Original Small Format Art - Carolynn McDade

African Wildlife - Zebra Watercolor Completed

2012-01-14T15:10:00.000-08:00

I gave this Zebra a blue-green eye, intending to darken it; but somehow, I decided I like the dramatic look of it and the contrast it brings with the background. Imagine the light and reflection capturing her eye, and there you have it!

This 8" x 8" watercolor was created with Winsor Newton paint on Arches 140 CP paper... it is for sale and available HERE through Saturday, January 29, 2012.

It's a great painting for lovers of wildlife, very bright and striking! I'm entirely pleased with it and you will love it too!

Thanks for looking!

Original Watercolor by carolynn mcdade

8" x 8"

Meet Me at Facebook

Zebra Portrait Work in Progress 2

2012-01-13T19:10:00.000-08:00

This has been an entirely entertaining project, lots of softening edges, darkening stripes and the mane to go! I'm sure i'll find other tweaks along the way. Thanks for looking!

Original Watercolor by carolynn mcdade

8" x 8"

Primitive Chickadee Watercolor & Ink

2012-01-03T13:35:00.000-08:00

The chickadee is one of my favorite, little passerines. I've painted quite a number of the little guys.

I've never done anything like this before, but i like the way it looks. This tiny guy is an ACEO, sold to a collector of my art here in the USA.

original watercolor by carolynn mcdade

Fineto!

2012-01-01T11:44:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's Day everyone! Wishing you a blessed 2012

thank you for lookin'!

RED TAILED HAWK

original watercolor by carolynn mcdade

Red Tail Hawk Original Watercolor Work In Progress

2011-12-30T14:29:00.000-08:00

This 14 X 18 Red Tail Hawk has been a WIP, an eventual gift for my son. It's been sitting around for a year! This week i decided to take the bull by the horns and get it done It will be finished tonite, so i'll try to remember to repost the completed project I'm real pleased with it!

Happy New Year &thanks for looking!

original watercolor by carolynn

12/29/11

Original Small Works of Art - Nature Watercolors

2011-11-25T08:46:00.000-08:00

Here's to a Happy and Peaceful Thanksgiving weekend to all of my friends and visitors!

Two new paintings for sale HERE

Thank you for looking!

original watercolors by carolynn

4" x 6"

Birds and Snowmen on Ebay

2011-11-11T11:59:00.000-08:00

Thank you for looking! Here are some recent, miniature paintings for sale on Ebay this weekend... (November 11th through 14th). Please click HERE to see all of my listings.

ACEO's - 2.5" x 3.5" paintings

Original Small Works of Art - 4" x 6" paintings

original watercolor paintings by carolynn mcdade

Winter's Coming!

2011-10-25T17:33:00.000-07:00

I'm starting early painting my whimsical snowman for the holiday and winter season. Here are two cheerful trios of snowmen. You can find them for sale HERE through October 31st, 11:38 a.m. PST.

Thank you for looking!

original watercolor & archival ink by

carolynn mcdade

Baltimore Oriole ACEO

2011-10-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

It's been ages since i've finished a painting, but currently revving up and getting back into the swing of things!

The images in this post represent two original mini paintings i am selling on ebay -- an Iris Blossom and a Baltimore Oriole (for sale HERE ). Along with these two tiny paintings, you will find several other original miniatures for sale, including print/reproductions of various backyard birds seen in the USA.

Thank you for looking!

Original ACEO Watercolors by carolynn

loss

2011-10-04T06:29:00.000-07:00

.... i remember you tenderly in the last place we stood together
with both tears and happiness.

American Robin Fledgling Original Watercolor

2011-10-04T06:19:00.000-07:00

Original ACEO Watercolor by

carolynn mcdade

I like to walk at a local chain of three reservoir ponds which is a magnetic place for waterfowl and a variety of other birds. I noticed one area along the trail where California Quail call beneath the stands of weeds.... it's not often i see them scurrying in plain sight.

As I walked through the quail stomping grounds last week, i was hoping to see one or two. I looked to a sign at the edge of the trail and there sat a lovely bonded pair of quail who allowed me several minutes to take pictures. I was thrilled!

Creativity and Gratefulness

2011-09-04T22:53:00.000-07:00

I am grateful -- for my life. This gratitude extends to my art, which brings me a true happiness. As i work , i discover painting neutralizes my thoughts raising consciousness beyond the trials of daily life. I feel a transformation from confusion into curiosity, loneliness into a personal wholeness, sadness into a silly wistful feeling, and most of all, disappointment becomes loving gratitude. I hold gratitude for so many things, but especially for the people in my life, those i love dearly and those who love me back. I am grateful for the world i live in, what it has given, and those who work to save it.

I'm currently working on a painting which proceeds i intend to donate to one or two causes, one of which is the H.O.P.E. campaign (Helping Other People Everywhere) -- artists supporting education and peace. This piece was started with good intention, but it's been slow-going because i tend to work on several things at once. Even so, i had an opportunity to work on it today, the painting has been fun, the cause desirable, and i'm totally pleased to do it!

Original Miniature Watercolor by carolynn mcdade

8" x 10"

Sharing the poem, Thoughts which i came across at gratefulness dot org. Their editor's comment regarding the poem --

Gratefulness springs not only from what we're given, but from what we're able to let go.

Thoughts

When all thoughts
Are exhausted
I slip into the woods
And gather
A pile of shepherd's purse.

