quarter (yes, the one in New Orleans, LA) and have just placed some of my art in a gallery on Royal Street! The name of the gallery is The Great Artists' Collective, 815 Royal Street, New Orleans. This gallery is on the same block that I usually stay when I visit. Please stop in when you go.

And on a less happy note, the Rougarou Bayou Trading Post Gallery in the Riverwalk is closing at the end of the month. I went down there to pick up my art and was ecstatic when, at 8pm Saturday night, Sandy at GAC hung my paintings in her gallery! We celebrated at the top of Crescent City Brewery Restaurant with pie and ice cream that night!

Thanks for stopping by. If you are in the West Monroe area, please stop by the new Mystic Art Gallery at 229 Trenton Street on Antique Alley. Our Grand Opening will be May 5 from 4:30-7:30 and I hear the mayor is coming!!! Have a great day!

Exciting Gallery News

2011-04-03T16:21:00.000-07:00

Man - it's been such a whirlwind month, but isn't that what they say about March (you know, with the winds and all). In early April, I joined and helped open a co-op art gallery in historic West Monroe - what we call "Antique Alley". There are lots of antique shops and trendy furniture and jewelry stores along the strip. We leased the building, repainted every surface and installed new lighting in a record 2 weeks. We now have a total of NINE artists in the coop gallery, and it opened Friday, April 1!

Our first "big" event is the Art Crawl this Thursday, April 7 from 5-9pm. If you are in the area, you do NOT want to miss this. It's at 229 Trenton Street, West Monroe, Louisiana

There is another gallery down the block from us that will also be open for the Art Crawl Thursday night. Come on out.

The following Saturday, April 9, the largest one day festival in Louisiana will be going on in Winnsboro. The Franklin Parish Catfish Festival will be celebrating their 25-year anniversary. Myself and three other artists have art hanging in the "Gone Fishing" exhibit at the Old Post Office Museum on Prairie Street. The show opened March 17 and not only has paintings, but has a custom made fish fountain, a handmade boat, and a wonderful display of trophy fish and related items from local fisherman and Franklin Parish residents. It's a wonderful show and perfect for the Catfish Festival. If you get out, please stop in the Museum. They have a boat and trailor used in the 1920 flood to ferry people out. What a treasure.

Here are some pics from the Gone Fishin' exhibit opening night.

Gone Fishin' - Art Exhibit in Winnsboro

2011-03-03T12:04:00.000-08:00

I'm taking a break in between art commissions to photograph some of my new pieces for an upcoming exhibit. The above piece is called "Deep Water", 30" x 40" with gallery style molding.

Two weeks from tonight will be the opening of an art exhibit that I've been working hard on for the past several months! Andrea May, Heather Hurley, Polly Spence, some young artists and I will be exhibiting fish-themed art through the end of April. This exhibit will be going on during the huge and famous "Louisiana Catfish Festival", so if you don't make the show opening, be sure to come to the festival. There are so many activities for the entire family - so make a day of it on Saturday, April 9.

The opening reception will be Thursday, March 17 from 5pm-8pm at The Old Post Office Museum, 513 Prairie St., Winnsboro, LA.

If you haven't found my facebook fan page - please see the sidebar. I'll be posting new work there from the exhibit in the next few weeks. Thanks for stopping by!

Louisiana Crawfish Gumbo

2011-02-21T08:31:00.000-08:00

I'm working on new pieces for the Louisiana Catfish Festival in Winnsboro. I'll have work in a show at the Old Post Office Museum (it's awesome so don't miss seeing this place, plus there will be air conditioning). The show is called "Fish Out of Water", so all the work will be fish related. I couldn't resist doing the crawFISH above. I can't wait to share more of my work for this show. The show will start March 17, a few weeks before the Catfish Festival. The festival is April 9.

Below are a few pics of the February Art crawl and the six fabulous artists at Mystic Art Gallery.

Mystic Gallery Artists: Melanie Douthit, Crystal Stone, Andrea May, Heather Hardin Hurley, Polly Stout Spence, and Megan McClanahan.

