Studio Stories by Deb Grise Art

 Kayaking to and across Freeland Lake in Killarney Provincial Park was one of the highlights of a painting trip that I did with my sister a few years back. The portage from George Lake to Freeland was the perfect spot to park the kayaks and roast a couple of hotdogs. Freeland Lake was a small, calm magical lake, festooned with lily pads of all colours.  Lunch time at George/Freeland Portage Freeland Lake in September September Waterlilies 14x11 watercolour - available

 There are so many ways to abstract the landscape. One way is to simplify which is what I chose to do for this piece. Even though the shapes and colours still represent known aspects of landscape components, they are greatly devoid of detail. Being devoid of detail allows you, the viewer, to participate in the creation of the piece. Each of you re-creates the piece in your own unique way, and each of you contributes to the energetic impression of this piece. Amazing to think about, is it not? Chikanishing Trail 6x6 oil - available

 When we lived in Penetanguishene, my favourite time of day to be outside was near sunset. The sunset light made everything beautiful and rosy. This ordinary broom and bench caught that light, and caught my attention. I thought the light coming through the railing spindles was magical too. After I took a photo for this, I used the broom to take down spiderwebs, and then I chased the kids with it...lots of fun! Broom And Bench-sold Just kidding about chasing the kids. 

Doing this Blog is so much fun. I get to go back in time and visit with my older paintings and remember the thoughts and emotions of the moment. This intuitive painting is a watercolour monoprint (only one). For some reason a bearded man appeared so often in those uncontrolled, let's-see-what-happens pieces. Anyway, I see now that this piece, The Worried Man, represents, my husband, myself and one of our daughter's boyfriends. Yes, it was a rather challenging time for all of us, and so interesting that it comes out in the artwork. Did I see it at the time? Certainly not. Back then it was just paper and paint and a bit of imagination! The Worried Man (sold)