claire kayser fine art

2012-01-05T14:00:00.001-06:00

My new Fizz Eds - www.eyebobs.com
COOLEST eyewear - made Oprah's O list!

2011-11-15T20:53:00.001-06:00

Great cow painting today! Make me wanna say, "Moooooooooo...."

Laugh, even if it starts off as fake!

2011-11-05T10:39:00.003-05:00

A great article in the Pioneer Press this morning lauded laughing as great medicine! It lowers blood pressure, boosts immunity among other things. It sited that laughing babies and funny animal videos are among the most popular on YOUTUBE.COM! Well, I'm a firm believer! I find it easy to be silly, and I'm glad to know that it's good for my health!

I just dug up this video shot by my 7-yr.-old daughter of her God mother, Diane, my twin sister Carole and me faking it up then guffawing for REAL! See if it makes YOU laugh, and hey, maybe it will save you a trip to the Dr.!

Senior Shoots!

2011-11-02T17:32:00.000-05:00

Here are just a few of the gorgeous seniors I've had the pleasure of shooting this fall! If you have a senior who needs pics for yearbook or for just to commemorate his/her senior year in a beautiful way, then let me know! Will shoot all year! Rain, snow or shine!

http://www.clairekayser.com

Email: ckayser@mac.com

2011-10-01T22:34:00.001-05:00

Thursday COLOR CAFE rocked! Great job, ladies!

2011-09-27T21:52:00.001-05:00

Rockin' COLOR CAFE today!Lori's value study!
Jill's landscape
Amy's portrait

Steely Dan at MN State Fair

2011-08-31T08:45:00.002-05:00

no cameras allowed, so this is the best i could get...

donald fagan

walter becker

careen and me

watching one of my fav bands with some fav peeps in the rain.... so pleasantly surreal!

2011-07-20T11:33:00.001-05:00

Kids art camp 2011!

2011-07-01T18:22:00.001-05:00

day 1 at orange beach...

Kid's Summer Art Camp!

2011-06-23T17:39:00.001-05:00

Kid's Art Camp!
Learn color theory, composition, critique in a fun, positive atmosphere!
All supplies provided!
(2 canvases, paints, brushes...)
Just show up and have a blast!
July 19 - 21
Ages 8-13
$200

Portrait Week!

2011-05-17T12:14:00.002-05:00

Portrait day! Fabulous!!!

2011-05-16T13:21:00.001-05:00

Artecrew today! Look what we made! Thanks, Ann for your great sewing skills!See y'all in September!

2011-05-11T09:29:00.001-05:00

Making me happy!Porch time and signs of spring!

Is it true?

2011-04-25T20:50:00.001-05:00

anthropologie on grand ave.?

"Roadtrip" directed by Beau Grealy for Anthropologie

..just retro cool

2011-04-21T13:46:00.001-05:00

Fun painting the SPA 5th graders! Thanks, Joy, for having me again this year!
(photos by Joy Liberman)

COLOR CAFE! Last one b4 summer...

2011-03-31T12:36:00.001-05:00

COLOR CAFE - SPRING!

Beach Gals, oil on board, 16 x 16, $550, 18 s/h

Tuesdays, 10 am - 12pm, April 19 - May 24
Thursdays, 4:30 - 6:30 pm, April 21 - May 26

Fee: $295

Week 1: spring image
Week 2: continue or free paint
Week 3: still life
Week 4: continue or free paint
Week 5: loose portrait
Week 6: continue or free paint

Email Claire: claire@clairekayser.com

Just felt good...

2011-03-23T12:56:00.002-05:00

just felt good to be back in the studio...

In the Wake of the Quake...

2011-03-12T19:02:00.002-06:00

Shows the POSITIVE in social media!

I just can't fathom the terror ! My heart and prayers go out to all those affected....

Sarah McLachlan ROCKED!!!

2011-03-10T09:08:00.006-06:00

Above image courtesy of Star Tribune photographer Kyndell Harkness

All others, Claire Kayser

Butterfly Boucher (from google images)

Melissa McClelland (from google images)

What an awesome show Sarah Mclachlan put on last night at the Orpheum! I've never seen her before in concert, and I was so impressed with her as an artist, humanitarian and seemingly as just an genuine, fun, personable and charming lady! Her format, as she talked about at the opening of her show, was to highlight a couple of her backup singers/guitar players as part of her show in lieu of having an opening act. VERY COOL! Selfless! Impressed! They were Butterfly Boucher, 31-yr.-old Aussie, and Melissa McClelland, 31-yr.-old Canadian, and they were great singers, rockers, lyricists in their own right. Also Lilith artists. While she sang many songs from her current album "Laws of Illusion," she mixed in a few of her older tracks like "World on Fire, " "Fallen," "Possession," "Surrender," "Building a Mystery," "Adia," and "Angel" to name a few. Also, if you submitted a question on paper that went into a hat, she answered random questions from the audience throughout the show. To me, it showed her desire for her audience to know her and gave opportunities for her to share things about her, like her start into the music business at the age of 17, fun things she does with her two, young daughters, and whether or not she plans to produce any more purely instrumental tracks. To that, she humorously and honestly said that the previous instrumental tracks were ones she just couldn't find lyrics to match. Sarah's show was a full 2 hours, 45 min., and she never took a break while her colleagues played and sang their songs. In fact, she sang background vocals and played either guitar or piano. Happy to share the stage and let them shine!

Also, Sarah and Melissa both talked about their passion and involvement with World Vision and how it's affected their lives. If we felt compelled to sponsor a child last night, we got a free cd of theirs. My family has been supporting World Vision for years and can attest to what a great organization it is!

To cap this show: genuine, from the heart, great artistry, great music, lyrics, fun, laughter...

I think I can say that I enjoyed this concert, these women artists, more than any show I've seen in a long time...

What can I say? Sarah ROCKS!

I wish I hadn't waited...

2011-03-09T14:00:00.000-06:00

Joy Liberman is one of the art teachers at SPA's elementary school, and she now has a most awesome show up at the Harry M. Drake Gallery at the high school of SPA. I had the pleasure of going today, and can't say enough how much I ENJOYED IT. Joy painted an apple a day for 365 days, and as you can see, she became so inventive with ideas of how to portray the apple and execute each painting so beautifully, cleverly, and creatively. Go to this show before it comes down this Friday! Each piece is for sale, but many have sold already. She also has a wonderful, soft cover book about the show, the paintings, and philosophical expressions about the meaning behind the apple's representation in art, religion and in our lives in general. You may be in touch with her to purchase. It's all so BEAUTIFULLY done - every detail!

Joy Liberman - jliberman@spa.edu

Totem Pole!

2011-03-08T18:56:00.002-06:00

Grace's totem pole art project! She chose Alabama as her subject, Auburn's Aubie, made of clay tiles and decorated with colored pebbles... Love it!

2011-03-07T12:18:00.001-06:00

MMMmmmmm... flax/bran muffins. been way too long since I made them. they are DE-LISH!!!

Timelines Antiques

2011-03-05T08:39:00.002-06:00

After a long month of renovations and collecting some great, vintage pieces Timelines opened their doors again at last night's soiree to show off the look of the renovated space and the many wonderful pieces that you will love to collect! Vintage signage, lighting, designer furniture from the 60s to arts and crafts pieces will surely delight your senses. Jim has a way of displaying in a very appealing style. It's a treat just to visit! Don't wait - GO!!! Click here for the site, facebook and here for how to get there!

Happy 14th, Sam!!!

2011-03-04T09:14:00.000-06:00

One of my favorites of Sam - age 4

I can't believe it's been 14 years since I delivered this 9 lb. 6 oz. baby boy who rolled over as soon as the nurses put him down on the table after delivery. However, he didn't walk 'til 16 mos.! I love my son more than he will ever know! ;)))

Happy birthday, Sam!

2011-03-03T10:00:00.001-06:00

Work in progress... It's a commission of two brothers, and the third boy will be painted on a separate canvas....

Hhhhhhhhhhh...

2011-03-02T13:09:00.001-06:00

Hhhhhhhhhhhh... so tired of it! 11 today...

St. Martin 2011

2011-03-02T08:21:00.001-06:00

St. Martin - fine food, wine, sun, warmth, comfort and beauty...

a fun, warm, sunny getaway from this Minnesota harsh winter...

Back from St. Martin

2011-03-01T21:47:00.002-06:00

Welcome home... :(

You Can Poison Our Trees, but...

2011-02-17T14:11:00.002-06:00

... you can't kill the Auburn spirit!

Seems the Auburn win of the Iron Bowl got the best of this Alabama fan that he would drive 30 miles from his Dadeville, AL home to come poison the 130-year-old trees on Toomer's corner - trees that are the symbol of Auburn spirit for celebratory wins when they are rolled with toilet paper.
62-year-old Harvey Almorn Updyke
was arrested today and charged with 3 felony charges.
Read LA Times article here.
Great one from SI.

