Barbara Noonan

Studio Open 12-5pm Saturday Dec 3rd

2011-12-03T11:34:00.000-08:00

Hello there,

After attending the Figgy Pudding Christmas Carol competition in Seattle last night, I'm in the spirit! I hope you can find your way to the downtown area to check out the lights, the trees and the fine LOCAL SHOPPING.

At the Tashiro Kaplan Studios and Galleries we have approximately 15 venues for you to walk through and enjoy the art and become inspired. I will be painting today in preparation for another show in W. Seattle tomorrow.

Hope to see you! Barb

Shop Local

2011-11-17T18:17:00.001-08:00

West Seattle Art Walk

2011-11-11T08:22:00.001-08:00

I was honored to participate in the West Seattle Art Walk last night at C&P Coffee House in West Seattle. What a location for great music, wine tasting, artwork and a lovely warm atmosphere. The hosts served us wine samples, provided delicious snacks and I found myself dancing in my seat at the easel as the music played.

I highly recommend C&P for shows and a great place to enjoy a great evening. They have art classes here, music, meetings and serve a fine mocha!!!

Cheers! Barb

Looking this way and that

2011-11-10T11:23:00.000-08:00

I was recently inspired by an artist who spends hours working plein aire and just absorbs the "soup" of the day. the colors... the atmosphere... the wind.... and I thought how important this is.

I love painting from life and often have that opportunity when the weather is good. Today I hope to do that but for now... here's a studio piece.

I want it to be about the design elements and shapes....

Thoughts?

Barb

Madison Park Art Walk - see you tomorrow night

2011-09-08T09:11:00.000-07:00

Here is a close up of the painting

2011-09-06T08:11:00.001-07:00

Sand Man Tug Boat

Glorious NW weather and tug boats

2011-09-06T08:06:00.000-07:00

I spent Saturday at Open Harbor Days in Olympia, Washington and though I wasn't technically plein aire painting, I was sunburning my legs as I did this work. The tug boat races happened on Sunday but Saturday the crowds were invited aboard the boats at they sat dockside.

Me... i tried a few from life and then returned to the easel with one of my reference images.

I hope you'll visit Childhood's End Gallery where you can this painting and more of my work for sale!

Cheers, Barb

Painting to Live Living to Paint

2011-08-31T13:19:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER 2011

In the past month I attended a memorial service for yet another close friend/artist, who’s life was taken far too early. I told myself I’d paint daily or at least attempt to. If not for me, but to see and paint what she won’t be able to....

Since August 4th, I’ve painted, 30 paintings.... many outdoors en Plein Aire (in fresh air) from a dock, a farm, the back of a bowling alley, the back of an urban alley and even at the cow pasture. I’ve experienced bugs, sunburns, wind, listened to jets, eagles, waves and even fog horns.

My scratched legs looks like a 4 yr old with all the black berry bushes I’ve picked through and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve sold 8 paintings and 1 commissioned piece. There are 925 photos for reference images when it starts to rain.

There is something about passion and love in my creative process. I hope you find a bit of both in my work.

Thanks for coming to my studio. Barb Noonan

I miss you Debbie..... Bob.... Shirrell.... Mike.....

Plein Aire time

2011-08-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

It's that glorious time of the year in Seattle and the Northwest when the weather is just right and you have to spend as much time painting outdoors as the light and hours permit.

Hope you enjoy this view as much as I did. Painting are for sale at my studio.

Welcome to my new Studio!

2011-08-01T10:22:00.001-07:00

Time to move into a larger space!!!

Hurrah for change... it's all part of the process.

I'm currently moved into a new space in the same building just a doorway east and down the hall. 312 S. Washington St. Studio 2B

It's larger, it's home and it's a good space. I hope you'll come to visit and see what new work appears on my walls.

Thank you for making the 5 past years so successful for me!!!

Barb

FIRST THURSDAY OPENING

2011-07-07T14:44:00.000-07:00

After 6 successful years in this studio location, I'm moving August 1st to a larger studio in the same building. one floor below one door east.

