Happy New Year!

Hope that you are having healthy happy holidays. I took a bit of time off but am back in the studio juggling between preparing for my upcoming class (see below) and working on paintings for the Marin open Studio in May.

The one project I worked on over the holidays is getting little graphite sketches of my grandkids done. Here's the first one - Ethan (9). Lots of fun to do, though it's hard to capture their heart and soul in a little sketch. Still - fun to try.

"Get Ready to Paint" workshop Jan. 31st

I'm giving a class designed for really beginner painters. Check out the details at Riley's (click the tube that says 'classes' / San Rafael. Then scroll down to where 3 columns begin. See "Get Ready" in the right column. http://www.rileystreet.com/classes.html

A good news day!

Yeah! 1st, Marin Arts Council selected "West Marin" (here) to be featured in their 2010, first annual, art book. (This is in addition to the image each Open Studios artist will have in the book). The newly designed coffee-table-quality book will replace their previous pamphlet style directory. I'll post when it is available throughout Marin. (free!)

Same afternoon- Studio Gallery, SF, called to say "Summer Grapes" had just sold...as a Christmas gift. A good 'get the art out' day!

That's the thing about painting - it's a visual thing. So it's gratifying to have paintings find their way to the public.

Q&A - how to stay in touch!

Hi all, a couple of you have asked how to know when new work is posted or best way to contact me. Here are a couple ways:

1. "subscribe' and you'll get an email connection anytime I add something to the blog. (bottom of left column)
2. Become a follower - bottom of right column. You can email me from there.
3. Bookmark the site and just drop by from time to time.
Hope that helps. Mary

Cherry Pickin' and Summer Cherries

These two were a lot of fun and a challenge. Learned a ton trying to capture the lush and shiny quality of the ripe fruit. 5"x5" on canvas. They are quite clear and crisp 'in person' - scanner had trouble processing the varnish I used. btw - the cherries were yummy :-)

Going live!

I've been toying with a blog for awhile- a quick way to share new paintings and updates about workshops, events etc. I hope you bookmark this page - and visit from time to time. Comments welcome! Or sign-up for notification for new blog entries.

WHAT'S NEW?
Upcoming Solo Exhibit: I'm pleased to be having a solo exhibit in February 2010 in Sausalito, CA. More details about the reception and show soon.

New Art: Look for "new" next to titles in galleries I, II, III, IV www.maryvalente.com

New Cards: If you are up in Eureka, stop by the Treasure Trove in the Bayshore Mall. Donna Lin (in photo) is publishing my cards along with those of other artists.

Studio Gallery, SF: "Tiny" exhibit - running until December
23rd. The reception was a kick - a zillion people enjoying art and food. Very informal gallery; not stuffy. Owners are great. I've got four pieces in the show. Stop in when in SF.
http://www.studiogallerysf.com/

Workshop: Jan, 31st I'll be teaching a "Get Ready to Paint" class for beginner painters at Riley's Art Store in San Rafael. Details at
http://www.rileystreet.com/classes.html

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Keep in touch
Mary