Let's hope and pray that they live...

Cuttin' the Neck outta my Gray Sweatshirt!

2011-02-09T11:53:00.006-06:00

Last night, I revisited one of my all-time fav films Flashdance from 1983 thanks to my new account with Netflix! I was 16 years old back then and loved this movie so much because of the message of pursuing your dreams, and in Alex's (Jennifer Beal's character) case - to become a professional dancer. She trained in Mawby's bar at night and was a steel worker during the day. Nick, Michael Nouri's character, goes to the bar and watches Alex dance not realizing who she was - his employ at the steel mill. Alex, of course, doesn't want to do that kind of dancing forever but was so intimidated to register at the ballet repertory having no formal dance experience whatsoever. Nick pursues Alex, and while their relationship was at times tumultuous due to Alex's volatile temper, he was such a strong man - classy, genuine, handsome - and encouraged her to pursue her dream.

The dances at Mawby's Bar were quite creative and artistic.

Cynthia Rhodes was Tina, another dancer at Mawby's Bar. She also played the dance instructor to Patrick Swayze (RIP, Patrick) and Jennifer Grey in Dirty Dancing - another great dance movie from the 80s!

The film stars Jennifer Beals and Michael Nouri.

You may know by now that Jennifer Beals had a stand in, if you will, for the dance sequences, Marine Jahan a French dancer who was not even credited for her role in the opening or ending credits. Some people at the time felt deceived when the dancing and the body close-ups were implied to be of Jennifer Beals but instead were of Marine.

The soundtrack is awesome and produced an Academy award-winning hit by
Irene Cara - What a Feeling!
Check it out if you've never seen it! Check it if you have! Great message, music and dancing. Strong language and nudity, btw, but great anyway!

This Is How It All Started!

2010-10-07T09:13:00.002-05:00

This is how it all started for me 16 years ago when I went to Cortona, Italy with the University of Georgia's studies abroad program in art! That summer changed me forever! To me, Cortona is a most enchanting place in it's own rite - dates back to 500 BC, amazing views of the countyside, friendly towns people, being inspired and creative, eating the finest food and wine available to man! The program is now 41 years old, and I was lucky to have done it in 1994, their 25th year in which we celebrated that year's anniversary with a beautiful Carrera marble (indigenous to Italy and Michelangelo's marble of choice) sculpture created by the program's founder Jack Kehoe. I could go on and on about this program, but rather you may watch this 15 minute video about the program. It's both informative and entertaining, and you will see why this program is so very special!

The UGA Cortona Campus Walkthrough from UGA Cortona on Vimeo.

The rest of these images were ones I took just a month ago during C&C's Tuscan Painting Journey! Carole Foret (my twin sister) and I (Claire Kayser) take groups of painters to Cortona in September for a week's worth of painting in Cortona! See all the details on our C&C site! CHECK OUT THIS SLIDESHOW!
Details of the 2011 journey coming soon, so stay tuned to reserve YOUR spot. Spots fill fast!

Sarah's "Loving You Is Easy"

2010-08-11T15:28:00.001-05:00

Sarah McLachlan - the BOMB!

2010-08-11T15:26:00.002-05:00

I have just this week become a huge Sarah McLachlan fan! I have always liked her music on the radio, but when I went to my 6200-song iTunes library, I was surprised to realize that I owned only one song of hers - not even one of her popular ones like Angel or Building a Mystery! It was Dirty Little Secret from her Afterglow record. I don't even know where I got it! I listened to this only song, and LOVED IT! So I went to iTunes to get some more of her music, at least the ones I knew, and saw that she just put out a new record after about 8 years. So, I sampled it and really loved the songs for her silky, smooth, sensuous voice and her passionate, smart lyrics. Then, I download Laws of Illusion. I LOVE IT!!! Then, the rest I've added thus far...

Remembering my beautiful friend...

2010-07-21T09:18:00.000-05:00

Just ran across this image I had taken of my friend Pauline who died July 5, 2006 of breast cancer. She was a shining example of God's love and grace in every step of her life and especially during her battle with cancer. Oh, what an inspiration, and I'm so glad that I had the chance to be her friend!

She still inspires...

Idol Gives Back!

2010-04-21T22:12:00.000-05:00

Elton John!!!!! Need I say more?

Crystal Bowersox - "People Get Ready!"

2010-04-21T08:54:00.001-05:00

All along this season of American Idol, I've thought Crystal should win the prize, and last night's performance just reitierates the fact! She is the most soulful, talented, genuine competitor this year, IMO! What I've loved about this season is that the talent has been incredible with such a colorful array of singers and singing styles. Crystal's look with her dreadlocks, tatoos and not so perfect look won me over from the get go because she is so honest about who she is, and this girl has a GREAT voice, AND she can play numerous instruments.

Last night's show the artists were to sing inspirational songs with the fabulous R&B queen Alicia Keys as mentor! Crystal was the last to perform, and she sang one of my favorites

"People Get Ready!" Watch her moving performance!

NEXT COLOR CAFE! Sign up NOW!

2010-04-17T08:50:00.000-05:00

COLOR CAFE !

ages 15 and up!

NOW TAKING RESERVATIONS FOR NEXT SESSION! FILL FAST!

Demonstrations by Claire, learn color mixing, composition,

elements and principles of design.

Develop your own style and tap into that deeper place in your soul!

CREATIVITY!

Bring your own supplies

painting material list here!

Coffee, goodies, great music provided!

$100 deposit reserves your spot and will go towards your fee,

first come, first serve

$295 (for 6 classes)

SCHEDULE

Tuesdays: April 20 - May 25

10 am - 12 pm

Thursdays: April 22 - May 27

4:30 - 6:30 pm

Visa and Mastercard accepted!

PRIVATE PAINT PARTIES

2010-04-05T22:32:00.000-05:00

THROW A PAINT PARTY!

Book you and your friends a paint party with Claire!
At Claire's studio OR your venue!

Great for birthdays, group events, or just because you want to get together with friends

to do something different!

All you need to do is gather a group of at least 6 and schedule an evening with Claire!
BOOK NOW!

Here's the deal:
SUPPLIES PROVIDED
2 HOURS

IF AT MY CROCUS HILL HOME STUDIO
LIMITED TO 8

ANOTHER VENUE, CALL CLAIRE

FEE: $85

MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE

Paint parties must be scheduled at least 2 weeks in advance of date. All fees must be paid 2 weeks in advance, too.

Contact Claire!

Today's Devotion...

2009-12-24T09:16:00.003-06:00

... from the Upper Room this morning. I found this to be so touching...

EVERY Christmas Eve, my father would slip out of the house and head downtown. My sister and I never realized what he was doing until years later. Apparently, he was shopping the stores for items he could repair or refurbish. Most shop owners were happy to make a few dollars on defective products, worn demos, dismembered toys, and such. My dad, always a good negotiator, whittled the prices down to almost nothing. He would hide these soon-to-be Christmas gifts in the garage. After we went to bed, Dad would sneak out to his workshop, often staying up all night to fix the gifts. I never owned a completely new bicycle, wagon, or baseball glove; they were all items that Dad had reclaimed. With an even more loving heart than my dad's, God is also a repairer: of torn lives, splintered families, and shattered hopes. All that causes us pain, God yearns to heal. Prayer: Dear Lord, you have mended our lives so many times. Help us minister to others in the same way. Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: What God restores becomes better than new. -- Charles E. Harrel (Oregon, USA)

PRAYER FOCUS:Those Who Are Brokenhearted

My Love Affair with... LE-THAAA!!!! (Leather)

2009-12-18T11:59:00.005-06:00

I have a thing for good le-thaaa! Ever since I was young my brother David would relish in good leather, too, and would say it that way and make Carole and me smell and EXPERIENCE it. Well, I have become much that same way with gorgeous, Italian leather shoes (that smell just SENDS me!), a good leather, studded belt, great leather purses, etc. I bought last year two leather, studded belts from Stowe Provisions. They sell thru Free People, but the guys are really great! Read their story here. One is from the twin cities, and I talked to him directly about my buckle when the belt came in with a different one than what was pictured. They just sent me another one - no problem.

Me, with my Italian leather strappy sandals from J Crew. You should've smelled them upon opening the box!!!

This belt says, "Here Comes the Sun" with a sun on the back center and hand-painted clouds on each side...

This one just says, "Peace" with hand-painted flowers.