Come visit me at the current space tonight and this month as I share abstract and contemporary interpretations of everyday things! Something for everyone.

In addition I have my artwork in the CORRIDOR GALLERY at the same address with 3 accomplished award winning abstract pastel painters. We'd love to have you come visit.

Tonight 5- 9pm

Saturday 12 - 5pm.

Deconstructed Geraniums

2011-05-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

I was trying to figure out how to paint a geranium that captured the essence of the long stem and the full leaves... I needed to include some sense of the terra cotta pot that would hold it.

This particular painting 8.5 x 12" appx. was what came to me at the easel today.

Thanks for looking. Barb

Another location to view my work

2011-04-06T12:21:00.001-07:00

Hi there,

I'm thrilled to announce that I am currently represented by Childhood's End Gallery in Olympia, Washington.

Hope you come to visit!

Barb

NEWS!!!

2011-03-30T09:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Spring...

We're surrounded by fruit trees in bloom in Seattle but currently the wind and rain are trying to shake them free. I know April showers bring May flowers.... but enough is enough!!!

As I prepare for my monthly studio Art Walk on April 7th, I'm thrilled to announce that you may find my artwork in Childhood's End Gallery in Olympia, Washington. If you haven't been, I highly recommend a visit to see the finest collection of Northwest artists and craftspersons showing their works. I'm honored to be included.

Today I also meet with the Curator from ArtsWest Gallery in West Seattle. We'll select paintings for the upcoming June show and I promise to share more details as time approaches.

Late in April I'll head back down to Taos, New Mexico for a workshop. I so enjoy being a student and this tends to boost my spirits and challenge me to newer heights in my painting.

The painting below shows a view from the road into Taos.... I long for the warm light and adobe.

Till my next update, enjoy the blossoms of spring... it's long overdue. Barb

Spring is coming!

2011-03-07T07:23:00.000-08:00

Well the daffodils are popping, the crocuses appearing and there's even a fruit tree in blossom around the neighborhood. We know it's possible after a long gray winter... and alas here it is!

I can't recall a busier year. My paintings are selling readily and I feel like I've hit a creative stride that is very energizing and powerful.

I hope you will accompany on the path. This week I'll have artwork in Unclad at Gallery By the Bay in Standwood, Washington and also at the One Eighty Foundation Contemporary Art Show and Auction. It's all good.

On the easel... here's what you will find. I'm open Saturdays from 12 - 5 pm... stop by my studio!

Tis the Season!

2010-12-15T12:27:00.000-08:00

Happy December!

I've recently hung up an entire show of work on the back wall of the local Starbucks in Madison Park, Seattle. I hope you will find time to come visit and enjoy the art while you sip your favorite hot beverage.

As I close 2010 with a few commissions and projects, I'm reflecting on what a successful year it's been. I've participated in 32 shows this year (both individually and in group shows). I've won 4 major awards and feel so fortunate to have been inspired to paint over 100 paintings of all sizes.

Each month my studio is open for The Art Walk on the First Thursday of the month in Pioneer Square, Seattle. Please email me for an appointment if this particular date doesn't work.

In 2011 I plan to resume teaching - I took a hiatus for most of 2010. Interested in brushing up on skills or learning a new medium, give me a call! I'd be happy to share what I know.

Cheers and thank you again for your support.

Barb Noonan

Art Walk November 4 5-9 pm

2010-11-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

Well it's a stunning day in Seattle and we are not the type of folks who take it so lightly at this time of the year.

Come on down in the evening light to the Art Walk. It will feel like a breath of fresh air and tickle your creative spirit!

Mornin Noonan Night Studio

Tashiro Kaplan Building

306 S. Washington #103

Seattle, WA

5-9pm

See you there!

Seattle in the Summer

2010-07-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

It's been a busy summer for me and though I've started blogging on my web site, I remembered there are a few of you signed in to receive updates. My apologies.

Attached is a new painting for a series I'll be doing about roads and long paths. Watch for more and I'll try not to disappoint.

