tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65649109012571431472024-03-13T14:27:21.483-04:00Random ThoughtsFawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-1833298607563950312023-11-27T20:45:00.002-05:002023-11-27T20:56:35.913-05:00A Little Off<p> Really tough year:</p><p>~ Watched my son, Kyle, suffer and battle cancer. He lost his left eye last December to ocular melanoma. Horrific. He has been undergoing cancer treatments for a small tumor near his kidney for most of this year. Thankfully the tumor is almost gone! </p><p>~ I lost a dear friend to cancer. I miss her terribly.</p><p>~ I injured my right hand/wrist while doing yard work about five months ago (I'm right-handed.) Torn tendon. I reinjured it thinking it was fine after a month or so. It went from bad to worse. Sharp pain and no strength. Now I wear a brace that immobilizes my thumb and keeps my wrist from bending. Seeing an orthopedic doctor.</p><p>~ I have stopped teaching my after-school art classes for now. I'm still doing small semi-private groups. Which is actually a very nice pace. </p><p>~ Actually started creating a painting with my left hand, what a mess! It is slow and cumbersome, but I'm making progress. I'm surprised at how my left-hand cramps and gets tired so easily. I did not realize how strong my dominant hand is in comparison!</p><p>~ I have seen the restoration of broken relationships as a result of these hardships.</p><p>~ I have become available to keep the grandkids at odd hours when Kyle has early treatments in Miami or has to rush to the ER.</p><p>~ I have learned to be patient when I'm in pain and/or overwhelmed with emotion.</p><p>~ I have grown in faith and found strength I did not know existed.</p><p>~ I'm still a little off, but I see everything differently now. I have truly grown.</p><p>~ I believe we are better off having overcome things and learning from them than staying stuck in old habits. </p><p>Praying for better things in 2024! </p>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-90480599457586512762023-07-27T12:04:00.004-04:002023-07-27T19:03:43.294-04:00Amazing Frames<p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFpajjcpg0EPGI2B3VPnMIJ8_PKayOgIo8jm8FjK6Sy3diWEPCVMxRLtgdntDD4SK-Y74gxe4WGakkjV_lOkmX_8Se0mLkvJ5h47yjm_Dz0pRlQCLN9gR8EPpljJlOn8Ht7bJ7reQ7eQ0TLswXAEfGDGh-6AoT7x8Vf1BANuVVNwm1v4a8GmOD34bhPY/s2836/SCPleinAir_2005.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2392" data-original-width="2836" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFpajjcpg0EPGI2B3VPnMIJ8_PKayOgIo8jm8FjK6Sy3diWEPCVMxRLtgdntDD4SK-Y74gxe4WGakkjV_lOkmX_8Se0mLkvJ5h47yjm_Dz0pRlQCLN9gR8EPpljJlOn8Ht7bJ7reQ7eQ0TLswXAEfGDGh-6AoT7x8Vf1BANuVVNwm1v4a8GmOD34bhPY/s320/SCPleinAir_2005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Chilly Morning"</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">© Fawn McNeill 2005</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>Original Watercolor </span><span>(Plein Air) </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Not available</span></div><p></p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Artwork on paper like this should be framed behind glass with a mat around it to keep it off of the glass and protect it. The same is true for photographs and prints on paper. </span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">This frame has a fun pattern in gold. The mat is a double mat with the bottom mat in a red accent. </span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Art created on canvas or wood should not be framed behind glass. </span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>Original oils and acrylics are usually done on canvas or wood and need to breathe. </span> </span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Artwork created on paper or mat board should be framed behind glass with a mat to keep the image off of the glass. This is true for photos, prints, and posters as well. (Glass can trap moisture and ruin the image.) </span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">If you are purchasing a ready-made frame for an image on paper, be sure to add room for a mat, or purchase one with the mat.</span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Art created on canvas (or wood) does not fit in ready-made frames that are designed for photos and prints.</span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Custom framing can be quite expensive. Everything is designed to create the perfect fit so the mat is centered around the art evenly. The materials are acid-free and the glass has UV protection. Even the foam-core backing should be acid-free. </span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;"> Unfortunately, many shops do not use acid-free materials, or they will skip it for the backing. (Be sure to ask for it)! Acid-free materials slow down the aging process that yellow and crack the image. </span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">The frame moldings are often imported from Italy or France. The quality and the unique styles enhance the art and complement your décor. They are made to last for many years. </span></li></ul><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">(I am currently offering custom framing through Okeechobee Main Street's frame shop, by appointment only. I have over ten years of experience!)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-54208506337371272962023-07-14T16:17:00.004-04:002023-07-14T16:31:22.873-04:00Hot and destructive!<p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Must be the hottest summer ever! Up in the nineties and hundreds since early June. Humid too, feels like 115 degrees! It is hard to stay on task these days!</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I have destroyed nine or ten paintings in the past month. Not out of frustration or anger, and not from the heat (I don't think), I just got tired of trying to fix older paintings that were never finished. I thought I could brighten, rearrange, add more detail, or whatever. I thought I might like them better, but I decided it wasn't worth so many hours to try to resolve the issues. It is always a risk to rework a painting, but sometimes it works out and the results are amazing, so I kept taking out another one and working on it until I saw that it was not working out.</li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Each one ended up sanded down and re-primed, or thrown out. The underlying textures couldn't be undone and interfered with the direction I wanted to go. Sometimes it is better to start fresh than to keep struggling through it.</li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>After the third time, I wondered what was really going on with me. I haven't destroyed a painting in a long time. Why so many these days? Tired of so many unfished pieces? Don't care anymore? Frustrated? </li><li> I'm still not sure what is going on with me, but I stopped pulling them out of storage - didn't want to destroy any more of them! (Some are worth the effort to hang onto until I figure out what to do with them next.) </li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Most of them were unfinished demonstration paintings that needed attention, but one was a medium to large painting that I wanted to go back over in a more impressionistic style, which I regretted that I messed with it. But I didn't want to continue with the extreme detail I had started out with. Hours and hours of work just thrown out. </li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> My style is changing again. I'm trying new ideas. Things don't come together like they used to. So I am backing off, searching for what really inspires me, and not taking it so seriously for now. </li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I am all over the place! I love detail, but I love painterly styles too. I like the abstract nature of reflections and moving water. I like thick textures, but mostly on things like bark, wood, or rough water. I get bored easily and want to try new ideas and techniques. </li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Some judges have told me (over the years) that I need a consistent style and a more cohesive body of work. But I honestly don't seem to be able to settle on any one way to create things. I guess that's Ok too!