Their belts are like the ones that Railroad Bazaar sold in my hometown of Athens, AL. I LOVED that store when I was young. It was so 70s with everything leather to be made and sold - like belts, leather bracelets with your name on it. Carole and I got one that we both LOVED until mine came off my wrist and sunk into the Tennessee River. I WAS SAD! We got another one made, but it just wasn't quite the same. Lastly, I just bought a beautiful leather purse from the Ruehl store at 40% off. Sadly, all the Ruehl stores are closing January 30, 2010, but I'm glad I was able to nab one of their finest.

What can I say? I just LOVE Le-thaaaa!!!

HAPPY 75TH, DAD!

2009-12-18T11:25:00.008-06:00

Happy 75th, Dad!

Wow, my Dad turns 75 TODAY! I cannot tell you what an inspiration he has been to me all my life and has been such a great father to me and my siblings. He really encouraged Carole and me to pursue art as he saw so many great artists in his own family and thought artistic talent had trickled down to us, too. I'm so glad for his encouragement! He has been a great business man all his life and my brothers followed in his footsteps having him as their mentor and inspiration. I miss being able to be around him on a daily basis as I've lived away from him and Mom for almost 15 years now, but we stay connected and I always feel his love for me from
1000 miles away. I send you a virtual hug and kiss!

Happy birthday, Dad, and I wish you many more!
Love,
Claire

Fishy

2009-12-15T21:29:00.004-06:00

Oh, I'm sorry it's been so long since I've posted work! I cannot begin to tell you how busy life has been with 3 young kids and the dog, so I get done what I can. I have done several encaustic paintings lately that I am going to be posting that are small in size.

Encaustic requires the artist to be flexible and make decisions quickly in the process. Seldom do my original ideas come to fruition the exact way I intend with this medium, but I do love it nonetheless once I get over this fact. You kind of have to go with the flow of the paint and torch and watch colors melt and blend in such beautiful ways. I had toned this one in reds and burgundys with the intention of almost completely covering the background in blues. My students loved the burgundy tones as I did as the process went, so I decided to keep some that toning showing thru. This is "Fishy!'

There's just SOMETHING about my school (AUBURN UNIVERSITY)

2009-12-02T21:28:00.006-06:00

Well, after 20 years since I graduated from Auburn, I STILL break down in tears when I see the Auburn games on tv especially if they are played in Auburn. I haven't known why, exactly, that I get so touched to tears with such a sense of pride and joy about Auburn. Well, I figured out a big part of why tonight after receiving this email from my dear friend Diane from a friend of hers who attends Opelika Baptist Church right outside of Auburn. Here's a great story below:

from a friend....... I received this blog this morning from a young lady who goes to Opelika > First Baptist Church . This sweet, life changing event happend on Thursday night. I wanted to share it with each of you...God is working everywhere...and it just gives me chills. Wish I could have been there to witness the Holy Spirit at work once again. Tonight at church we were SO BLESSED with the opportunity to watch the following four men be BAPTIZED by their team chaplain:

Walter McFadden
Antonio Coleman
Eltoro Freeman
T'Sharvan Bell

Recognize those names? Yeah. It was awesome. He had a hard time lifting some of them out of the water, they weigh three times as much as he does! Yet with tears in their eyes and soft hearts as big as the room, they stood in front of hundreds and confessed their faith in Christ. Following them was a steady stream of high school boys who looked like miniature versions of them, big shoulders, dread locks, goofy grins... following in their footsteps, committing their lives to Christ, choosing to stand up for Christ in their schools despite their less-than-ideal backgrounds... it was so cool.

It was such a fresh reminder of how active our God is in Auburn and how capable He is of moving mountains. I underestimate Him and put Him in a box far too often! God allowed those boys to come to Auburn to play football here with this very purpose in mind, and don't you know He was celebrating with His angels to night as they professed their love for Him? This is such a huge part of why I love it here! This is what happens when you routinely hire a Christian crew of coaches for our football team. This is what God can do in the lives of those men who, outside of football, often have nothing else to hope in. This is just the beginning of what He is capable of on our campus, and it is so exciting. Antonio Coleman finished out the service by telling us his story and had the whole place in tears. He finished by saying, " Auburn is a special place, it is such a special place", and I couldn't agree more. Auburn IS a special place. God is moving here. Next time you see them on TV, just smile and know that they are living for so much more than football.

Walter McFadden (above)

I broke down just reading the email of this letter, and I realize that my soul continues to be stirred by stories like this coming from my school. I felt God's present so strongly during my years at Auburn in all that I did - the girls in Kappa Delta sorority, the Auburn tennis team, philanthropic activities on campus and late nights drafting for quarter end projects for interior design.

It truly IS "great to be an Auburn tiger!"

Chette Williams is the Auburn team chaplain. I read his book, Hard Fighting Soldier, and it was an amazing story. Great for anyone wanting to see God's work of perservering in the lives of those who seem to having nothing or nothing to hope or live for. AMAZING!

Give Thanks and Give Art!

2009-11-25T20:33:00.001-06:00

Click the jibberish below for a direct link to my Give Thanks and Give Art newsletter!

%27Click+the+Share+button+to+create+links+to+this+email+on+popular+social+networking+and+bookmarking+size+like+Facebook%2C+Twitter%2C+and+Digg.%27+

A GREAT idea!

2009-10-28T12:10:00.005-05:00

You don't often see good news stories on the news or in the papers,
but today there was a great one!

Find out what a Pastor of a Woodbury, MN church did to inspire service
in his congregation! We could do this on our own with our kids - a great way
to creatively think of ways to give to others and be of service!
Click the link below for the inspiring story!

Is ITALY Calling YOU???

2009-08-10T14:09:00.002-05:00

Painting Ladies,

Is Italy Calling YOU???

We are so excited about our upcoming trip to Italy this September to stake out our next
C&C painting journey!

Carole and Claire are now taking reservations for the few spots in our Italy painting journey week in the Tuscan town of Cortona September 11 - 18, 2010!
Cortona is a most charming walled town that Claire spent the summer of 1994
studying drawing and painting for her Master's degree.
The town dates back to 500 B.C.!!! Read more in the link above.
The experience was life changing!

The painting journey will include several hours of daily painting and instruction by Carole and Claire, creative spirit time, shopping and sipping cappucino along Via Nationale (Cortona's lovely main street full of boutiques, antique shops, dress shops, perfumerias, art galleries, restaurants, coffee shops, etc.), and a day trip to Florence to visit the wonderful Uffizzi Museum and to see Michelangelo's David! We will stay in the heart of Cortona with wonderful accommodations. Cortona is a walking town and boasts a gorgeous park and a 2-mile walk around the town giving you the most breath-taking
views from every direction that you will ever see!

This journey is limited to only12 spots.
It will be first come, first serve by submitting 1/2 of the total fee due by
November 30, 2009
balance due August 11, 2010.
Total fee will be $2900.

We will be planning a detailed itinerary in the coming weeks once we visit next month!

CORTONA, ITALY 2010 (at a glance)
September 11 - 18, 2010
Fee: $2900
Key Date: 1/2 fee due by November 30, 2009
12 student limit
2 instructors (Carole & Claire)
Lovely accommodations
Breakfast each morning
Evening dinner
All painting supplies
Shipping of your work back to the U. S.

All that YOU provide:
Your fun spirit!
Air fare to and from Florence
Tickets for train and other activities
and lunch

Let us know ASAP as we expect spots to go fast! Questions? Call or email Carole or Claire.

We hope you can be a part of this fabulous, life-changing experience in your painting journey!

Love,
Carole & Claire

Carole's phone: 256.232.2521
Claire's phone: 651.983.2743

When Harry Met.... US!!!

2009-08-07T15:30:00.005-05:00

I finally met Harry! Harry Wallace! He's the 4 month old baby (GORGEOUS baby) of my friend Hillary who I met last year. She painted with me last fall, and then she delivered Harry in March. We have not gotten together until today, and what a fun time we had catching up on things, talking photography, and watching Harry make us laugh! He is so quick to smile which I love in a baby, and he has an amazing disposition and the most beautiful blue eyes (can't tell in these B&Ws). Not surprising knowing Hillary and her husband. I so enjoyed out time on the porch in this rainy Friday just sitting and visiting. The girls loved holding Harry, too, and making him smile. Thanks for such a fun time,
Hillary and Harry!

... a sufficiently worn out Harry! Sweet dreams!

When Things Just CLICK!

2009-08-07T08:01:00.002-05:00

Things just clicked today! Wow, I got this thing painted in just over an hour! I painted this for my Dad who worked for Volkswagen while he was in college, and he owned a Karmen Ghia that he just adored. I was driving down Ford Pkwy. the other evening a few cars behind this one, and I thought, "OH, that is a great looking Karmen Ghia! I'm going to try to follow it to shoot pics for Dad!" Well, the guy pulled over and parked, and I parked right behind him and asked if he minded my shooting a couple of pictures of his car (telling him about my Dad...) he was happy for me to, so I did. Got them and chose this angle. I toned it thickly with a palette knife with raw umber and painted with oil on top. I was in my groove today!
I'm giving this to my Dad... ;)

Plein Air Painting at Dodge Nature Center!

