Washington, DC #2

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

This was a major undertaking for such a minor
size! Not sure if the subject actually interests
anyone but I felt compelled to paint it since I
spent several days walking around it. There is
so much architectural detail, but in this size, much
is implied. I felt I could not paint a DC series
without it. If you know anyone with a DC connection
feel free to pass the blog on to them.

I painted all day except for a quick trip to the grocery store
for New Years Eve supplies. Linda is reading show
applications. That takes days and there is the pressure of
picking well or we go broke. When you see me at a show
I am kicked back lounging in my chair waiting for sales! But
there is a long process before that. Applications for 2008 have
been flooding my mail box since October. We throw them in
a box until Linda can't postpone it any longer. There is some

prep needed before starting. She has a routine not to be
messed with. There is the yellow tablet with all the weekends
in 2008 with room to place the possibilities. Tablets with each
past years schedules. The "folder" with sheets Linda fills out after
every show since the 80's! She is a bit of a "facts" nerd. Who
guessed that one! I need quality slides of my new work.
I need new work! We then need a conversation about how far

we are willing to drive. $3.09 a gallon puts a greater impact on
how much I need to sell to cover expenses. Balance that with
the fact that Linda loves traveling and is willing to go far just for
the opportunity to sight see! Now she is ready to spread out all
over a large table, places the apps in order by date. Goes on line
to do some more research and to print out the shows that no longer
mail an app and adds them to the pile. Next, she picks the first
months apps and reads each one. Looks on the map to locate the
town. Sure, I am consulted, I get asked...how many hours is it to
Flint Michigan? Or... do you think we could afford to spend the
month of February doing the Florida show circuit if we camped??
You would expect she is the level headed rational one in our
family but not when it comes to the show apps! To be continued....
Jason is having a sleepover tonight, Linda (not me!) promised he could
have one before he goes back to school. It will be a long night....

Washington, DC #1

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I spotted this gate while walking in Georgetown.
The wreath was still hanging but without a ribbon
or decorations; sort of an "after the holiday" feeling.
What attracted me was the sunlight streaming across
the white wood. I used some artistic licence and
added a blue sky. There was actually a building,
but the sky gives the impression of much more
beyond the gate.

I am back after a few days off. I did not paint over my holiday.
I helped in the kitchen and hung out with the family. We had
to drive Abbey and Ben back to DC on Christmas day so we
found a good price on a hotel, the cost of parking is a whole
different thing, no bargain there! We stayed at the Hotel
Washington with a great view of the White House and the tree.
Linda kept the curtains open all night so she could see the view.
While I did not paint, Linda designed the two days to inspire me
and give me new subjects. We spent most of the 1st day in the
Corcoran. They featured the photography of Annie Leibovitz
and Ansel Adams. Talk about inspiring! Abbey took her birthday
day off work and spent the day with us. Our beautiful daughter
turned 24. I know, I do not look like I could possibly have a 24
year old! Ben met us in the evening for a delicious dinner. The next
day we met Abbey at her Gallery http://www.nmwa.org/ and
she gave us a tour. We also got to see her new office. I can now
say that she was promoted. She has her own office with her own door
and a new title, Development Events Coordinator. What a feeling
to stand in your child's office, to know she is doing well, is employed
and is happy. To now be the parent of an adult! I am not ready!!
Anyway from there we caught a bus to Georgetown. We walked off
the main shopping streets and wandered around the homes. A feast for
my eyes, and new subjects to paint. So my plan is to paint DC for a
few days.

Holiday #16

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

This painting is the Lititz Mutual Insurance
building at the square in Lititz. I was interested
in the way the steps and railing bring you up
from the shadows into the warm lights. They
have greens with lights hung around the large
entryway. It is a magnificent building and I
have painted it several times.

We are in full holiday mode here. Yesterday
was spent getting ready for Abbey and Ben to
arrive. There was cooking going on all day.
Jason was also home, the neighbor boy was over,
some of Abbey's friends stopped in; a full house.
We are still missing Rashetta from CA. Not sure her
exact plans. Tonight we took the family to the
American Music Theater and just got home.
Thank goodness I had my blog painted before we left!

