"Red Rose 2"
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Like people, flowers seem to acquire more individualtiy and character as they age. This is the same red rose I painted on tuesday, yet after just a few days, it seems like a different flower altogether.

"Concord Field"
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This sun-drenched field with its first touches of Autumn is just outside Concord, Massachusetts. Although it lies on the edge of Metropolitan Boston, Concord has retained much of its rural character and historic ambience (for instance, the site of Paul Revere's capture by the British after his ride is about 200 yards down the road from where I painted). It's been about 2 months since I've done any plein air painting, and I have to say it's great to be out of the studio and under the open sky again.

"Red Rose"
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As a painter, I find flowers to be a particularly challenging subject. Not only do the petals curve in unexpected ways, but they are usually translucent as well. By shining a bright light on the rose from above, I was able to study both the curvature and the translucense at the same time.

"Figurine and Silver Spoon"
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This small figurine from Mexico is carved from Amethyst, I believe. I claim absolutely no knowledge on the subject, but I was told it was a reproduction of an Olmec original. In any event, I find the violet hues of the stone irresistable, and I've painted this piece a number of times in the past.

"Mexican Clay Mug"
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I purchased this mug in the central market of Tepoztlan a few years ago. This delightful town about an hour or so outside of Mexico City is old, relaxed, and has amazing views. You can have a lingering lunch in your host's garden, and look up at the sheer cliffs that rise nearly 1000 feet all around you... complete with an 800-year-old pyramid on top!

Open Studios: If you are in the Boston area this weekend, I'm participating in the South End Open Studios. It's a great chance to visit studios, meet artists, and see a lot of art. It's Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 6pm both days, more info is here. I'm at 450 Harrison Ave, Studio 201. Please stop by and say hello!

"Palette Knife, One Large, Two Small"
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I've never been drawn to painting with a palette knife, but painting them is something different altogether. This old veteran has the marks and scars of many years of useful service. And, obviously, I couldn't resist including my beloved glass... in some form.

Over the past few months, the Painting-A-Day phenomenon has grown widely, to the interest and excitement of many.  I felt it would be a good idea to have an introduction available for those interested in learning more, so I have published an eBay Guide on the topic.  You can read it here.

-Jeff Hayes