Like the little stream
Making its way
Through the mossy crevices
I, too, quietly
Turn clear and transparent.

-- Ryokan,
translated by John Stevens

Interlude

2011-08-30T22:10:00.000-07:00

I've taken a few days to put down the paint brushes and wander around. Most of my time has been spent at the beach, for hours on end, daily! It's peaceful and serene (a bit cold too!)

When we spend too much time ruminating life's rocky road, we metaphorically get our feet stuck in the cement, which is why i've only taken a few days to do it! Now to refocus on me, my goals and dreams, and learn to live in the moment.

This is where i let my thoughts float out to sea. Beautiful place!

Wherever YOU are today, know this... you are LOVED, always, for exactly who you are... regardless of what you have done or achieved.

White Pelicans Miniature Watercolor

2011-08-03T17:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning i was told there were white pelicans busily hunting at low tide along the north San Francisco bay shoreline. So i raced over there to get some pictures but it was too late! They had moved on.

I came home sorry to have missed them, so i decided to recreate a painting i did some time ago. A 6" x 8", watercolor and archival ink on Arches.

original watercolor by carolynn

(sold)

The paintings below are two, new ACEO paintings - a blackburnian warbler and a rose breasted grosbeak.

thank you for looking!

Toddler Fairy

2011-07-22T19:26:00.000-07:00

I started this fairy painting quite some time ago. Last year before Christmas? I was happy to run across her the other day, and decided to give her some life.

This is a 10" x 8" miniature mixed media painting -- watercolors and archival inks (black and gold). This baby fairy has brilliant blue-green eyes, with pretty gold flecks. Her blonde hair is highlighted with gold ink, which stands out nicely on her magenta wings.

She is for sale on Ebay. You can find her HERE.

Thank you for looking!

Original Watercolor 10"x8"
by carolynn mcdade

Chickadee

2011-07-20T10:36:00.000-07:00

One of the loves of my life - the chickadee.

Original Watercolor

4 x 6" Chickadee by carolynn

Mountain Bluebird

2011-07-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

I sure wish i could get more painting done! I must have late spring fever.

Original Watercolor Painting by carolynn

Mountain Bluebird 4" x 6"

Woodland Fairy

2011-07-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

If I couldn't see out the window, i'd know it was summer. Most people are getting out and enjoying what Mother Nature provides, instead of blogging.

I stumbled across this image today while taking a painting break -- i painted this woodland fairy (16" x 20") for my daughter-in-law a couple of years ago. It's very similar to a painting i saw elsewhere, and although i had kept the artist's name for reference, i'll be darned if i can find it! Needless to say this painting is not for sale.

ACEO's and an Inspiration for Women

2011-07-09T11:55:00.000-07:00

Last night, it occurred to me that while i was working on several different paintings at once, i could fix the Blooper Grosbeak, and did... he survived a good scrubbing in the lower right. I've also painted another of my beloved Nuthatches (4"x 6"). Quick but fun.

I am visiting a friend today who is currently attending to her beautiful grandchild.... As i sit here in the midst of waiting (i don't mind), thought i'd create a post, and also paste a few lines from the Imagine A Woman poem, below.

Click on Imagine A Woman below the paintings to read the poem. It offers the comfort of self and is deeply inspirational to me. The first time i read this poem, i thought of the many, lovely women i have known throughout my life... and then i thought of me. I urge you to think of yourself, and the wonderful woman you are!

Thank you for lookin!

•♥.•*´¨`*•♥•

Imagine a woman who has grown in knowledge and love of herself.
A woman who has vowed faithfulness
to her own life.
Who remains loyal to herself. Regardless.

(posted with permission www.imagineawoman.com)

2011-06-29T10:57:00.000-07:00

My life is still for the birds over here. Pictured in this post are ACEOs which i've completed in-between working on a couple of commissions. I switch back and forth for a change of pace... my commission is two Mangrove Warblers. They are yellow birds, but the colors are tricky. I see so many hints of olive and brown in their coloring (and hints of blue, no less!), so i'm taking my time getting them as true to color as possible. The paintings will be a gift to a college professor who has spent 30 years studying this particular bird, so i want to do a great job!

ACEOs for sale through Saturday

Original Watercolors ACEO 2.5" x 3.5"

by carolynn mcdade

Now for a funny -- i was so tired last night after painting for over ten hours... but i wanted to get this Rose Breasted Grosbeak painting finished before i quit for the night... i had everything done except his lower body and tail which would appear under the branch, except i didn't realize the space was for his tail, thought "oh good! i just have to fill in the rest of the background and i'm finished!". Not.

I can't say whether it's repairable, because blue is difficult to scrub out... A friend suggested putting a leaf or two in that area. It's worth a shot! I'm posting the painting as a reminder to quit when i'm ahead next time!

Original Watercolor Blooper - by carolynn

Original Watercolor Kingfisher

2011-06-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

Another kingfisher, this time a 4" x 6" painting. If only the colors would come out more true to the original painting! I do like this one.

watercolor by carolynn

&... A baby blue jay commission

2011-06-26T14:32:00.000-07:00

I have been spending a great deal of time painting over the last couple of weeks, and have gone gang-busters this month creating. I have two commissions which are to be completed by Thursday and i'm cutting it close! But i'll make it!

