Art Blog

Portland Craftsman Homes, Bungalows, Tudors, Colonials, Cape Cod, Victorians and more form my Portland House Portrait collection. I have always enjoyed spending time in Portland.  It's reputation of being quirky, cool, weird and green all at the same time, makes life very interesting. Its architecture follows the same mold. One of first things I noticed about the city as we ambled through it's unique neighborhoods -- stopping for coffee far too often -- is the number of solar panels on homes.  And not just new homes, historic ones as well. That is always a good sign. I learned that Portland is a leader in the green movement, incorporating this trend into its urban planning over a decade ago.  I discovered a feast of architectural styles and well preserved and maintained…

In celebration of all Dads everywhere, I am offering a 15% discount for any original house portrait commission this Father's Day! This is a big thank you to the man of the house and to all my friends and clients who have renovated, painted and maintained their homes over the years, keeping them beautiful and art inspiring! I also provide beautiful Father's Day Gift Certificates -- customized if desired -- which can be presented on this special day. Here are but a few paintings of homes of fathers and clients who I happen to know have put a lot of time and creativity to make their homes both practical and enjoyable for their families. Ranch home in Arcadia, California Cottage in Rockville, Maryland Italianate home in Alameda, California Tudor in Burbank, California…

Spring may look different is various parts of the country . . . but it always warm one's heart There's something special about spring!  After those long cold dreary days, the sun bursts forth, new buds grow and vibrant colors come to view. It's finally safe to go outside, have a picnic and revel in this wonderful time of the year. Being that I have lived all over the USA and travelled to every corner, I can appreciate the different forms of spring in every region. I often hear people say that Florida, Southern California, New Mexico and even parts of Texas don't really experience spring.  Not so. It is just a matter of looking... Allow me to take you on a  meandering spring house portrait tour across the USA…

Craftsman style, Victorians, Tudors and Dutch Colonial Home Portraits of East Grand Rapids. I come to Michigan often, being that my husband of 30 years hails from Lansing Michigan. The lakes and rivers and lush green countryside remind me of my homeland of New Zealand. One of our favorite Michigan cities is Grand Rapids. It has a fascinating history, starting with its Native American roots and fur trading past. Not to mention how it grew to be one of the greatest furniture making cities, and still retains that status today.  Heritage Hill is the oldest part of the city and is the largest urban historic district in the country. I love the Victorian grandeur of this area and am currently in the process of selecting my favorite homes in order…