"Cleaning Out The Studio Sale!"

It's time for my annual "Cleaning Out The Studio Sale."  I have a big agenda for 2016 and can't wait to get started!  I haven't picked up a paint brush since the beginning of December .  As many of you know my son Samuel, is home for the Christmas break and he requires 1 to 1 attention.  He requires and deserves I should say.  It's been going well so far  and I am grateful.  It isn't easy both physically and mentally but I always come away with such inspiration to paint.  I have been gathering all my new ideas on sticky notes that I have placed around my computer monitor so I wont forget!  

These painting are available through my etsy Shop  www.catherine47.etsy.com under SALE category and also through my website- www.catherinenolin.org

Happy New Year! 

Return Of The Finch

This is my last painting of the year.  I love the combination of yellow and gray.  My two cats Gracie and Theo provide endless inspiration.   As I am writing this, they are both cackling,  at gold finches at our bird feeder.  They are inside cats of course.  This painting is 11x14 painted on a wood panel with painted sides. http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3904781-Return-Of-The-Finch.html

I would also like to take a moment and thank you all for your support and wonderful comments this past year.  It has been an amazing 12 months  for my work with many new friends and customers.  I am grateful to love what I do.  I am especially grateful to my husband Scott for always telling me to "just keep painting" many years ago.   

 I wish you all much Peace and Joy ~

Catherine 

Higher Ground - New Painting

Higher Ground is my newest painting.  I enjoyed pulling this piece together.   I thought it was a great title since I love Stevie Wonder and the thought of where that staircase is going? I am constantly looking for God through my art if that makes any sense.   This time of year always makes me a bit anxious for many  reasons and I need to remember to breathe.  Thanks for stopping by .  If you click the link you can view this  painting on my website for more info.

http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3896677-Higher-Ground.html

Twilight Collection- New Painting

Close up of Barn Owl

Completed on 12-3 AVAILABLE A bit of an experimental piece for me. I had a large canvas that had been sitting in my studio, I mostly work on wood now, so I decided to execute an idea I have had for a while. The coral is often shown in renaissance art as a sign of good luck and hope. The tassels are just because as well as the rest of the items. Photo is a bit dark with a slight glare- I took it as the sun was going down too excited to wait until the morning! Thanks for stopping by.
http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3893961-Twilight-Collection.html

Original Painting Reduced - St. Francis

 I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day yesterday.    St. Francis Of Assisi is 20x16 painted on a cradled birch wood panel has been reduced for the Holidays. http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3851391-St-Francis-Of-Assisi.html

 I have also updated my Etsy shop with many new prints which

 can easily be popped into a store bought frame and make an excellent gift.  www.catherine47.etsy.com 

Enjoy the rest of the long holiday weekend! Catherine 

Gabriel's Message- New painting

This new piece speaks for itself.  I like to do one holiday themed painting each year and this idea felt appropriate.  It's difficult to see in the photo but there is a cardinal on the hedge on the left.  I plan on spending the next week organizing my Etsy shop.  I have many new prints that will be available and will be retiring some old ones as well.  This painting will be available as note cards.  Thanks for stopping by.  www.catherinenolin.org to view this painting on my website.   

The Gatekeepers - New work

Completed on 11-14-2015 -The Gatekeepers is my newest painting.  I am so grateful to be able to express myself in this way.  I cannot begin to tell you the joy and peace that I receive when I paint.  Whether its in the midst of turmoil, anxiety or profound sadness I am transported when I step into my  studio.  All is forgotten and I am there in control of my world .  The Gatekeepers is painted on a birchwood panel and is 20x16  with painted sides.  Thank you for stopping by. You can click the link to view on my website with purchase information.

www.catherinenolin.org

The Minor Fall, The Major Lift- New painting

Completed on November 6th.  There is much meaning behind this painting I just completed today (at 11:11 btw).  The inspiration  for it comes from the title.  It went through so many changes before I got it the way I wanted it.  In some ways it is my self portrait although I do not play the violin.  I will leave it at that and let you interpret.  It's 12x16 painted on a cradled birchwood panel with painted sides.  click the link which will take you to my website for more info. http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3877249-The-Minor-Fall-The-Major-Lift.html 

Thanks for looking.  