Holiday #15

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

I was attracted to the angle in this painting. Several
parts making up a whole scene. There is part of a
front door, the wreath giving it the Holiday #15
title. There is part of a side porch and a glimpse
of yard and trees. But my favorite part is the reflection
in the transom. Another small part of another house.

Not a good week for pets in our household. My mother in laws
cat needed a very early morning trip to the vet. He was old and
ill but two times in one week is to much for us all. Puts a little
damper on the holiday. Linda finished baking cookies and four
pies, the house smelled like Christmas. The kids should be rolling
in tomorrow. All weekend plans are on hold till we hear their plans!
We are going to the Allen Theater in Annville to see a late night,
well... late night for us older folks! 9:30PM showing of
Charlie Wilson's War. I'll give you my review tomorrow.

Holiday #14

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

This is an entrance to the Moravian Church
in Historic Lititz, PA. The only sign of the
holiday is the wreath on the door. But the
bare tree in the foreground is what sets the
real stage, it tells you its winter and gives you
the perspective.


I finished early today. It helped that I had the sketch
done last night. Linda finished all the orders and her
desk is looking much better. She has a huge pile of show
applications to start reading through. Who knows where
we'll end up and she really loves to travel. I think she picks
shows by where she wants to sight see! I must remind her
about the price of gas or I'll find myself in Wisconsin! Not
that there is anything wrong with Wisconsin...until you do
the math! We still have some holiday purchases here waiting
to be picked up and I am expecting a flurry of sales through
the weekend so we are planning to be home. If you find
yourself in desperate need of a painting...give me a call!

Holiday #13

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

Downtown Historic Lititz, PA decorates several
blocks with these old fashioned stars made from
wood. They are placed on the gas lamps that line
the streets. I worked from a night scene to show
them glowing. This one had a huge evergreen
tree behind it so the star shows up well.

I am getting interrupted to much right now and cannot get
enough painting time. Yesterday we simply did to much
volunteering. There was a load of food to pick up for the
food bank, then while we were there I offered to take a huge
load of cardboard boxes to the recycle place. I am thinking
carrying the boxes up steep steps should equal some time on
an elliptical trainer, hence keeping me in shape without gym
fees...anyway I am trying to look at it that way. We also
worked with a boy that needs community service time so that
was another two hours. Linda needed to run a few holiday
errands so I was her driver. I squeezed a few brush strokes
in every free moment. But by 11pm last night I still did not have
it finished so it was on hold till this morning. Today was more
errands and more volunteer work, which I believe in, its what
we are meant to do,but it all comes at once. This time of year
everyone wants to donate so we have to go get it. Linda was
working at her desk all day and actually paid one of our helpers
to finish baking our cookies!
I am going to start tomorrows painting now because I take my
Mom to the foot doctor in the morning. All that going on but I
must say I am still pleased with my Holiday series of blogs. I
have been able to paint well thought out pieces with a nice variety.
I totally enjoyed the ones inspired from downtown. I have 4-5
lined up on a ledge so I get to look at them until they are sold.
Even if I managed more time I don't think I would make any changes.
Hope you also enjoy them. Feel free to right click over any painting
and set it as your computer screen saver. But tell everyone that
sees it that its my painting! Help spread the word.

Holiday #12

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

Another downtown Lititz, PA holiday painting.
Great blend of color and a little candle glow.
The greens and a ribbon mark the season.
It is amazing what you notice when you take
time to look around. Almost every town, especially
historic towns have a wonderful selection of
doors and windows. You just need to take time to look.

It was a rough day here. Our new kitty was sick
again and we had to have him put down. He had
been Linda's constant companion for two weeks.
It figures, the sweetest of the cats we own is the
that gets sick. It was the right decision but not
an easy one. It was hard to continue with the days
chores but there were two donations to the food
pantry to pick up, boxes for UPS from some last
minute shoppers and a few gifts to purchase and
of course my blog.

Holiday #11

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

This is a downtown Lititz doorway. Nice
stonework and a rich historic blue door.
Part of my quest for local holiday subjects.