I'm shipping new paintings to Rougarou Bayou Trading Post and Art Gallery this week. Check out the gallery if you are in the area. I'm sending Mardi Gras themed art. Also, check out my Etsy Store for more art. I just listed a BIG French Quarter painting and it was gone in a week. You never know when I'll add something new. Thanks for stopping by and check back soon.

New Art for the February Art Crawl

2011-02-10T10:51:00.000-08:00

The Art Crawl was set for last week, but due to some icy weather, it was rescheduled for tonight. The Crawl info:

Time: 5pm-9pm
Where: Downtown Monroe
My art will be at Mystic Art Gallery at 137 Art Alley (formerly N. 2nd Street).

Here are a few peeks of my Mardi Gras art.

I couldn't do Mardi Gras without a new take on the Jazz Dog. This one is called "Krewe of Dachshund"

Mardi Gras Balcony. Size 11x14.

Beads on the lampost. You will see this all over the French Quarter during Mardi Gras. 11x14.

Another Mardi Gras Balcony painting. 11x14.

Thanks for stopping by. Laissez les bons temps rouler!!

New Art and Art News!

2011-01-20T06:43:00.000-08:00

Gosh! My blog has been so badly neglected. I had well intentions on updating it about 3 weeks ago, but that was when my phase of "life interrupted" began!

We had a water pipe burst in our home two days after Christmas. So much for the Christmas after-glow! It has been 24 days since then and I've been forced to shove everything in the main living area of my house into boxes and out to the garage. I compare it to moving-without-notice, except that we haven't moved and everything is still in our bedrooms plus a whole-lotta-extra stuff. So..... today is the last day of the "restoration phase" if you call it. They are finishing up my new flooring today. Me and my husband repainted New Years Day. Talk about quick decisions on wall color plus floors. I hope I like my new house! What is exciting is that since everything has been moved out of the house, it gave me time to reflect how I want to set up my art studio - and I hope to streamline everything so its functionable and stylish. Crossing my fingers.

How about some art!!! This was a special commission from a high school friend for her niece, whose mother was also a high school friend. (are you confused?). She is a medical student at Tulane. She wanted a St. Charles Streetcar painting and she picked the colors. The number on the streetcar is actually the owner's birthday. And the verdict - they all loved it. I couldn't post it before Christmas because I didn't want to ruin the surprise. It's 4" x 3".

"930 St. Charles Streetcar"
Acrylic on Canvas, 4" x 3"
Artist: Melanie Douthit

I have some exciting news on the local scene. On January 1 I joined Mystic Art Gallery located in Downtown Monroe, along with 5 other artists. Our first art crawl together is Thursday, February 3 on Art Alley from 5-9pm. A few weeks ago we found a new and larger location for a studio just over the river from our present studio. We will be open during the week, as opposed to the current "by appointment only". I'll update soon with our name and exact location. Things are still in the works, but SO exciting.

So, please come out Feb 3 to the Art Crawl. I'm working on Mardi Gras themed art and won't post the images here until after the crawl. You will want to be the first to see the work, so come on out!

Tis the Season!

2010-12-15T09:52:00.001-08:00

There are ten more days until Christmas!! I've been so busy these past two months that I've neglected my blog. Please, PLEASE remember to check on Facebook Art Studio Page for the most current information.

Here's a quick run down on life in my studio: Since the October Art Crawl, I've been busy filling orders for custom art. My newest French Quarter "color sketches" are the most requested pieces, and I have done them as small as 8" x 8" and as large as 4 Ft by 3 Ft. Feel free to contact me thru my Facebook Fan page if you have something specific you would like.

In addition to commission piece, I have TWO shows to get ready for in the next three months. More on that later! Meanwhile, how about some images of some of the most recent paintings?

This is another in my "Alice in Wonderland" series. Customer requested the name be customized for her girl, and the scene was one she specifically dictated. My daughter loved it, so I may have to do one for her.

