Monday, December 15, 2014

Caterina's World-New Work









completed 12-15. This is my last painting of 2014-I think! It's sort of a self portrait if you will, although all paintings are if you think about it. It's 16x20 painted on gallery wrapped stretched canvas with painted sides. Thank you for viewing my work. Happy holidays.


Free shipping if purchased through my website link below. 

http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3666577_Caterina_s_World.html

Saturday, December 13, 2014

C L E A N I N G O U T T H E S T U D I O S A L E

It's that time of year again.  I have reduced the remaining pieces in my "Cleaning Out The Studio sale." I am posting one more new painting before the Christmas break.  I am pretty excited about it, something a bit different and more expressive.  I am hoping to finish it today but I've been so busy with prints and note card orders I may not have the chance.  I am looking forward to the break with my son and rest of my family.  2015 is filled with new and interesting projects and  I am grateful and ready!
link to the sale items.

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Comfort and Joy~New painting

Comfort and Joy was completed on 12-9. I decided to do a subtle holiday painting with some familiar characters. Mr. Cardinal knows that Theo the kitty is asleep under the table so he's keeping a safe distance. I love black top hats! It's painted on stretched canvas with painted sides. I hope you are enjoying the season.
 Click either link to purchase
 

Thursday, December 4, 2014




Taking a moment here to give an update for those interested.  I am having a 20 % off cleaning out the studio sale on selected original paintings in my etsy shop. This is the link -https://www.etsy.com/shop/CatherineNolinArt?section_id=13717919&ref=shopsection_leftnav_1 

I am once again offering to frame my original  paintings.  I have had many requests over the summer and fall and I actually like to frame! The prices range from 40 up depending on the size.  I have access to beautiful wood carved gold frames at a reasonable price and want to pass that along to my good customers as long as I can.  If you purchase a piece and would like me to frame it for you just email me at catherinenolin@comcast.net   and I will give you a price and timing.  I can also send you a photo of some of the frames I use.  Thanks for stopping by and enjoy the Holiday Season. 

Friday, November 21, 2014

Lovely Distraction

 This is my work space.  It started out really nice and organized but I can't ever seem to keep it that way.  Scott always comes in and shakes his head and wonders how I can find anything, never mind create works of art! I'm pretty busy and I don't really care I guess.  All I need is my easel,  my paints and I could work anywhere if I am inspired.  These two guys are somewhat of a lovely distraction as well.
I am working on a few commissions right now, one will be heading off to the Land Down Under and the other to the Big Apple! As usual,  my son Sam will be coming home for the Thanksgiving break and then for a week at Christmas.  This is my busiest time of year and yet I have the least amount of time.  This happens every year but somehow it all works out. 
I'm pretty excited about 2015.  I have been asked to illustrate a children's book on climate change . It's quite an honor for me.   It's part of a bigger global project involving some amazing artist's and writers.  More info to follow.  In case I don't have a chance to write another blog post, I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday with your loved ones. 

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Rumble In The Jungle-New painting

My husband and I are quite obsessed with our two cats.    I am posting way to many pictures of them  on instagram .   I catch myself watching them play for way too long especially when they are in my studio.  Like miniature leopards with their spots and stripes  Way too cute! Continuing with my animal theme I thought it was time to paint another leopard.  I would have a real one if I could! This painting is 16x12 painted on stretched canvas with painted sides. With the holidays approaching this painting would make a lovely gift for a children's room or any cat fan!  For sale on my website and etsy shop.  Click links below to purchase.

Saturday, November 8, 2014

The Perfect Space-New painting now available

Completed on 11/8. I was taking Sam home from a visit down a winding road and a huge deer ran in front of my car. I was able to stop in time. It shook me up but didn't seem to faze Sam. It was very beautiful -I always like those moments are a good sign. I was inspired! This painting was created with great love.  click the link to purchase- http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3639676_The_Perfect_Space.html or
https://www.etsy.com/listing/210280516/still-life-painting-of-a-deer-the?ref=shop_home_feat_1

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Mr. Owl gets a makeover!


I decided to spice up Mr. Owl's surroundings.  I think he feels more at home now.
note-there is a slight glare on the photo due to the reflection of the varnish in the black areas but not so in the painting itself.