</li></ul><p></p>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-87715697561474270222023-06-03T21:08:00.010-04:002023-06-05T14:35:20.613-04:00Joy comes <p><br /></p><span style="font-size: large;">So many horrific things this past year:</span><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>1)</b> In December 2022 my son, Kyle, lost his left eye to cancer. Now he is undergoing treatment for a tumor near his kidney.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>2)</b> My husband has been in severe pain in his neck for several months and now in his lower back as well for the past two months.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>3)</b> My close friend, Sandy, has battled cancer off and on for years and now is back on a stronger treatment for cancer that has spread to other parts of her body.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>4)</b> Another close friend, Marie, lost her mother last year, and now her father has lost his leg to diabetes. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>5)</b> I had heart issues that started last fall, (panic attacks, extremely low blood pressure, high pulse rates, racing heart, irregular heartbeats, an abnormal EKG, low blood count, abnormal size of blood cells. So many tests: more EKGs, Echo of my heart, extensive blood work, etc... </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I have cried a river of tears for my son and my friends.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">But I have grown. In the middle of all this, joy comes when you focus on the things you are thankful for. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Good things have happened too:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>1)</b> I get to keep my grandchildren quite often, sometimes three times a week! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>2)</b> This past week, Kyle had a good report: the tumor is shrinking. So good to hear that! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>3)</b> Yesterday, I also had a good report: although my heart was stressed and a little weak, and I had some borderline numbers in my bloodwork, they are still within the norm! The issues were stress related, and the symptoms are gone now.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>4)</b> Zac (my oldest son) and Ashly had a baby boy, Noah, last year. He is a year old now. What a delight! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>5)</b> I am back to painting more, even if it means getting up early or staying up late. (I have a new gallery page with Daily Paintworks. It has me challenging myself to create more.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.dailypaintworks.com/Artists/fawn-mcneill-15096">https://www.dailypaintworks.com/Artists/fawn-mcneill-15096</a></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>6)</b> I am learning to take advantage of each opportunity to spend more time with friends and family (enjoying the simple things). </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> <b>7) </b>Incredibly, Okeechobee Main Street has renovated and set up an art center for its Arts and Cultural Alliance in my old building! Now I am teaching and doing framing for them!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I am grateful, stronger, and looking for the good that comes from the trials. I'm thanking the Good Lord for so many blessings.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="2180" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaviKPWMvTBSTlvYlwY48TuV3molIbZ_HtN9DP6ue4WBwVYCouDXFZQxLPvZ2fwalHYXlBkS7apOLkRY8DDTi_gp_z4-nsMUA-gh11leeswsqGCeoEpbcOaraPzPyzqEIh8MVRuJltkARbjmNBeKah0DeIP9nsNOR1KcByXGY0GgnrOtNBB0qHLnTK/w146-h200/StandingTall9x12_DPW.jpg" width="146" /><a href="https://www.dailypaintworks.com/fineart/fawn-mcneill/standing-tall/1060385" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank"> <span style="font-size: medium;">"Standing Tall"</span></a></span></p></div>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-48559109774767852832022-08-20T11:06:00.005-04:002023-06-03T19:28:24.944-04:00Baby bird<div class="separator"><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"> </div></div><div class="separator"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1698" data-original-width="2021" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrNkkRJKyEAKMnbNRYk3evgnd0d9ubbaaTPO6BaOH2Yi6KcokzdEKNyEvP4yFvbhQ8QFOXASU0diN_i7wCqwj4nChS_fW0KliMvXV6e34Mt5gJBVNdzETC2Sv_yEMn9DHRhqYnn3cGsMRbATPpeBBHOdmMM07RlTkOL5aa_QGgvPFh_bOhV7TKfBDW/w233-h196/BabyRaven.jpg" width="233" /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEXMOLOAKmNV7sxmjLArellcr_NTnDJdU0tEJpX7t1K_VYZxWppIgdrveE8i7EVAiY929M9IqwYrGXw_G26BMsGCaFm4NrZJ4zGojbLXyXSKEWa7UQaSoRO10ApWaa4e-vTkXWx0W-rMHecjJARM04L3rb1KUVAo3ZuL4se78uDF1yKwf6xrt9iYL/s2657/BabyRavenBobby.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2285" data-original-width="2657" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEXMOLOAKmNV7sxmjLArellcr_NTnDJdU0tEJpX7t1K_VYZxWppIgdrveE8i7EVAiY929M9IqwYrGXw_G26BMsGCaFm4NrZJ4zGojbLXyXSKEWa7UQaSoRO10ApWaa4e-vTkXWx0W-rMHecjJARM04L3rb1KUVAo3ZuL4se78uDF1yKwf6xrt9iYL/w233-h200/BabyRavenBobby.jpg" width="233" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="600" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7gAWo4o8ro138__CRZQoegHR23XwZx88YgyS6qasnHj0QgdUUCjhnHnUowvXw_k-D2S2ro3M25zEylX0r1-gwehPuY66yHLL3hP936YA805VXDEgr_W_MRothXbIT5RM5BXqa-ex9NetgI94eEC0YOE1n359V5axFuJzpBnoXMxfdiB4MbbrR5Wuv/w242-h275/BabyRavenBobby2.jpg" width="242" /></div><br />A few days ago, a young crow (Which I thought was a raven) swooped down at my head as I was cleaning the yard. He followed me around, and every time I picked up a stick or moved something on the ground he tried to peck at what I was doing. He was clumsy and not afraid of me.<div><br /><p></p><p>I noticed the down on his neck and wings. I figured he had lost his parents. I dug in the dirt but didn't find any worms or bugs for him, so I headed to the house to find a piece of bread. He waited for me. So odd.</p><p><br /></p><p>He ate some of the cornbread but didn't act like he was hungry. He flew up to the front porch and checked out Robert. I set out a dish of water and brought the piece of cornbread up the stairs. </p><p>The next day he came back and he got on Robert's shoulder. We got him some more bread and water. he continued to follow us around but didn't eat much. Again, so very odd.</p><p><br /></p><p>On the third day, Robert got a basket of crickets. The juvenile crow wanted to chase them and catch them, but then dropped them and left them on the concrete driveway. So I picked one up and held it and he took it and ate a little and dropped it again. After the fourth try, he got a little more interested and held one down with his foot and tore it in half. He ate the half in his mouth and left the other parts. I guess he has to figure it out. I picked up the half-dead crickets that were still moving a bit and held them up until the he ate more of them. </p><p><br /></p><p>I fixed a tub of water and splashed my hand in it. It was big enough that he could play in it, but he did not want water on him. He drank a little and then went and played in the mud puddle that was growing larger from a new leak in my hose. He did not like the water spraying out of the hose to get on him. </p><p><br /></p><p>He followed me around again as I watered the plants. When I took a break, he got on my shoulder. I tried to pet him a time or two, but he did not want me to touch him. </p><p><br /></p><p>The boy that lives across the road from us told us that his friend (a few houses down) saved that baby bird when it fell out of the nest and has been feeding him. I guess it has just learned to fly and is checking out the neighbors!</p><p><br /></p><p>That makes a lot more sense!</p><p><br /></p></div>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-4566052284939971802022-03-26T22:03:00.002-04:002022-08-20T10:36:25.778-04:00Major changes<p>Wow. It's been a while.</p><p>Changing the art studio at home again. Making it so that if I need it for a bedroom it will be easier to get ready quickly. </p><p>My husband Robert had a TME and a mini-stroke in January. Our house is upstairs, and the garage and studio are below the house. A TME is an imbalance of the chemistry of the brain, and he did not know who anyone was, nor was he able to walk or function. </p><p>The doctors could not find what caused it, all his tests were good. He lost 3 days and came home on the fourth day. So scary.