My art studio is buzzing these days. I have quite a few paintings on the go as well as new ideas for future paintings. It's feast or famine in the art area. And as with any passion, the more time you can set aside for it, the more you want to set aside time. It's a wheel that keeps on turning.

Currently, I do not have painter's block, but I do have writers block. Every morning I think "this is the day I'll send out a newsletter or a blog post. But first I'll walk out to the studio for inspiration."

https://youtu.be/8ConAuOYoJ4

I walk across the lawn past the lupins or iris or now lilies, and reach my converted garage-into-studio that is surrounded by blooming wild roses, a cherry tree and fields. I am moved to pick up a brush to add to any one of the four paintings I'm currently working on. I have my coffee, I put on a little music and then I lose myself in the dance with the canvas.

Occasionally the cat scratches at the front door to come in and she settles in for a nap.

I take a break and pick some snow peas and kale for the evening stir fry. If Larry is home he brings in a snack for both of us.

Almond butter on slices of apple....the perfect snack;

Not only are the treats essential to my work flow, his gesture also sends a welcome message of encouragement - that my time of exploration in the studio is important. It is very wonderful to have a partner who encourages creativity. I am a lucky artist in so many ways.

Of course not all days are like that...life has other ideas for us.

But this is my intention:

• try to paint every day
• paint like I mean it
• appreciate this precious time and opportunity
• soak in the beauty all around
• be prepared to make mistakes - that's how people learn

If you would like to see my chaotic, creative space, please come and visit! Just give me a 'heads up' so I can be sure to be here. The contact information is here.

Come to my studio and I'll show you a few recently finished paintings.

Solitude © Flora Doehler, 2019, 11" x 14", Acrylic on Canvas. $260

Brier Island, Nova Scotia, ©Flora Doehler, 12" x 12", Acrylic on Birchwood, $260

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Field of Grace ©Flora Doehler, 2019, 48" x 48", Acrylic on Canvas $2,600

Yellow Tulips ©Flora Doehler, 2019, Acrylic on Canvas, 48" x 48", $2600

And before you leave Bear River, drop into the Bear River Artworks Gallery at the Oakdene Centre. This vibrant, co-op Gallery is artist run and I'm usually there on Wednesdays.

Blue Mind Gallery also has a few small paintings of mine as does The Flight of Fancy, both on the main street of Bear River.