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Nelle mani di Dio-New painting

This painting has been a real journey for me.  It's pretty amazing how the ideas come together subconsciously but then make perfect sense to me in the end.  I've been hitting many rough patches with my son and painting is my coping mechanism, a way to be in control, to establish some order in an otherwise out of control situation.  For a long time I have been so fascinated with renaissance art both Italian and northern.   The beautiful red coral that is often depicted in paintings  with the Madonna and child   was believed to protect against childhood disease and to avert evil.   It 's still seen as good luck in Mediterranean countries. You may recognize some other items as well.   I just love the symbolism. There are two nests in the tree which are hard to see in the photo.   I named this painting Nelle mani di Dio-"In God's Hands"  for obvious reasons.  Thank you stopping by. 
It's painted on stretched canvas and is 20x16.  To purchase click link below
 This painting has sold.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Day Off.

Today was Sam's last IEP meeting-ever.  I didn't think it would affect me as much as it did.  I thought I would be able to get right back to work in the studio but I found myself staring at my canvas thinking about all the things that were said.  Not to mention  meeting the adult services coordinator who was trying to get a handle on what his transition would be like.  It's scary and a bit hopeful just like everything in Sam's life.  On my way home from the meeting a saw an older gentleman leaning against a tree about a block from my house.  I could tell something wasn't right and I slowed down and turned around and when I put my window down he asked me if I could help him before I even asked.  He told me he has an issue with balance and that he felt unsafe to walk across the street to his car.  He was holding a big novel in his hands as well.  Another person stopped to help also.  He was very grateful and sweet and said he had a problem with his cerebellum which controls your balance. Coincidently  we just recently discovered that Sam has a small cerebellum which is causing some of his balance and gait issues.  I find it amazing how much "synchronicity " (as my son Zach would say) there is in my life.  I have so many stories like this one that have occurred over the years but even more amazing- I wish I had time to share.  Tomorrow I will be back in my studio  because I am working on a really different piece that I am very excited about. 

Monday, October 13, 2014

Lady Chatham In The Serious Moonlight-New Painting

 
This is my latest piece completed on 10/13. Lady Chatham -What is she thinking?   There are so many stories that can be told here therefore  I will leave it up to the viewer.  Feel free to leave a comment with your take!  This painting is 16x20 painted on stretched canvas with painted sides.

Monday, October 6, 2014

Delphine Florist To The Stars-new painting

Delphine is a Florists to the stars.  Here she is in her shop on Rodeo Drive..   Over the past week,  I became quite lost in Delphine's world.  I 'm certain there must be a florist like this in Beverly Hills.  This original painting is 16x12 painted on stretched canvas with painted sides.
Thanks for stopping by to purchase this painting click either link

Monday, September 29, 2014

Royal Treatment-New work

 
 

Royal Treatment was completed on 9/29 .  Boy it feels like fall today.  It's so dark and grey outside against the brilliant leaves very beautiful indeed.  I am loving the variations of greens and gold's lately.  I wish I had a canopy bed.  When I was little, I use to make my bed into one with curtains and blankets. In my new studio, on the second floor of my home,   I am entertained by the neighborhood children. Sometimes I turn off my music and just listen to them playing and the sweet and funny things they say to each other.   The dimensions of this painting are 11x14 painted on stretched canvas with painted sides.  click this link to view to purchase.
 
   I decided to change the walls to a more bluer tone. I feel more settled now!

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Nevermore- my new painting

I enjoy creating themed- type paintings.  I love doing the research and bringing it all together.  Since it's almost October I thought Edgar Allan Poe might be a good choice.  These dark stormy colors are actually my favorite. I can remember memorizing the first paragraph of The Raven when I was in High School for an English class.  Actually Edgar Allan (not Allen) was born in Boston.  He married his cousin, Virginia, shown in the reflection. He died at the age of 40.  This is how I imagine his work station.  This painting is 8x10 painted on stretched canvas with painted sides.  Thanks for stopping by.  https://www.etsy.com/listing/204576978/original-still-life-painting-nevermore?ref=shop_home_feat_1
My next painting  involves a queen...... 