</p><p>Prayer is powerful. A dear friend of ours prayed with him and later that night he came back. He began to remember things and was able to feed himself and walk. It was amazing! He had a few weeks of recovery, but the visiting nurses and physical therapists were awesome. </p><p>He can do everything normally again!</p><p>So now he is working on repairs to the house and remodeling. A new door in the art room that is across from the bathroom in the garage has turned my whole world upside down. I'm sure it will be great once I get everything back in order, but it has been overwhelming. have not painted for weeks now! That really doesn't help my attitude. Hahaha!</p><p>He had the old carpet taken out in most of the house, except the spare rooms. It is vinyl floors now, which is lovely.</p><p>Next, we hope to paint some walls. I'm sore, tired, and grumpy these days! So much hard work moving everything around and going through stuff. Got rid of a few boxes and bags of things in the closets, so that was good.</p><p>So thankful to have him back! Now if we needs a room downstairs, I will be able to take better care of him.</p>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-36729225520921822782021-11-27T07:56:00.005-05:002021-11-28T14:04:58.148-05:00Goofing off<p> Semi- retired, I suppose:</p><p><br /></p><p>~ Goofing off more, and even enjoying the change of pace.</p><p><br /></p><p>~ Giving myself permission to say 'no' to things for whatever reason. </p><p><br /></p><p>~ Finding new challenges as I work from home, some are nice surprises actually, others are, well, not so much. </p><p><br /></p><p>~ Staying busy, just not with the things I thought I would be involved with. </p><p><br /></p><p>~ Growing flowers and vegetables in the back yard has me learning that I might have a bit of a green thumb after all! It is amazing to eat a sweet potato that you grew yourself! (Sweet potatoes are a<span> </span>great starting point, because they are easy to grow!) Carrots have been a little more challenging.</p><p><br /></p><p>~ Sleeping in is wonderful: waking up and then dozing in and out for an hour or so was something I never<span> </span>allowed myself to do. (Life was just too stressful.) But early mornings are also when I am the most<span> </span>creative, so<span> </span>I try not to do it everyday. </p><p><br /></p><p>~ Playing with crafty art, mixed media, and knife paintings. Too much fun. I'm creating more gifts and being more generous too. </p><p><br /></p><p>~ Learning to make my own professional looking notecards and books. It is so expensive to have them printed. Saving up for a good printer.</p><p><br /></p><p>~ Teaching art a couple of afternoons a week: afterschool classes. This is my heart.<span> </span>Nothing like<span> </span>helping children create something and watch them get so excited about it!</p><p><br /></p><p>~ Not doing shows for now, not on any committees, not going to any meetings, and I'm not trying to<span> </span>make a bunch of money. And I'm not worried about it either (which also amazes me!) </p><p><br /></p><p>~ The Good LORD takes excellent care of me!</p><p><br /></p>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-61429435377659547842021-04-02T17:28:00.006-04:002021-04-25T21:48:45.483-04:00What a long hard year<p> Not sure where to begin. It was a terrible year for most everyone last year. I thought my life was over when everything shut down.</p><p><br /></p><p> I closed my art gallery and teaching studio when classes suddenly stopped. I owed hundreds of dollars to students (and parents of students) who had reserved the next month of classes. So after the first month of using money from savings to try to stay open, I was already two months behind. </p><p><br /></p><p>It took over a thousand dollars a month to stay open, that included rent, water, power, waste management, security service, internet, etc... I did not get any government assistance, and my landlord (who had previously been the greatest landlord ever) did not work with me. Rent was due the first of May. By the middle of April I knew I couldn't go farther in debt. I had two weeks to move out. </p><p><br /></p><p>I had eight years of framing supplies and equipment, teaching supplies, and walls full of art work hanging throughout the gallery and the teaching studio. The paintings had to be boxed and wrapped for safe transport and storage.</p><p><br /></p><p> All the framing samples and Velcro strips had to come down in the framing show room. That in itself was a nightmare. The miter saw and frame molding strips (8 to 10 feet long) were in the kitchen on the old wooden cabinets and shelves. The frame molding had to all be cut in half to make it manageable and then wrapped to move it and store it. It was physically exhausting and emotionally devastating. </p><p><br /></p><p>My son helped me with the heavy equipment which was in the back workroom. We put it in the garage at my house. We put the large matting and framing table in my little studio at home as well as the paintings. Eventually some of the paintings were hung in as many places as could be found all through my house. (Some are still boxed and in storage in the back of the studio at home.)</p><p><br /></p><p> My house had always had art on the walls (not surprising), but now it was somewhat squeezed in. I thought I would not like it, but the most of the pieces my husband, Robert, and I chose were from places we had been or events we shared. It turned out to be a wonderful thing: memories and colorful art stacked on the walls all through the house. He stops and looks at the paintings and says, "That looks really nice there." I smile big.</p><p><br /></p><p>My studio at home has become a work space again as I have rearranged it several times to make room for my painting station and some work tables. The framing table takes up a large amount of room, but it is nice to still be able to cut mats. </p><p><br /></p><p>My miter saw and under-pinner (for joining frames) are set up in the garage, so I can fill frame orders when needed. </p><p><br /></p><p>I rented a small room in town for a few months to teach private lessons, and take in some framing orders. That is how I paid back most of my students. I still had to refund a few of them. </p><p><br /></p><p>I also rented a display space at a boutique (Unique Boutique in Okeechobee) for my mixed media pieces and knife paintings. This is something I would have never considered before the pandemic, but with all the galleries closing everywhere I thought it might be a way to at least show some of my new fun pieces. It is a nice shop: clean and inviting. It has many different types of things to purchase. There are a few artists, some handcrafted jewelry, some antiques, furniture, and some clothing. It turns out people love my new pieces, and I love being a part of such a great group of people.</p><p><br /></p><p>My home studio ended up having major work done to the exterior walls, windows and the whole door jam and door had to be replaced. Much to my dismay, I had to move everything again and rearrange the studio once the repairs were done. It has turned out to be a better space, with room for 2 work tables and a little area for my easel. I have even done some private lessons and taken a few framing orders.</p><p><br /></p><p> The old building I was renting for so many years (Fawn's Studio and Gallery) was located on the left side of the building at 111 SE 2nd street, Okeechobee. Bridgette rented a smaller suite on the right side. It was old and run down and not very beautiful, but great for art studios and creating beautiful messes! Well, now it has been completely gutted and renovated! It looks amazing. The landlord repaired the structural damage and then put in handicapped parking, a ramp to the back door, and made the restrooms handicap accessible too. He had new kitchen cabinets, counters, and floors put in, and also had new carpet put down throughout both sides of the building. He had all of the walls painted in an off white. It looks like one building now, instead of two suites.