Thanks for checking me out.

www.MorninNoonanNight.com

Happy Spring

2010-04-03T23:53:00.000-07:00

Hot off the easel today... a bit of that loose approach to the painting of daffodils.

Enjoy! Barb

Happy Spring

2010-03-26T10:06:00.000-07:00

It's the time of year to head out and paint on site more. Off we go to see what new blooms are coming in.

Happy plein aire painting! And if you find an artist by the side of the road, please approach carefully. You may scare them and that one painting stroke may fly across the canvas by mistake!

Cheers! Barb

A view of my studio

2010-02-11T11:05:00.000-08:00

Hi there,

I'm remiss once again in my updates on my web site however all that time away from the computer means time well spent painting my studio. If you missed the Art Walk this month, here is a surround view of my studio space shot by a local photographer in Seattle.

My artwork is shifting in both sizes of work and design elements. I'm thrilled with the new direction and have received tremendous support already in sales this year.

Current and Future Shows:

Starbucks in Madison Park, Seattle, WA through Feb 28, 2010 (solo show)

University House, Issaquah, WA through March 5, 2010 (Figures and Faces)

Kaewyn Gallery, Bothell WA, Mar - April 2010 (Women Painters of Washington show)

North Hill Bakery, Seattle, WA August - September, 2010 (solo show)

Please feel free to come on by to my studio for future events and/or private appointments.

I'm open most Fridays and Saturdays from 12 - 5 pm as well.

Cheers!

Happy New Year

2010-01-11T10:44:00.000-08:00

It's been a fabulous month so far and I'm gearing up for a show at Starbucks in Madison Park this week. The show will include paintings of several sizes that you may need to buy for your Valentine! What could be nicer than a new piece of art for the new year?

Currently I'm working on a few larger paintings that are going in a direction I've longed to reach. It's a series where I'm focusing on light as it strikes in those long deep rich shadows.

This particular piece posted is appx. 18" x 24" and I hope to feature it at my studio in the next few months.

Thanks for looking and enjoy the new year.

Classes and lessons are still available..... Barb

ART TONIGHT DECEMBER 3 5-9PM

2009-12-03T11:41:00.001-08:00

MAYBE I'LL SEE YOU TONIGHT?

I'll have small and medium size paintings for sale.

Shop locally for the holidays!

Barb

This pigs for you!

2009-11-30T12:37:00.000-08:00

A dear friend showed me pictures of the family animals and of course I couldn't help but paint the pig. But then I found more photos of roosters so who was I to be stopped.

Did I also mention that north of Seattle you can find longhorn cows? I love those guys.

Here you go - all are for sale..... Barb

Thank you for supporting local artists!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T12:57:00.001-08:00

It's a rainy day and yesterday I spent a bit of time in the studio working on a few paintings for fun. Here you will find the goods - some new, some remakes and some just because.

These are pretty small and are available for sale. Just send me a note.

Cheers!

Barb

Web site updates November 2009

2009-11-20T13:14:00.000-08:00

Hi there, I have to apologize for not updating my web site recently. I've upgraded a software program that has me offline in adjustments.

Thank you in advance for your patience and I'll be sure to link back to you with updates.

Cheers! Barb

Coastal scenes

2009-11-02T09:14:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of shooting photos off Cape Cod and in Maine this past month and was able to salvage a few views worth trying to paint.

I'm learning that small 5x7 pieces allow me a chance to explore what enlarged pieces will be like.

Here are a few - one of the pieces is from a friend's hike in California. I sure miss those golden hills.

Thanks for looking. Barb

Daily painting

2009-10-31T11:10:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I can follow through on a piece or two quickly or several days in a row, and other times a break or inspirational period must take place.

These 3 pieces have been painted fairly closely together. They are from photos inspired by walks and photo sessions. Hope you enjoy.

Barb

Fall winds and rain

2009-10-29T07:58:00.001-07:00

Greetings from the rainy city,

It's difficult to imagine how fast our fall foliage season can pass, but given the rain and wind, it's destined to happen. I found myself outdoors for one plein aire painting session before all the leaves had dropped and then drove frantically around shooting photos for reference images. So much to paint, so little time.