That's Where You Will Find Me.. New Original Painting now available

Completed on 10-15.  I am wrapping up my studio work early this week.  I am off to New York to see the Frida Kahlo Exhibit at the Botanical Gardens, a treat from my sister who lives in CT.  I can't wait.  This painting is an eclectic mixture of things that I have curated.  I always wanted a Dalmatian growing up and a zebra as well.  This painting is 11x14 painted on a cradled birchwood panel with painted sides.  Thanks for stopping by. I'm sure I will be totally inspired after this weekend!

http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3864442-That-s-Where-You-will-Find-Me.html

GOlden Slumber-New Work

SOLD/ Completed on Oct.10th  Sleep is something I think about all the time.  I suppose I paint people resting and sleeping often because I am trying to figure out how to make my son (Sam) sleep more than 4 hours a night.  It's a complicated situation but this is one way I keep it front and center.  Winter is coming but I can never get enough peonies and oceans and tiger stripped kitties!

Thanks for stopping by.

Songbird Returns- new painting-SOLD

I am always inspired by the brilliant still life's of the great artists of the past. In particular the classical, dramatic  back drops and settings.  This painting pays tribute with a twist.  I enjoy recreating objects from these works and bringing them into my world.  I also learn a few things along the way.  This painting is 8x10 created on a wood cradled panel with painted sides. I imagine this would make a beautiful holiday gift not mention wedding.  Thanks for stopping by.  Have a great weekend. Click the link to view on my website.  http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3856482-Songbird-Returns.html

The Art Collector-

"The collector is an artist in his own way, by the way he puts things together. You can read a person's soul from their collection." SOLD
- Ayers Tarantino, Art and Antiques, Dec 2008

Art and Quote of the day ~

Art and Quote of the day/SOLD

 

 

 "One can speak poetry just by arranging colors well. "  Vincent Van Gogh

St. Francis Of Assisi-new painting

Completed on 9-25 painted on a birch wood panel with painted sides.  St. Francis has wide appeal with both the animal connection and of course his story.  We had a Giotto poster of him growing up  at the entrance to our basement that I loved and my mother became a member of the Franciscan order when I was a teenager.    Another connection would be that my son Sam's school is located at a former Franciscan seminary.   I've painted different versions over the past 5 years. http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3851391-St-Francis-Of-Assisi.html

 

St. Francis was born at Assisi in 1182. After a care free youth, he turned his back on inherited wealth and committed himself to God. Like many early saints, he lived a very simple life of poverty, and in so doing, gained a reputation of being the friend of animals. He established the rule of St Francis, which exists today as the Order of St. Francis, or the Franciscans. He died in 1226, aged 44.                         

Not promoting any of my work, just wanted to express gratitude this morning for many things that are"going right."  As many of you know my son Samuel now 21 years old, who has both autism, ulcerative colitis, and a cerebellum disorder  is  transitioning to an adult residence after 7 difficult years in a residential school.   We have made some big changes in his diet and therapies and he is having a much better 2015 so far. The staff has been amazing and loving all along.  I really need to stop and reflect on the improvements because to the average person they may not seem like much, but to us, a smile, a hug, allowing staff to brush his teeth, using his communication book appropriately to request something instead of self injury is huge and makes my heart soar. We still have a long way to go but I am grateful to see the world in a different way and will never give up improving his life. 

The Emperor's New King-New painting

SOLD/Completed on 9-18.  I've been really into Chinoiserie style again.  I find the fabrics and wall coverings so intriguing. I can truly express my love of design and color when I create this type of painting. I originally was going to call this just The Emperor's New clothes but then my husband said since I had the King Caviler pup in there that I should call it The Emperor's New Dog but I decided King would be perfect and sort of confusing as the same time.! This piece is 11x14 painted on a cradled birchwood panel with painted sides.  Thanks for stopping by my work. View it on my website by click on the link.....

 http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3847737-The-Emperor-s-New-King.html

Inside Out- New Painting

Completed on 9-12 painted on a cradled wood panel with painted sides. I have always loved the bold contrasts. Blending interiors, landscapes, objects and animals. Love G. Stubbs (:
http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3844378-Inside-Out.html

Collected Wisdom- new painting -SOLD

I completed this painting on 9-7.  I am so pleased the way this painting came together.  I started out with just an image of a woman looking out a window and then the rest fell into place each day.  It has already sold .  Thanks for looking.

www.catherinenolin.org

Jack Nibbles Prada-New Painting

SOLD   My new piece completed 8-27 When I think "DOG" I think of Jack Russell's.  How cute are they?  My sister has two labs and  some pretty hilarious  stories of their interior adventures while the family is at work and school. . I guess that's the inspiration here.  This painting is 9x12 painted on a hard wood surface with painted sides. The previous Pope (I already forget his name!) wore red Prada shoes so I decided it would be fun to include them.  Thanks for looking! http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3833722-Jack-Nibbles-Prada.html

Off The Couch!- New painting

SOLD/My new painting- Off the Couch- is 12x12 painted on a cradled birch wood panel with painted sides.