Saturday, September 20, 2014

Garden Harmony

I thought I'd get back into the swing of things by creating some small works.  Garden Harmony is 8x8 painted on stretched canvas.  The sides are also painted to match and it's wired and ready to hang. 
Thanks for looking. 
click the link to purchase

Saturday, September 6, 2014

Guardian angel new work

Just completed on Sept.  6th.  Guardian Angel 8x10 on stretched canvas. With painted sides.  Ever since Sam was born, I have wanted to believe that he had a Guardian Angel.  My mother gave me that classic print to hang in his room of the Angel watching over two children on a rickety bridge.  I can recall so many moments confirming  that indeed there was  an angel keeping him from great harm.  A lot of close calls that really make a person know there is something greater than ourselves.  Recently Sam has been going through such a rough patch behaviorally.  It has been dental related which is something we dread because it is never ever easy.  However, we have encountered a most recent Guardian angel who has figured out what is wrong and is willing to fix all his dental problems so we don't have to wait months for an opening with the hospital.  Sam has been so brave and patient during this time.  I am so grateful for stumbling upon this "angel dentist. "  
I had to create a painting around this idea.  It's my way of reaching out I guess in search of that greater power.  Thanks for stopping by.

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Cleaning Out The Studio sale

A few of my original paintings have been reduced as part of my "Cleaning Out The studio Sale."  Making room in my studio for the fall holiday season and bursting with inspiration!  I am wrapping up a few more commission pieces but should be posting some new paintings in the next few weeks.  Thanks for stopping by. Have a great long weekend.
Click the link below https://www.etsy.com/shop/CatherineNolinArt?section_id=13717919&ref=shopsection_leftnav_1

Monday, August 25, 2014

An Inquiring Mind-New painting

 
An Inquiring Mind was completed on 8/25 It's painted on gallery wrapped stretched canvas with painted sides. Continuing with my owl obsession here. They are just amazing creatures. Thanks for checking out my work!

For sale here-https://www.etsy.com/listing/201139880/owl-painting-still-life-painting-an?ref=shop_home_feat_1

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Meet Virginia -New Painting

Completed 8/20. "Meet Virginia" and company. I grew up in a small humble house but we had fancy wood paneling in our living room that my father insisted on when we remodeled in the 70's.
I remember babysitting for our neighbors who had the cutest little dachshund just like this one. This painting is 16x12 painted on stretched canvas with painted sides. Thanks for stopping by to meet Virginia!
click to link to view for sale-
\

Friday, August 8, 2014

Silent Observation-New Work




Completed 8-8 Silent Observation is 16x12 painted on gallery wrapped stretched canvas. The sides are painted. I enjoy painting animals in unlikely places. I especially love foxes and gold finches too. Thanks for looking.
Click The Link to purchase-   https://www.etsy.com/listing/199239201/still-life-painting-silent-observation?ref=shop_home_feat_1

Sunday, August 3, 2014

Eve's Bouquet-New Painting

Completed on 8-2 Eve's Bouquet is 8x10 painted on gallery wrapped stretched canvas with painted sides. Inspired by the northern Renaissance masters that I love. Thanks for looking. For sale here click the links
https://www.etsy.com/listing/198533998/original-painting-eves-bouquet-8x10
and http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3570035_Eve_s_Bouquet.html

Saturday, August 2, 2014

How true this is....

"I firmly believe in small gestures: pay for their coffee, hold the door for strangers, over tip, smile or try to be kind even when you don’t feel like it, pay compliments, chase the kid’s runaway ball down the sidewalk and throw it back to him, try to be larger than you are— particularly when it’s difficult. People do notice, people appreciate. I appreciate it when it’s done to (for) me. Small gestures can be an effort, or actually go against our grain (“I’m not a big one for paying compliments…”), but the irony is that almost every time you make them, you feel better about yourself. For a moment life suddenly feels lighter, a bit more Gene Kelly dancing in the rain."
Jonathan Carroll 

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Bunny Pose

 
Competed on 7/30 painted on stretched canvas with painted sides. I have seen more sweet little bunnies around our yard lately then ever before. They are truly adorable and fun to paint especially when they are sitting up on a fancy stool! Thanks for stopping by.

Friday, July 25, 2014

Flowers For Gracie-New painting

It's been a while since I've done a floral piece.  I had started this a while ago but with commission work pending I had put it aside.  The colors are very vivid and were so fun to work with. I have definitely been looking at a lot of Matisse's  paintings and it shows  through. This painting is 16x20 painted on gallery wrapped stretched canvas.  The sides have been painted to match.
Thanks for looking.  For sale click the link.