</p><p><br /></p><p>Now the Okeechobee Art Alliance has set up a gallery in my old teaching studio and a gift shop where my gallery was. They have also set up a small teaching studio on the other side of the building (where Bridgette's back room was behind her art studio). It is remarkable to say the least.</p><p><br /></p><p>Here is the most amazing thing: I am currently teaching for the Art Alliance a couple of days a week! And to top it off, they are also selling some of my work on a commission basis! It is like everything was given back to me on a silver platter and I didn't have to pay for the renovations. I have no monthly overhead either. Talk about stress free! </p><p><br /></p><p>So here I am, enjoying working from home, and still finding great opportunities to get involved. My life isn't over after all! I thank the Good Lord every day!</p>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-66061618609211906152019-06-07T14:45:00.005-04:002021-11-27T07:14:29.021-05:00New Website<span style="font-size: large;">Still adding art and getting the links working, but I have a nice collection started!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Please tell me what you think! (fmcneillbarr@gmail.com)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My official website for my exclusive artwork: </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.fawnsartstudio.com/">https://www.fawnsartstudio.com/</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Original paintings, custom orders, and note cards! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Please pass it on!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thank you!</span>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-81796618444375637032019-03-16T09:50:00.000-04:002019-03-16T09:50:06.037-04:00Life is goodJust realized it has been over a year since I posted anything on this blog, so I thought I would just share a few of the great things that have been happening these days.<br />
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I have been staying busy at my little art studio and teaching center, which is doing much better this school year. This is my seventh year in business. Most of the after school classes stay full now, plus I have an adult class once a week. The custom framing is also a nice compliment. <br />
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I have found new inspirations these days! Some are filled with treasure hunts and new ideas from a new series of mixed media paintings I started last fall. Now I am experimenting with impasto techniques, as well as how to best adhere things. The gel medium dries clear and shiny, so it is good for adding things after the painting is finished. The modeling paste creates wonderful relief effects, but it can be difficult to paint over at times, so I like the thick heavy gesso the most for my impasto techniques because it is easier to paint over.<br />
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I can't put into words how much I enjoy adding my treasures and found objects (like seashells, charms, or beads). I am also using some metallic paint and/or glitter paint, which really catches your eye at different viewing angles.<br />
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I am pleasantly surprised at the results -- even sold a few! <a href="http://fawnspaintings.blogspot.com/2019/01/eternal-joy-angel-butterflies-mixed.html" target="_blank">Click here to see an example.</a><br />
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I did a small show this January and received a blue ribbon for my new mixed media paintings! That was encouraging! <a href="http://fawnspaintings.blogspot.com/2019/02/art-show_74.html" target="_blank">Click here to see more about the show.</a><br />
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On a personal level, my husband was in the hospital a lot last year, but now he is on immune therapy and is responding well to the treatment. This has made for a year of getting back to better things and enjoying life again. We don't take any of it for granted.<br />
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May the Lord God Almighty bless you and yours in amazing ways!<br />
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<a href="http://fawnspaintings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Click here to see more paintings!</a><br />
<br />Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-76101322630086325912017-12-12T13:55:00.012-05:002023-12-27T20:01:09.714-05:00Some of the positive feed-back I have received!<span style="color: #663366;">Updated Dec. 2023</span><div><span style="color: #663366;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #663366;">Got your painting today, it's happiness personified! Thank you!</span></div><div><span style="color: #663366;">Rebecca, Nevada</span></div><div><span style="color: #663366;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #663366;">My favorite colors ("Busy Morning"), it looks even better in person!</span></div><div><span style="color: #663366;">Nancy, Pennsylvania </span></div><div><span style="color: #663366;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #663366;">It reminds me of a place we hiked when I was young. Beautiful memories. Thank you for working with me so I could have it.</span></div><div><span style="color: #663366;">Carol, Pennsylvania</span></div><div><br /></div><div><div><div><span style="color: #663366;">I just love roses! Thank you!</span></div><div><span style="color: #663366;">Jennifer, Florida<br /></span><div><br /></div><div><div>(Morning Stroll) added to my collection! . . . water dripping from the ibis's bill. The great details you can not spot except in person. Stunning color mixes. Beautiful execution! </div><div>Rebecca, Nevada</div><div><br /></div><div>I can't tell you how much I love your paintings. They each have a special place in my home. Thank you so much.</div><div>Merry, Florida</div><div><br /></div><div>My picture arrived and I love it!!! It's so striking. The colors are true to the eastern sunrise, thank you so much!</div><div>Rebecca, Nevada</div><div><br /></div><div>
<span style="color: #38761d;">Fawn,<br />
We were all in tears... Your work is outstanding. Thank you so very much for all the attention to detail...<br />
Lea, Texas</span><br />
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<span style="color: #663366;">It's here!</span><span style="color: #663366;"> </span><span style="color: #663366;">Arrived pristine, so beautiful! Thank You!</span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;">Nancy, Washington</span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;"><br /></span><span style="color: purple;">Fawn,</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">The paintings arrived in perfect condition, you packaged them well! They are beautiful! Thank you!</span><br />
<span style="color: purple;">Karen, Pennsylvania </span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;"><br /></span><span style="color: #663366;">Hey,</span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;">Just wanted you to know they loved the painting! Thank you for adding the extra details to make it special!</span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;">Ashley, </span><span style="color: #663366;">Florida</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"> </span><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">Hi Fawn,</span></div>
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<div style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px;">
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">I picked up the painting today at the post office. It arrived in perfect condition. Wow, it is so pretty, I love it!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"> Hope all is well with you and your family. Have a great weekend!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">Thanks so much,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">Carol,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;">Pennsylvania </span></div>