Poodles are fun to paint , I've done a few commission poodles in the past with similar hair styles.   They are great dogs.  Thanks for looking and don't forget to check out my sale  items  as well.

 

 http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3830688-Off-The-Couch.html

Bird Watchers II- New painting

SOLD  Completed on 8-18 I have developed a love and deep appreciation of birds.  My in laws have been avid bird watchers for many years.  Barbara has a special recipe she actually makes of select bird seed to attract the ones they love most.  I recently attended the Audubon exhibit at the Currier Museum in N.H. which featured not only birds but also lots of other wild life.  This is what my son's would call a classic Catherine Nolin painting.  This piece is 14x18 created on a cradled birchwood panel with painted sides.  Thanks for looking. to view this painting on my website click the link below.

http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3828654-Bird-Watchers-II.html

Trust Issues- new work

 

Completed on 8-12.  I couldn't resist the title! By now you know I like to paint owls.  This painting is 9x12 on a wood panel.  Can easily be popped into any standard frame. 

Thanks for looking!

available through my website www.catherinenolin.org as well as my Etsy shop.

 

 

 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/243941104/owl-art-painting-trust-issues-9x12-by?ref=shop_home_feat_1

Fox and Sparrows - New painting

It's amazing how things work out sometimes in my little world.  I had a customer who wanted a commission piece for her mother as a birthday gift around the same time that I decided that I would not take on anymore new commissions.  I basically decided that I want to spend the rest of the year doing my own thing.  I felt bad turning away many requests.  As I was putting the finishing touches on this piece I received an email from that same customer who said this painting was perfect for her mother since she loved many of the items I put together so in a way it was custom.  She did ask me to add two sparrows which I think were a nice touch to represent her two sons. I'm so glad it worked out for her. 

Although I am not taking on commissions with lots of custom details I am open to creating paintings based on some simple info.  using my artistic license so that it is more imaginative.  I would require general information such as colors, flowers, places, objects, animals, over all themes without specifics.  If you are interested in contact me for pricing.

Off The Grid - Eve Strikes a Pose- my new painting

Creativity I am in a good place these days.  The ideas are flowing and not enough time to catalogue them all! Here comes  "Off The Grid- Eve striking a Greek pose. I am not happy to report that  I hardly ever get outside so maybe that's why I love to paint nature scenes and tropical flora. My husband is always telling me to get out of the studio and take a hike.  His advice is never wasted because I do become easily inspired even in my little ole neighborhood.  I do feel grateful  that I can create my own world within my studio and I am there. 

This piece is 20x16 painted on a cradled birch wood panel with painted sides.  click the link to view on my website or my etsy store.  Thanks for stopping by.  Hope you are having a great summer!

 http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3814865-Off-The-Grid.html

 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/242017133/still-life-painting-off-the-grid-eve?ref=shop_home_feat_1

The Deacon's Wife -New painting

Completed on 7-18 This is my first painting after a 10 day break.  I have been looking at lots of renaissance art and reading about the symbolism used and what it all means.  Everyday objects, fruit, certain flowers and animals all have purpose beyond their obvious beauty within the paintings.  This piece is 16x12 painted on a cradled birch wood panel with painted sides.  Thanks for stopping by. Click the link to view in my shops.http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3808924-The-Deacon-s-Wife.html

 

 

 

 https://www.etsy.com/listing/240874113/still-life-painting-the-deacons-wife?ref=shop_home_feat_1

 

Vacation for Sam

Today is day 6 of my son Sam's vacation.  Once again I find myself very inspired in the midst of chaos and stress.  Each day has been a little different.    Monday was the toughest but things seem to be getting better as far as his behavior is concerned.  This  week always  puts things into perspective for me.  Saturday is the last day and Monday I will be back to work.  I am going to do another St. Francis painting but this time a little bit more mysterious.  I want to do some very large pieces as well so stay tuned. Hope you are having a good summer.  The weather here has been really great so far and the garden is looking lovely.  Lots of bunnies this year and they haven't eaten our veggies yet!

Bloom-new work

“A flower does not think of competing to the flower next to it. It just blooms.”Forrest Curran 

This is my last painting before a little break.  It's a small piece 8x10 painted on a cradled birch wood panel with painted sides.  My sister and I have been walking regularly now.  She lives in one of the nicest old neighborhoods in the town.  The houses and gardens are like no other and one house has such gorgeous poppies.  I am a huge fan of old vintage flowers - Bessler, Mary Delany etc. Thanks for looking and I 'll be back on the 13th or so!

