Snapshots in Watercolor

Sunsets and Tangerine!

2012-01-16T08:12:00.000-08:00

Did you know that tangerine has been determined to be the color for 2012! How exciting to have such a vibrant, happy color to usher us into the new year! So, of course, I was thinking about what I could paint in "tangerine" and found a painting that I have not shared with you yet. "La Jolla Sunset" (image 10x14) was a commissioned piece that I painted last fall. I had to wait to show it here to be sure that it had been presented to its recipients and I wouldn't spoil the surprise. It's a perfect take on the tangerine theme and would look wonderfully exciting in so many landscapes if you don't have palm trees where you live!

If you don't have a spot for a sunset, how about a still life or flowers? My mind is going crazy with ideas, so I'd better get my brushes busy! Where can you add a splash of tangerine?!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

Sending you Christmas greetings with my "Christmas Tree Angel" ©2001 - still one of my favorite watercolors! Wishing you the Peace, Joy and Love of Christmas for you and all your loved ones. Thank you all for your interest and support in my work.

Hidden in the Hills in full swing!

2011-11-18T20:54:00.000-08:00

Hidden in the Hills Artists Studio Tour started today and continues through Sunday with another 3 days next weekend. Here is part of my set up at Studio #6 at Painted Hills Studio. It was a beautiful day and we got to meet lots of visitors doing the tour.
Everyone was encouraged to sign up for our studio drawing - just look at this gift basket! (Drawing will be held at the end of the 6th day - next Sunday.) You can see the tour map and directory at www.HiddenInTheHills.org.

Hidden in the Hills almost here!!!

2011-11-14T07:49:00.000-08:00

Go to www.HiddenInTheHills.org for all the details and plan your tour with Studio#6 as your starting point! That's easy to do with it at the top of the map!!! We have 5 artists - Carole Matthews is our host in her beautiful studio along with Lynda Abare, Marjorie Rogers, Catherine Ross and myself representing a variety of mediums. Choose your day - November 18, 19, 20 and November 25, 26, 27, 10 am to 5 pm! Bring your friends and plan to be wowed!

Snowy Days and Shopping!

2011-11-07T08:33:00.000-08:00

Saturday was a beautiful day to get into the holiday shopping spirit. The Flagstaff Artists Coalition Holiday Art Fair was the perfect reason to get out in the snow. Thank you everyone for coming out and supporting the local artists! And thank you dear art friends, new and "old", for visiting my booth!

Eight - Arizona PBS AZ Artbeat Watercolor Workshop!

2011-10-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

This workshop was held October 22 in the PBS Eight Studio in the Walter Cronkite Building on the ASU Phoenix campus. The participants were given several ideas, technics and tips before working on their own watercolors. The completed paintings were then placed in a presentation kit for taking home by the proud artists. It was a fun day introducing some folks to the magic of watercolor painting. Special thanks to Priscilla Lundberg for assisting me! My new "Dreamy Draw Overlook" painting (image 16x20) was on display as an example of our wonderful Sonoran Desert landscape in transparent watercolor. See the album of photos on my facebook page Snapshots in Watercolor.

Arizona Watercolor Association Fall Juried Show

2011-10-20T22:25:00.000-07:00

Just received the Award of Excellence for "Eagle's View of Verde Valley" at the AWA Fall Juried Show tonight at the Fountain Hills Community Center! It feels good to be included with the top artists. There are many beautiful paintings to see, and the show will be up for another week. Take a drive out to the east Valley and you can also see the famous fountain!

Watercolor West Juried Show

2011-10-18T09:04:00.000-07:00

It was a wonderful weekend in Brea, California! I was delighted to be a part of such a prestigious art show at the City of Brea Art Gallery with my painting "With Sunshiny Faces". All of the paintings meet the criteria for "transparent watercolor". The show will be up now through December 16th if any of you are able to see it.

Daffodils for the winners!

2011-09-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

"Daffodils in Crystal" was the watercolor giclée selected by both of the winners in my guest list drawing from Flagstaff Open Studios. I mailed the second one off to Elaine W. in Scottsdale this week. Guess we all enjoy a little "spring sunshine" no matter what time of year it is! Congratulations again to the winners!

Original Painting - Ponderosa Hustle

2011-09-17T19:38:00.000-07:00

Thought you might like to see the actual painting (image 12x10) that the Arboretum cropped for their poster. The full size original painting is being raffled this week. Don't miss out!