Sharing three ACEO (Art Cards, Editions & Originals) paintings, which are 2.5" x 3.5". These guys are an Acorn Woodpecker, a Cerulean Warbler and a Belted Kingfisher.

An illustration of a Dowitcher, which is a medium sized shore bird. I haven't gotten to the point where i can distinguish many of the little shorebirds. Many of them resemble each other so much, it can be confusing. Someday i intend to get this straight!

Thank you for lookin'!

In Appreciation to My Followers

2011-06-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling sentimental today, and thinking about all the wonderful followers i have here, and those folks who purchase my art. I can't thank everyone enough.

Lately, i've received so many thoughtful emails and messages from my buyers. So often, people take the time to let me know how much they appreciate my art and express happiness in owning my paintings. I never really stopped to think about the true joy others experience from their art collections. For many, it carries such meaning that they stop and write to me about it! I love it when that happens!

It's a true gift knowing that my artwork is amidst collections all over the world. Over the past few years, I have shipped paintings throughout the USA, to Sweden, Belgium, the UK, France, Germany, Ireland, Australia, Canada, Brazil.

I feel humbled, and fortunate. Thank you, everyone, from the bottom of my heart!

On a different note, i have the worst time getting images in blue to look like the original paintings. I suppose it's time to do some research. Below is a recent ACEO Indigo Bunting i painted, which doesn't begin to show the true richness of color or painting's detail whatsoever (someone bought it anyway!)... i really loved this painting "in person".

ACEO Watercolor by carolynn mcdade

ACEOs and a Blab

2011-06-18T17:43:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week in many ways, but still manged as much painting as i could stuff in. I've been enjoying it. Below are ACEOs -- an Eastern Towhee and Song Sparrow.

I grew up in Ohio, where Mom filled her bird feeders every day, without fail, for 28 years. I remember these non-migrating, ground-feeding Towhees were a bit reclusive and not that into backyard bird-feeding stations, or humans. I imagined them observing the flutter of varied and sundry birds in Mom's yard over the years and gradually curiosity overcame resistance; hence the Towhees finally flew in to see what the fuss was all about!

From that day forward, these lovely birds continued to visit, always scouring for some sort of morsel in area under the shrubs-- and several yards away from the bird feeder. The area was conveniently below the kitchen picture window, which gave Mom and I our own birds-eye-view! I'll always remember how the contrast of Towhees in a snow-covered world was especially striking!

My Towhee ACEO is up for auction at a starting price of 99 cents today. One of my bidders wrote to tell me it was her husband's favorite birds. I love painting favorites!

I recently had giclee prints made of many of my 2011 paintings. I am pleased with them and am peddling them, as you can see (new booth at Bonanza Widget in right frame). They are also listed in auction format on Ebay. Very reasonably!

....thank you for visiting my blog today! I appreciate all my friends here, and the collectors all over the world who have made it a pleasure to continue painting. You are my greatest inspiration!

Original ACEO 2.5" x 3.5" Watercolors
by carolynn mcdade

Sea Turtle

2011-06-07T22:07:00.000-07:00

I was actually getting organized today, and came across this sea turtle painting which i must have started last year. I thought he was rather handsome, and finished him this afternoon.

So many sea turtles (as well as other marine life) are threatened daily by the great trash heaps floating around our oceans. Plastic items mistaken for jellyfish, are ingested by sea turtles causing bowel obstruction and impaction resulting in death.

We can all play a role to stop using the oceans as trash heaps... be gentle with Mother Earth and her Creatures.....consider recycle and reuse!

Original 4" x 6" watercolor by carolynn

Busy Splashing Around

2011-06-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

Toucan - OSWOA (Original Small Work of Art)

I've been loving our mild, dreary weather here in the San Francisco Bay area -- i enjoy the rain and cooler temperatures, versus everyone else who are complaining. Last year at this time, i do believe i was spending most mornings walking the beach with my dog and may have had a bit of color? This year, i'm painting... most important and such great weather for it.

Birdie Art Card Offerings Follow

Original Watercolors by carolynn

Illustration Friday "Asleep" June 3 2011

2011-05-31T18:43:00.000-07:00

There is nothing sweeter than a little baby, and when i saw this week's IF topic presented a slumbering infant was the first thing that came to mind. This is a miniature painting in watercolor and ink on Arches.

8" x 5" Original Watercolor
by carolynn

Scarlet Macaw ACEO

2011-05-31T12:30:00.000-07:00

Original painting by carolynn

2.5" x 3.5" ACEO

WIP Red Tail Hawk

2011-05-26T10:29:00.000-07:00

This Red Tail has been a work in progress for over a year. I drug it out the other day and decided it was about time my son received his 2010 birthday present... his 2011 birthday has also passed.... Somehow, i find myself struggling when i am creating art for someone else.

I think the time to complete this painting has come... thought i'd post it here to give me initiative to complete it.

I really do like the painting, and have been enjoying the process.

Aceo Original Sanderling - Shore Bird

2011-05-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

Tiny Paintings 2.5" x 3.5"

2011-05-17T18:28:00.000-07:00

Just saying... i got a virus last week, feeling not-so-great. Watch out for those bugs!

I am so far behind on commissions ( =

Posting a couple of tiny woodpecker watercolors created and sold last week.I am still amazed that people collect these itty bitty paintings, sometimes by the 100s!

