Thanks to everyone for making the “Whatever Floats Your Boat” Show a success!

Angie’s Huge painting of the Beatles had a wonderful spot over the desk. Lorna’s orange landscapes reminded everyone of “Avatar”. We all simply loved Jody’s “Float Your Boat” entry. Julie’s revamped float home got the thumbs up as did Nancy’s Pen and Ink rendition of the Great Central Island photo.
And a very late entry (better late than never) by Dagmar was so cute that I put it up with the “Float Your Boat” entries. It looked great sitting beside Angie’s very graphic entry!

Micheline’s friends and husband were there along with Helen, her sister and Ron. Angela and her Mum were enjoying the ambiance. Vera brought her husband John who I had a good chat with ~ I will hold you to your offer John ~ next year you will be playing classical guitar for your captive audience! And Vera ~ your latest painting of the pier will be in next years Show I am hoping.

Sharon came up with her daughter who is expecting her first child in the fall. Sharon’s work looked fabulous especially her latest garden paintings ~ so vibrant with a great flow to them. Richard Verdec brought his wife and their two friends and I know Richard was wishing he had entered our Show ~ next year for sure Richard.

Constance and her husband admired her first oil painting. I saw that look of pride on both their faces. I am glad to say that Constance although moving to the Cowichan Bay area will still be coming to class here on Wednesday’s ~ YES!

The studio was hopping with lots of upbeat painters and lookers.

Along came Peter and Kerry and the music started. What a wonderful combination ~ music, fine art, great people and oh lets not forget a few glasses of wine! Well, Peter asked me to sing and of course I couldn’t refuse, Then Richard asked Nancy for some spoons and the quartet was together. Oops ~lets not forget the Shakin’ Mama’s ~ without their well timed hoots, hollers and rhythmic ways the band would not be complete.

The Party was over much to soon ~ a good time was had by all and the studio had a wonderful glow about it for days after.

The paintings were so diverse. I was happy with the outcome of the main event but next yr I would like to see A LOT more work. I want to fill that whole wall with outstanding and diverse paintings!
I am very proud of the caliber of the work shown and would like to thank you all for doing your very best work. I know sometimes I seem like a slave driver but when I see the outcome I know it is worth it for both you and I.

After the terrible winter I have had emotionally and physically this was like a new start ~ thanks to all my friends, students who have become my friends, and friends who have become the family I never had!

I am planning on making this a yearly event ~ every 1st Sunday in May. Every year I will challenge all my students AND myself to paint one of the pictures I have taken. Each artist will interpret the painting the way they see fit. Abstract, realism, mixed medium, impressionism ~ you name it. Any size any medium!

Until next year…………..keep on painting,
elissa