The Ponderosa Hustle in Flagstaff

2011-09-17T17:17:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful morning in Flagstaff - perfect weather for the first race held by the Arboretum at Flagstaff. No, I didn't participate as a runner, but I did enjoy the enthusiasm and energy of those involved. And I was thrilled to have painted the image for their posters advertising the race. The original painting is being raffled this coming week as part of the fundraiser event; it's not too late to call the Arboretum (928 774 1442) and buy some raffle tickets!

Let's Sit Among the Lavender!

2011-09-13T21:39:00.000-07:00

Here is the painting that I was working on for my demo at the Flagstaff Open Studios - finally completed! I was sorry to not have time to work on it, as much as I would have liked to, during the weekend that so many were visiting. The image is 11"x13". Doesn't it look like a heavenly spot to sit awhile? And to think that it's another beautiful landscape in Arizona!

Update on Flagstaff Open Studios 2011

2011-09-02T21:24:00.000-07:00

Here's a little peek at part of my studio set up - guess we were just getting ready to hang some of my award ribbons when John took this shot. It was a terrific weekend with lots of guests stopping by (familiar faces as well as new friends). Everyone loved the variety of art items available; it's always fun to watch folks find the perfect treasure to take home. (And to see their faces when they step in the door to our wall to wall display of watercolors!) Samples of Marie's PB&C Oat Bars were a big hit as well as the free recipe on her special notecard, A Geranium for Marie. Jenny F. from Tucson was one of the winners for the guest sign-in drawing and her little giclée of Daffodils in Crystal is being mailed off to her. (Still waiting to hear back from our second winner.) I'm just about rested up and have decided to keep my studio set up for this weekend in case you missed out and would like to stop by. Just give me a call!

Watercolor images on tiles!

2011-08-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

Last minute preparations are underway for Open Studios in Flagstaff next weekend, August 27th and 28th, 10 am to 5 pm. My studio is #27 this year on the map which you can download at www.flagstaff-arts.org or pick up a brochure, available throughout Flagstaff. I will be introducing a brand new product - tiles with several different images. Here are just 2 of several available. They are bright and shiny, very eye catching and perfect for displaying on a shelf or desk. Come and see what I have and give me suggestions for other images that you might like for gifting to someone special or maybe keep for yourself!

Preludes to Flagstaff Open Studios

2011-08-10T08:34:00.000-07:00

"Twilight at McMillan Mesa" (image 20x26)

Prelude for Open Studios, the reception this Saturday, 6-9 pm at the Coconino Center for the Arts in Flagstaff is being hung this week. We did take in on Monday and there is a wonderful variety of art being exhibited - one piece from each artist participating in the open studio weekend. The exhibit will continue to be open, Tuesdays - Saturdays, through September 1oth. This will give you an opportunity to see the various artists' work and to plan your route for the big weekend! Of course, #27 (my studio) should be your first stop!

"Twilight at McMillan Mesa" is the watercolor that I am showing at Preludes. I just completed it this last week after several evening walks on the mesa. The sunsets over the Peaks are breathtaking, especially now that our monsoon season is here.

Acceptance into Watercolor West Juried Show!

2011-07-26T09:13:00.000-07:00

"With Sunshiny Faces" image 14x22

Wow! I have just received notice that this painting, "With Sunshiny Faces", has been accepted into Watercolor West, an International Transparent Watercolor Society. Their annual show is held at the City of Brea Art Gallery, California. This year the show runs from October 15th to December 18th, 2011. Acceptance into the show gives me the status of Juried Member in the society! The original watercolor will be exhibited in the show as well as published in the catalogue. (Giclées of this painting may be ordered on canvas or watercolor paper.)

Tomato Bonanza!

2011-07-25T17:18:00.000-07:00

"Tomato Bonanza" image 15x23

After a visit to the Farmer's Market a week ago, I arranged my beautiful heirloom tomatoes into a still life set up for a new painting. "Tomato Bonanza" is the result! Do you have a special spot for this in your kitchen/dining room? You can see it soon at Brandy's Restaurant.

Longing for Cooler Days?

2011-07-13T17:23:00.000-07:00

Just finished this little watercolor "Snow Shadows" (image 12x6). With my show at Brandy's up for an extended time, I'm working on new paintings to add as pieces sell and keep the show fresh. So look for this one soon!

the Noise arts and news, July issue!