May be of interest to some --

One of my favorite artists and vocalists, Brandon Boyd, recently collaborated with his friends at Hurley creating a set of t-shirt designs. His very specific intention - to raise awareness about single use plastics and their detrimental effect on our oceans. He chose to bring the designs to a larger than life scale, painting three 10 feet high walls of the Hurley gallery, )( Space, in two weeks' time.

As his first time painting a mural he related the task was daunting and highly rewarding --showcased three designs: a “water bottle island”, a “garbage pail whale” and a group of circles reminding the audience that we shoulder these problems, and responsibilities, together.

Here is a video of Brandon's project! (You may want to disable my playlist b4 watchin)

Sweetest man....!

2011-05-04T20:40:00.000-07:00

....has a tongue problem

Watercolor Birds 4" x 6"

2011-05-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

It seems i like to paint the same birds over and over -- nuthatches and chickadees, especially.

The downy woodpecker is another one i have an obsession about painting repeatedly, so here is yet another!

Below is a fluffly n fat Yellow Warbler. This New World bird breeds in most of North America, from the tundra southward, except for the region of Mexico and the Gulf. The Yellow Warbler winters in South America. This bird falls into the category Mangrove Warbler, of which there are several subspecies. I think they are gorgeous little creatures!

Original Watercolors by Carolynn

Two Australasian Parrot Species - Original Watercolors

2011-04-13T11:47:00.000-07:00

The Eclectus Parrot (male) and Rainbow Lorikeet, both 4" x 6" original small works of art. These two little guys are both common to Australia, New Guinea, Solomon Island, and surrounding areas.

Each of these bird species are kept as pets and bred in captivity. As beautiful as these birds appear, they are sometimes considered pests in their native lands, particularly for their noise and devouring fruit from trees.

Eclectus Parrot - Male

Rainbow Lorikeet

Original Watercolors by carolynn

Hummingbird Watercolor & Ink Illustration

2011-03-23T12:50:00.000-07:00

These little guys are the jewels of the bird world... This is a 4" x 6" watercolor and archival ink illustration.

original painting by carolynn mcdade

The Raven / Corvid

2011-03-22T04:27:00.000-07:00

Original Watercolor 4" x 6"

Eastern Rosella

2011-03-11T06:25:00.000-08:00

This little bird is indigenous to southeastern Australia, and has been domesticated. Even as a hand-raised pet, he may require plenty of attention and stimulation in order to retain any sort of bond with his owner. These little guys mimic tunes and whistles and will repeat a few words. I love the colors!

ACEO 2.5" x 3.5"

Original Watercolor by carolynn

Captain Jack

2011-03-08T13:50:00.000-08:00

Another Depp as Captain Jack! --such an interesting and colorful character who is definitely enjoyed by many. This 5" x 7" watercolor took approximately 5 hours to paint (not including many breaks, or drying time). I've altered his hair and some of the clothing details for this painting.

Great Blue Herons

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

Two great blue herons, finally finished. I used the same reference for both of these paintings, but changed up the view and colors a bit. They were a lot of fun!

Original Watercolor paintings by carolynn mcdade

My Beautiful Granddaughter, Chrissy

2011-02-17T20:44:00.000-08:00

It sure would be nice if i found the time to paint portraits of all the grandchildren at least once a year. It's nice to dream! Chrissy is growing up so quickly - she's only nine years old (going on thirty!). She looks very mature for her age... a sweet and lovely little girl.

Original Watercolor 8 x 11

by carolynn

*~*~*~*~*

In Memory of Mom

2011-02-17T19:40:00.000-08:00

¸.•♥•.¸¸.•♥• •♥•.¸¸.•♥•.¸

Wish you were still with us.... miss you so!

Happy Birthday 02/18

¸.•♥•.¸¸.•♥• •♥•.¸¸.•♥•.¸

Illustration Friday, February 18 2011

2011-02-17T09:27:00.000-08:00

Original Watercolor by Carolynn

approx 5" x 7"

This week's Illiustration Friday topic is "Sweater"...my rendition of Johnny Depp sporting a red sweater.

~*~*~*~

Some of my February 2011 Completed Art

2011-02-16T17:55:00.000-08:00

I have suddenly decided to paint furiously again.., have been enjoying it! Working on a lot of unfinished paintings which have been laying around for months -- plus, of course, i had to start some new ones!

Aceo Fairy Wren

Original Watercolor

Aceo Warbler Original Watercolor

4" x 6" Crested Tit

Original Watercolor

Depp, Figurative Original Watercolor approximately 5" x 7"

Thank you for looking!

Our Princess Portrait Finale

2011-01-25T10:34:00.000-08:00

Original watercolor portrait, approximately 8" x 10"... The Princess / future Queen of Mingo!

Daddy? (why "Daddy"? i'm not sure) ... My son, Joe

2011-01-12T23:14:00.000-08:00

My fine artist buddy, Deb Keirce tagged me! So here i am, taking the sixth image from my sixth picture folder and posting it into my blog... this is my son, Joe and the fishin' guys, on their Canada adventure.

I think this picture was taken before the beer.... but one of the guys seems to be getting a bit feisty.

I didn't tag anyone else... uh oh!

American Robin Fledgling

2011-01-12T22:56:00.000-08:00

This painting was created for a friend who lives in Ohio... her current temperature is somewhere around 19 degrees (brrr!), and i'm sure it's snowing in her back yard as i type. Here's hoping this comical looking little guy will warm her heart and get her thinking about the coming spring thaw and warmer, sunny days!