2009-08-04T17:40:00.001-05:00

What a great time and a most gorgeous day we had with plein air painting today at the Dodge Nature Center! We could not have asked for more perfect weather - sunny with those big, puffy clouds and about 75 non-humid degrees! This painting is from across a pasture toward the garden with beautiful trees behind it. The view offered so many greens with spruce trees in the background offering a touch of blue green to the more earthy greens of the trees in front of them. I LOVE a sky with these puffy clouds (cumulonimbus? clouds). I wanted keep this as loose as possible by using only one 1/2" brush for this 6x12 painting. I love the feeling of it!

6 x 12", oil on board, $99, $12 s/h SOLD

RIP Michael!

2009-07-08T16:52:00.008-05:00

We have lost the best entertainer ever, and I for sure feel the pain. In my teens I treasured my Off the Wall and Thriller albums and loved Michael so much for his dancing. I learned how to do all the dances from his videos. I helped choreograph the Thriller dance for our senior class play in 1985, and We Are the World was our class song. I was so moved and mesmerized by the way he moved, spun and moon walked! He broke boundaries and raised the bar with his music, videos, humanitarianism, and love for life and people. I have to admit, tho, that I had not kept up with him in recent years and was shocked on June 25 to hear of his death. So many of us had written Michael off as a "freak" with all his plastic surgery and efforts to look white and abandon his black features. Yes, I thought he was so beautiful as he was before any of that. Also, the weird antics like hanging his child over the balcony in Germany that time to give the crowd a glimpse of his son and all those weird disguises he wore in public. Bottom line is we shouldn't judge him as few of us really know what it would be like to have been robbed of a "normal" childhood the way was. He even wrote a song about it. See the video here. See the lyrics below.

On Dateline the other night, they showed a clip of the video to Michael's song entitled Childhood where he sings about his lost childhood. It tore my heart open!

While the curtain has closed on Michael Jackson's earthly life, I know he's celebrating his lost childhood in heaven and blessing everyone with his huge heart, singing and dancing! Rest in peace, Michael...!

Have you seen my Childhood?
I'm searching for the world that I come from
'Cause I've been looking around
In the lost and found of my heart...
No one understands me
They view it as such strange eccentricities...
'Cause I keep kidding around
Like a child, but pardon me...

People say I'm not okay
'Cause I love such elementary things...
It's been my fate to compensate,
for the ChildhoodI've never known...

Have you seen my Childhood?
I'm searching for that wonder in my youth
Like pirates and adventurous dreams,
Of conquest and kings on the throne...

Before you judge me, try hard to love me,
Look within your heart then ask,
Have you seen my Childhood?
People say I'm strange that way
'Cause I love such elementary things,
It's been my fate to compensate,
For the Childhood I've never known...

Have you seen my Childhood?
I'm searching for that wonder in my youth
Like fantastical stories to share
The dreams I would dare, watch me fly...

Before you judge me, try hard to love me.
The painful youth I've had

Have you seen my Childhood....

Happy Birthday to Us!

2009-06-25T22:48:00.003-05:00

Yes, Carole and I have a birthday today - 42! This pic is from our 40th b'day celebration we had in our hometown of Athens, AL where we blocked off part of the square in downtown Athens in front of Carole's studio for our party! We had a blast with a great, rockin' band, dancing and mingling with so many great friends. What a great memory! My friend Eileen from St. Paul came home with me to celebrate! FUN!!!

Happy Birthday, Sis!

1st Student Art Show!

2009-06-13T10:22:00.005-05:00

Claire Kayser Fine Art put on it's first student art show last night, and it was WONDERFUL!!! We kept it to our spouses and a few friends, had it catered by Lauri at the Golden Fig, and hosted by Jack and Kirsten Driscoll at Jack's historical, charming building. The evening was splendid in every way with gorgeous weather that allowed us to spill outside on the upper level deck, great h'ore deuvres. We raved over the students' work and talked about art, mingled with one another and enjoyed ourselves tremendously. Thanks to my great students for allowing me to work with you and help you through your painting journeys!

What we've needed...

2009-06-08T15:01:00.003-05:00

... a DRINK!

Yes, we finally have gotten some much needed rain over the weekend - a slow, steady one that has given our grass, vegetation, trees and flowers almost 2 inches! Yay!!! I've loved seeing the huge water droplets on the leaves of the day lillies out back. The peonies will be opening up, too - the second round. Just wanted to share a couple of images...

Summer Adult Plein Air Painting!

2009-06-05T11:04:00.004-05:00

Hey Ladies!

We will be plein air painting on Tuesdays from 10 am to 12 pm, no need to commit to a number of classes as this summer is low key, come if you can on Tuesdays. Claire will be providing instruction in various settings around the twin cities. Email Claire or call Claire at 651.983.2743 at least 4 days in advance to get the schedule for that Tuesday's location and details. Cost is $50 per day and payment must be received the day of class or before. Claire will give you a supply list once contacted. Come on, bring a friend or daughter!

Lowdown:
Tuesdays
10 am - 12 pm (some days time may vary)
Pay by the class!
Fee: $50 (due day of class or before)
Get on the email list for the weekly schedule!
Call Claire at 651.983.2743 to sign up
Limited to 12, so hurry!
Get ready for FUN!

GRADUATION FOR MY 2 NEICES!

2009-05-29T08:36:00.003-05:00

Wow, I can hardly believe that 2 more of my neices Madeline and Catherine Hunt are graduating this year! Living away from them it seems time has flown so fast as I still think they should be about 11 years old, STILL! Madeline is David's daughter, and Catherine is Carl's. They have grown to be such smart, compassionate, beautiful young ladies, and I couldn't be more proud. However, they both will be going to that other "university" across the state, but I still hold out hope that they will come to their senses and find, as Carole says, their way over to the loveliest village on the plains though, where sunsets are a rich, burnt orange and deep blue!
;)))

The proud Dads and Paw Paw!

Madeline, a grad!

Madeline and Catherine together!
(Photos by Carole!)

MY NEW CHARITY OF CHOICE!

2009-05-23T15:48:00.003-05:00

I have been reading all afternoon about UAPO (Uganda American Partnership Organization), my new charity of choice. After receiving an email from my friend Diane today who will be going to live and work with orphans in Uganda this summer after feeling God's nudge into this path. She is thrilled to be going and using her great spirit to work with these children. I know that Diane will be so loved by these kids, and God has given her the gifts of inspiration, love, humor, compassion for His light to shine brightly thru her. I can hardly express how proud I am of her! She is Grace's godmother, and I know I could not have picked a better disciple of Jesus to be that for Grace.

Please take a few minutes to watch the video on the Ranch of Jesus Orphanage. It's the first film on this page. I was moved to tears, and I plan to share it with my children, too. It's a great reminder of just how incredibly blessed we are to have the basic necessities of life that we take for granted each day.

STILL SOME SPOTS LEFT!

2009-05-20T14:25:00.005-05:00

There are still some spaces left in both KIDS ART CAMPS this summer!

CAMP I
kids ages 7-10
June 23-25
10 am - 12 pm
Fee:$195
(1 spot left)

CAMP II
kids ages 11-14
August 11-13
10 am - 12 pm
Fee $195
(5 spots left)

We will study color theory, paint 2 canvases, learn special techniques,
and learn to critique work!

All supplies are provided including a snack!

Call me at 651.983.2743 or email me at claire@clairekayser.com

I'VE HAD THEM WRONG...

2009-05-15T22:09:00.003-05:00

...ALL THESE YEARS!
OK, you know how we sing lyrics to a song for years and not really knowing what they are? Now, with the world wide web, you can look up the lyrics to almost any song. I was singing to Benny and the Jets playing on KOOL 108 today and thought, "I don't know what in the world most of the whole first verse really is" and thought "I'm going to look them up when I get online again. Well, tonight, I looked them up and laughed so hard realizing, I've didn't know what in the heck I'd been singing for well, the last 30 years - and I realized that I've had about half the words all wrong! Check them out! Did you?

Hey kids, shake it loose together
The spotlight's hitting something
That's been known to change the weather
We'll kill the fatted calf tonight
So stick around
You're gonna hear electric music
Solid walls of sound

Say, Candy and Ronnie, have you seen them yet
But they're so spaced out, Bennie and the Jets
Oh but they're weird and they're wonderful
Oh Bennie she's really keen
She's got electric boots a mohair suit
You know I read it in a magazine
Bennie and the Jets

Hey kids, plug into the faithless
Maybe they're blinded
But Bennie makes them ageless
We shall survive, let us take ourselves along
Where we fight our parents out in the streets
To find who's right and who's wrong

Was fun to see them and know what the song is really about...! I know Elton must've been on some serious drugs back then, but I still love those songs...!