2011-07-01T08:45:00.000-07:00

Here is the ad in the July 2011 issue of "the Noise arts & news". There is also a write up about the show in the Arts Column by Clair Anna Rose. Clair titled it "Beauty and Heart" - I love it! (The Noise is a monthly publication delivered to various businesses throughout Northern Arizona. Sorry their website is not up and running yet for on line reading. Try to pick one up if you are in the high country.) Thank you Clair for the beautiful description of my painting "Reflections and Refractions". It was fun and challenging to paint it! And what is more beautiful than the sun reflecting off Waterford crystal? (I do have giclées of this painting available; the original is being held for a juried show at this time. More on that later.)

"Reflections and Refractions" image 16x20

Brandy's Show is Up!

2011-06-30T17:48:00.000-07:00

We finally did it! The show is up and ready for you as you sip and dine at Brandy's Restaurant in Flagstaff. The staff did a great job of helping us along with my husband, John, and grandson, Zach. Our granddaughter, Rachel, was with us as well and spent the time coloring away working on her own masterpieces! So here I am with my painting "Flagstaff Fourth" - the focal point for the show. It will be fun to hear the local folks comments as they check it out. I'll post more paintings as the month progresses. And the most exciting news of all...Brandy has extended the show until August 22nd!!! Wow! Now you really will have plenty of time to stop by.

ps: Don't hurry through the foyer too fast - there are some great little miniatures on the pantry shelf along with another special July 4th painting of Brandy's!

Posters Going Up!

2011-06-25T08:41:00.000-07:00

Here is my poster for Brandy's show, designed by Jennie Johnson. Isn't it beautiful? Love the sunflowers - always a favorite in the Northland! Just finishing up the last minute details before we hang the show on Monday afternoon. I have some great surprise pieces that are really going to personalize this show to Brandy's and the 4th of July celebration. Also waiting for the website updates on Brandy's website and the July publication of the Noise... I'll keep you posted!

Getting Ready for the 4th!

2011-06-11T12:04:00.000-07:00

This is a little detail of my painting for the centerpiece at my show at Brandy's Restaurant this year. I am so excited to be showing my work over the July 4th weekend, so I have created a special watercolor from the Flagstaff parade last year. Hope you are planning on a visit to Brandy's - show opens on June 28th! Just 2 weeks to go...

"October Snow" - Weekend Special on giclée prints

2011-04-29T10:15:00.000-07:00

"October Snow" image 20"x26"

Last minute preparations for the Flagstaff Artists' Marketplace Booth Show tomorrow are underway. The show will be at the Elk's Lodge on North San Francisco Street from 10 am to 4 pm. I wanted to share this special 30% off pricing on the giclées of this new painting with my internet and blogger friends too. This weekend only the full size 20"x26" (print only) is $192.50 - price after May 2nd is $275.00 And the 16"x20" size (print only) is $136.50 - price after May 2nd is $195.00.

I have included all this on my newsletter blast, so if you didn't get it and want to be on my mailing list, just send me an email. Look forward to hearing from you. If you are able to make it to the show, I other "goodies" too!!!

Presentation for P.E.O. Chapter AY

2011-04-24T17:05:00.000-07:00

This is a slide show that I presented recently to my P.E.O. Chapter demonstrating how I put together my photos for a painting of Hart Prairie. After several hikes along the Arizona Trail in the Hart Prairie area of the San Francisco Peaks, I chose the photos and arranged them in a collage to prepare my design. You can see how this process helps me to plan a unique composition. Then I proceeded with the drawing and painting... "Hart Prairie After the Summer Monsoon" was a special commission that I completed last summer.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T15:01:00.000-08:00

Here's a little valentine for all my art lovers! This painting titled "Fireworks" is available as an original watercolor (image 7x10)and shows off the colorful California poppies in unique red hues. Perfect for a special valentine!

If you are still looking for ideas - I have gift certificates for you that can be designated for a commission or a framed giclée or original that is ready for delivery. Look forward to hearing from you!

ps: My award winning painting "Blanket Flowers II" that was featured at the SAL Small Works Show is also available and those red and yellow blanket flowers are always a favorite!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-15T06:32:00.000-08:00

"Snowy Day in Sante Fe" (image 22"x28")

Warm wishes for the holidays as you prepare to celebrate with your loved ones. This is such a special time of year with so many wonderful events and occasions for us to gather together. May you have some time to reflect and remember the little things that make your day as well as this holiday season special.