Today was spent getting Linda's laptop up and
running. Her computer guru was here with his family.
I took their three kids to see the "Enchanted" movie
while the guru worked and Linda watched! He
installed a wireless thing and connected the computers.
All I know is Linda can work anywhere, anytime and
she is thrilled. I did manage to get my blog painted.
All in all, it was a great day.

Holiday #10

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

When I painted this I had Williamsburg, VA in mind.
Several years ago we spent Christmas there.
We have talked about trying to get there again this
year, but I don't think our schedule will allow it,
but it made me think. Their primary decorations
were fruit. An arrangement of greens, oranges and
lemons with a soft candle light.

A busy Saturday. I had a couple clients visit the studio
today. I painted most of the day but did squeeze in some
time to run downtown Lititz for some photos. I will
work on a decorated Lititz theme tomorrow. We have
a party to attend shortly so I need to go get cleaned up!
ho, ho, ho!!

Holiday #9

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I am told this is a Winterberry bush. Linda took
the photo from Longwood Gardens. Not exactly
holiday but the bush is loaded with red berries!

I missed yesterdays blog because I used the whole
day to finish my commission. It is done, framed, boxed
and in the mail! Now I can concentrate on my blog.
I was driving through town today and noticed some great
decorated doors. I plan to go out tomorrow to photograph
a few. Linda is mildly stressed, she informed me "we"
have not even started any Christmas shopping, and we
still don't have a tree. It feels a little different when there
are no longer children in the house. They mostly care about
the cookies at this point! They are not home long enough to
notice a tree! Linda grew up on a Christmas tree farm so
for years we went home to her Dad's for a tree. Then he sold
the farm and we had to come up with a new plan. We started
going to Elizabeth Farms in Brickerville where you ride a
horse drawn wagon to the middle of nowhere and saw your
own tree. You are paying for the whole experience. We still
did it last year because Jason was with us. Now its just the
two of us...not sure we still need the experience! But Linda
can't quite just go get a quick tree. It still has to be perfect...
We also have had this tradition of making new ornaments for
the tree each year. Somehow Linda came up with a new idea
and we all made them together. Past years get recycled some
where else in the house. I am not seeing signs of a new idea...
I will keep you posted.

Holiday #8

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I painted this building and bench before, but
thought it would be interesting to paint it in
winter with a soft blanket of snow. I like the
way the interior light creates warmth and
shadows outside. I thought I would go with a
little snow since they are calling for some in
my area.

If you know me at all you know I hate the cold
and snow. This is not my weather. I have a bad
attitude already and its only December. I cannot
ride my bike so I am not getting enough exercise.
Shoveling will not be a good substitute! We took a
teen who needed community service work to the
food pantry and put in two hours today. Linda is
baking a few cookies tonight. No excitement here.
My Mom is all worked up about the weather. She
has a doctor appointment tomorrow which I may
have to cancel for the second time. Last week
was ice. We will see...

Holiday #7

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

Shades of red. This came from the Holiday
decorations at Winterthur in DE. The large
deep windows had drapes in red stripes,
add the ribbon plus the berries and it equals
a lot of red... but not to much for the season!

I had fun painting the blog today. I did not struggle
for the idea. It came from the photos Linda took from
her weekend trip. I did not need to be there to capture
the feeling. I have been to Winterthur in the past so I am
familiar with the feel of the place. I finished in enough
time for us to go to Yoga class tonight. Yes, I do yoga,
maybe not well and it may not be pretty but I make an
attempt, it is a lot harder than it looks!

Holiday #6

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

I started looking around my own home for
objects to paint. We have this wooden 9" tree
with a red heart. I thought it looked nice paired
with a miniature jug. It has a good balance of
color.


I had a productive bachelors weekend. Just me
and the cats hanging out together! I worked
diligently on my commission. Diligently because
the weather was to ugly to ride bike! Linda is
back home from her girls weekend to Chadds Ford.
Its back to work in the studio for her in the morning.

Holiday #5

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

This is my fifth Holiday painting. While my
hand is painting my mind has been trying to
focus on the season, quietly and subtly. I want
you to feel it as I do. You just know it is cold out
that window! But inside is the warmth of a hot
drink and presiding over all is the star...
I wish you a happy season.