I love doing paintings of Cafe Dumonde. This one is 8x10 with detail images done in dark brown with mahagony red gallery frame (sold).

This is a building on Royal Street, snatched up by private collector.

I have wanted to finally paint some shotgun houses in the color sketch style. I did this one last week and it was quickly snatched by one of my collectors. This one was 8x10. Detail was done in dark brown paint and the gallery framing is mahogony red.

Special commissioned piece of Pat O'Briens with "mardi gras" colors (to match the smaller ones she bought from me at the Art Crawl). Size is 24" x 30" with black gallery style frame. Looks awesome in person.

Another Pat OBrien's color sketch. Different angle, different colors. 8x10 - went to private collector.

Thanks for stopping by! Please, if you haven't done so, click the "like" button on my Facebook Fan Page so you'll be able to keep up with my latest posts. I have some EXCITING NEWS coming in January!!! Have a wonderful Christmas and happy New Year!

Christmas in the French Quarter

2010-11-05T08:37:00.000-07:00

My newest twist on a familiar painting - this one is for a special collector who wanted something with a Christmas flair.

This painting is 16x20 with black gallery style moulding.
Taking commisisons for this up until November 20. Price is $200 with $15 USPS Priority Mail postage, insured.

thanks for stopping by!

Back from New Orleans and Catching Up!!

2010-10-31T13:02:00.001-07:00

I had so much fun in New Orleans. I a week after the Art Crawl. I sold all of my smaller New Orleans color sketch paintings, so I had to work like crazy to get some more ready to take to the Rougarou Bayou Trading Post and Art Gallery. My friend Jeannine went with me. We got to the the gallery on time Sunday afternoon and I painted live in the window for a couple of hours. (what was I thinking? I was so tired from getting up early and the 4.5 hour drive!!)

Me with Kerrie Jones at the art gallery. Kerrie and I have been friends for over six years.

Various art in the gallery.

I am offering the Mardi Gras Doxie for the first time in framed prints at the art gallery. Mardi Gras Doxie comes in 5x7 and 4x6. The Rougarou Gallery is located on the 2nd floor of the Riverwalk Mall on Poydras in New Orleans. The gallery is full of unique art, folk art, photography and prints.

I took my newest four foot painting of Pirate's Alley to my collectors apartment on Royal. It's so far one of my favorite paintings. We hung it in the bedroom.

Head on view of the four foot painting.

One of my hometown friends contacted me about a week before my trip to tell me that one if his college buddies was an artist in the French Quarter. Turns out his studio was one block from where we stayed, so we arranged a short meeting. And our small world got even smaller when Jeannine realized she went to the same college and knew this man's brother. Here we are with Robert Guthrie. You can see his awesome watercolor paintings in the background.

We did the usually walking through the quarter, eating creole food, beignets and stopping by Pat O'Brien's for photos by the fountain. My new favorite place to eat is The Marigny Brasserie on Frenchmen Street. If you go there, be sure to get the crawfish quesadilla!

Glad to be back. I have a list of commissions to finish (hurry if you want something before Christmas) and some exciting news that I hope to announce before the end of the year. Thanks for stopping by. Be sure to visit my Facebook Fan Page and hit the "Like" button! You can contact me thru that page to inqure about commissions. Be sure to leave a message here or on my fan page so I'll know you stopped by!

October Art Crawl - It was so much fun!

2010-10-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun at the October Art Crawl in Downtown Monroe. If you are in the area, be sure to come out for the one right after Thanksgiving. I saw so many familiar faces and the response to my new color sketches was WONDERFUL! They all sold, as well as a few other pieces. It was my first time to ever show more than a few pieces at one time and, I have to say, I had some doubts up until the first sale, which was right after the crawl started.

I'll be heading to New Orleans this weekend and will be painting live at the Rougarou Bayou Trading Post AKA Rougarou Art Gallery on Sunday, October 17 around 1p. If you are out that way, stop by and say hello.

This week I'll be working on more New Orleans color sketches to take to the gallery and I'll be listing some new things in my Etsy store soon.