I am grateful for all of you and your continuing interest and support. Thank you for allowing me to share my watercolors with you and yours, for taking me into your homes and special spaces,and for your ideas and suggestions. You make it all so worthwhile for me to continue creating!

Christmas hugs!

Holiday Time is here!

2010-12-09T15:14:00.000-08:00

Such a busy time of year for all of us. I hope you are enjoying your holiday preparations and not too stressed out. Our family got a jump start this year with the grandkids at our Thanksgiving get together and the kids all made sugar cookie houses - oh, the sugar high was worth it! As you can see there was lots of tasting going on. ha!
The Small Works Show is up right now in Cave Creek, AZ at the Sonoran Art League's office and gallery located at 6051 E. Hidden Valley Drive. You can see the show 12 noon to 4 p.m. through Dec. 19th. There are lots of little ornaments for sale as well as an assortment of media in that just right size for gifts for you or someone special. I was delighted to receive an Award of Excellence for one of my watercolors - Blanket Flowers II!

I still have some little 2x2 ornaments, with original watercolors, available at my studio if you haven't had a chance to get one, but please order soon if you have your heart set on one.

Floral Landscape Workshop

2010-10-17T14:12:00.001-07:00

Click this text to get to the play button on the slideshow to view.

Watch the slideshow of the wonderful work from all the participants in my floral landscape workshop! After learning and reviewing so many techniques for combining photos and painting our compositions, we had a group critique of each students' painting in progress. (Then as a follow up 2 weeks later, we met once more at my studio for a final critique.)

Winners have chosen their giclées!

2010-09-20T20:20:00.000-07:00

The 2 winners from my "guest sign in" drawings have had a chance to stop by my studio and select their free giclées.

Suzy Erickson chose the "Eagle's View of Verde Valley". (Her husband's interest in trains had a little influence there!)
Juana and Jerry Snow chose "Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde", where Jerry has guided many tours!
It was fun for me to be able to offer these prizes as a way of thanking my guests for participating in Flagstaff Open Studios. (My husband, John, helped me with the drawing process so it was all quite "scientific"!) Well that wraps up another successful year for Open Studios, but there are still more opportunities for you to check out my watercolors and sign up for door prizes...

September 29th and 30th is the Taste of Cave Creek Fine Art Exhibit at Stagecoach Village, Cave Creek, AZ, 4 pm to 10 pm. In addition to the Sonoran Art League art exhibit and sale, there are food and wine/beer/tequila tastings, cooking demos, live music and even hot air balloon launches! Look for me inside the exhibit hall at booth #17. For more information, you can visit the website www.CaveCreekChamber.org or call 480 488 6612.

More later on the Holiday Art Show, November 6th - this time in Flagstaff!

Oops! Almost forgot that my solo show continues at the Flagstaff Arboretum through September 30th. I was able to add a couple of new little watercolors to round out the show titled "Northland Highlights in Watercolor". What a treat to be able to show so many of my Northland Wayside paintings at the Arboretum!

The leaves are turning up north! Happy Fall!

Catherine

Holiday Ideas at Open Studio #37

2010-08-22T16:23:00.000-07:00

This is a tiny little easel with an original watercolor - perfect for that special someone - maybe you? Sunflowers are for all seasons, but there are also other images to choose from. And I still have some of the little boxes with original art for your shelf, desk or table top.
Here is a sampling of my new Holiday Decorations - all original watercolors on a tiny canvas ready to hang on your tree or from a special hanger of your choosing! Yes, they are finished with a glossy varnish to reflect the sparkle of your lights and protect them from moisture -maybe snowflakes?

Flagstaff Open Studios - August 28-29!

2010-08-22T10:21:00.000-07:00

You are invited to Flagstaff Open Studios on August 28 and 29, 10 am t0 5 pm! My studio is #37 in the brochure and located at 1401 N. 4th St. #202 - follow the signs and yellow balloons. I will have brochures and maps to all the studios participating. It's a free event and lots of fun - a chance to see us in our studios and learn about lots of different art forms. No, my arm is not still in a sling - that was last year! I have had a chance to catch up on my painting and have new paintings and prints and some very unique little watercolor ornaments - perfect for your holiday decorations! I wish I had a whole basket full, but I'm painting more as I post this note. Come early and you will have several to choose from! As always, there will be a drawing each day from my "guest sign in" for a little print of your choice! See you then!
-

New watercolor workshop scheduled.