Chinoiserie Style-my new painting

Completed on 7-1- I love Chinoiserie accents and interiors. Who better to pair with such surroundings! This painting has a lovely jewel-like quality which I think is from the various layers of red paint I've applied that complement the contrasting black and whites of Mr. Panda. 16x12 inches on a cradled birchwood panel. Thanks for stopping by.

To view this painting on my website and info on how to purchase click this link!

http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3796074-Chinoiserie-Style.html

Curtain Call-new painting

Completed on 6-25.  16x12 painted on a cradled birch wood with painted sides. Someone asked me if this was a statement regarding global warming!  It was more about wanting to paint a  polar bear and giving him a great botanical background and maybe subconsciously global warming.  I am hoping to do a few more pieces before I take my annual "Sam Break."  Sam will be home for 10 days starting on the 4th .  Click the link to view on my website or etsy shop. Thanks!

http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3792655-Curtain-Call.html

https://www.etsy.com/listing/238253671/animal-painting-curtain-call-polar-bear?ref=shop_home_feat_1

The Piano Lesson-New Work

The Piano Lesson" is my newest painting. By far my favorite instrument . I could listen to classical piano for hours and I do! I took lessons when I was about this age but I had played by ear first so I didn't pick up reading music that easily and eventually quit after a few recitals. This piece is 16x14 created on a cradled Birchwood panel with painted sides. Thanks for stopping by.  click the link view in my shop http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3791072-The-Piano-          Lesson.htmlhttps://www.etsy.com/listing/237958855/still-life-painting-interior-scene-the?ref=shop_home_active_1

Poets and Falling Flowers-New Work

SOLD  Completed on 6-12. Poets and Falling Flowers was painted on a birch wood panel with painted sizes. I just the love pink and gold color combinations. I am crazy about and totally inspired by the classical poses you see in many of the old master's works. To view on my website click the links.  http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3784914-Poets-and-Falling-Flowers.html
 https://www.etsy.com/listing/236929948/fine-art-portriat-painting-poets-and?ref=shop_home_active_1

Ophelia~Patron Saint

SOLD Baby deer's, highly stylized renaissance women and poppies it doesn't get any better than that! I am in a good place both spiritually and creatively these days.  Thanks for looking. To purchase click the link. http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3780305_Ophelia_Patron_Saint.html

The Finch Residence-new painting

 

A few weeks ago I recued a new born chickadee with the help of my neighbor.  We put it back into the bird house in my yard and were happy  to see if the parents return to the house to feed it! I didn't realize chickadees don't nest in trees so I decided to paint a gold finch so I could create a little paradise.  This painting is 9x12 and packs a big punch of color.  Painted on stretched canvas with painted sides. Thanks for looking!

https://www.etsy.com/listing/235190584/botanical-painting-finch-residence-9x12?ref=shop_home_active_1

Finding The Light -My new painting

 It's been a crazy couple of weeks but I think things are only going to get better.  It's hard to keep positive when so many things go wrong but I feel a change and I'm encouraged.  Of course this all has to do with my son Sam.  He has come through another difficult period and this is how I express and cope.  I never take painting for granted.  I am blessed to do what I love and make a living at it as well. 

Thanks for stopping by http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3774416_Finding_The_Light.html

 

What I'm working on

It's been quite a week.  Hopefully now the stress levels will be down around here.  I am aiming to have this painting done  Monday or Tuesday.  I decided to included a yellow lab since we had one for 14 years and I never painted her in any of my rooms.  I think she fits nicely into the scene here.  More to come.  Thanks for looking

COMMISSION

This is a custom piece I finished yesterday. I loved recreating Da Vinci's painting as well as the Henner piece and the portion of the Zurbaran still life.  This Pennsylvania  family has a deep appreciate and love of art.  This commission will join an already impressive collection of fine art.

I look forward to posting some new original work over the next few months. 

The Sea Captain's Wife- Update

I decided to give this painting a little "make over" if you will.  A little fringe on the oriental  rug, a pattern on the red chaise.   I also adjusted the price  to 785.00  It's 16x20 painted on a cradled birch wood panel with painted sides. 

BTW The French doors are straight- in the photo they looked a bit skewed.  My son does all my photography now  but he wasn't available for this one  so I took it and couldn't get it straight on!

I have a few commissions to work on over the next few months and hope to post some new work in between as well.  Click the link to view on Etsy

https://www.etsy.com/listing/222159217/still-life-original-painting-the-sea?ref=shop_home_feat_1

 

my website -http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3706953_The_Sea_Captain_s_Wife.html

Consider The Flowers~New Painting

S O L D  This is my newest painting now available in both my Etsy shop www.catherine47.etsy.com and website www.catherinenolin.org.