April Wine and Paint FULL!

2009-03-21T19:06:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all who have signed up for next month's Wine and Paint party! It's filled with 8 ladies who want to paint an Italian theme of charming villa windows with laundry hanging - such a common, charming site in Italy. It will be fun making our canvases convey that Italian charm!

I still have openings for May 6th one if anyone is interested! Call up a friend or two and come! You get $15 off for bringing a friend.

Email me at claire@clairekayser.com or call me at 651.983.2743!
Fee is $85
$75 for COLOR CAFE students!

Also, I have started the punch card for studio C that when you have done 5 Wine and Paint nights, you get your 6th FREE! Get started NOW!

Get on the "C list!" (the new A list!) at studio C!

FINAL BOARDING CALL!

2009-03-13T19:06:00.002-05:00

Hey Ladies! We have the deal of a lifetime! Now you can attend Southern Palette for less than you thought. $699! This is a price that doesn't need much consideration. If you like to paint or THINK you'd like to paint in a getaway fun-filled weekend, then this is the weekend for you!

April 16 - 19

At Carole's Studio

Athens, Alabama

Historical downtown Athens Alabama in the springtime is a gorgeous setting. The dogwoods are in bloom, and there is an infectious energy all around. Carole and I have a great weekend planned. Check out the details at CaroleAndClaire.Com for a complete schedule of activities.

Want to know more about Athens? Visit the Spirit of Athens Site!

Read comments by those who have worked with Carole & Claire:

Carole and Claire came to Rosemary Beach to teach a few paint techniques to women, which they did. But they also spread broad brush strokes of joy, confidence, and effervescence. The beauty they brought to Girls' Getaway Weekend, on their canvases and in their smiles, was an integral part of the event. Their students left class glowing, happy with new skills and a masterpiece!

---Kim Jameson, Rosemary Beach, FL

"I've attended Carole and Claire's workshops and absolutely enjoyed them immensely. The ingredients that you can depend on in this "artistic" recipe are: relationship building, accomplishment, knowledge and most of all a large amount of FUN. Go, you will have the best time EVER!" ---Marcia Whitaker, Anniston, AL

It was such a joy to have you and your sister as our guests. Your artwork and sweet personalities were an inspiration to all! Thanks again...We hope to see you both again.

---Bev Sanders, Carmel, CA

Participating in the artist workshop was the best time I had all weekend. It gave me a chance to step outside of myself, in a fun and creative way. I met new friends that I look forward to seeing every year. And I love it when my friends in Atlanta visit my home and say "Did YOU paint that?" Then they want to hear about the whole trip and how then can attend one.....

---Sylvia Holler, Atlanta, GA

March Wine and Paint!

2009-03-12T12:17:00.006-05:00

We had a great time last night painting Bessy the cow! Students did an outstanding job on what was their first paintings ever for a few of them. I demonstrated first as students sipped wine, water or coffee, and then they were at it putting paint to canvas. Toning, then drawing out the general shape of her head and blocking in with tremendous color.
VOILA!
Everyone's was so different and unique - strong in certain elements. I love that!
See pics of the evening!
Thanks, Heidi, Pam, Fred, Liz, Kate & Jenn!

Schedule for next Wine and Paint Nights:
April 8 (Italian windows and laundry line) (4 spots left)
May 6 (Girly Stuff)
Summer - TBA

7-9 pm
Supplies provided
BYOW!
$85
COLOR CAFE students and previous students: $75

Do 5 Wine and Paint Nights, and get your 6th FREE!

Don't Let This Happen to YOU!

2009-03-10T13:07:00.004-05:00

Over the weekend, my Facebook account was illegally hacked by a "cybercriminal" all because I used a "weak" password on the internet (as I NOW realize). It was a very scary thing to have happen, but it's opened my eyes to the importance of keeping your internet activity as safe and secure as possible. Facebook was super diligent in alerting me to the "possible illegal activity of someone else trying to sign into my account." When I opened my computer to check it out, sure enough there were 3 instant message conversations on my account going on that were not really from me. The cybercrimal was impersonating me on my own account at that actual moment! Horrifying! So, I took the advice given to me in the previous fb email and changed my password immediately. No more happened. One of the IM conversations from "Claire" was telling a friend that my husband and I were in London and had been mugged at gunpoint losing everything! ... What they are after is MONEY, and they are drawing on the sympathy of your friend community on Facebook. Thankfully, it didn't get too far. FB deactivated my account for a day, and had me go thru a verification process, and then my account was reactivated. All seems well now.

I'm posting a link to a recent article in PC World Magazine about the 5 major scams targeting Facebook in the last week. Please read and share with your children, too.

Also, here is some helpful info a security operator on facebook gave me that I wanted to share that is great for all internet users regarding passwords:

The majority of these cybercriminals have been hacking into the email accounts of their victims before they hack into their Facebook accounts. If a person uses the same password for both their email and Facebook accounts, a hacker only needs to compromise a password once. If a hacker is able to compromise the password associated with a user's email account (either though brute force or through more sophisticated means), then he can use that password to enter the user's Facebook account as well.

You should change the password for all of your internet accounts and make sure that no two passwords are the same. You should also create passwords that are at least 6 characters in length and that you use a complex string of numbers, letters (both upper and lower case), punctuation marks, and other symbols. Your passwords should never contain any words that could be found in the dictionary. By varying and strengthening your internet passwords, you can protect yourself against future hacking attempts.

Go With This!

2009-03-07T08:27:00.004-06:00

In my quiet time this morning, I picked up my devotional book called "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers to read the passage for today March 7. Most days I feel uplifted and moved at least a little from his devotions and other times I find them to be a bit opaque. Also, even though I've had this devotional book for several years, I find it amazing how one day's passage seems ho hum to you that day, and you read the same thing again a year later, and it completely resonates with you. I love that! Today, while this passage has always resonated with me, it really felt accentuated today - in our hard economy, in the doldrums of these last days of winter, in the pace of our days, remembering it's the Lenten season, etc.

The title for today's passage is THE SOURCE OF ABUNDANT JOY
The passage is from Romans 8:37 saying, "In all things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us."

Paul reminds us that our love from God is not earned and never can be as exhibited by the Cross on Calvary. Also, that "we are super-victors with a joy that comes from experiencing the very things which look as if they are going to overwhelm us."

Chambers says, "Huge waves that would frighten an ordinary swimmer produce a tremendous thrill for the surfer who has ridden them."

What a tremendous thrill it is to know this joy! So many of my students here in studio C have felt like they're embarking on a daunting task so many times in starting their very first paintings and even their 20th paintings. I have still feel it sometimes, too, but when we PRESS ON and conquer that which seems overwhelming, we feel that abundant joy!

Go with this!

Happy Birthday, Sam!

2009-03-04T22:25:00.001-06:00

My son turns 12 today! We love you, Sam! Happy 12th!
(birthday brownie his sister made for him...)

New Blog Name!

2009-03-04T22:19:00.003-06:00

My blog is no longer "into the light" as I've decided to change it to "studio C". I'm in the idea storming stages and beginning of what my studio offerings will be in the coming months. It's a very exciting time! My studio is going to be all about painting, teaching, learning and creativity. So the things that I will be offering will be a conglomeration of things that I know, have practiced, and what clients have asked of me. Stay tuned to exactly what studio C will be! But for now, DO "start C-ing!"

SPOTLIGHT ON...

2009-03-03T07:51:00.003-06:00

Joanie Delamater!

Last week's class was to paint in a more simplified way or to abstract a subject and paint it more simply with fewer brushstrokes to describe the subject. I allowed students to chose any image they wanted and suggested ways to simplify it for a painting. They did it! In fact, I didn't help Joanie one bit! She came into class with several different images she thought of using, decided on this landscape, and also had in mind to paint something that day for her mother who is today turning 84!

VOILA in a big way!!!!

Joanie nailed this painting in every way - accomplishing the assignment, painting with a beautiful palette of colors, strong composition, and finishing in just over an hour!

I AM INSPIRED!

Happy birthday to you, Joanie's Mom, and congratulations, Joanie!

SPOTLIGHT ON...

2009-02-25T17:39:00.002-06:00

Sheryl Douglas!

Wow, we in class have anxiously been waiting for Sheryl to complete this painting of her brother on his Harley! We loved it the moment she brought the canvas into class with her great sketch of it as a start. She's great at drawing, too. Also, Sheryl creates some of the most edgy, creative, artsy cards, too. Please inquire about seeing some of them. I will post pics of some when I get some images of them. Until then, enjoy this masterpiece! Way to go, Sheryl!

Carole featured on CBS affiliate!