2010-08-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

I have scheduled a workshop for September 23, 2010 at the Flagstaff Aquaplex. We will have the entire day to explore painting a floral landscape. So plan to bring your supplies and paint with me - you can choose either a floral or landscape composition if you don't wish to combine them. Check out the details at http://tinyurl.com/sept23class and register online or give me a call at 602 918 0234 (cell). Space is limited - must be registered by Sept. 13th!

Arizona Daily Sun - Thank you Betsey Bruner

2010-07-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

A fun article, some great photographs and a few insights from a photographer/writer from Northern Arizona who offers invaluable press for Catherine Sickafoose Watercolors! Enjoy! "Letting the Light Shine Through"

The Noise - Arts & News, The Schultz Edition

2010-07-09T21:38:00.000-07:00

How exciting! Clair Anna Rose interviewed me regarding my July show at Brandy's and wrote a wonderful article in the July 2010 issue of the Noise. The interview appears in her column It's the Arts. Zoom in on the above copy to read it or look for the free newspaper in many locations in Northern AZ towns.

Brandy's Show

2010-07-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

We have the show up at Brandy's with a total of 39 framed pieces and 8 mini "art boxes"! A special thank you to Brandy and her staff for all their help in arranging my work so that it all fits together into a feast for the eyes! Come enjoy a bite to eat and a chai tea (my favorite) and see my show sometime this month.

Brandy's Restaurant Presents...

2010-06-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

Wow! It's almost time for my 7th Annual Show at Brandy's Restaurant in Flagstaff, AZ. The dates this year are July 6th through August 2nd. For those of you who are lucky enough to be in the "high country" of Arizona, be sure to plan to visit Brandy's for one of those award winning meals and see my newest watercolors. You can check out Brandy's website at www.BrandysRestaurant.com for directions and menu options. As for a sneak preview, I have put "With Sunshiny Faces" (a new sunflower painting) on a gallery wrapped canvas and it's stunning!

The backdrop for the poster above is my watercolor, "Eagle's View of Verde Valley", with the Verde Valley train out of Clarkdale/Cottonwood- another one of Arizona's gems. You'll just have to schedule a visit to see the other paintings that I have planned for the show!

Village of Oak Creek Art Class Organizers

2010-06-09T20:04:00.000-07:00

Special thanks to these two ladies, Jan and Sherri, for inviting me to teach their workshop in Oak Creek. It was a lot of fun and everyone had a painting ready for our critique at the end of the day. What an inspiration for me! See my slideshow in the previous posting for an overview of the class and it's members.

Village of Oak Creek Workshop - A Success!

2010-06-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

Village of Oak Creek (VOCA) Watercolor Class

14 wonderful watercolorists joined me on Monday, June 7, 2010 for a full day class in the Village of Oak Creek, AZ, just south of Sedona. You can see from the pictures each are experienced in their own way and came well equipped with their own supplies. We explored together how to paint florals and landscapes using a variety of techniques including glazing, spatter, spray, sponging, and salt. Thank goodness someone had salt to loan me as I had left mine at home!

Enjoy their artwork! We wrapped up the day with a critique of everyone's paintings. It is always fun to see the works as they progress and view them with mat corners. Everyone had such positive comments for each other. It was wonderful to be part of such a warm and supportive group!

... a special thanks to my husband John for taking the photos of each of these inspiring artists!

Guest Artist in my Studio

2010-05-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

I had a special guest in my studio today - my little granddaughter was visiting and asked to paint at my table. Yes, she did a watercolor! Actually, it turned out to be a mixed media with a picture of a guinea pig "collaged" onto it (in anticipation of a birthday trip to the pet store). What fun to see my grandkids enjoying painting as much as I do!

Artists' Marketplace 2010

2010-04-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful Spring day in Flagstaff as I set up my booth along with 30 artists from the Flagstaff Artists' Coalition for the Marketplace in the CCC Commons. I'm sure everyone who attended would agree that there was a terrific variety of art available by a very professional group of artists.