I am pretty excited about this piece.  The colors are rich with lots of depth.  The woman has a renaissance flare  I also love to capture.  I have referenced a Gaugin painting which I admire very much.  Consider The Flowers is painted on a cradled birch wood panel with painted sides.

Thanks for stopping by.  

New Original Painting created 4/2015

In the middle of working on this new piece, I went to Black Fox Farm in Montville Maine. My niece and her husband are the owners. I have been meaning to visit but my schedule has made it almost impossible to get a way these days. Now that my son Max is starting his own farm using a piece of their land for his first season, I dropped my paint brushes and headed up with my sister. As usual it was an inspiring trip up country! We saw a few baby goats being born, and checked out the beautiful jersey cows grazing , and chickens too. I'm glad I went and brought back new energy to complete this fourth Tree Of Life .

It's 18x24 painted on a cradled birchwood panel with painted sides. I looks great with or without a frame.
Thanks for stopping by. http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3751694_Tree_Of_Life_IV.html
https://www.etsy.com/listing/230704747/original-still-life-painting-tree-of?ref=shop_home_active_1

The Lost Garden~My new painting

The Lost Garden was completed on 4-11.  The inspiration for this painting started from some old books on renaissance art that I cherish. I saw an image of a pope with a lovely tall hat/ head adornment which then became the top of my gazebo. I have loved the lush greens of  Henri Rousseau and of course old vintage botanicals.  The symbolism in old paintings I find very beautiful, like a visual poem.  The swallow references, red coral and particular flowers all have meaning.  This pieces is 16x20 painted on cradled birch wood with painted sides.  Thank you for stopping by. 

http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3745251_The_Lost_Garden.html

Daisy's Summer On Nantucket~new painting

My newest painting.  I decided to go a bit whimsical with this one.  Had a glimpse of spring yesterday which was encouraging. Looking forward to the Cape and the Islands this summer. 

11x14 painted with acrylics on stretched canvas. Thanks for stopping by. To purchase click either link. https://www.etsy.com/listing/228638011/original-painting-daisys-summer-on?ref=shop_home_active_1

Moving Forward~My newest painting

"Moving Forward " isn't that what we are all trying to do?  Working on this piece has really helped me to do just that.  It's 16x12 painted on a cradled birchwood panel with painted sides.  For sale click the link https://www.etsy.com/listing/227853888/original-still-life-painting-moving?ref=shop_home_active_1

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

"Spring needs to stand up to winter and kick it in the snowballs!" anonymous
www.catherinenolin.org

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

''Be an encourager. The world has plenty of critics already. "-Dave Willis
 www.catherinenolin.org

Art and quote for the day.....

 

"Texting is a brilliant way to miscommunicate how you feel, and misinterpret what other people mean." -lessonlearnedinlife.com

I'm still here.

"If you are frightened to move beyond what you already know, how will your soul ever grow? You truly learn when the unknown is explored."- Awakened Vibrations 
 




It's nice to have concerned customers.  Some of you have been wondering where I am.  I haven't been posting new work, blogging or doing much on Facebook.  Between my computer crashing and not backing up some critical files to Sam having a dental emergency it's been a tough two weeks.  I am grateful that I didn't loose everything but buying a new computer and learning new software and trying to get back to the rhythm of life has been hard.  Sam only has a temporary fix on his teeth so I am on edge again.   The real work will not be done for a month or so.  He has been doing so well and when he started going downhill behaviorally I became so discouraged again not knowing why or how to help.  It's such an emotional rollercoaster.  This time we figured it out but it isn't an instant fix.  He just went through a huge dental process in October so I thought it would be smooth sailing. If you've been following my blog over the years, I think by now  you know that Sam is my "art barometer." 
At the same time, we are embarking on some newly discovered frontiers for Sam and it's a bit scary.  I need to stay positive and strong for him and work through the possible road blocks and challenges. 





https://instagram.com/nolincatherine/

Do You Believe In Magic? New Painting

This painting reminds me of my childhood.  I did another version a few years back including  a chair.  Black top hats, bunnies, birds and lovely wallpaper.  A few of my favorite things.  This piece is 14x18 created on a birchwood panel with painted sides. Available at https://www.etsy.com/listing/224440850/original-painting-do-you-believe-animal?ref=shop_home_active_1

http://catherinenolin.org/artwork/3718780_Do_You_Believe.html