If there is something I learned this summer and will probably need to keep re-learning if I'm not careful.... don't take the sunshine for granted. If it's sunny and it's perfect painting weather, jump on out there.

My other lesson is that when you feel healthy, don't take it for granted. After a week of the flu, I'm recovered for the most part but long for the fall days I missed between then and now. Rain steals so much of our outdoor painting weather.

All that said... armed with photos and props for still lifes, I have much to accomplish in my studio this year and hope you'll join me along with way.

Barb

Love the late summer light

2009-09-23T10:20:00.000-07:00

There are days that are just meant to be... yesterday provided me the late in the afternoon painting of long shadows in my shorts and tee shirt and it was down right glorious! I have to say I'm feeling spoiled with all the plein aire painting this summer.

On a drive north I found this barn most interesting. I painted it but then went back and did a value study for future reference. Some day when it's really cold and dark outside and most likely raining, I'll be fond of this warm memory.

Thanks for looking!

Barb

The busiest time of all

2009-09-06T09:07:00.000-07:00

Happy End of Summer,

I can't recall being this busy with my art before. Between commissions, teaching, demos, and projects, I'm happily painting at least several hours every day. With the amount of painting comes and equal amount of paperwork - but I'm saving that for day - the day of rain and catch up.

Plein aire painting still calls to me the most at this time. It's the glory of being outdoors and feeling the wind and getting lost in nature that I find most absorbing.

The Fire Trucks are from a local station. Although they are indoors, I'm outside painting so I think that counts as plein aire. I hope to add to this collection.

Hope you will join me in the process.

Barb

PS: Get outside and paint. It's the best time of the year for that in the greater U.S.

Trucks trucks and more trucks.

2009-08-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

I have to start this blog by stating what may seem obvious but perhaps not to all....

ALL MY POSTED IMAGES: PHOTOGRAPHS OR PAINTINGS ARE COPYRIGHTED by BARBARA NOONAN AND MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED WITH OUT WRITTEN PERMISSION BY ME... THE ARTIST.

I DON'T CARE HOW OFTEN YOU DOWNLOAD MUSIC ILLEGALLY OR PHOTOS FROM OTHER WEBSITES - YOU HAVE TO LIVE WITH YOUR OWN THEFT... JUST DON'T DO IT TO ME.

Whew - what a downer that is... but unfortunately necessary in this day and age.

To capitalize on the summer light, I'm continuing my plein aire painting with trucks and more trucks. If you keep an eye out, you'll walk past a particular vehicle some day and think... the lighting on that is fantastic! I need to paint that! Eventually the vehicle moves or you forget and time has passed by.

To you I say... STOP NOW, and PAINT.

If you are driving in Seattle, don't be surprised to see me and my easel. I'll be looking for you too.

Cheers! Barb

As the Summer Breezes By....

2009-08-12T13:39:00.001-07:00

Greetings from the city of mixed rain, sun and clouds. I'm remiss in my plein aire painting lately but have started on a new series that holds promise I feel.

Eventually I'd like to abstract more of my paintings into scenes holding a bit more mystery and interest. Here are a few and I'd appreciate any feedback.

SHOWS: I'm currently exhibiting at Starbucks again this month and also at CURVES in the Leschi neighborhood of the city.

EVENTS: On the 31st of August I'll be at Westlake Plaza in downtown Seattle offering complimentary portraits from 1130 - 130pm. It's all part of ArtSparks for the Mayor's office.

Hope to see you there.

On the 19th of September is PAWS Bainbridge Island and Kitsap County benefit auction and I'll have a pet portrait donation on sale.

September 12th you will find one of my pieces in the Women Painters of Washington show in Tacoma at the American Art Company Gallery.

October - January my portraits will be included in a group show at University House in Issaquah. I'll post more details on this as the dates approach.

All in All it's a busy time and I look foward to new students.

Take care and be creative!

Barb

LOOK AT ME! I CAN FLY!

2009-07-31T19:36:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HEAT OF SUMMER!