It was fun to catch up with familiar faces and make new friends. The folks visiting my booth were able to sign up for a drawing of a small giclée and the lucky winner was Cathy Owen of Flagstaff! All in all, it was a great day with some new paintings and new items to share.

A big thank you to all who came out and made it a successful event!

Be sure to watch for this event next year! Now, next up for me, will be my show at Brandy's in July. I will keep you posted on new watercolors. Meanwhile, give me a call and visit my studio when you need that unique gift for someone special (hint, hint---maybe Mom?)

Hugs, Catherine

Spring in Full Bloom

2010-04-05T16:27:00.000-07:00

Spring and watercolors - how wonderfully they go together! What should I paint first? The flowers are blooming everywhere in the Arizona desert as well as at my front door! Here you can catch a glimpse of my sweet peas as they climb the trellis - at least 7 feet tall! And they smell heavenly!

Some of you folks have had more than your share of winter. Well a little floral watercolor might just be the thing to hurry spring along in your neck of the woods. Check out my website for some ideas and let me know if you have a favorite flower or hiking place that I should consider. The website has been updated with some new landscapes and a new sunflower painting will be posted soon.

Also check out my calendar. Next up is the Artists' Marketplace on April 24th in Flagstaff at the Coconino Community College, 10am - 4pm. Be sure to mark your calendar if you are in the area. There will be a wonderful array of art to enjoy by all those talented Northern Arizona artists! I will have some small originals on stand up boxes, new giclée prints and cards. Oh yes, and a drawing for a small giclée print! Look forward to seeing you!!!

Small Gems Juried Show

2010-02-05T19:34:00.000-08:00

The Small Gems Juried Show went up this week in Flagstaff, AZ at the Artists' Gallery on San Francisco St. It's a wonderful collection of small art pieces by a variety of artists.
"First Blossoms" (4"x 3")
"Snowfall" (3.5"x 5")
"Brilliant Aspen" (5"x 3.5")

Theses watercolors are my entries. They were fun little gems to paint on watercolor paper and then mount on little boxes that were crafted by my husband John. With a waterproof archive finish they are ready for display as desktop or wall art !

They will continue to be on display in the window until the end of the month, unless of course they sell first! If you are in the area, be sure to see them soon!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-20T14:57:00.000-08:00

"Hurry Up Bella!" (image 16"x20")

Here is the watercolor painting that I was commissioned to do for a special Christmas present. If you look closely, you will see Bella, the family's golden retriever - she is always being asked to hurry and catch up with everyone. (I actually learned that little fact after I had finished the painting and titled it!) The setting is the desert outside of Tucson in the Rincon Mountain area. A beautiful place for a hike and a great setting for the painting! I planned this composition from an assortment of photos that were provided of the different family members on various hikes. It was fun putting them together and deciding just how I would portray them. Everyone enjoyed finding themselves in the painting and, all in all, it was a great surprise for their Grandma to present to them! (Perhaps this will give you an idea of a painting you would like to have me do?)

I hope everyone is getting off to a wonderful new year and working hard at all those resolutions! But not too hard - it's still just January! I am having fun working on some new paintings and look forward to sharing them with you soon. Thanks for your wonderful comments and emails. I love hearing from you!

2009-12-13T18:37:00.000-08:00

"Museum of Northern Arizona" (image 10"x14")

Oh what a wonderful time of the year! Here is my Christmas card for you "Wishing you the peace and joy of Christmas and a healthy prosperous New Year!"

My most recent painting is a secret commission for a holiday gift so I cannot share it with you until after Christmas. But here's a hint - it's a young family out on a favorite outing with their family pet. I can't wait to hear about their comments and then I will show it to you.

Here are 2 of my grandchildren, 6 year old twins Rachel and Simon sharing a hug after their 1st grade Christmas program. What better example of the warm fuzzy feelings we love to share during this season. I hope this finds you also enjoying special times and special people.

Best wishes to you for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Museum of Northern Arizona

2009-10-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

Last weekend , we put up a new show at the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff. The Museum Bookstore has been carrying my cards and small wrapped giclées for some time. Now I am so excited to have the opportunity to display my framed watercolors as well!

Here John is hanging the paintings which were chosen to reflect subjects related to the Museum and Northern Arizona. Marilyn, Museum Volunteer on duty, was a big help to us with the display. First chance that you get, be sure to stop into the Museum on Fort Valley Road to see the wonderful collections and exhibits and don't forget the Bookstore!

