Author: Cheryl

Not sure if this ever happens to you… I woke up at 5 a.m. with a painting in my mind. I got up and got the brushes moving. At some point during the day, I did get out of my pyjamas, because I taught an art class from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. that evening. After class, I came home and painted till midnight – and the painting featured here is the result. What do you think of my 5 a.m. inspiration? “Ship Shape” 36″ x 30″ acrylic painting. 

The opening was fun! Thanks to all who came out to cheer us on. Good to see old friends, some who I haven’t seen in quite awhile, and make some new friends too. My painting , “Clearing” featured here, sold and is off to a new home. And congratulations to Richard Sturgeon who sold several of his sculptures. You can still see the show – it is up until November 22. The best way to see it is by taking in one of the wonderful concerts that will be happening at the Aeolian Hall. If you have not yet experience music at the Aeolian, you are missing something wonderful! They feature all types of music, and there will be something that you would enjoy. Book soon, they often sell out. Here is a link to their music schedule: Aeolian Hall Events Page You can also see the art Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  The staff is in the office during those times and are happy to let you in to see the art. 

There are so many things that get the creative side of me going. Travel is so amazing; when you experience a new part of our wonderful world, as an artist you want to express those experiences in colour, shape and form. This is a way to share the delight and amazement you felt. There is nothing like painting from a photo from a trip to put me back into that place and experience it again. I am happy to have several paintings done from the recent trip to Ireland. You can see them, as well as other works, in the art show that opens tomorrow (Wednesday Oct 23) at the Aeolian Hall, corner of Dundas St. and Rectory, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. There will also be work by sculptor Richard Sturgeon. It was fun to integrate our 2 mediums into one show. Hope you can come! “Mystery Door”, acrylic, by Cheryl O – photo reference W. Noordermeer 

I dreamt that I was outside watching people walk along a path, going up a hill. In my dream, I began to analyze whether, if I were to sketch the scene before me, would it be better with a somewhat higher or somewhat lower horizon? Always an artist. Do you dream about making art? 

 I am excited to announce this 2 person show featuring Sculptor Richard Sturgeon, as well as my paintings. Here are the details: Where: Aeolian Hall, 795 Dundas St. E. (at Dundas & Rectory) When: Opening Oct 23, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Who Is Showing: sculptor Richard Sturgeon, and painter Cheryl O Who Is Coming: Art Lovers – hopefully you! Browsers are welcome. 

Saturday Oct 19 there will be a one day painting workshop held at Westmount Library. These fun days are like a mini art retreat. Bring a bag lunch or plan to go to a nearby restaurant for the lunch hour. We will work step by step through the Lawren Harris painting featured here. It’s an easy format for beginners to step into, the reference and line work is provided. Intermediate painters will also benefit from colour mixing tips and other techniques demonstrated. Bring your own art supplies, and plan to work 16″ x 20″. How to register is found here: Art Courses with Cheryl O 

  “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!