I have decided this tiny dog would just as easily fly as run should the wind pick him/her up properly. This just made me smile as I was painting outside the Starbucks in the shade today.

It also caught the eye of the the local neighborhood vet, who has asked me to hang a few of my pieces in their waiting room.

Buena!!!

Barb

I CAN'T HEAR YOU? WHAT?

2009-07-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest off the easel!

Last nights art reception was truly a fabulous event. I was able to share my art with friends and family and new friends. The sun came out and all was grande. Unfortunately I forgot to take a photo.

My special thanks to the North Hill Bakery and staff for treating us to some delightful morsels.

Cheers!

Barb

PS: remember to be creative!

ART RECEPTION - JULY 9th 5-8pm

2009-07-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

The clouds have come back to Seattle and yet it still feels so much better than all the rain I keep hearing about back East. Saturday I'll learn first hand as I fly to Boston for a week's visit.

My studio will be closed July 11th & 18th. If you need to schedule an appointment, I'd be happy to accommodate you another time for a tour.

I'm going to miss painting at Bainbridge Island in Bloom for the Garden tours this weekend. I hope you have time to bike or walk this event. There will be other plein aire artists about.

Tomorrow evening, July 9th, I'm pleased to invite you to an art reception at the North Hill Bakery, 518 15th Ave. E. It should be a grande evening of wine, food and laughter.... not to mention fine art.

See you there!

Barb

Don't look now but they are multiplying....

2009-07-02T13:37:00.001-07:00

Come on down to the studio tonight to see what you can find!!! It's going to be full of a lot of feathers and dog hair! Isn't that inviting?

Barb

JULY... Invitation to my Art Walk

2009-07-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

We have had the best weather for painting out doors and I frequently take my easel out to the balcony for a chance to paint in natural light. There is something extremely satisfying about listening to the birds and neighbors chatter while I create something of whimsy.

This particular rooster has gone to it's new "roost", but I have to giggle at the personality captured. There is something in an expression that says so much!

As a follow up to Daschunds on Parade, I'll be posting an update soon. There was quite a collection of costumes and creativity to share.

Cheers!

PS: I'm open on Thursday Night, July 2nd 5-9 pm - PIONEER SQUARE ART WALK. Hope to see you there!

Sales are Happening

2009-06-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

I'm here to report that two paintings in my "Summer Air" show at the North Hill Bakery in Seattle have sold.

There are plenty to choose from and I wanted to share which are most admired at this time....

The rocks were painted on location in the Pacific Northwest - note the rich cool colors of the streams.

The Mesa was in Utah... I just love those rich greens.

I hope you can make it to the show... A reception is scheduled for July 9th 5-8pm.

Do yourself a favor and buy a lovely cake, pie or the ever popular Lemon Bar!!! You won't be disappointed.

Cheers!

Barb

North Hill Bakery

518 15th Avenue E.

Seattle, WA

But wait there's more ....

2009-06-13T09:56:00.003-07:00

I've taken to painting more of these delightful creatures. Hope you enjoy.

The one in the tutu sold off the easel.....

Barb

Daschunds on Parade

2009-06-07T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

I was told there is a special event in Ellensburg, Washington where all those little short and long tikes get to parade in their tutus and other attire. To prepare for the show (an invitation I can't refuse), I've worked on a few paintings that I will take over the mountains.

Any thoughts would be appreciated and of course if you have a title to suggest... I'm always open to that.

June 20, 2009, Ellensburg, WA

Cheers!

Barb

PS: No I don't even own a dog... but I love them so I have to do something with my creative energies....

June is a busy time for this artist

2009-06-02T09:26:00.001-07:00

Hi there and Happy June,

It's a very busy month for me!

I'm running around the city of Seattle hanging shows and revealing some very special landscapes, newer works and some of my finer portraits.

When you finish a painting, frame it beautifully and then hang it for a future owner, there is a sense of loss and joy all at once. I feel like I'm birthing my babies and setting them free to be enjoyed by others.