Thanks for stopping by. I'll leave you with a few photos and pics of art work from the show.

And I couldn't have this art show without including the famous Mardi Gras Dachshund! She sold early into the evening. I think she'll have to make it to the next show. :)

Downtown Monroe Art Crawl this week!!

2010-10-04T12:04:00.000-07:00

It's finally here - the art crawl in Downtown Monroe is this Thursday - in THREE DAYS!! I'm so excited. I have 23 new paintings that have not been shown online or in public - until now!! I'm going to show a few peeks of the art I will have at the Art Crawl. If you are local, come on out! I'd love to meet you if I don't already know you!

I hung the paintings at Mystic Art Gallery this weekend. Here are a couple of pics of the paintings on the wall.

This is my sign. I couldn't resist the urge to make it like a French Quarter street sign. (grin)

Next, another shot of the sign and hey...what is that? A peek of a new painting? How did that get in there?

One more pics of the art wall and some painting peeks.

The first painting I want to share is the third in my "Alice" series. This is "Alice Paints the Roses", mixed media collage, size 12" x 12". I will have a fourth Alice painting at the Art Crawl. One of my favorite series.

Next is another mixed media collage called "Angels of the French Quarter". It's 8x8 on 1.5" deep gallery wrapped stretched canvas, with gold leafing. I have another one called "Angels of the Super Dome" that I'll share later.

This one is a twist on Van Gogh's Cafe Terrace at Night. I call it "French Quarter Cafe Terrace at Night" (real original, huh?). My first rendition of this was done around 2004-2005 and it's one of my favorite New Orleans scenes.

This is something different for me this year; I call them "Sketches". Splashes of color on the background with black detailed images, similar to pen and ink - but with acrylic paint. Most of these have gallery style wood moulding around them. Stay tuned for more of the New Orleans street scene sketches.

Thanks for stopping by! Don't forget -the Art Crawl is Thursday, October 7, 2010 in Downtown Monroe. My paintings will be at Mystic Art Gallery, 137 Art Alley, Monroe. Hope you can make it!

My Facebook Fan Page!

2010-08-30T08:12:00.000-07:00

I know I've been a bad blogger!! I'm working hard on getting some new pieces created for a local art show in October.

Meanwhile, I've created a Facebook Fan page, so if you are on facebook and would like to be kept current on my art - please go there and select the "like" button. I already have over 200 fans and the pages is less than one week old. Thank you!

And I have some good news. Back in June I took a few art pieces to the Rougarou Bayou Gallery in New Orleans. I just found out last weekend that they sold one, and I have someone interested in another piece.

I'm sending two smaller pieces down there this week. Want a peek?

Midnight at the Cafe Dumonde
Size: 9" x 12"

Open All Night
9" x 12"

The good news is that the gallery also ships! So if you can't make it down there in person - you can call them. Their number is on their website.

Thanks for stopping by. I'll have more updates soon.

Alice at the Cafe Dumonde

2010-08-24T17:08:00.000-07:00

Just a real quick post. I had a request from an old friend who loved the "Alice" painting. Along with a couple other special paintings, he requested an "Alice in New Orleans" painting. I immediately invisioned her at the Cafe Dumonde. It's one of my favorites. I plan to make one for myself soon.

Thanks for shopping by!!

(Images temporarily missing...will correct this later)

Newest Art, Sunflowers and New Orleans

2010-06-11T08:08:00.000-07:00

Gosh - I can't believe it's been almost a month since I've posted anything. So sorry! I HAVE been busy creating, tho, and sold another dachshund painting. Oh, and if you want to have your own mardi gras dachshund painting, I JUST created an Etsy listing that gives you the option to customize your painting. Check out the link on the sidebar and check it out.

I LOVE New Orleans art. I love creating it. I love dreaming up new scenes. This is my latest piece. It's called "Mardi Gras Night", and depicts a huge French Quarter window with the view of the St. Louis Cathedral. And, yes, I included a little dachshund in the painting. It's 24" x 30" and it's for one of my collectors. It will actually hang at their apartment in the French Quarter, 2 blocks from the Cathedral. I'd love to hear your comments on it. Do you think I should do a series of paintings like this? Ideas...I can feel 'em coming!