<span style="color: #663366;"><br /></span><span style="color: #663366;">Fawn,</span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;">The painting is absolutely wonderful and as I imagined it to be! You are a brilliant artist Fawn and have become a beautiful blessing in my life. Thank you again for everything.</span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;">God Bless,</span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;">Jen,</span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;">New York </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #ff6600;">Dear Fawn,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #ff6600;">"Sun Dance" just arrived in perfect condition. It's beautiful!<br />I love it and I know Locke will, as well.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #ff6600;">Thanks!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #ff6600;">Chris, </span><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: #ff6600;">California</span><br />
<span style="color: #ff6600;"><br /></span><span style="color: #990000;">Fawn,<br />I received the painting ("Hershey") this morning, was so happy to get it. It is BEAUTIFUL!</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Patricia, </span><span style="color: #990000;">Louisiana</span><br />
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<span style="color: #006600;">Dear Fawn,</span><br />
<span style="color: #006600;">I'm writing to let you know that "Endless Song Too" arrived today and in great condition. I'm very pleased and it's everything you said it would be like. I'm very excited about this next painting too.</span><br />
<span style="color: #006600;">Take care,</span><br />
<span style="color: #006600;">Mike, </span><span style="color: #006600;">South Carolina</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333399;">Fawn, I got the painting and it is beautiful! Thank you so much.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333399;">Rob Allen</span><br />
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<span style="color: #993399;">Thanks so much for the beautiful painting!!!!! It arrived last Saturday safely and without problems.</span><br />
<span style="color: #993399;">Rhonda</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">Hi, Fawn:</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">I just want to let you know that your paintings arrived in perfect condition and that I'm delighted with them, as usual!</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Thank you so much!</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Barbara, </span><span style="color: #990000;">California</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc6600;">Hi Fawn!</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc6600;">We had a beautiful Christmas and trust you did too. I had the lavender paintings framed with double matting, dark purple closest to the paintings, and light lavender for the dominant mat, with a bold rich rounded cherry/mahogany frame. I had them framed together as a themed piece. It sits against our Dove Gray walls beautifully. My hubby was surprised and thrilled and that makes me very happy. Happiest of New Years to you and your family. May The Lord continue to have mercy on us all.......</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc6600;">God bless you,</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc6600;">Ceci</span><br />
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<span style="color: #006600;">Hi Fawn!</span><br />
<span style="color: #006600;">Just a note to let you know the painting arrived today and it is absolutely stunning!!! The colors are fabulous! We will treasure this painting forever! Take care, keep in touch, have a wonderful holiday season!!</span></div><div><span style="color: #006600;">Pollie, Nevada</span><br />
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<span style="color: #000099;">Hi Fawn,</span><br />
<span style="color: #000099;">I received the painting a few days ago and had it framed already. It is BEAUTIFUL and I am so excited to give it to my husband. In fact, it has become difficult not to give it to him early. The oranges look so natural in the painting, like they were always there.</span><br />
<span style="color: #000099;">Thank you again for doing the touch-ups and for shipping so very quickly. I will definitely keep your work in mind for future gifts and pieces for our home!</span><br />
<span style="color: #000099;">Avian</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc33cc;">Hi Fawn,</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc33cc;">I got the painting today and it is just as lovely as I knew it would be. You really do potential buyers a favor by offering nice high-resolution images of the paintings on your site! I will definitely keep an eye on your site. Thanks for sending the painting so quickly, and have a great summer down there in Florida!</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc33cc;">Katherine</span></div></div></div></div></div>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-75358538533833412052017-03-14T15:04:00.001-04:002019-03-16T08:52:28.135-04:00Buying art, a few insights<span style="font-size: large;"> I was recently asked to write my ideas, from an artists view, on purchasing art. Not sure how helpful this is, but I'll give it an honest opinion.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> The first thing I see quite often is that most buyers do not negotiate when purchasing art in person. Personally, I do not take offense at a lower offer. If I have room to come down on the price of a particular piece I will, especially for a returning client. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> There are many reasons a particular piece of art </span><span style="font-size: large;">is not ready for sell yet or </span><span style="font-size: large;">is priced higher. The photography may not be completed yet, or it is registered for an upcoming show, or the paint hasn't cured long enough to varnish it yet. Whatever the reason, don't be afraid to ask again at a later date. The artist may be ready to sell, and he or she may accept your offer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Along the same lines, I love it when someone wants a custom painting similar to one that I'm not ready to sell. We can create it in a different size, change the color scheme, add personal touches, and create a new original that can be purchased with installments as we progress through the painting. This is great for those purchasing art for personal benefit, and not just as an investment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> If purchasing art on line it is important to remember that monitors vary and the colors usually look better in person. If looking to invest in art it is best to do some homework. One place to do this is Invaluable, a </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.invaluable.com/fine-art/pc-SG2BIX3JPJ/&source=gmail&ust=1489676437430000&usg=AFQjCNFPm3I3YMaswMkqBl7UU9lN17VsJg" href="http://www.invaluable.com/fine-art/pc-SG2BIX3JPJ/" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: helvetica, arial, verdana, "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: large;" target="_blank">fine art auction platform</a><span style="font-size: large;">, which recently published a blog post of a </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.invaluable.com/blog/buyers-guide-to-fine-art/&source=gmail&ust=1489676437430000&usg=AFQjCNFVzKczNE1tDjljBqoVUPu-49u5ew" href="http://www.invaluable.com/blog/buyers-guide-to-fine-art/" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: helvetica, arial, verdana, "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: large;" target="_blank">Guide to Buying Fine Art</a><span style="background-color: #f7f0e9; color: #632035; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "verdana" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">. </span><span style="font-size: large;"> I recommend you research the artist, check to see how he or she compares to other artists, and whether they have reproductions available or not. The reproductions are not as valuable as the originals, but if prints are selling it is a good indicator that the originals are worth quite a bit more. Remember some artists are just getting started and one day their work may be extremely valuable.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> That's my professional opinion. Please feel free to leave feedback!</span>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-62874652599565695342017-02-01T12:25:00.001-05:002022-01-27T21:11:16.440-05:00Healed, girl on beach, inspirational painting<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8qXRxgWhGnk/WJIYuF7krMI/AAAAAAAAEg0/vWSyBUEv2GIAuiuMYayGBzLFs6qAAkBZwCLcB/s1600/Healed20x24Web.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8qXRxgWhGnk/WJIYuF7krMI/AAAAAAAAEg0/vWSyBUEv2GIAuiuMYayGBzLFs6qAAkBZwCLcB/s200/Healed20x24Web.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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"Healed"</div>