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Cathderals Of Our Own -New Painting 18x24

I have been going through a difficult period personally in my life and creating this painting has helped me through it.  That might sound cliché but it's really true.  I also think it's one of my best so far.  I have spent many long hours working this piece and again photographs don't tell the whole story. Colors are actually more vivid than the photo.   The title is from a Billy Joel song I love. This is a larger piece for me.  It's 18x24 painted on stretched canvas.  Available for sale click the link below.

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Butterfly Effect-New Work

Butterfly Effect completed on 7/15 painted on stretched canvas with acrylics. This is a larger than usual piece for me . The intricate design of butterflies, moths and the like are so fascinating to me. Like little oriental rugs of brilliant color and pattern. Thanks for looking
For sale on www.catherinenolin.org as well as
Click the Links to take you there!
 

My paintings are featured in this beautiful magazine.

   My work is featured in the latest issue of Styling Magazine  Australia.  You can click on the link to take you there.  The article featuring my paintings is towards the back, starting on page 160. 


http://issuu.com/stylingbycotyfarquhar/docs/styling_magazine_no.4_-_2014


Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Look Within-New Painting

completed 7/9 " Look Within" is 9x12 painted on stretched canvas. I love anemones and of course old vintage bird images. The sides are painted so no frame is needed.
Thanks for stopping by. For sale on Etsy and my website   This painting has SOLD
or
click the links
 

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Back In the Studio

Well, I am back in my studio or should I say my new studio.  I finally moved from my basement studio with artificial lighting and tight quarters to a large airy room on our second floor home with tons of natural light coming through the cathedral windows. The old studio served me well for 6 years.  I almost feel unworthy of this great space.   I appreciate all the work my husband did  to get me in here.  His back isn't what it use to be! Anyway, I took about 10 days off to care for my son  Sam who by now you know has autism and other complex health issues.  The week started out great however by Weds. something seemed to be wrong.  He is nonverbal so this makes helping him so very difficult and sometimes heart breaking for me.  He has had tremendous dental issues over the years and they are the most feared.  We were able to bring him to the dentist yesterday and he has several major issues that can only be treated in the OR and now we have to wait for a slot.  They were able to do a few things to take him out of major discomfort for now.  Sam has endured so much over the years. When I dwell on his condition,  I grow angry thinking, why does he have to have all these other problems, isn't autism enough God? Somehow though, he is able to cope and we all get through it. He is truly a suffering saint as my mother would say. Wonderful people are taking care of him who truly love him and want the best as well.   Instead of allowing myself to remain in a state of panic and worry about what is going to happen, today I choose to reflect on all the positives in his life.  The negatives will not help him.   This is a picture from Monday I took him to my sister's restaurant for a lobster
 

 
in  Portland Maine.  It was a great day!

Monday, June 30, 2014

"MIracles Happen To Those WHo Believe In Them." Bernard Berenson

This is a painting I did three years ago now which has sold.  It's always been a favorite image of mine. It is available as a print in my Etsy shop.  www.catherine47.etsy.com It's called Sleep Study.  It's available in 5x7 and 8x10
 I am actually looking for a miracle today.

Friday, June 27, 2014

Daisy's Weekend Retreat -New Painting now available

 Sam is on a 7 day vacation so I wont be back in the studio until July 7th. This is my newest painting I finished just in time for the break.  In my excitement to post this piece I didn't shoot it square on in the photo which is why you see a bend on the right corner but it is straight in real life! Anyway, I really got lost in really in creating this one.  Daisy works in the city but every Friday she heads for the Island and to her Grandmother's house.  I use to love playing badminton on the Cape.  I wish our backyard was big enough to set up a net.
This piece is 16x12 painted on stretched canvas and the sides are painted.
  I wish you all a great weekend and 4th.  Sam and I will be cruising around next week.  
click this link below to purchase:

Sunday, June 22, 2014

King Of Hearts-Commission

My client wanted a King in the likeness of her husband to hang next to  The Queen Of Everything which she had purchased months ago.  16x20 on a wood panel. 
Next week I will be posting two new pieces before I take a 7 day break to care for my son Sam who will be on his annual vacation from his residential school.  I have an ambitious week planned.  Hopefully he will be feeling good and I can take him on many adventures.  Thanks for stopping by.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Art and Quote for today......