(Thank you, Judy!)

Original Watercolor 4" x 6"
by carolynn

The Impressive and Vivid Macaw

2011-01-11T21:22:00.000-08:00

This bird is certainly one of Mother Nature's most fabulous creations.

Original Small Work of Art

"Macaw" 4" x 5" Watercolor

by carolynn

In Memory of Tessa Edwards

2010-12-31T07:22:00.000-08:00

A colorful artist, brilliant writer, photographer, a humanitarian. A giving, loving spirit, wonderful mother and friend. These are just some of the things i learned about lovely Tessa during the course of our (way too brief) friendship.

Thank you for walking through my life, Tessa. You are missed! May you rest in soft, tranquil peace.

Artwork by Tessa Edwards

Marilyn

2010-12-28T05:19:00.000-08:00

I came across a photo of Marilyn Monroe and decided to try an illustration.

She was a beautiful woman, who unfortunately, suffered excessive, emotional pain.

6" x 6" watercolor & ink

by carolynn mcdade

And so it came to be
this isolation that I am
I can only look to me
to find the way it all began -
this confusion, constant
hunger for something more than this
I strive to find this being
that I envision, yet seem to miss.
Could it be that I am empty-
or maybe a little lost?
Could it be that I am lonely,
or seek happiness at any cost?
This never-ending Something
that I am living deep inside,
depicts the illusion of myself
and all I have to hide.

by Raquel

Illustration Friday "Winter"

2010-12-26T11:21:00.000-08:00

Original Illustration/ Watercolor
by carolynn mcdade

IF 12/31/2010

The Love of My Life

2010-12-25T11:59:00.000-08:00

...where ever you go,

you'll always be in my heart.
...i'll love You forever.

2010-12-19T15:39:00.000-08:00

Finished two portraits today -- Eastern Bluebird and a Nuthatch.

Lots of fun!

Emperor Penguins

2010-12-18T08:53:00.000-08:00

4" x 6" Watercolor

Original Small Work of Art

by carolynn mcdade

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-17T06:54:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone

a pleasant holiday season

and a blessed new year!

...thank you for visiting my blog!

It's that time of the year again where everyone seems to be going in several directions at once (even me, who doesn't do a lot of Christmas shopping). Everywhere i have gone since Thanksgiving, there's a traffic jam.

I am so very blessed to have a wonderful family, a sweet and caring partner and many very talented and endearing artist friends! I can't think of a better Christmas present!

Still painting birds, although i've recently had the urge to do some people portraits! ...just haven't gotten to them because, as always, i have several unfinished birds sitting here waiting for me. This month has been a lot of fun painting... we've had a good bit of rain, which always puts me in the mood to art.

ACEO Original Watercolor & Ink

3.5" x 2.5" by carolynn mcdade

Original Small Work of Art - watercolor

6" x 4" by carolynn mcdade

Golden Eagle

2010-11-18T11:09:00.000-08:00

original watercolor by carolynn mcdade

ACEO's

2010-11-17T14:22:00.000-08:00

... back to painting a bit more, and decided to go with a little hare and one of my all-time favorites, the nuthatch.

I've also decided to get my whimsy on and paint a few colorful, fun Snowguys - they're always cheerful!

Original Watercolor Artwork

by carolynn mcdade

Illustration Friday - "Afterwards"

2010-11-07T07:08:00.000-08:00

Original watercolor by carolynn mcdade

11/2010

Northern Flicker

2010-11-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

Getting on the ball and start painting again -- took a couple of commissions and promised myself to finish paintings which are laying around partially finished. This winter's goal is to paint at least 4 days a week (which has actually worked into 5 days a week for the past couple).

The painting below is my representation of a Northern Flicker - 4" x 6" watercolor.

Original artwork by carolynn

Ripplesketches - cause to help the animals affected by the Gulf oil spill

2010-10-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

Kelly Light, is a wonderful person and artist! Her Ripplesketches blog was a godsend for aide to the animals in the gulf, raising over $11,000 for the cause. So many fantastic artists, of all ages and walks of life, united to donate their artwork for this extraordinary venture.

I can't begin to imagine the pain and suffering our wildlife continues to endure because of this oil spill... the videos I've seen were sickening and heartbreaking -- all due to the greed of man. I'm still very sad over such destruction of earth's creatures and the carelessness which caused this horrible disaster.

While Ripplesketches is now closed, there are many volunteers continuing to carry on the clean up. It's going to be a long road.

If you would like to donate to help the wildlife, can still go to the site, and find links in the right-hand frame of the blog for causes such as International Bird Rescue Research Center, The Sea Turtle Conservancy, The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies.

My gratitude and thanks goes out to Kelly Light! The generous gift of her time and effort are phenomenal! I will be forever grateful to Kelly, and will never forget her cause, or the beautiful and heartfelt artwork which was donated, and can still be seen at the Ripplesketches blog.

A couple of my illustrations/donations

Original Watercolor 4" x 6"

by carolynn mcdade SOLD

Original Watercolor 4" x 6"

by carolynn mcdade SOLD

Illustration Friday - Proverb

2010-09-16T18:41:00.000-07:00

Original Watercolor & Ink 4" x 6"

Absence

by carolynn mcdade 09/16/10

Absence makes the heart grow fonder....