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20 x 24 inches</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px;">This inspirational painting is full of symbolism. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px;">I started this as just a wave. Made it up for fun, but It kept making me cry as many of my earliest memories are from when my family was stationed in Hawaii. My step father was in the Coast Guard. He abused me, even burnt me once with a hot iron. So I prayed about it and began to see the root of the lies: believing I was unwanted and unloved, a terrible person from the start. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px;">As I worked on it, The Lord gave me a new perspective and his words of truth from scriptures in the Holy Bible. Forgiving others, renouncing the lies, forgiving myself, and accepting the Father's love have helped me overcome years of battling with bouts of depression. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px;">Life was hard: a different step father, more abuse, foster homes, and then failed marriages. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px;">While praying, I saw Jesus and me playing on the beach, and decided to put a little girl in the painting. Then I added the shadow of a cross, and the face of Jesus. I made the rain blowing away. I added an angel dancing in the clouds, and a dove coming down the wave near the girls head, to symbolize the Holy Spirit. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px;">Then I noticed the shallow wave encircling the girl actually resembled a heart, so I enhanced it to symbolize the love of God our Father, the Good Father, who makes life turn around for good in spite of everything that comes against us.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px;"><br /></span>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-64665240339550546642016-07-17T02:24:00.003-04:002016-07-17T02:29:05.845-04:00Faith, the substance of things hoped forSo much sorrow in the world. So much pain and suffering. Not only from terrorists and evil forces, but just in everyday living. We all have loved ones we ache for.<br />
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My pastor's wife recently shared a truth with me that has helped me walk through the shadow of death with my mother-in- law. My husband also faces serious health issues. Sometimes I feel like my life revolves around suffering and death.<br />
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"Hold your hands out, palms up and say, 'Father, I receive the strength and the grace you have already provided for me for this situation,' instead of continually asking. It's alright to ask, but we also need to receive!"<br />
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This is especially helpful when my faith is not so strong, and the tears have taken over. Now I am seeing the Father's hand at work. Prayers are being answered, and faith grows. Not just in me, but in those I pray for too.<br />
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May Daddy God, Abba Father, put his truth in your mouth as you do the work and study his word! May he bless you and your loved ones mightily!Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-62888291654338524692016-03-08T10:54:00.000-05:002016-03-08T10:54:10.052-05:00Not walking in the shadow of deathMy life has been enveloped in the sick and dying. My mother-in-law (98 years old) has been in and out of the hospital many times the past few years. This time she gave up for over a week. My husband of 16 years, who is quite a bit older than I am, has also been through many serious life threatening events. We have come through cancer, respiratory failure, two brain surgeries (non cancer related), and now severe COPD. He and his mother have both been in the hospital at the same time this past week. It threw me for a loop. Spending so much time at their bed sides can be emotionally draining to say the least.<br />
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I started to head into a deep depression again, but this time I took some time out and went for a walk to clear my head. This is a splendid time of year in Florida. The cool breezes and warm sun are amazing. I went for a walk at sunset up on the levy at the lake. This is one of my favorite things to do to rise above the circumstances. My husband is home now, and his mother is doing better, so that helps too.<br />
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While I was out walking, I saw this little area across the rim canal that was lit up with pinks from the sunset. I have seen this little stream coming into the canal before, but this time I decided I needed to paint it. So after supper I pulled out a large canvas and painted it! It was exhilarating to be inspired and motivated and stay up late to create something so compelling! It pulled me out of the downward spin I was giving into. <br />
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This world is on a downward pull, always throwing things at us to destroy us. If we don't fight it, it gets overwhelming! I am finding out some things that help me fight back: getting up early to have time to pray and have devotions, painting at work (even if for just for short periods of time), walks at sunset, playing Christian music, and painting at home in the evenings.<br />
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Looks like the shadow of death has moved on, and I am living again. Currently I'm working on some animal portraits, which is always my favorite subject matter! It is amazing that even in the middle of the pain and chaos I can find joy and see goodness and truth!<br />
<br />Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-76213687493206415422016-01-20T21:55:00.000-05:002016-01-20T21:55:37.526-05:00GoalsTrying to get back to painting more often and posting more too. Seems like the most important thing (painting) gets put on the back burner more than anything else. Feels good to get up earlier to paint, and get back to better habits than watching tv or oversleeping!<br />
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Have to stay with it this time, and not give up. Hard to be inspired these days. Most of the time I am teaching art classes or creating frames, so I am really tired, and certainly not motivated. So I have to make my painting time come first. Then the rest of the day can fall into place.<br />
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Having said all that, now I must make it a personal challenge, and find ways to stay inspired. Paintings that have a deeper meaning, or that have things hiding in them seem to hold my interest the most. But if they do not come together right off the bat, then I tend to put them aside and resolve them later. <br />
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I need to plan ahead better, and stick with it. Also, I need to not start the new ones until I finish current paintings. When I enter some art shows I tend to get excited and finish up a few more too. <br />
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My problem is that I don't see results very often. A sale now and then, A commission. A ribbon or an award here and there; it is all encouraging, but hard to make enough to make a living. So I teach more classes, or take in more framing jobs. Then I don't have the time to paint.....not a good cycle.<br />