"
"And you, of the tender years can't know the fears that your elders grew by,
And so please help them with your youth, they seek the truth before they can die."  Crosby Stills Nash and young
The original has sold but you purchase this fine art print here click the link-
 


Friday, June 13, 2014

Art and QUote for today~

 
"Come to me now and rest your head for just five minutes, everything is good.
Such a cozy room, the windows are illuminated by the
Sunshine through them, fiery gems for you, only for you." Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young
 
"https://www.etsy.com/listing/181016760/art-print-of-a-still-life-painting?ref=shop_home_active_4

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Art and Quote of the day...............

 
The earth is warm next to my ear
Insect noise is all that I hear
A magic trick makes the world disappear
The skies are dark, they're dark but they're clear-Snow Patrol
To purchase this painting CLICK the Link below!
 
 
 
 

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

I'm the greatest star, I am by far, but no one knows it!-Funny Girl

This was a piece I did a few years ago which has sold.  My older sisters were obsessed with the movie Funny Girl when I was growing up.  I love Barbara xo  You can view original paintings I have still available and prints at www.catherine47.etsy.com just click the link!

Monday, June 9, 2014

Art and Quote for today...

“There is a crack in everything.
That's how the light gets in.”
Leonard Cohen, Selected Poems, 1956-1968    
View my prints and original paintings at

Saturday, June 7, 2014

I continue to be so inspired by the Renaissance period, especially Northern and the work of Hans Memling.  This painting is 8x10 painted on stretched canvas with painted sides.  It's wired and ready to hang.  click the link to take you Etsy to view.

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Summer Sonata-My new painting

I've been having so much trouble with my computer lately and not enough time to investigate what has happened. It seems to be working at the moment, why I don't know?? Anyway, Summer Sonata is my new painting I just completed yesterday.  I have been recently quite inspired by all the Flemish painters especially the still life's.   This piece is 16x12 painted on stretched canvas.  The sides are painted.  Thanks for stopping by. 

Saturday, May 24, 2014

Hello It's Me-New Painting

Completed 5-24. I continue to be fascinated by owls and love painting them with a twist. This piece is 8x10 painted with acrylics on stretched canvas with painted sides. Thanks for stopping by.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Birds In Paradise II-New Painting


Just completed today 5-14.  It's been a while since I've done a botanical bird themed piece.  All day long I can hear the most amazing songs coming from my yard which has certainly fueled my inspiration for this painting.  It's 18x24 painted on stretched canvas.  The sides are painted to match and it's wired and ready for a good home.  Thanks for looking. 

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

The Guardian-New Painting


I've become somewhat intrigued  with Owls.  They are such amazing creatures.  I actually saw a baby Barn Owl a few months ago in the middle of the road one night.  As I approached it with my car, it took off with a huge white wingspan.  It was an awesome sight.  Anyway, this is a my newest painting.  It's 11x14  painted on stretched canvas.
Thanks for looking. 

Saturday, May 3, 2014

Window Treatment


I had planned on finishing this piece yesterday but I needed to work on it a bit more this morning.     It's pretty much a "Catherine Nolin classic "as my son would say. I have included a eclectic combination of things.  I grew up spending much of my summers on Cape Cod helping my oldest sister with her children and those were some of the best memories.  I never was interested in ballet except from an artists view. I just felt like including a ballerina , she belongs there!   This is a new size I like working in 16x14.  This painting is done on stretched canvas .
Thanks for looking.  Have a great week. 

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Art and Quote for Wednesday


"Alone In Her Apartment She'd Dwell,
Till The Man Of Her Dreams Comes To Break The Spell." Paul McCartney 

Friday, April 25, 2014


Happy Friday! This is a little different for me. As you can see  I am becoming more and more interested in painting animals both wild and domestic but with a twist of course.  There so many amazingly beautiful animals and I am looking forward to discovering them through painting. Mr Bear is 11x14 painted on a cradled birchwood panel. The sides are painted so no frame is needed.  thanks for looking for sale in my etsy shop and my website 

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Classical Music Festival ~Commission


This is a commission I just completed today.  I wish this way my backyard.  I have seen a few bunnies and a deer once but I can never seem to maintain those darn topiaries! Anyway, this piece is 16x12 painted on a cradled birchwood panel.  I am very excited for my client to see it. This painting has inspired me to do a few really different type pieces involving animals.  
Thanks for stopping by.