Thirst

July in the desert.  Everyone is thirsty.

A Family of Gambel's Quail.

A Cottontail.

Jackrabbit.

Antelope Ground Squirrel.

Cactus Wren.  My favorite desert bird.

There was a roadrunner drinking yesterday, but they are so dern fast, I didn't get a photo.  Maybe next time...

It's not too late for the giveaway of my friend Carla Sonheim's book!  For those of you who didn't read my last post, Carla featured some of my figurative art in her book.  It's called Drawing Lab for the Mixed Media Artist, but even if you aren't a mixed media artist, you will love the exercises in this book.  Sonheim's book features a number of talented artists, and of course you will get to see lots of her wonderful art, too.  So if you think you'd like a shot of winning a free copy, simply leave a comment, stating why you'd like to win.  The drawing is this Thursday.

Here is one of my pastel paintings featured in the book.

Have a terrific week, everyone!  As always, thanks for stopping by.

Surprise

After several days of oppressive humidity and heat, today a thunderstorm finally crashed into our desert day.  Pono the dog is terrified of thunder, and has remained shivering and unhappy in the laundry room all day.  I had to go outside, feel the coolness of the wet air, and watch the lightening rip across the sky.  Thrilling!

Here is the first painting of the new series.  "Surprise."  Oil on canvas, 24 x 18 inches.

It's all about the ears, really.

I have some exciting news - some of my figurative work has been included in a book written by my friend (and amazing artist), Carla Sonheim!  The book is called Drawing Lab for the Mixed Media Artist, and it is available here.  Now for the surprise part - I am giving away a copy of this book right here on my blog!!!  You are most certainly wondering "how do I get a chance to win this book?"  It's easy!  Just leave a comment, explaining why you would like to own a copy of this book, and next Thursday, July 22nd, I will pick a winner from the comments.  So you have one week to leave a comment!  Good luck, and be sure to hop on over to Carla's blog for more book-related info, and to tell her Congratulations!