What Fun!

2009-10-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

Winners from my Open Studio drawing, Jim and Vel Hedberg, stopped by today to choose their mini giclée - "It's Holly Time Again". It was delightful having a chance to get acquainted and to share my work with them again. Congratulations once again! Taking a few minutes to sign the guest list is all it takes to get your name in my drawing.

Open Studio Update and more...

2009-10-01T20:18:00.000-07:00

After a busy Open Studio weekend and getting reacquainted with so many of you again, I have the winners of my "guest list drawing". Jim and Vel Hedberg from Munds Park and Laurie Cosolito from Flagstaff were excited to be called and asked to choose their mini giclée- "It's Holly Time Again" or "Late Summer at the Arboretum".

Congratulations!!! And thank you to all of you who visited my studio and entered the drawing. I also appreciated your good wishes for my speedy recovery from my fall. (I am making good progress and best of all - painting again!)

I hope some of you have been watching the PBS series this week, "The National Parks - America's Best Idea". (Visit pbs.org for details.) The film by Ken Burns was opened with a special live celebration concert in New York City's Central Park and broadcast to select audiences on September 23rd. I was privileged to be able to donate 2 giclée prints from Arizona National Monuments for the Eight Public Television and Eight Educational Outreach: ASSET audiences to assist with their membership drive - "Springtime at Cabeza Prieta" and "Hubbell Trading Post". In addition, 4 of my watercolor images were used for notecards to be given to the participants. I was so pleased to be able to contribute to this special event in this way!

Congratulations to Peggy George and Kristi Olson of Phoenix!

Now, I'm looking forward to cooler weather in the Valley and working on some special commissions.

Flagstaff Open Studios

2009-09-02T20:22:00.000-07:00

"Colton House" (image 10" x 14")

Preparations are underway for an exciting weekend, September 19 and 20, when I will have my "condo studio" in Flagstaff open for you to visit 10 am to 5 pm. I will do a drawing each day, from the guests' sign in sheet, for a 5x7 giclée! And I will be doing a demo for you to see a painting in progress. (Yes, I do plan to be painting in spite of some injuries I sustained during a fall last week.) My sister, Janis, is coming early from Toronto, Canada to help me get everything ready.

Brochures with maps to the various studios are available at the Visitor Center (train station downtown) as well as many other locations around town. Also you can find one at the Artists' Coalition website www.flagstaff-arts.org. Or email (Catherine@CatherineSickafoose.com) or phone (602 918-0234) me and I will send you one in the mail. Looking forward to seeing you!

Brandy's Show

2009-08-11T09:18:00.000-07:00

Original watercolors on little standup boxes (6x6 and 5x10)

for your table or mantel or you can hang them on the wall!

They are beautifully crafted by my husband, John,

and varnished for an archive finish.

Here we are relaxing after hanging 40 pieces of art. (That's Brandy for those of you who have not met her.) The show looks wonderful, thanks to all the staff who helped us. I hope that many of you will have a chance to stop by for a bite to eat and see the variety of new work that I have done, just for this show! The boxes above were finished just in the nick of time!

2009-07-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

Brandy's Show Poster (dates should read August 4 - 31st)

Well it's almost "show time" for Brandy's Restaurant in Flagstaff. If you are able to enjoy a few days in the cool pines of Northern Arizona, be sure to stop in and see my watercolors during August. ( Hours and directions are on the website www.BrandysRestaurant.com) The show will be up from the 4th to the 31st. It will be featuring some local hiking spots, and some special landmarks around the Museum of Northern Arizona, as well as my favorite... flowers, of course! This year there will be lots of miniatures for those little spaces in your home that are just calling for some extra color! As promised, I have included one of Peggy's Cove in Nova Scotia; I bet it will get some interesting comments from the local folks!

"Peggy's Cove" (image 9"x13")

If you can't make it to Brandy's, remember that Flagstaff Open Studios is coming - September 19th and 20th! I would love to see you at my "condo studio" then!

Vacation in Eastern Canada

2009-07-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

Fleurs de Liz Studio, PEI, Canada
Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia, Canada

Wow! do I ever have lots of new subjects and ideas for paintings! John and I have just returned from a vacation in Eastern Canada. We flew into Halifax, Nova Scotia and drove on to Prince Edward Island across the 8 mile Confederation Bridge. The scenery was beautiful and all so different from what we are accustomed to seeing here in Arizona - lighthouses, rocky coast lines and sandy beaches, rolling farmlands and marshes and quaint little villages with art studios everywhere. The folks we met were so friendly and the B&B's we stayed at were excellent.

