Learning a new trick!!

OK...so, who hasn't seen the movie "Mall Cop"?? Maybe nobody!! And let's be honest....didn't you really end up wanting to get your hands on a Segway?? Seriously...who hasn't wanted to try one??
I know I have!
Well...recently I received an email from Groupon that gave me an opportunity too hard to resist.
There is a new little local business in Providence, RI that is giving tours of the city by Segway!!! Yes!!  It's appropriately  named "Providence Segway Tours" and it is run by a nice young man named Andrew who goes to Johnson & Wales University. Yes...doesn't hurt that Andrew looks a bit like a young Leo Decaprio....lol

It was not as if we needed a tour of Prov. RI since it's actually pretty nearby and my husband in fact grew up in that city...it was more for the chance to try the segways!!
We called and made the appointment and booked it for a Sunday afternoon. They take folks out in groups of four, so there was one other couple along for this run.
You meet at the Prov. ice rink...and at first it doesn't look easy to see where they are...but our guide, Andrew, came out and waved us in.



We were shown one at a time how the vehicles operate and then given a bit of time to get a little practice running around the ice rink before hitting the streets with Andrew.
What a blast. They are a bit tricky for the first few minutes...but once you get a handle on how it works....it's a great way to take the tour.
Andrew had done his homework on mapping out the best routes to take people to show them some sights while keeping city traffic in mind as well as curbs and ramps, etc.
If you were a tourist and wanted something fun and unusual to do while staying in and around the city of Providence....this would be the ticket!!
Always fun to learn something new....not only about the place you're visiting...but a new skill as well!!




Ooh...and yes, of course...I had to throw in a pic of the old "Superman" building. Yes it is....the very same one that used to be at the beginning of the superman series on TV. If you're as old as I am...you've seen it!!

No Shadows

I know...today is Groundhog Day and it's all about the groundhog. Seems he saw his shadow...again.

Well, I'm personally ready for spring to arrive....so, instead of a groundhog and his shadow....I've got a little turtle and his reflection!!!  To me, this says springtime and sunshine!!
I've never understood why a dark dreary day that hides his shadow means an early spring. Seriously....wouldn't a bright sunny day that creates shadows and reflections be a better sign??
One of those things that make you go hmmmm.....

Reeled In

I feel as if it has been ages since I've had some good quality art time. Of course, there was the trip to Paris, then the holidays took priority, and most recently time has been spent helping my mother-in-law with the move to her new place. Now...I believe...I've finally found that quiet winter timing to get back into the swing. This past week I got a couple of piece prepped and ready and, after a bit of fighting with this one....I think I've reeled him in. He did put up a good fight....but other than maybe a last minute tweek here or there after I live with him for a few days....I believe this fellow is done!! I've done koi and goldfish numerous times in the past...but this is my first "game" fish. A bass. I think I may try catching some other new fish after this one!! 

I've given you the "before & after" here. As you can see...the drips on the underpainting are unimportant as the entire fish gets covered in the paper. The underpainting is simply the road map.

A Sassy Siren

Having started this piece a while ago, I was delayed in finishing it due to having my back act up for over a week. When I work I like to stand. So, needless to say, I couldn't stand for long periods of time this way.

I'm glad to say that this is on the mend and I finally managed to finish my first mermaid.

I'm really pleased with the way she turned out.

As my husband pointed out...she looks a bit "sassy" with the shorter blonde hair instead of the long flowing hair that is usually associated with mermaids. I have to agree.

I have a feeling there will be other sirens of the sea turning up now and then!

Workshop

   Still time and spaces available for the next workshop.
Class starts 11-11-11  What an easy date to remember!!!

Be sure to register...Now!!!

Flip Flops

Having done a number of "Beach Toy" pieces with a pail & shovel....I switched it up just a bit by adding another one of those summer icon images...Flip Flops.

Honestly..is there anyone who doesn't have a pair of these in one or more colors during beach season? Nope...didn't think so.

Here is a shot of some of the work in progress. Fun to see it come together.

The Jury is in.....

and the answer is YES. The newest piece....a much larger 12"x24" version similier to a very small lighthouse I'd done earlier this year, has been juried into the Little Compton Community Center Arts Show in RI.

I have to say, this is always one of those art shows that you hold your breath for each year as the jury makes its choice. They can be really tough. 

Well....I can now breathe. It's in....and the opening is Friday evening and runs through the weekend.

I can't wait to go and see what other amazing work has been included. The tough jury does make for an outstanding art show.
If you're in the area this weekend....be sure to stop in!!

I have added this pic for you to see three stages of it's developement....underpainting, mid way, and finished.