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I am open to hearing ideas on how you get inspired or what helps you stay on track.Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-24571051330432143072015-12-22T13:30:00.000-05:002015-12-22T13:31:07.142-05:00Christ- MassIt was called a mass for Christ. Yet we focus on all the rush and business of this time of year. Me included. Just breath. Slow down. It isn't going to all be perfect, it isn't going to make every one happy, and I am not able to make it all as I think it should be! So take a step back, laugh at all the stress and expectations and set them aside.<br />
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If I don't send the cards out on time, oh well. If I don't get a certain gift for a certain child, oh well. We have the whole year to give and bless and love each other!!!! Why do we wait for one day out the year? <br />
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There, now I feel better. Enjoy the beauty of the season, pray a lot, and ask God to show us how we can do something to help those in need, all year. <br />
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Merry Christmas!<br />
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<br />Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-26671658141181632142015-03-22T21:05:00.004-04:002015-03-22T21:05:57.327-04:00way too long<span style="font-size: large;">Haven't posted anything is so long! Loving my little gallery: Fawn's Studio and Fine Framing. It has taken over my life -- in a good way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I teach after school art classes, and an adult class, and my work is on display. Also doing custom framing now! All that and keeping up with original paintings and commissions.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am trying to get some new paintings posted and do better at updating my websites, but so far it has escaped me as to exactly how to do all that and get some sleep.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I actually took the time to do a paint-out this past week, and I got to go to the beach with my grandchildren too. So it isn't all work all the time!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Life is very rewarding these days, joy overflows, and I am so very grateful to be here.</span>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-25306987560037547422014-07-28T14:03:00.001-04:002014-07-28T14:03:32.883-04:00back on trackThings distract me so easily. I get caught up in trying to do so many different things: Framing, teaching classes, and keeping up with grandchildren. I love it all, especially my gallery, but sometimes I need to get caught up in the flow of the paint. This month I have made time to paint most days, and I am really loving it. Just finished a very large one, "Heavenly Highlights" and have two other fairly large paintings in progress. I think I will try some miniatures too.<br />
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I am accepting commissions now as well, so if you want a custom painting don't hesitate to email me! fmcneillbarr@gmail.com<br />
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I am excited to be back on the right track. Life is too short, and I simply must create something to deal with all the chaos and stress! <br />
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Have a blessed day....<br />
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<br />Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-2930222046578333122014-05-20T21:03:00.000-04:002014-07-19T20:53:27.065-04:00SummerEnjoying the nice cool snap we have had the last few days. It has been hot and muggy already in the early part of May. Really dreading the intense and miserable heat we endure in June and July, and even August sometimes. But the winters are nice, and the this week it is cool and breezy and sunny. Lovely.<br />
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Summer is great for my little art gallery. I get to spend my days with children of all ages, working on various art projects. This summer we will do some paintings in the style of Cezanne, and we will make some Chinese paintings too. The weeks of hand-building in clay are usually the most popular. And I try to include a week of color theory of some sort. The students don't know they are learning elements and art appreciation, they just have fun while I challenge their thinking!<br />
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<a href="http://fawnsstudio.weebly.com/">You can check it out at www.FawnsStudio.weebly.com</a>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-31206199226531762052014-03-12T21:15:00.000-04:002014-08-04T17:08:21.381-04:00too busy<span style="font-size: large;">Not sure how it all gets so hectic so quickly. Seems like I have to say 'no' to more things just to fit everything in. Something always gets dropped when I take on too much!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">There are the art shows, and getting works done and framed. </span><span style="font-size: large;">So much time and money in that! Very little return on it too, plus damage to the paintings or frames. But the exposure is good, and the attention is great. I have discovered that I really like all the attention. Odd, I am usually the quiet one and try to keep things low key. Or at least I used to be! Now I speak my mind and get myself into situations I should have stayed out of. But I am getting used to this side of me, and I don't think I want to go back to being so un-opinionated. That sure makes my husband laugh at me often.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then there is the art classes, which I love, especially the very young children I teach. Lesson plans, set up, clean up, and the actual time I get to work with the students. They tug at my heart. I am the greatest artist in their eyes! Too cute.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am also learning the trade of custom framing, high end too: very professional and very expensive. But the frames are amazing, and what a huge difference to finish out the art in high quality frames! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Of course my life is full of family and friends too, and they come first when I am not at work. At least I try to not get too involved in my work at home. So this is why I post less on-line and don't get the marketing done that I really should put more into! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But I am happy -- truly happy. Which is a big surprise because I have struggled with depression and motivation off and on for many years. But since my appendix ruptured just more than a year ago, and I went around for a few weeks dying, I really had to fight for my life. Now I have a whole new outlook on everything!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not sure why I needed to post that, but I wanted to share it. Things do get better, it does take work, and it is worth it really! You have to be positive on purpose and look for things to be thankful for!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-20194737216413546512013-12-12T11:17:00.000-05:002013-12-12T11:18:26.616-05:00Undoing the traditions of stressI am not sure how it happens, things just get out of hand. Used to keep it all simple, like baking cookies for my friends. Now I rush about trying to find the right gifts, trying to get something in the mail, wanting so much to use this opportunity to reach out and touch others as so many have done for me. Yet I find myself in tears, frustrated, out of time, and out of money. I am not sure how I lost sight of the true meaning of this beautiful season. <br />
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Today I slow down, take a breath, and remind myself that if things are late then they are late! If it doesn't happen now, it can happen latter! I don't have to wait all year for one day to tell people I love them or to do something special. It can happen whenever it happens. America has made the Holidays into traditions of stress, and deadlines, and even worse, debt. <br />
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I heard this and it really helped me: make a plan, talk it out with your spouse, stick to your budget, and do something for the Lord first. The rest will work out fine with or with out you!<br />
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So I am making some hand crafted ornaments, baking some cookies, and enjoying the kids.<br />
