Tomorrow I fly home to Berlin after two weeks visiting my "cradle" of western New York.  Coming and leaving are truly bittersweet occasions, but today I have had some lovely experiences.  I delivered paintings for the members' show at the Artist Knot Gallery www.artistknot.com and already have some positive feedback.  so important for the artist/musician to know that we reach someone . . .

And I  have had a beautiful evening with my family, just sitting in the livingroom in front of the fireplace and conversing.   This is a time to treasure.

I am thankful.

Joyful Dance

Expanding

I've been so anxious to start capturing springtime in watercolors, only to discover that I forgot to pack my paintbox before travelling!  I have since remedied that situation, but in the meantime, I have submitted a couple photos to a local photography exhibit.  Japan always supplies me with plenty of inspiriation for painting and lots of images to preserve on the camera.  I chose two from my orchestra tour in the summer of 2010.

For western New Yorkers, the exhibit is at the D.A.Howe Library in Wellsville;  reception is Thursday, Feb. 23th from 7-8:30 p.m.  There is an amazing variety of subject matter and photographic techniques on display - much worth having a look.!

Friday

Fridays are very special. When I'm not busy rehearsing or performing an opera or concert,  I meet with several other artists to spend the evening painting together.  Each of us has his own style and work mthods, but we have a wonderful group dynamic - sharing ideas, techniques and critique - enjoying the company and doing our share of laughing, too.

Yesterday I experimented with my own interpretations of  Chinese watercolor and ink painting.  The contrast between the delicate watercolors and black ink and the way the two react with each other on paper provide wonderful possibilities for interesting pictures.

Full moon and snow

Tonight we will have a full moon and, after that, perhaps somwhat milder temperatures. . . . Seeing that huge sphere in the dark sky yesterday evening was quite impressive; even more beautiful, though, was the effect of the noon sunshine on the snow crystals.  The garden appeared to be littered with thousands of diamonds, sparkling for all they were worth. . . . tiny rainbows of color. 

After the First Snow

Even as we experience -20° in Berlin, we are reminded that the days are getting longer.  The sun will warm us up and spring is on the way. Sure thing!