And here is one more summer painting - one of my favorite flowers - sunflowers! It's a mixed media collage. It's 24" x 30" and it's listed in my Etsy store.

And next week I'll be getting a huge surge of inspiration for more paintings. I'm going to spend next weekend in the French Quarter. The smells, the sights and the sounds! Gosh - It's going to be overwhelming. I can't wait. Have a wonderful week and check back soon!

Mardi Gras Painting

2010-05-13T17:11:00.000-07:00

Another new piece! Well, I actually finished it about two weeks ago. Let me know how you like this one!

Title: Mardi Gras 2010
Size: 16" x 20"
Acrylic on Gallery Wrapped Stretched Canvas

Thanks for stopping by!!

A little bit of Alice

2010-04-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

I was playing around a little last month and branched into the world of collage art. I've been on this "Alice in Wonderland" kick and this is one of the things I came up with

It's for sale in my Etsy Store, too!

I used oil sticks, acrylic paint, and scrapbook paper.

Thanks for stopping by!!!!!!!

More Mardi Gras Dachshund New Orleans Art!

2010-04-06T14:41:00.000-07:00

Pssssttt.... if you are looking to scoop up a Mardi Gras Doxie painting - I just put one up in my NEW Etsy Store!!!

I'm working as hard as I can to get some new and different things (at least for me) up in the store as well as working on some commissions. Check back soon!

Oh - and the details on commissions - leave a reply here with your contact info and I'll get in touch with you. Don't wait too long... when I get a certain number at a time - I stop taking commissions in order to get caught up.

Thanks for stopping by!! I'd love to hear your comments. :)

The Red Mardi Gras Dachshund is Here

2010-03-30T07:17:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wondered why the Mardi Gras Doxie is always black and tan? Well, Miss Jazzy has been mischievous once more and was seen sporting a diguise this year! She was prancing around Mardi Gras dressed as "the red doxie". She doesn't fool me one bit, though. We caught up with the partying pooch and brought her home before she got into serious trouble with the French Quarter party dog catchers. But not before we snapped this photo of her!

Gift items with the Red Mardi Gras Doxie are now available at the Mardi Gras Doxie CafePress store!

Here's a peek at some of the products:

And for a limited time - I'm accepting commission for 12" x 16" paintings of the Mardi Gras Dachshund in either black/tan (see previous posts for image) or red as shown above. Contact me asap for details on this. The black and tan Mardi Gras Dachshund painting is the one seen in many Mimi's Cafe Restaurants nation wide. This little dog sure does get around.

Off to create. Thanks for stopping by!

New Orleans Shot Gun House Painting

2010-03-25T10:07:00.000-07:00

More of my FuNkY NeW OrLeAnS Pop art series.... This happy little Shotgun House is 16" x 20". Will list this for ebay soon under seller ID "Douthit_gallery". Contact me asap if interested.

Jazzy New Orleans Shotgun House No. 1
Size: 16 x 20
on 3/4" gallery wrapped stretched canvas.

Garden District Painting

2010-03-23T15:49:00.000-07:00

I've had some requests for work from my previous Funky New Orleans paintings, so I whipped up a Garden District painting for starters. This will list soon on ebay - so if you are interested - let me know asap.

The size is 16" x 20", on gallery wrapped stretched canvas. Sides are painted black and are staple free (ready for hanging!).

Garden District Delight House No. 305

I'm going to start this off for auction at $125 with $15 US Shipping. Don't wait! :)

Bookmark this page and check back soon. I just finished a commissioned abstract that I'll photograph and list soon. Thanks for stopping by!

New Paintings on the Way

2010-03-14T14:57:00.000-07:00

I know...I know! It's been a long time. I've been busy doing everything ELSE except painting. But guess what - I will have some new pieces soon. Some of them will be a total new look for me. Stay tuned.