We wear our hearts on our sleeves... not knowing which "child" will be selected and not knowing if we've charged too much or too little. Sometimes there is separation anxiety and mostly there is thrill that someone finds what I've captured so appealing.

With more pastels in my palm and a fresh sheet of paper, I'm back to the easel to generate more of what makes my heart sing.

If you can make it to one of my shows, it would be great to see you!

Thank you for buying local.

Barb

Be on the Look Out..... Chickens gone bad

2009-05-18T10:32:00.001-07:00

PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU HAVE SEEN ANY OF THESE DANGEROUS ESCAPEES?

THESE MUG SHOTS WERE TAKEN RECENTLY. THEY HAVE BEEN KNOWN TO LEAVE BEHIND EGGS.

Thank you!

Barb

Lilac Time

2009-05-13T07:13:00.000-07:00

Lilac #3 pastel on paper

Lilacs #2 Private Collection pastel

Lilac #1 Pastel on paper

Like most everyone I know, you mention the word lilac and a smile comes over their faces and they just swoon... imagining the fragrance. It's not unusual to find grown women and men crossing into a neighbor's yard and actually standing on tip toes with eyes closed and noses primed for the scent. Trespassers allowed....

My dear student gifted me with a bouquet of the dark rich purple lilacs as did another artist of the lighter lavender ones. Yes... a bounty of goodness.

I hope these paintings will suffice. Unfortunately there is no such thing as scratch and sniff computer screens yet, but I'm sure it's coming. Remember Maude (Harold & Maude), she had a device way back when....

Barb

Emotions - a collection of portraits May 2009

2009-05-07T07:58:00.000-07:00

"Akha" Helen Sevick pastel

Akha is grandmother in Inupiaq. When I lived in Kotzebue, Alaska, this delightful woman would greet the passengers arriving for tours and we'd help her on and off the bus to her delight. She had an infectious smile and giggle and though we often didn't know what she was laughing at. The reference photo for this painting was taken before she asked to go to Dairy Queen for her favorite... a blueberry sundae.

Here is a link to photos of her and Chester from the Archives...

Many of you may know that I started painting 11 years ago and found that painting the portrait was my muse. Through the course of extensive and valuable classes from the best... Bob Gerbracht especially, I learned to measure and really look. I truly noticed the colors in the human face.

This particular month at my studio, I am featuring some older works and newer pieces that reveal a bit of my style change and also evoke emotions within me and I hope you as well as the viewer.

I hope you will find a piece to take home and add to your collection.

If you miss me on the First Thursday Art Walk, May 7th 5-9pm, give me a call or email me and I can make and appointment for you. I'm also open most Saturday's Noon - 5pm.

Taku!

Barbara

Take a Walk!

2009-04-30T09:28:00.000-07:00

Living in the rainy northwest does have it's rewards.

These photos were taken in an hour in one neighborhood walk.

May your daily stroll bring you similar joy.

Barb

INVITATION TO THE NW PASTEL SOCIETY SHOW

2009-04-21T15:43:00.001-07:00

Hi there,

I'm happy to say there will be 3 of my paintings at the Northwest Pastel Society Show in Bellingham, Washington.

The show is being generously hosted by the Blue Horse Gallery and the reception is Friday, April 24th 6-10pm. If you won't be able to make it this evening, the show is open through the end of May. I hope you can make it! It would be a a wonderful chance to meet fellow pastels painters, and support the local artists in this community.

Remember - art makes a wonderful gift for yourself and others.

Barb

It's Baseball Season!

2009-04-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

On the Ball Pastel

Time to bring out the baseball, softball, gloves and bats and head to the field. It's a glorious time of the year for this Great American Pastime.

Can't afford a ticket and/or you have a fan in the family that needs a little gift... check out this painting. I'll be posting more in the future.

It's a small piece - only 11" x 14" matted and framed.

Barb

Sunshine in Seattle

2009-04-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

There is nothing that makes an outdoor painter's heart soar more than sunshine and no wind. Today is all of that and it's a perfect time for bringing the pastels out onto the easel and whipping up some magic. The cherry trees are in full bloom and there isn't enough pink in my pastel collection.