2009-02-23T17:13:00.003-06:00

Check out Carole (my twin sister and artist) and her studio, her work, and my work featured on WHNT tv channel 19 in Huntsville, AL! They did a huge feature on her and her work their morning show this morning, and she even taught the reporter to paint a Tabasco bottle! See her and her awesome studio in this video!

Come to Athens with me for our Southern Palette Creativa Painting Journey for women in mid April - a most beautiful, spring time to be there to learn to paint, relax and tap into your creativity. Also, the popular dogwood festival will be happening that weekend April 17 and 18th. Check Carole and her studio out below!

Also, Carole's husband just put his model home theatre in her building and made a beautiful new space to be able to showcase his audio/visual equipment for his business AV Works. It's a really nice set up. Check it out here as he demonstrates playing the Wii on it...

St. Martin!

2009-02-20T23:08:00.006-06:00

Tom and I had a fabulous week together in beautiful St. Martin from Feb. 7 - 14th! It was hard to come back to cold and snow after getting to view this for a week... It was heavenly!

Click here for a COOL SLIDESHOW of pics from the week!

Leaving...

2009-02-07T03:44:00.003-06:00

... for St. Maartin this morning! I will be gone for a week with hubby in what looks to be a most beautiful place. Both writing and images when I get back. Happy Valentine's to everyone, too!

Be Blessed!
Claire

A Must Read!

2009-02-04T22:33:00.002-06:00

Wow! The Liberty Post Blog in Canada had a great post today about "Stuff vs. Experiences" in this difficult economy, and she plugged C&C Creativa Painting Journeys as something great to do! I couldn't agree more.

Thanks, Liberty!

Read here!

CKFA Drawing Workshop!

2009-02-02T17:28:00.003-06:00

Claire Kayser Fine Art - Drawing 101

Tonight and tomorrow night I'm teaching a basic drawing workshop - the first several I plan to do this year. It's full! I've got 8 great students, and we will be diving right into to drawing, then I will teach some basic concepts and will have students draw again the simply shaped object. Day 2 will cover 1 and 2-point perspective. Looking forward to a fun night with goodies and coffee to make that much more enjoyable!

Next Wine & Paint Party!

2009-01-31T18:44:00.007-06:00

The next Wine & Paint is one your won't want to miss! We will be painting "Bessy the Cow"!

No need for any prior painting experience - just come, unwind from your day's stresses, and paint. I will demonstrate, and you will paint your painting in the next 90 minutes. FUN!
I supply all you will need - you just bring your wine, libation, whatever drink of choice. I will have some nice cheeses and crackers, bottled water and coffee available.

Details:
Wednesday March 11, 7 - 9 pm
Claire Kayser home studio
All supplies provided
BYOW (wine, not whine!)

Fee: $85
COLOR CAFE students: $75
Class limited to 8 fun ladies!

A GREAT CHARITY OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU!

2009-01-25T12:28:00.006-06:00

In this new spirit of responsibility, giving and feeling of connectedness I want to share an opportunity of giving and recieving for you! Please click here for those details!

Here's a peek:

... and the WINNER IS...

2009-01-21T15:56:00.003-06:00

Jenn Dougherty!!!

Thanks so much, Jenn, for becoming the next follower of my blog! You win a free spot in my next Wine and Paint Party on March 11! It will be fabulous and even more so having you!

Thanks, thanks, thanks!

PS: That Aretha hat really works for you!

SURPRISE!

2009-01-19T12:20:00.003-06:00

In an effort to get you who only READ my blog and don't comment or have not become a follower, I am offering a reward to the next person who becomes a follower! I guess it benefits those who live around the twin cities most, but here it is:

Attend my next Wine and Paint Party FREE!
Wednesday March 11
7 - 9 pm

Yes, simply become a follower by clicking on the follower button on the right side where the other followers are, and get yourself set up! It's very simple and won't take but a minute! That's an $85 value for FREE!

Email me to let me know you've done the deal!

Best of luck,
Claire

Andrew Wyeth 1917 - 2009

2009-01-16T11:08:00.007-06:00

One of my favorite artists ever, Andrew Wyeth, dies at age 91! I consider his work to be the best watercolor work I've seen. Very inspiring and interesting life! Read on about his life in the article below from The International Herald Tribune. The article is long but worth the read. Read all of it here.

Andrew Wyeth, one of the most popular and also most lambasted artists in the history of American art, a reclusive linchpin in a colorful family dynasty of artists from tiny Chadds Ford, Penn., whose precise realist views of hardscrabble rural life became icons of national culture and sparked endless debates about the nature of modern art, has died at his home in suburban Philadelphia, The Associated Press reported.

He was 91.

Wyeth gave America a prim and flinty view of Puritan rectitude, starchily sentimental, through parched gray and brown pictures of spooky frame houses, desiccated fields, deserted beaches, circling buzzards and craggy-faced New Englanders. A virtual Rorschach test for American culture during the better part of the last century, Wyeth split public opinion as vigorously as, and probably even more so than, any other American painter including the other modern Andy, Warhol, whose milieu was as urban as Wyeth's was rural.

Because of his popularity, a bad sign to many art world insiders, Wyeth came to represent middle-class values and ideals that modernism claimed to reject, so that arguments about his work extended beyond painting to societal splits along class, geographical and educational lines. One art historian, in response to a 1977 survey in Art News magazine about the most underrated and overrated artists of the century, nominated Wyeth for both categories.

Art critics mostly heaped abuse on his work, saying he gave realism a bad name. Supporters said he spoke to the silent majority who jammed his exhibitions. "In today's scrambled-egg school of art, Wyeth stands out as a wild-eyed radical," one journalist wrote in 1963, speaking for the masses. "For the people he paints wear their noses in the usual place, and the weathered barns and bare-limbed trees in his starkly simple landscapes are more real than reality."

John Updike took up the same cause 25 years later: "In the heyday of Abstract Expressionism, the scorn was simple gallery politics; but resistance to Wyeth remains curiously stiff in an art world that has no trouble making room for Photorealists like Richard Estes and Philip Pearlstein and graduates of commercial art like Wayne Thibauld, Andy Warhol, and for that matter, Edward Hopper."

A minority opinion within the art world always tried to reconcile Wyeth with mainstream modernism. It was occasionally argued, among other things, that his work had an abstract component and was linked to the gestural style of artists like Kline, de Kooning and Pollock, for whom Wyeth expressed general disdain. It is true that especially some of the early watercolors of the 30's and 40's, in a looser style, inclined toward abstraction. Contrary to what detractors and some supporters said, his style vacillated over the years, which suited neither those who wanted to say he stayed in a rut his whole career nor those who championed him as a model, as one art historian put it, "of continuity and permanence in the face of instabilities and uncertainties of modern life."

Wyeth remained a polarizing figure even as the traditional 20th century distinction between abstraction and avant-gardism on the one hand and realism and conservatism on the other came to seem woefully inadequate and false. The only indisputable truth was that his art existed within an American context that encompassed on the one end illustrators like his father, N.C. Wyeth and Norman Rockwell, and on the other end landscape painters like John Marin, Winslow Homer, Albert Bierstadt and Fitz Hugh Lane.

One picture encapsulated his fame. "Christina's World" became an American icon like Grant Wood's "American Gothic," or Whistler's portrait of his mother or Emmanuel Leutze's "Washington Crossing the Delaware." Wyeth said he thought the work was "a complete flat tire" when he sent originally it off to the Macbeth Gallery in New York in 1948. The Museum of Modern Art bought it for $1,800.

Wyeth had seen Christina Olson, crippled from the waist down, dragging herself across a Maine field, "like a crab on a New England shore," he recalled. To him she was a model of dignity who refused to use a wheelchair and preferred to live in squalor rather than be beholden to anyone. It was dignity of a particularly dour, hardened, misanthropic sort, to which Wyeth throughout his career seemed to gravitate. Olson is shown in the picture from the back. She was 55 at the time. (She died 20 years later, having become a frequent subject in his art; her death made the national news thanks to Wyeth's popularity.)

It is impossible to tell her age in the painting or what she looks like, the ambiguity adding to the overall mystery. So does the house, which Wyeth called a dry-bone skeleton of a building, a symbol during the Depression of the American pastoral dream in a minor key, the house's whitewash of paint long gone, its shingles warped, the place isolated against a blank sky. As popular paintings go, "Christina's World" is remarkable for being so dark and humorless, yet the public seemed to focus less on its gothic and morose quality and more on the way Wyeth painted each blade of grass, a mechanical and unremarkable kind of realism that was distinctive if only for going against the rising tide of abstraction in America in the late 1940's.

Want More Happiness?