I hope you like it. :)

Doxie Art Makes People Happy

2009-06-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

You know it. I know it. So, let your friends know it! Doxie art makes people happy!

Here's proof of that - courtesy of Diane from DOGTRAIN Inc in North Carolina. She gave a gift from the h-art to a good friend. The smiles tell it all!

Give your gift from the h-art! I'm still taking commissions for the Mardi Gras Jazz Dog painting. Spread the love!

Art Prints Now Available!

2009-04-03T10:02:00.000-07:00

The following three of my art prints are now available!

New Orleans Cafe Terrace

Mardi Gras Party Cats

French Quarter Delight

They are available online at Artist Rising!

Sold Out!!!

2009-03-29T08:21:00.001-07:00

All my current paintings have been sold. Check back soon to see what's available next. Thank you!!!!

Mardi Gras Jazz Dachshund Painting As Seen In Mimi's Cafe

2009-03-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

One of my most popular pieces - the one people search all over the internet to find (seriously - you guys do this!) is my Mardi Gras Jazz Dachshund painting. Mimi's Cafe purchased over 30 of these for their nationwide chain restaurants (and I have to add, I sure wish we had one here!). The photo above is one of my wonderful collectors at a Mimi's Cafe in California. She was sooo kind to send me this photo.

Well, I have great news! For a limited time, I am taking orders for this particular painting. No, I do not offer prints of this. What you will be purchasing is an original painting like the one show below. (You do know that when you get an original, there will be slight variations to some of the detail, but it will still be the 'same' painting).

Don't wait! If you want one, contact me immediately for details and pricing.

The painting will be 12" x 16" on gallery wrapped stretched canvas with the sides painted black. Here are some images of various paintings done over the past six months.

Contact me by leaving a comment here with your e-mail address and I will get back with you soon.

NeW fUnKy NeW oRLeAnS FrEnCh QuArTeR PaInTinG

2009-03-21T08:47:00.000-07:00

My newest piece - this one is big! It's 16" x 20"!

This is another addition to my fUnKy New Orleans Series. Bright! Vivid! Fun! Size is 16" x 20" on gallery wrapped (staple‑free sides) stretched canvas with 3/4" deep sides. This painting is, as always, full of eye-teasing detail. Iron Balconies, warmly light windows, and can’t you just feel the jazz music??? Look at that huge moon in the sky… What a night.

~~Available at Etsy right now.~~ SOLD!!! No longer available.

French Quarter Shotgun House No. 205

2009-03-15T06:41:00.000-07:00

New for 2009! "French Quarter Shotgun House No. 205"!

Original fUnKy New Orleans Painting. This is a continuation of my FuNkY New Orleans French Quarter Street Scenes. Bright! Vivid! Fun! You know you just gotta have one!

If you’ve been to the French Quarter – you’ve seen these cute little houses lines up in rows just blocks from some of the jazziest restaurants and clubs in New Orleans. The title “205” indicates the ficticious house number, and does not imply that this is the 205th painting in the series (although I’m getting close but not counting). This gallery-wrapped (that means staple-free sides!) stretched canvas is 12x16 with ¾” deep sides. Sides are painted black for modern unframed hanging. Although attempts have been made to capture image of original, colors in image may appear lighter or darker than original, especially between different monitors.Painting is unframed. Feel free to e‑mail me with any questions.

~~Available at Etsy right now.~~ SOLD!!! No longer available.

For Inquiries about my paintings....

2009-03-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

I have had people try to reach me in the past six months that weren't very successful. I'm truly sorry. I'm starting this blog so I have a central way of communicating and updating you on my art.

I've recently listed several things on ebay and etsy. The links are on the sidebar. You can reach me by leaving a comment on this blog or through the online stores. I'll list some photos of available paintings on another post. Thanks for stopping by!

Commissioned Artwork

2008-10-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

I would be happy to create a custom piece of art for you, a special friend or your business. Please feel free to contact me to discuss specifics (style, size, color, etc). I require 50% deposit upfront and the balance due upon completion.