Tree Painting

Go For the Bold

  “Playing it safe can be the riskiest choice we ever make.” Sarah Ban Breathnoch It’s that bold stroke, that unusual technique that you would never have found if you hadn’t dared to take chances, that can make the difference between a nice painting and a fabulous one. Sure, there will be the ugly ducklings – but that very special painting may be waiting just the other side of boldness too. Give yourself permission to try something new and daring with your painting. One good way to do this could be to sign up for the upcoming John Lovett painting course. Lots of new ideas and approaches there! 
Painting of Boat

You Really Can

  “If you don’t begin, you will never know how much fun you could have had. You can learn to paint!” Cheryl O Do you have a creative spirit that is longing to be expressed? New painting classes are starting October 1st, and true beginners are welcome! Come have some fun with paint – you will find the atmosphere relaxed, encouraging, and helpful in lots of practical ways. After teaching for 15 years, I know that you can learn to paint, even if you are not sure of that yourself. Both afternoon and evening classes are available. Check out the line up here – scroll down once you are on the page: Art Courses with Cheryl O   
Oil Painting of Apple Blossoms

Fear Factor

Being human, we have a lot of things in common. Most humans are afraid of something. Take artists for example. We share some of the common phobia like spiders and heights – but some artists also have fears of things like blank canvas, writer’s block, or stage fright. I wonder what the roots of this are? Perhaps its the fear that we will have nothing worth saying with our art. Or the fear that no one will want to hear what we have to say if we say it. Or worse, that only negative reactions will result from our art. I suggest that the cure relates back to the first sentence – that being, we have a lot in common. Yes, we are each wonderfully unique and yet if you work at your creative art, if you study and practice and find your voice, chances are big that what you have to say is going to resonate deeply with some of those that you share it with. Everyone? Rarely. Lots of people? I believe so. Don’t let the fear win. You have something to say. (Oil painting “Apple Blossoms” by Cheryl O) 
Landsform photo

Art Happens

This is not a movie set, but a photo of a natural land formation called “The Wave” in Arizona. I have not been there, but would love to see it, and the Grand Canyon someday. These are giant works of art, done by a hand much larger than mine! The earth is full of wonder. What natural formations feel the most like works of art to you? 
Flower Painting

Colour: Hands On

The art class that will give you a strong foundation in understand colour and colour mixing is beginning Thursday October 3rd – your choice of afternoon or evening time slot. Learn why some colours make mud, and how to avoid it. Learn some favourite colour recipes and where to apply them. Learn about classic and modern palettes, and how to create a creative and dynamic colour palette all your own. More information here: Art Courses with Cheryl O (Scroll down when on the page.)