(and it sure is a pain in the ass)

Illustration Friday "Dessert"

2010-09-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

Illustration Friday submission for September 10, 2010

Original Watercolor & Ink 4" x 6"

by carolynn mcdade

Portrait of a Friend

2010-08-16T18:09:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since i've put anything up we can poke at 'round here, so this is a miniature portrait of my friend, Booyah. I feel like this picture represents him well -- a good-natured and handsome man, who enjoys conversation.

I had a great time with the painting - was a pleasurable way to spend creative time.

Original Watercolor & Ink by carolynn mcdade

4-1/2 x 5-1/2" August 2010

Blogger Gremlins !

2010-07-24T11:26:00.000-07:00

It seems the Blogger Gremlins were at it again. My comments setting was changed. I captured the gremlins and made them rearrange it, so anyone can comment... good, bad or ugly! You're all welcome here.

Original ACEO 2.5" x 3.5" watercolors

by carolynn mcdade

WIP

2010-07-22T22:02:00.000-07:00

A work in progress portrait of a person I admire.

I enjoyed the purposeful expression and the intricate details of the bicycle in the reference photo i'm using, with intent to make this a colorful painting at the finish! I'm very much enjoying the process.

This not-for-sale painting, along with several others I am planning, will be included in a portfolio i'm putting together (a long time coming!).

Original watercolor painting approximately 14" x 19"

by carolynn mcdade

Dragons!

2010-07-19T15:33:00.000-07:00

What a lovely day it is today! I spent some time out in it, and it's very pleasant! (oops forgot the camera)

A new painting of some whimsical dragonflies -- wanted to do something colorful and outside of the box for me. Somehow the colors look faded here.. much more brilliant in person.

8" x 10" watercolor

"Dragons" ...by carolynn mcdade

Illustration Friday - DIARY

2010-07-16T14:17:00.000-07:00

A wide-eyed and quick self-portrait illustration for July 16th Illustration Friday "DIARY".

.... i was too late to post it at Illustration Friday this time.

I love the band Incubus, as well as the ocean - My every diary entry could always include lyrics to the Incubus tune, I Wish You Were Here

ACEO Frog Art

2010-07-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

This tiny work of art was created to be published into Ebay's ACEO (Art Cards Editions & Originals) 2010 double card deck -- which you may still find available on Ebay by doing a search. This little guy appears on the six of spades in one of the decks.

Thanks for looking...

ACEO Original Watercolor painting 2.5" x 3.5"

by carolynn mcdade 2009

Vanessa Paradis Illustration/Portrait

2010-07-06T07:18:00.000-07:00

9" x 11" original watercolor

by carolynn mcdade 2010/06

Painted Conure

2010-06-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

My imagination gave this little conure brighter feathering. This species is said to inhabit the Amazon basin, Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, northern Bolivia, north-western Colombia and central Panama.

original watercolor by carolynn mcdade

june 2010

Johnny Depp Finale! YAY

2010-06-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

Wolf Portrait / Illustration & Pics @ Rodeo Beach

2010-06-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

Another Portrait UNFINISHED; My Favorite Character!

2010-06-06T06:33:00.000-07:00

Among others, i have been working on this little, 4" x 6" depp portrait and 5" x 7" shore bird.

We've had a few warm days, so my paint dries out quickly - water-spray bottle has been getting a work out, and the summer hasn't really begun!

I have been working diligently at painting over the last few days, and hiking quite a lot. In the evenings, I take the dog out for about 40 minutes and we race around the neighborhood. I have to put her on a leash in the evening, or she lags way behind (hound nose = too inquisitive!).

Unfinished shore bird

wandering is what i love....

2010-06-04T12:18:00.000-07:00

Rodeo Beach near San Francisco was lovely, foggy and wet early this morning -- the dogs romped and played in the surf, chased and chased ! Worked on my running, and getting stronger. Tide had fallen back - so many hidden rocks and other goodies exposed. Red crab pieces and parts lay along the beach - birds have been busy! I ran back and forth as the surf ebbed and flowed taking peeks at what Mother Nature has hidden among the temporarily exposed crags....got wet feet and shoes weighed down with pebbles. i admired serpentine rock and brought a few home for my angelfish to enjoy.....

i also forgot my own camera!.... with it in tow, i would have returned home soaking wet and cold, sandier and dirtier ! ... but with image treasures to share.

last year's starfish

(dogs at rodeo the other day)

i stopped at Marine Mammal Center and rambled around with friends. Baby elephant seals galore! They have such enormous eyes, gorgeous faces and loud voices. Some were lounging, all nice and dry exposing their tan bellies. They were stuffed with food... completely content.

Today getting home. ( =
It's likely safer behind the camera.I look bewildered.

Sun Conure, Unfinished Fairy & Updates

2010-06-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

Original Watercolor 4" x 6" - Sun Conure

by carolynn mcdade

Original Watercolor 9" x 12"
Toddler Fairy

My posting has been fairly lax -- not sharing much either! I'm not distracted, just lazy!

It's going to be hot today. We're late getting out of here with the dogs this morning. But the coffee's too good to give up. I hope to drink the rest of this cup first, and type, then sweat it hiking.

The sun conure painting is finished, still trying to decide what to do with the toddler fairy. It's been sitting here for more than a few minutes, but paintings don't complain. They are patient.