When I have my computer back, I'll be posting... until then... if you are able, get yourself out in the sunshine and make the most of the wonder of spring.

Oh and I did discover my painting outdoors is a little rusty after 6 months away from it... Can't wait to loosen back up again.

Barb

Computer Whoas and then Woes

2009-04-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not posting up something new and colorful! Unfortunately I'm painting but my computer isn't able to record it. After several weeks of slow and unpredictable movements, my link to cyber world departed.

A moment of silence please..... Ok - that's enough!

Here's the latest updates:

> As you know, my artwork is for sale but I haven't posted prices. If you can visit my studio today (Saturday April 3rd) between Noon - 5pm, you will find some bargains on the walls.

> I have three pieces accepted into the Northwest Pastel Society Show Members Exhibit that will be showing at The Blue Horse Gallery in Bellingham, Washington in April - May. Details will follow.

> One of my paintings has been selected for the postcard announcement for the above show!!!

> The Women Painters of Washington Membership Show is being exhibited in Bellevue at Dimensions Gallery. I have a solo piece in this exhibit which is up through the month of April.

> I was open for First Thursday of the Month Art Walk and sold the Bok Choy posted on my last blog as well as a the large Cupcake Painting.

You will find Studio Prices -vs- Gallery prices when you visit me in Pioneer Square, Seattle. Please stop by every Saturday from Noon - 5pm. (I occasionally duck out early to paint if the weather is nice but send me an e-mail and I can open for an appointment).

Cheers and Happy Spring!

Barb

The Dancers? The Performers? How to title a piece

2009-03-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

Pastel 6" x 10"

I often find that the joy comes in painting but not in labeling my work. Each still life I set up has an element or five that I'm drawn to. Sometimes it's the subject, other times it's the challenge of painting a feeling, other times it's the color or light....

I've heard of artists that name their painting before even placing any pigment on the surface and keep the name in focus as they approach the piece. Unfortunately I'm not one of them.

So... I give you a still life that will remain nameless at the moment. It does however give me pleasure to know I've captured some of the essence of this "joyful" vegie. LOL

Take a class

2009-03-25T08:04:00.000-07:00

Pastel Painting by Ann McBurney - Student

Classes are good....

Good for the left brain... right brain.... the soul... the heart... and your creative cells. It leads to balance and a place to escape into color and fun.

I'm currently teaching in my studio and have room for students in pastel painting. We'll work in color, composition, gesture, and prepare for outdoor painting of landscapes...

Come on - it's fun! email me for details!

Barb

PS: posted with permission from the artist!

Artist seeks dry and warmer days for outdoor painting

2009-03-25T07:58:00.000-07:00

Well when the weather brings rain, you go to the studio and set up still lifes. For inspiration you buy that watermelon and those strawberries and you find a way to let them glow.

This particular piece is small for me - only 5" x 5" but packed with loose and confident strokes. I'm quite pleased with the result.

Today I'm off to the studio to do more of the same... to bring the sunlight in (albeit from a light bulb), but make the fruit shine and glow.

Stand by for more postings!!!

Barb

Where does the time go?

2009-03-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

I've been so fortunate to be busy with painting and teaching students about pastels lately that I've lost track of time in my blogging. I guess that's because I'm more "right brained" than left these days.

It's time to return to basics.... As I paint my approach is more methodical. I truly seek the light and watch how it reacts with my subject matter. I take the time to truly look and compose and more importantly... I play with the colors as much as possible.

Bongart, Fechin, Sargent.... are all artists I try to learn from and yet I can only attempt to master their quality and strength in strokes.

When you look at these pears, I hope you will notice the marvelous colors and shapes I've found and may it inspire you to eat a piece of fruit with same intensity.

Ok - now I'm rambling... more soon I promise.... Barb

PS: I'm happy to report that most of the paintings you see in these blogs have been sold! It's great to know they have new homes.

PPS: The pears are still available... but not for long I'm sure!