I visited with a fabric artist, Liz Heeley-Ray who paints wonderful PEI scenes on clothing and home accessories. We had a great time exchanging ideas and then I had fun taking photos of her studio and garden - it was all an artist's dream to see! And of course, I had fun shopping in her studio too!

Peggy's Cove was the perfect ending to our trip so that is the lighthouse I will share with you.

Now I must get busy painting again. August will soon be here and my show at Brandy's in Flagstaff will go up August 4th. I'm hoping I can have at least a sampling from this trip along with my new Northern Arizona paintings.

Back to the brushes!

June Update!

2009-06-11T14:50:00.001-07:00

June update...

I'm painting up a storm, getting ready for my August show at Brandy's, but also taking a few detours with some other subjects. Here is my granddaughter, Rachel, at a dance program a year ago. (I keep finding these special photos that I have saved "for some day"! ) I have titled this one "First Performance".

I also have some new landscapes from the Museum of Northern Arizona that I will be showing in August...

And I am planning several "miniatures" - perfect for those little bare spots in your favorite room. More about those later...

May commission...

2009-05-18T13:36:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the PEO State Convention in Carefree. I presented Alix Smith, State Chapter President, with a painting that Chapter AY had commissioned me to do for her. I titled it "Bisbee Salutes Alix". Alix grew up in Bisbee and we all knew that they would be as proud of her as we are, so I painted a street fair in her honor. It was so much fun to create! Thank you AY for giving me this opportunity.

May News

2009-05-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

Wow! Here it is the 18th and already a very busy month..on the 1st, I participated in the First Friday Art Walk in Flagstaff at Interior Expressions, a beautiful home accessories store on North San Francisco Street, where my watercolors are currently being shown. I had fun doing a painting demo for the folks who visited the store. It gave me an opportunity to chat with them explaining how I choose and design my composition and apply the watercolor using various little tricks with the paint. The kids stopping by were delightful with their interest and would have liked to join me! I really appreciated store owner, Diane Luciani, (to my left in the red dress) giving me a prime location for the evening! Her assistant, Iga, (on my right) is so enthusiastic and enjoys sharing my work with everyone.
"Late Summer at the Arboretum" (image 14"x20") was the painting that I worked on that evening and finished in my home studio. It will soon be available as a giclée and notecards.

Stay tuned; I have more news.

Spring Studio Update

2009-04-26T17:19:00.000-07:00

"Lookit Me" (original 12"x 9")

Greetings Art Friends!

I hope you are enjoying the mild temperatures and sunny days. My sweet peas are blooming and smell absolutely wonderful! Such a treat! (I realize that you folks up north will have to wait a little longer for these joys. Maybe a floral watercolor would hurry Spring along for you.)

This is my first newsletter for 2009 and I have some exciting news to share with you.

1. "Lookit Me!" was painted from a photo taken of my grandson, Cade, while hiking on the Veit Trail, north of Flagstaff, last Fall. It was such fun to paint and makes me think that some of you probably have a special photo that you would love to have a watercolor painting of to cherish for years to come. My schedule is a little freer this year to accommodate such projects.

2. Speaking of schedules, my website calendar has been updated and ready for you to view at www.CatherineSickafoose.com.

3. Check it out soon so you don't miss the Peoria Fine Art Show next weekend! I will be showing a select group of watercolors in the Arizona Art Alliance Tent in the Municipal Complex. All the details are available on my website. It's a 3 day event with a reception on Friday evening, March 13th. Would love to see you there!

4. While you are in the Northwest Valley, stop by Sun Valley Quilts at 9857 W. Bell Rd. (623-972-2091). They are the newest shop to carry my "Fine Art Fabric Giclées" and have a large selection available. Pillows, wall hangings and table runners make wonderful accents for your home. (You can continue to find the fabric giclées at the Quilted Apple in Phoenix, Zoe's Trunk in Chandler and the Quilter's Store and Gallery in Sedona.)

Thanks for sharing your email address with me so I can keep you up to date. I promise to keep it confidential.
Warm hugs, Catherine