Can't believe it's June already, can you? I really enjoyed my vacation with the kids last month - 2 weeks seemed like only a couple of days. My 2 year-old grandson, Thomas, has a new contraption to assist him in learning to walk. It's designed especially for kids who have cerebral palsy. He's such a doll... I took a video of him in the contraption, so i can visit him from time to time. I'm not much of a crier, but it always brings tears to my eyes to watch him... he's a happy little fart, though -- that's what's important.

On a couple of evening hikes (the owl trail), and i was thrilled to meet a local woman who heads up the Hungry Owl Project here in Marin. We bumped into each other three times! She was telling me about all the wonderful things the Project does for raptor rescues, and i'm going to donate a charity painting to the group at a fundraiser in October.

Luc Durocher, a Canadian photographer who i greatly admire, has given me permission to use one of his images as a reference! I am honored..

Life is good... painting is good! Happy arting everyone!

~~carolynn ( =

Mister Owl

2010-04-23T08:58:00.003-07:00

I'm breaking out of my non-painting phase at last. Presenting an ACEO owl (3.5" x 2.5") which i completed this week. RELIEF!

Speaking of owls, there is an owl's nest along one of our hiking trails. I took this picture a couple weeks ago. These guys must have just gotten to the point in their lives where they were noticing the world around them, because they were craning their necks to see me and the dogs.

I wanted to share this photo. So sweet!

I'm possessed!

2010-04-15T11:25:00.007-07:00

Lately i haven't been "myself" -- i am someone i don't recognize right now; i've transformed into my "spring-self" -- A person who doesn't know how to paint or even sketch! Believe me, i've tried to no avail.

Seeing how i have spent countless time organizing everything i own, i can't just sit here doing nothing. So, i've gotten out the glue, scrapbooking paper and decorating junk, and have created some mini albums. They are a lot of fun, a big mess to make, but i just LOVE them, so creating mini albums is a wonderful way to still feel productive, without painting a thing!

The photos below represent just a few pages from a mini album i made for my son's birthday (sorry about the glare!) - he has made a few fishing trips to Canada, and i thought it would be fun to put a "Gone Fishing" album together for his birthday.

I distressed the pages by sanding down the edges, added charms from his grandmother's bracelet on the front, and created many of the paper-covered shapes included in the album. My son's name is Joe, so that's what the huge "J" is all about on the front cover.

Joe is my happy fisherman, so it was a delight to put this album together!

I was inspired to create mini-albums mainly from watching You Tube videos a fellow blogger has created. She is ever-so-talented! You can find her blog here

www.followingthepapertrail.blogspot.com

Thank you for visiting!

This was so much FUN!

2010-03-12T16:06:00.003-08:00

Today i wanted to paint something different, colorful and entertaining. I was scouring the internet, and saw an advertisement for Depp's new movie. That just did it! I decided to paint the hilarious and ridiculous looking Mad Hatter.... here is my rendition

Original Watercolor by carolynn mcdade

Hummingbird ACEOs (2.5" x 3.5" paintings)

2010-02-20T10:16:00.003-08:00

Spring is coming! (Yes, even for those of you who have been snowed-in for months now.)

Here's to a "real" spring and nice summer season to come!

Original Watercolor Paintings
by carolynn mcdade

2010-02-04T17:38:00.002-08:00

2010-01-29T20:59:00.005-08:00

I can't believe January is almost over - nor that it's 2010. I remember when my first son was born (1976), i thought about the year 2010 frequently and wondered what i would be doing. I have no idea why this seemed a landmark year for me -- seems strange how those years passed so quickly!

Perhaps all the thought about this particular year was linked to the fact that i am spending quite a bit of my time doing what i like -- creating! Creativity has always been a very important part of my life. It's only become almost full-time over the past couple of years. I feel productive and as if i'm making great strides.... i have something to look forward to, and always a new idea for a bird portrait, of course.

This month, i've been quite busy painting. I've finally finished my daughter-in-law's Christmas gift (yes, i said Christmas). It's a large painting, and it took me a bit longer than i expected. I have painted about 20 ACEO's, have made watercolor valentines for my five grandkids.

I'm also working on my first 11" x 14" portrait of a hawk. It's coming along, i'm very pleased... will post it when completed.

My new year's resolution is to continue getting back into shape after my long haul with being broken -- you know how time-consuming that can be! I have a few other goals set - learning Spanish is one.

Original Watercolor Paintings
ACEO 2.5" x 3.5"
by carolynn mcdade

Are We Doomed ? Will We End Up In The Recycling Bin?

2010-01-29T09:13:00.003-08:00

Here is a stack of tiny, unfinished paintings sitting around on my desk -- I tend to go back and forth from one to the other. It seems to work out well that way for the most part.

I've noticed that can become frustrated with some paintings. Usually when the paintings end up in "the stack" they look doomed. I've recently realized that setting them aside for a few days (or weeks) helps me to realize their potential. I hate to throw a painting away (but i've done it before!).

I wonder if this is common for many artists?

Johnny Depp Portrait

2010-01-11T22:21:00.002-08:00

Johnny Depp has recently turned my head. I didn't pay much attention to him before last year... everyone in the universe knows he's quite an actor as well as a super person and humanitarian (not to mention extremely easy on the eye!).

This portrait was captured from the sweet movie, Chocolat.

I'm pleased to present this original miniature watercolor painting, created using watercolor and archival ink.

Original Watercolor by
carolynn mcdade

Winter Whimsey

2009-12-30T10:24:00.002-08:00

ACEO, 2.5" x 3.5" original watercolor paintings.