2009-01-11T13:18:00.006-06:00

There was a great article in the Pioneer Press Life section about couples and parenting that I think is a must read! It happens to be written by my friends Carol Bruess and her coauthor Anna Kudak of What Happy Couples Do and What Happy Parents Do. Wildly popular books written by two great gals from the twin cities!!! They are working, now, on one about sisters that will be sure to delight those in "sista relationships." Look for it within about a year! See their site here.

I have talked so much lately to friends about reconnecting with their husbands and trying to be the best they can be in relationship. I feel like Tom and I have reached a higher peak of happiness in our marriage of 13 years, and it feels great!. I have been reading another book, too, that is a great 40 day journey to love your spouse with purpose. It's called The Love Dare. Check it out at Amazon!

All of this philosophy falls in line with living life to the fullest - each and every moment.

DO!

Sick!

2009-01-08T21:00:00.003-06:00

Well, I guess I can't complain after our whole family has not experienced sickness in about 3 years now, but that all just ended at 3:00 am this morning. Grace got some kind of stomach virus, yeah, I'm sure the one that everyone else seems to be getting. She didn't realize that she needed to throw up, and I didn't either, and it unfortunately - VERY UNFORTUNATELY - happened on the side of her bed. Tom and I spent about 45 min. cleaning up everything while she heaved a couple more times during the process, this time in the right place. Yeah! I'm happy to report that she felt like a million dollars by 11:00 am...

I think Tom and I have had a touch of some form of it, too, but have suffered from sleep deprivation at least as much.

Hope you're spared!

I'm heading to bed now!

Flattered!

2009-01-04T21:58:00.008-06:00

Oh, and a nice lady in Canada who goes by the name Liberty blogged about Carole and me a few days ago! She was so kind to feature us that way. Check it out here! You will certainly love her blog--she garners a huge readership, and you'll see why when you pay her a visit--sharp, clean, artsy, interesting. Go see her!

Great photography, too! (writer, photographer, stylist & illustrator, Michael Roberts here. (Michael is Fashion and Style Director for Vanity Fair.)

A Little Bit of Charlie Brown in Me

2008-12-25T21:00:00.002-06:00

Yes, I have realized that I get a bit down on Christmas day. For many reasons, I think, but I think the biggest reason is that at this time in my life, at my age, I realize that the true meaning of Christmas seems to be lost in our day to day activity leading up to Christmas. As much as we talk about the birth of the baby Jesus and the reason for his earthly birth, I think the commercialization over shadows it most of the time. Damn that! Don't get me wrong, I buy into at times, too, but I feel an emptiness, a depression, a little down on Christmas day after all the gift opening and such. We just don't NEED all that STUFF! My favorite gift is NO GIFT. Or maybe what my mother-in-law did which was she gave us a nice sum of money to donate to our favorite charity. I can get into that! Thanks, Marlene!

Tomorrow, I will feel better. I'm going to clean and feng shui...

A Few of my favorite things...

2008-12-25T16:55:00.003-06:00

I like to identify things that I've come to love or can't do without during this holiday season. I shot pictures of most of my "favorite things" this season. Here they are!

I just downloaded this holiday season the Carpenter's Christmas disc. It had about 20 songs on it - a few very familiar, but others I had never heard. I LOVED IT! I think Karen Carpenter had one of the best voices ever - such a vocal range and pure.

I always have to have this on my lips - at ALL TIMES - especially once this MN air becomes super dry.
I got these arm warmers (like the leg warmers of the 80s which I never owned) but these are to warm the arms. I like wearing them just over my hands to keep them warm. I'm wearing them as I type. Does the job well. Thanks GAP!

Family time is soooooooooooo important especially during holiday times. This shot was from Thanksgiving which we had here at our house. Tom is a fabulous cook, and he lets the girls help out especially for the deserts if there might be something to sweet to dip a finger into... :))

The girls have been playing the piano since February and are doing a great job. I enjoyed their Christmas music so much. Their winter recital went well, and Olivia was the only one who played without her music in front of her. Way to go O!

Homemade cranberry sauce is so GOOD!!! It's so easy to make, too, and here Olivia is making it for us. Get a pack of cranberries and a large measuring bowl. Pour cranberries in along with about 1/2 cup of orange juice and 1/2 cup of sugar. Heat for about 2 min. in microwave, stir, another min., stir, another min., stir - do this for about 8 - 10 min. total and the berries will be bursting and the cranberry sauce will be nice and chunky. Viola!

I love shooting pics of my kids playing in the snow! I just got a lens that I've been wanting for about 1 1/2 years. It's AWESOME! Great bokeh (blur around the subject).

Picking out the tree on December 4th.

The first snow fall of the season is always so exciting for me! We had just gone to see "The Best Christmas Pagaent Ever" at Stepping Stone theatre and then were heading to Cafe Latte for dinner after. The snow was really coming down!
Trimming the tree! Turn on the Christmas music and let the fun (except the lights) begin!

We went to SPA's Middle School winter concert, and was I ever impressed with the skill and talent of these kids! I know much credit goes to Almut Englehardt-Kachian who teaches stringed instruments to these kids. Music moves me like nothing else, and I was brought to tears several times during this show, feeling so proud of these 11-14-year olds...

Joanie brought these shortbread Christmas cookies and hot apple cider to our last painting class. These cookies were DE-LICIOUS! Thanks for your sweetness, Joanie!

Julia gave me this reversible hat by Nike. She had ordered one, and they sent two, and I was the honored recipient of her extra one. Stripes one side and more elegant on the other. LOVE IT! Thanks, Julia!

I love J Crew's skinny belts and got this foiled ones for the holiday season. Don't worry, I will be wearing my wide, leather ones, too...

My new red Chuck Taylor's!
What a dreadful incident of that apartment building burning this week in Burnsville, MN that displaced about 65 families as they lost everything and have to start all over. A fund was started through US Bank and someone anonymously gave $1 million dollars to help these people! Tears again!!! I have gotten to where I try only to read good news stories, and one couldn't help but see this on the front page of the Pioneer Press! Yea!!! Hope and belief in the goodness of humanity prevail.

THESE have been my favorite things this season so far!

TIMBER!!!!

2008-12-24T18:06:00.004-06:00

OMG!! Our Christmas tree fell this afternoon about 1:30! No one was near it - I was in the kitchen and heard this boom and shattering. I ran into the living room and there our beautiful tree had fallen and so many ornaments had shattered. We we're sad! :(((( So, after we tried to calm down and after we got over the dread of having to re-trim the tree, and I mean, start ALL OVER we got to work again! The reason it fell is that it was kind of crooked in the stand because it has a weird stump!

This picture was the FIRST time we trimmed the tree about 3 weeks ago. See how happy we were?

This was right after it fell, and we had started to sweep up all the glass... sad!

Here is the tree now! About 1/2 the lights, but still lots of ornaments! It's now 6:30.
Hhhhhhhhhhhhh...

Now, we can laugh!

We're still blessed. At least it didn't fall during the night or ON anyone...

I Feel Lucky!

2008-12-23T18:58:00.004-06:00

I feel so lucky that though I live 1000 away from my dear family (parents, brothers and twin sister) that I am able to visit like almost being there!

See!

Today, my sister Carole and I chatted for about an hour, and it was so nice to be able to do that knowing that I won't be able to spend time with any of my family this holiday season. I thank Apple's ichat so much!

Now, the bad thing is is that I now want a Burberry scarf like hers... :)))

Hit the Pause Button! Fast!

2008-12-23T18:49:00.004-06:00

The Christian Science Monitor had a great article in their paper today that completely echoed the same subject of our sermon in church on Sunday. It's about slowing down - I mean taking real time to sit still, quiet the mind, and reflect on what Christmas is all about. In this hurried season, it's often hard to find that time. We need to carve the time to do it.

Read this great article for more inspiration!

I hope you all find a satisfying stillness and quiet as we reflect on the birth of our Lord and Savior. Also, one of my favorite Christmas songs, "Mary, did you know?" contains some moving words like, "Mary, did you know that the son that you deliver will soon deliver you? AWESOME!

Merry Christmas, all!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD!

2008-12-18T21:48:00.002-06:00

Today is my Dad's 74th birthday, and he is still going strong! I have the most wonderful Dad a girl could ever have, and I know I'm so blessed to be his daughter. He was a great businessman and still is and was always able to be around to help raise us four children. He is very musical and plays the piano when the mood hits him, and now, most days, he spends his time writing. He is about to have published his second novel in the past 4 years! He has always helped to inspire my creativity and always supported it.

Check out his site!

THANKS, DAD! I hope your birthday was wonderful, and I wish you many more!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2008-11-26T21:50:00.002-06:00

Hey All,

I just want to wish everyone a very happy Thanksgiving! I love this holiday as it feels so much to me like Christmas without the stress of gifts! I'm looking forward to a relaxing day with family slowing down and realizing all the many blessings in my life - good health, my close family near and far, and all the great relationships in my life. I am so super blessed. I hope you feel blessed, too.