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Merry Christmas and have a very blessed New Year all year long!Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-47717575173990695392013-09-01T21:23:00.001-04:002013-09-01T21:26:50.042-04:0050 yearsSo I am 50 years old! I was dreading it, feeling so very old after my surgery. Thought I would never feel good again. It has been a month now that I am feeling better. This is September, and my surgery was last December.....<br />
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Anyway, I have a very sad birthday, 9-11. Every year I try to celebrate it after my birthday, but still it is just too sad. So this year things worked out to see my boys and my grand-kids before my birthday. My husband took advantage and on an impulse got a cake and some candles with the big numbers. It was amazing!<br />
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We had grilled steaks, cake and ice cream, and we had card games too. I have had a great weekend and not thought about 9-11 at all. <br />
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So I am planning to celebrate my birthday on the 1st of September from now on. I am also thinking that this is going to be a fantastic year! I am getting strong again, and I am so thin from loosing all that weight from my appendix rupturing. I am starting to have enough energy to get through the day too. My gallery has out grown itself in it's first year, and I am already preparing to move to a bigger place!!!!! God is so good. I am so blessed to be alive, and I am looking forward to the years ahead.Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-20564203653459317442013-07-26T21:53:00.001-04:002013-07-26T21:57:35.869-04:00Reality<span style="font-size: large;">So my gallery opened last November. November first. Fawn's Sudio we named it. Wonderful, awesome, exciting, and surreal....</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Three teaching tables, room for 12 students comfortably, and more if needed. So cool to come to work and see my art on the walls in the showroom, even more cool was the fact that I had enough paintings to fill the walls! Then to sell originals right off the wall! Amazing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It only lasted a little more than a month.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then my appendix ruptured sometime in the middle of November. That is when the pain started anyway. The surgery was in December just before Christmas. My female organs absorbed the poisons, and for three weeks I walked around dying. I was mis-diagnosed with a tumor on my ovary. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So my dreams and hopes were shut down for a month. Then I tried to get the gallery going again, so thankful to be alive. But my female organs were all sacrificed. So everything changed. Everything.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Got sick and couldn't cough without severe pain. So I closed the gallery again.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Reopened again, and took a mat to lay down on during the day before classes started in the afternoons. That helped.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Looking back it makes sense why I am 8 months into recovery, and still struggling. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Abrupt and instant menopause is harder than the pain and scar tissue, which still hinders me. Fatigue, frustration, and despair are all daily companions now. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I still try to work all day (teaching art classes, doing framing, working on custom paintings, etc...) and then I come home to do laundry, cooking and cleaning and whatever else is expected of me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It just dawned on me: of course it will take longer to heal if I don't slow down! Duh! I can't get up at 5:30 in the morning to work on paintings, do a load of wash, and go to work all day and then come home to more chores, and expect to have the energy I used to.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Top it all off with a husband that wants to argue and fight about most things these days... Honestly, no wonder my hormones are so out of whack! Anyone, even someone with balanced hormones, would be up and down with someone constantly putting them down and calling them nuts...... He pushes me to my limits. (Then he wonders why I am not the slightest bit interested in romance. Duh again!) I don't think I am fully to blame here. He knows how to turn things around, or how to keep me up-tight.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I am sleeping in until 6:30 am, and I am going to bed earlier, and I am not trying to get all the chores done! And if he doesn't like it he can start pitching in. Just saying....</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We are starting to laugh about it now, thank goodness! I thought we might have to go our separate ways if this kept up. And even more remarkable: Robert is doing some grocery shopping to help me out, and cooking some meals too. Love it when he puts steak on the grill for me!!!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Reality is tough, but I am still thankful to be here.</span>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6564910901257143147.post-40766251268947694142013-05-20T22:25:00.001-04:002013-07-26T21:57:17.615-04:00gifts<span style="font-size: large;">Just read a great book called <u>One Thousand Gifts</u>, by Voskamp. Hard to get through it. So challenging on every level.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My paintings have always been a way of thanking the Good Lord for the wonders of nature. But now I am thanking him for the not so beautiful and wonderful things in life too. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I have this deep ugly scar on my stomach, from my belly button down. It has been 6 months since the surgery, and still it is tender and itchy. When my appendix ruptured, and I didn't know it for a couple of weeks, it messed up my female organs. It encapsulated on my ovary, and everything became a gooey sticky mess. (Which actually saved my life by containing the poisons.) They took it all out, a complete hysterectomy and an appendectomy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instant menopause has been quite difficult. More difficult than I could have imagined. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This book of gifts has helped me see it all in a new way. I was honestly thankful for another chance at life, but this is different. Now I see my scar as beautiful. I no longer cringe at the sight of it. And now I laugh (instead of crying) at my new weird personality changes. I am a full spectrum, like a teenager with raging hormones, and not usually the good ones. My poor husband doesn't know which side of me will burst out next! But he is patient, and I have found that his love is enduring. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On a deeper level, my deep scars of child abuse and foster homes are also a beautiful thing. The healing is going to another level. Not just being ok with it all, but being able to thank the Almighty for all of it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just needed to put that out there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I want to start a new challenge: to paint a thousand gifts. Not sure what form it will take yet. Don't feel that I can do one every day again, but I do want to set something in motion. I want it to be paintings of things in a new point of view: unexpected or maybe several gifts all in one painting, even if they don't really go together. Some will be of things that aren't so beautiful, yet they will have significance. I think it will be like a poem with images. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't have time, really. Summer art programs to create, and a gallery to run. But I believe this is something I will lose sleep over if I don't do it! So it will be a new series, and a wonderful challenge, and I am excited to see where it takes me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Fawn McNeill Barrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00263936117320026523noreply@blogger.com0