2009-12-30T10:06:00.002-08:00

It's the end of December and i'm sure everyone is winding down from the Christmas holiday. Seems i haven't posted in over a month. Even so, i've been painting quite a bit.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas....

Here are some paintings i completed during December. All ACEO (Art Cards, Editions and Originals) original watercolor paintings, 2.5" x 3.5".

ACEO (2.5" x 3.5") Original Birds

2009-11-24T17:02:00.003-08:00

Original Watercolors by carolynn mcdade

Winter Chickadee

2009-11-24T16:59:00.002-08:00

I was asked to paint a chickdee, so here she is... looking for a morsel on a cold, winter's day. Maybe she will stop at your feeder?

Original Watercolor 4" x 6"
by carolynn mcdade

I'm following myself on blogger!

2009-11-18T12:46:00.003-08:00

Seriously, how did i manage that? Somehow i'm my own follower. Nothing like giving myself a HUGE giggle!

I've completed another baby fairy painting - ( 8 x 10") intended as a Christmas gift for my granddaughter. I was lost for an easy pattern on her dress, so she got little circle swirls.

original watercolor by carolynn mcdade
November, 2009

More Feathered Friends

2009-11-12T23:52:00.003-08:00

I scurried around and got these two bird paintings done at last. A blue and gold macaw happily preening, and a wintry nuthatch -- 4" x 6" watercolor and ink.

Original Watercolor Paintings
by carolynn mcdade 11/2009

Snowguys!

2009-11-09T11:11:00.003-08:00

This snowguy looks a bit worried! ....

Gathering at the Fence...

Original watercolor paintings 9" x 4"
by carolynn mcdade

Kitties

2009-11-05T10:12:00.002-08:00

I love pets, and cats have always made my heart melt. Here are two, 2.5" x 3.5" kitties which i painted yesterday...

Original Watercolors by carolynn mcdade

Illustration Friday - Skinny

2009-11-03T15:54:00.005-08:00

This is my first Illustration Friday painting (keeping fingers crossed i can link from there to here!) This week's topic is "Skinny". The first thing i thought of was a pretty young girl i know who is tall, and skinny...

Original 4" x 6" Watercolor and Ink
by carolynn mcdade

Finished the "Unfinished" - Pale Fairy

2009-11-02T22:23:00.002-08:00

Original 9" x 11" Watercolor
by carolynn mcdade

It's satisfying to finally have finished my fairy.... she's still among the mushrooms, daydreaming.

Snow Penguin

2009-11-01T14:06:00.003-08:00

Lately, i've been busy painting winter ACEO's (an ACEO's are a baseball card sized painting, 2.5" x 3.5", also referred to as Artist's Trading Cards). I get a lot of fun and enjoyment painting snowmen and penguins. Here is a tiny portrait, shown bigger than actual size...

Original Watercolor Painting
by carolynn mcdade

Depp illustration/portrait WORK IN PROGRESS

2009-10-28T23:46:00.006-07:00

The Depp.

this 4" x 6" painting is my rendition of Captain Jack Sparrow.... i love the chiseled face, and with a bit of a new hairdo, he's not quite finished but i'm posting it anyway.

Original Watercolor by

Carolynn McDade - -09/2009

Portrait of "The Thomas"

2009-10-21T11:49:00.003-07:00

this is a portrait of a special little guy, my grandson -- born in june, 2008. he had a hard go of it for the first year of his life, but he's beginning to thrive.

this portrait was a birthday gift to my daughter-in-law, august, 2009.

watercolor by carolynn mcdade

Unfinished

2009-10-03T18:02:00.003-07:00

Original Watercolor by Carolynn McDade
Approximate size 9" x 11"

.... this pale fairy seems to have been wakened from a daydream.

I haven't had time to complete her and a few others, because i've been trying to use up all my nervous energy before surgery on Thursday. I'm hopeful to be back to painting soon after! I don't know much else except sloshing around in my watercolors. I'd be lost without them!

This week i went through all my clothes, and donated what i didn't want to Goodwill. My dog is thankful, because i bought her two new quits to use as dog bed toppers.... she's happy! I sorted and arranged artwork, cut paper, stocked up on every-day things, also. So i'm all set!

See you after my surgery ~~carolynn

Snow Guys

2009-09-29T10:43:00.003-07:00

Whether we like it or not, the snow is coming (well, not here, but in many parts of the USA)! I enjoy painting whimsical snowguys, and here are my first two for 2009. These are 2.5" x 3.5" ACEOs (Art Cards, Editions & Originals).

Original Watercolor Art by Carolynn Mcdade

I LOVE BIRDS!

2009-09-29T10:32:00.002-07:00

Although I've been trying my hand at other things, i have more fun painting birds than anything else. Here are three of my recent bird paintings, all 4" x 6" watercolor & prismacolor premier marker.

Fairy Child #2

2009-09-10T12:05:00.004-07:00

The fantasy world is always mysterious... don't you wonder if little fairies wander through the woods?

This Fairy Child is a 9" x 11" small format, original watercolor painting...

9" x 11" Original Watercolor Painting
by
carolynn mcdade

Molly the Fairy Child

2009-09-08T15:55:00.002-07:00

Molly is my friend's granddaughter. A beautiful little girl who makes a lovely fairy!

Original Watercolor, 9 x 11" by carolynn mcdade