If you wouldn't mind, share some things that you feel thankful for this Thanksgiving. For me, I'm looking forward to just "being." Whatever the moment brings, I want to be present in it. I've been working at slowing down my life for the last many months, and I'm just now starting to feel like it's really happening. I'm interested in what you feel your blessings are.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Love,
Claire

WINE & PAINT PARTY!

2008-11-10T21:48:00.004-06:00

Well, I just kicked off the beginning of a great thing - Wine and Paint Parties! I had mostly inexperienced women this time and had them paint a wine bottle with garlic and onions. They did a fantastic job!!! We had a wonderful time and they all enjoyed getting to know each other, paint and sip. We critiqued at the end. Thanks for a wonderful evening Michelle, Joanie, Cari, Lori and Pam!

It's YOUR turn! If you feel the desire to be creative and do something that's all your own, give this a try. It will take you away from your everyday stresses and you will walk away with a painting. Gather up the girlfriends, and COME!

WINE AND PAINT SCHEDULE

December 3

January 14

March 11

All supplies provided, so all you have to do is show up with your wine! I will also provide some goodies to eat and great music to paint to. It's fun!

Limited to 8

Fee: $85

(fee due 2 weeks prior to paint party)

Contact Claire claire@clairekayser.com if you want to sign up! Spots go fast!

HOW CAN YOU NOT...

2008-11-05T16:13:00.002-06:00

... feel CHILLS???!!!

SPOTLIGHT ON....

2008-10-28T10:00:00.004-05:00

... WENDY SHAPIRO!

Today, Wendy did a fabulous pear that we all thought was magnificent - great color and loose brushstrokes. She left class early before everyone had a chance to see, and we all agreed that it is a great little pear. What do YOU think?

WAY TO GO, WENDY!!!

2008-10-28T07:59:00.003-05:00

"Southern Palette" Creativa Painting Journey Coming!

While I was in Athens for our show in Birmingham last week, Carole and I were able to plan our next Creativa Painting Journey for women. It is coming up spring of 2009, April 16th-19th.

More details will be coming, but the weekend will include a similar itinerary:

Thursday Arrival: 3pm-6pm
Thursday night: 7pm Wine Meet & Greet at Carole's downtown studio

Friday: Paint all day from 9-3 with a lunch break
Friday 4-7: Free time to stroll the square and historical district of Athens
Friday Night: Downhome dinner at Greenbriar's Bar-b-que

Saturday: Paint all day from 9-3
Saturday 4-7: Free time to shop, attend yoga class
Saturday Night: Dinner & Movie and late night Paint Party (cookies & milk)

Sunday: 9am Critique, Pack up work, Java-O-The-Go
Goodbyes

Stay tuned for the fine details! This is gearing up to be a wonderfully, relaxing and rejuvenating experience! Springtime in Athens, Alabama is simply amazing. The dogwoods are blooming, things are turning green--it is simply stunning. Plan to join us! Email us/comment if you are interested in being one of the few who can join us. The journey is open to only 10. Get on our mailing list now...

SIMPLY THE BEST! the other Tina...

2008-10-11T08:28:00.007-05:00

What a great show Tina Turner gave in Minneapolis last Thursday night!!! She is AMAZING! She still has that super passion, soulfulness and energy she's known for at age 69, and it was on fine display. Great dancers, theatrics and pyrotechnics made the show dazzling. I got to go to the show with my friend Molly with tickets given to us so generously by friends. Thanks so much for your generosity, friends!!!! We got great seats on the 13th row center!!! Go see Tina on this last tour. You won't be sorry! She delivers BIG!

Our Beloved Tina...

2008-10-08T14:23:00.002-05:00

As some of you know, Tina got hit and killed by a car yesterday evening when she was being walked and bolted after a squirrel in front of a car. We lost grip of the leash when she suddenly pulled away. We miss her dearly and know she's in heaven now getting every squirrel she wants, jumping even higher than she could, running in open air. We will miss her fun personality and warmth towards us all. She was the best dog we ever had... We love you, Tina!

WINE & PAINT NIGHTS!

2008-10-04T09:52:00.006-05:00

Yes! I will be kicking off my new WINE AND PAINT PARTIES! These evenings are a great way to be introduced to painting with NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE NECESSARY or if you have painting experience, just come and pick up a brush again! The atmosphere is very relaxing and fun with time to paint, socialize and enjoy great music, goodies to eat and your favorite libation. This time is for YOU - tap into your creative soul and be taken away from your everyday stresses. I will help you on your way to painting a piece that you will take home that night!

Here's the deal:
I provide ALL materials
You bring only your wine or drink of choice
$85 fee (paid 2 weeks in advance of date)
8 student limit
Reserve your spot now!
Call Claire at 651.983.2743 or email at claire@clairekayser.com

SCHEDULE
November 5, 7-9 pm (2 spots left)
December 3, 7-9 pm
January 14, 7-9 pm

ART OPEN HOUSE!

2008-09-27T18:57:00.007-05:00

ART OPEN HOUSE
November 15
6 - 9 pm
Home of Claire Kayser
paintings, pottery, mosaic art, books & their authors, jewelry, culinary arts, live music!
Get a jump start on holiday shopping with gifts that are completely unique and one of a kind - ART!
Grab a friend and come mingle with the artists and creative people and listen to some live jazz! Buy something unique and original for loved ones on your list!

Support artists!

The Dodge Nature Center Fall Gala!

2008-09-22T22:08:00.003-05:00

The Dodge Nature Center's Fall Gala benefit went super well last Saturday night! I was so honored to be the featured artist in which my work was highly spotlighted all night long. I donated a commissioned figurative landscape painting to the winning bidder in the live auction. It went for a whopping $3500! I was so flattered!!! See all the pictures of the nights events. Thanks to Lee Driscoll for nominating me for the featured artist, and thanks to Dodge and all the great employees I got to work with especially Ann Nelson and Pam Burkley. Thanks to you all!

The example of the "figurative landscape" painting to be auctioned off.

This one is of my 3!

Tom and Me!

So many were highly interested in my encaustic painting which I will be producing more of in the coming weeks! Encaustic = beeswax + pigment! Beautiful!!!

Pam Burkley is all the way to the left in this shot. She has been super supportive of me and my work so much that she has signed up for my next COLOR CAFE session and bought another spot for the silent auction! THANKS, Pam! You're a DOLL!

Eileen Armitage and me at the end of the night! She looked stunning, as usual!

SPOTLIGHT ON...

2008-09-12T09:39:00.003-05:00

... Pam Frecentese! Wow, after only one week painting, look what she produced! She painted this image of her Wheaton Terrior so effectively using her toning - the reds and other colors surrounding the dog's head - and she also put nice color in the light areas and shadowed areas of the doge's fur. Way to go, Pam!

All of my students have gotten off to a great start this fall, and I'm looking forward to journeying through with them to tap into their creative souls!

Orr, Minnesota!

2008-08-26T13:30:00.006-05:00

We had a fabulous week up in Orr last week. It was our 5th year to go, and last week's weather was PURRRRRRRR -FECT! It was in the mid 80s, low humidity during the day and cooled nicely for night time. Lots of family and friend time and time to enjoy the beautiful Pelican lake. I just published a little web gallery of pictures from one day there when one of the Dad's bought materials like rounded, long pieces of wood from a bannister place and tied them together using knots learned during his Eagle Scout days. The kids were trying it out! Check out the gallery. Will add more pics here later...

http://gallery.me.com/ckayser#100026

Kids Art Camp II !!!

2008-08-14T17:17:00.004-05:00

Art Camp II was a great success, too! I had a couple more kids in this camp and all were mostly older along with young Tate (age 6) who really loves painting so I let him paint in this camp even though he was a little under the age limit. He did a fantastic job! We mixed a world of colors with primaries, secondaries and tertiaries, and learned about toning, texture, composition. We critiqued all the paintings and talked about each artist's pieces. Lots of great comments thrown out to help them along their way in their painting journeys.

Thanks for a great, fun week working with each of you, Hazen, Hugh, Isabelle, Tate, Grace, Blair and Marley!

Precious little Tate painted a thank you note for me! (Thank you for the art class). I hugged him UP after he gave that to me! Thanks, Tate!!!!

Art Camp I - Wow!

2008-08-07T13:46:00.005-05:00

I had a wonderful group of young, budding artists this week for my first art camp of the summer! Wow, did they do a wonderful job! We did self portraits first, and this is a shot of them with their paintings. They learned basic color theory, toning, proportion, scumbling and other fun techniques. They even learned critiquing and involving in conversations about art and fun stuff! Way to go Elizabeth, Hannah, Anna, Gemma and Maggie - you were so much fun to work with, and I hope you continue on with your artistic journey!