If these Cars Could Talk...

His name was Hank. Loyal, he went everywhere with me, listened when I needed to vent or sing at the top of my lungs. He knew all of my secrets and saw me do things I am too embarrassed to reveal here. Hank was my Jeep. 

Country Squire, Original photo and acrylic paint on canvas, 18 x 24 in. 

Named after a beloved pet, Hank was family but when I could no longer care for him he was donated. I was so emotional I couldn't be present when the tow truck came to take him away. During 13 years together we traveled across country twice, endured snow, brutal desert heat, a semi-brutal relationship and later many joyful road trips with my husband.

Orange Van, Original photo and acrylic paint on panel, 20 x 24 in.

There is no denying, especially for Americans, cars play a huge role in our lives. Everyone remembers the car they grew up with, the car they learned to drive in, a friend's car you all piled into on a Friday night. Well, buckle up, kick back and enjoy the ride.

Potrero Market, Original photo and acrylic paint on panel, 24 x 16 in.

Summer Slacker

It's been an amazing summer in the San Francisco Bay area. Sunny, clear, warm and, honestly, not very conducive to long hours holed up indoors. So this past weekend, despite feeling guilty for skipping the studio, I decided to enjoy the ideal weather while it lasted. Saturday I went to Nostalgia Days in Novato. It's mostly a venue for classic car enthusiasts to show off their goods, drink some beer, hang out and talk shop. I showed up early when the light was good, camera in hand, ready to take photos just for fun.

And it was fun...really fun. I saw some amazing vintage cars and met some great guys, who proudly explained restoration details, engine horsepowers and paint jobs. I took photos until my battery died and managed to get some nice images. I won't use them in my artwork, but a day shooting without an agenda was just what i needed to feel creatively rejuvenated!