Its Friday, that always means grocery shopping for my
Mom and a few errands. But I mostly concentrated
on my painting. Kitty update: he is doing very well.
No one expected him to make it. Although I need to
give him his pills by myself this weekend. My fingers
are to big so neither of us is happy about that!
Linda is all excited, she is going on her annual girls
weekend with her good friend Bonnie. They have
been girl friends since they were 17. That's a very long
friendship. They are headed to Chadds Ford. A spa
treatment, Chadds Ford Winery's open house, Longwood
Gardens and Winterthur. If you know Linda you know
I have her itinerary! I hope they have a wonderful time.
There is snow on our roads so I will not be out on my bike.
I guess I will put my "wife free" weekend to good use...
I have a commission that must be finished and I plan to
have the studio open for any clients venturing my way.
Come visit and keep me company!
You can also find a few of my original
paintings hanging in The Framing Concept Gallery in
Lancaster, PA http://www.theframingconcept.com/

Holiday #4

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I went with a holiday interior today. While
I am trying to stick to holiday themes I find
ways to please myself...OK, maybe I should
say amuse myself.

Night time - so I could get a big full moon in!
I can justify it because it offers a lightsource
streaming into the room. I added a dog
with a big red bow, a sort of homage to the
one I keep begging for! It makes you wonder
if he is the family pet or a gift...
I was thinking gift!

The life of an artist gets even more hectic during
the Holidays. I have decorating duties. Not that
I do any decorating, but the task to fetch and carry.
Several heavy boxes must be brought up from the
buried depths of the basement. I had to repair
and hang the Moravian star. And my biggest job
is to drive away the bah-humbugs that attack Linda!
Today I picked up my yearly supply of cardboard.
I had the pleasure of picking up Linda's new laptop.
It is a gift to her but it really is so she can keep up with
business when we travel. I think the screen is larger
than our first TV! Another load of orders went to UPS.
And I managed to paint. Actually I started this yesterday
and did not get it finished. So it becomes a painting
in 2 days not a painting a day!

Holiday #3

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I thought some falling snow would help with
the spirit of things. The snow was inspired
from the flurries we had here in Lititz,
PA yesterday. Notice the great color in the
sky, that was inspired by today's interesting
sky. If we just pay attention, there is inspiration
all around us.

We are still dealing with a sick kitty. It has us
both a bit frazzled. I have a Christmas commission
I am trying to get a sketch worked out. Took
some paintings into a gallery in Lancaster, PA for
a group show. I will share the info in a few days.
It is encouraging to see some bidding going on for
the blog paintings. Makes me feel like I am painting
with a purpose. I am grateful.

Holiday #2

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

A night time scene. Moon glow, stars...
A little holiday spirit. I'm working it!!

Holiday #1

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

I am using the word Holiday to be politically correct
but you know I really mean Christmas! I plan to add
holiday themed paintings over the next few weeks.
I went through some of my old photos hunting for
something that moved me. I found an old barn with
a tree propped against the door. Its a start!

I need to go on a subject hunt. If you have a personal
holiday photo; landscape or still life, that I may use
for subject, email it to me. I need inspiration or it
could get ugly!!

Doorway

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

We do a lot of historical sightseeing where you
are exploring one building, exiting and walking
to another. It may feel a little off center, just my
little quirkiness, I didn't want all straight lines
and this is how I saw it. There is an intriguing
perspective in this and I hope I conveyed it to you.
Almost two separate paintings. I am placing you
inside looking out. There is a dark colder feeling
interior, the gate on the right so you
cannot walk into a room. A stone floor and a wide
old door. Then you get an exterior view. Warmth
from the sun, brick (my speciality!) encasing
another door. I hope you continue to explore
with me...

