I signed on some time last week, but this is the first time I've browsed around, so I just found the Welcome Wagon. 

I am a hobby painter, almost exclusively in oils.  I enjoy the outdoors, so I do a lot of landscape paintings.  I especially love light reflecting on water, so again, I do a lot of these.  I started painting in 2001 when my husband gave me a set of oils for my birthday.  With homemaking and caregiver responsibilities, about two paintings per month is average for me.  I get lost in my subjects, and as a result, find I take a mental vacation each time I produce a painting.  Rich colors, textures, light reflections all are fascinating, so I try and try and try again to get these on canvas.

I just discovered and joined our local Society of Artists six months agao.  We are able to display our works in a few locations around town.  Some of my most recent paintings have begun to draw interest here in our city, resulting in a few small sales.  I am encouraged by this, and hope to have more in the future. 

I have benefitted much from comments and suggestions from other artists.  This site shows excellent potential for being a growing experience.  Thanks for providing it to us!

My very first oil painting was Rose of Sharon, 5x7.  One of my latest pieces, Autumn Asters on Augusta Creek, 20x16, sold within days of going on public display, then continued to generate phone inquiries for the next few days.  Here they are for comparison fun. 

Please visit my online gallery at www.jAlidaGallery.spaces.live.com/feed.rss to view other paintings I have produced through the years.