Honor each day and your friends

2009-02-21T09:02:00.001-08:00

This week I lost a dear artist friend who had a battle with kidney failure. I'll miss you Shirrell. Your spirit, energy and laughter will be calling to me always. Shirrell may be familiar to those of you who visited Pike Place Market as she was a vendor there.

It's yet another reminder to seize the day and do what you love. For me it's painting and teaching. I mean how many people can say they get goose-bumps when they have a great day at work?

May your day be filled with inspiration and creativity.

Barb

Missed the Art Walk? No problem

2009-02-06T11:28:00.001-08:00

First Thursday's Art Walk last night (Feb 5th) was very crowded. I think many folks are thinking about free events to entertain these days and Fine Art is sure a good way to waken the soul.

I painted this little piece while visitors came through my studio. If you reached out to sample one or two of these cookies (and you know who you were), thank you for not touching this tempting still life.

Please come by and see what you've missed. If you miss me on Saturdays, give a call or e-mail me and I'll make sure I offer you a tour.

Can't afford original art but want to learn to paint on your own, call me for classes. All levels welcome!

Barb

Taking chances and forward momentum

2009-02-03T09:23:00.000-08:00

This week I've started a new approach to my paintings which is scary but also great fun. I'm willing to take risks but sometimes I fall back into old patterns.

To help me in embracing this transitional process, I've written my own version of a Mark Twain quote....

Work like you don't need the money.

Dance like no one is watching.

And love like you've never been hurt. Mark Twain

Create like I don't need the money.

Paint like no one is judging.

And disappear in each piece of art, till I feel it's time to return. Barb Noonan

You may not notice the change, but I will and if I can inspire you to re-write this to fit your own needs in your life.... good for us!

Happy New Year

2009-01-06T11:46:00.000-08:00

Hi there,

May 2009 fill your days with creativity and inspiration.

As I rest from my cold, I reflect on things I've accomplished this past month with regards to paintings. Included in this post is a demonstrations for a student. It's good to practice and truly look for colors that give us a sense of shape and form.

I'm also mentally preparing for an upcoming show in February at the North Hill Bakery on Capitol Hill in Seattle. This show will include many of my favorite things.... Watch for postings as I complete this collection.

Happy painting and I do hope you will come to visit my studio on First Thursday Art Walks this year. This week I've scheduled a live model to pose so I can show off my processes.

Cheers! Thanks for reading.

Barb

Sisters

2008-12-24T21:36:00.001-08:00

I was so fortunate to spend time with these two gals and paint their portraits. This was the best Christmas present I could have hoped for.

No doubt you will agree.

Merry Christmas!

Barb

Winter Solstice

2008-12-22T15:58:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

The winter snows have packed a punch here in Seattle but I wanted to share this image taken of the steam rising from the lake.

May we find the glory in the season. Barb

Sailing Weather

2008-12-15T10:41:00.000-08:00

Soft pastel, 12" x 10.5"
Hi there,

I was reminded this weekend of a sailor's expression that I haven't heard in years.... "It's blowing like stink". Without any explanation you know exactly the climate and it inspired me to create this painting of a hearty soul.

You can see by the lines in his face that he's experienced years of weathering and the time at sea.

I spent many years sailing in my youth and wouldn't swap that time at sea on ships for anything at all. You feel that grounding rhythm of the water lapping on the hull and it speaks to the soul.

Though it may look unfinished, it will remain this way except for a few tweaks of color here and there.

Enjoy! Barb

2008-12-02T19:34:00.000-08:00

Time to Order that Commission

2008-12-02T19:31:00.000-08:00

Hi there,

It's that time of the year that I'm busy painting pet portraits for holiday gifts.

I have a show hanging at Starbucks in Madison Park, Seattle and visit there frequently to demonstrate my pastel skills.

Hope you can make it some time!!!

Saturday Morning Ventures

2008-09-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

Morning,

Seattle finds us in the Fall rain pattern and it's a good time to be indoors. I'll open my studio today about noon and showcase the Cows and Sheep. Surrounding myself with the summer landscape paintings of Skagit Valley will hopefully warm me up.

Barb