Shrine To Happiness

Make a spot to celebrate the things that make you happy!

Centerpiece

Bright Spot; Dreary Day

Last Dance With Mary Jane

There's something decadent about the way western civilization has turned food and drink preparation into an art form. However, I'm not here to pass judgment, just to record beauty.

(The title of this post is the name of the drink.)

Stones

Stones. I think everyone loves them. Whether they're the multi-faceted jeweled type, or a rock wall. They have figured heavily in my artwork over the years. I love the north eastern Maryland/south eastern Pennsylvania landscape where you see stone foundations, stone buildings and rock walls everywhere. 

Bling In My Studio

I know I talk a lot about having "bling" in my studio. But it's important to me to have my surroundings be cheery and cozy. I used to keep my paintbrushes in a plastic cup (no, not a red Solo cup) and I realized that it was not a very uplifting sight. One day, while scouring a local thrift shop with a friend, I came upon this ceramic crock for a couple of bucks. I was enchanted by the robin's egg blue glaze on the inside. Shortly after that, I found the ceramic seashell candle garland (never knew there was such a thing) in a local gift shop. It creates a bright and welcoming spot each morning when I enter my studio.

Little Things

Seriously, it doesn't take much to amuse me!

Still Life By The Sea

There are no words.

The Stuff Art Is Made From

My eyes were arrested by the shiny shapes and surfaces.

Carved By The Sea

Of course I was struck by this beautiful, lacy seashell that was so intricately carved by the sea. You probably noticed it in an earlier photo. (I took it home with me.)

Ole Olsen

Ole Olsen lives in an antique emporium converted from an old historic home in Savannah, GA. He knows how to strike a pose and highlight the old architecture and woodwork in the place.

Light and Color

Late afternoon sunlight plays a huge role in the dramatic effect of these random beach stones.

Shell Mosaic

My cousin and her boyfriend are both extremely artistic and express their talents in an almost romantic way. They created this seashell mosaic (notice the words and faces hidden in it) on a coffee table while on an island vacation; much as one would put together a jigsaw puzzle. 

At the end of three days, they declared it "finished" took some photos, and then whisked it all away. How cool is that?

Camellias

Flowers are such an extraordinary natural miracle and will forever excite the artistic sensibilities of humans.

Sea Glass

I'm fascinated with sea glass. Man's trash turned by nature into treasure. Amazing!

Inspire

I see little vignettes of art everywhere I look; everyday. Sometimes I'm fortunate enough to be able to capture them with my camera; sometimes I have to be content to capture them in my memory. But I decided I wanted to share them, so I started this blog.