It has been hectic here. Lots of errands to run, some good things
like orders to take to UPS. The new kitty was sick so there
was a trip to the vet, he needed special food so now there is
a trip to the pet store. Nothing different than what each of you
goes through but it eats into my painting time. On the fun side
I bought myself an Ipod. After a night of reading the directions
and realizing the technology or the explanation was over my head
I called in one of my favorite kids. I think of him as a kid although
he is early 20's. Sad I know, but I needed help. A couple
clicks and he has music on it. He claimed its easy and I should be
able to do it now myself. I am thinking I need one more lesson at
a slower pace! Old dog new tricks...
The studio has been busy, several clients that missed open house
have stopped in to pick things up. That's always nice.
I just realized it is December 1st and I was planning to paint holiday
things all this month. I am not even sure I have subjects ready!
I may need a few days to do research but they will come.

Kitty in Window

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

Two days ago we found a cat. Actually the
cat found us. He was hanging out in the
neighborhood and the neighbors were all
taking turns taking him in. I didn't want him.
But it is never that simple. He is a sweetheart,
and he knows how to butter me up! So when
I was searching for a piece to paint today I was
inspired. It is not him in this window... but when
he's not in my lap, a window is where he can
be found!

Bench #1

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

Linda has this thing for outdoor benches
and chairs. Maybe its her need for
solitude and rest... I enjoy painting them
for her. Whenever we are out looking
for new subjects there are always new benches
in every type of setting. So, I paint them often.
I hope you enjoy them also.

I managed to get a little exercise today.
Finally got a handle on the leaves. I took
another load to UPS, Linda and her elves
are boxing like crazy! Also took my Mom to
the hairdresser. This all took half my day.
The other half was spent painting.

Pottery #6

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

On 11/25 I painted one jar and made up a still life.

Today I wanted to paint the jars the way I saw
them. There were actually three in a row in a
cabinet. There is a lovely brown glaze that reflects

the light.

Today was busy. I picked up more donated food
for the food bank, dropped 6 donated turkeys to
the freezer storage, raked leaves, bought my Mom
a new clock, took a load of boxes to UPS and helped
a few clients in the studio.
Then I painted. Not to bad, I am done by 9:30 PM!

I noticed some bidding on the last few paintings,

that gives a little inspiration! Thank you. Remember
if anyone has questions or suggestions you may use
the comment below or email me.

Door Handle

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

So easy to overlook, but my job is to share
the things that I see. An outside door in
need of paint. I was drawn to streaks of
rust from the handle.

The life of an artist was uneventful today.

It was raining so I did not get out on my bike.

I ran a few errands which happened to take
me past Circuit City. My reward to myself for
all the painting for open house was my first
IPod. Can't wait to get some music on it, as
soon as I figure it out! Linda was in the studio
from 7:30am till now boxing orders.
She promised to quit shortly. Looks like I am
running to UPS in the morning.

Pottery #5

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I had a general idea for today. I sketched the
antique brown jar on a shelf, but then was
stuck with what to put aside it. Follow my
thinking here... I was munching on some
tic-tacs and had the little box in my hand and
just decided to use that. OK, maybe I did not
give it as much thought as I should have.
However it was handy. I actually had it drawn
in when Linda walked by and glanced over my
shoulder. You can imagine how the conversation
went... "bla bla bla... fine, then you find me
something else to put there..." Don't tell her
but I had to agree, the old paprika tin looks better.

Sunday should have been a day of rest, but I
painted. We put food away in the local food bank
for a few hours and returned Jason to Hershey School.
I can safely say I would rather be an artist than a
teacher/counselor to 44 boys returning after a one week
break and all sleep deprived and sugared up!!

"Green Pepper with Grape Tomatoes"

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

Just shaking things up a bit, keeps me
from being bored! We had these veggies
left over from open house and I laid them
out on the counter to ponder using them
in my salad. I liked the colors together and
thought I would give it a shot. Linda
wanted to see them without my usual dark
background, let them stand on their own.
It took everything I had not to fill up the
background!! This is one to add to my crisper
more contemporary pieces. FYI the pattern
in the background is the deckle in the paper.

For Thanksgiving we took the family out
to brunch at the Host in Lancaster. They
had a very nice spread. It was overwhelming
for my Mom. We had to use a wheelchair.
It is hard as a son to recognize certain things
may be over. I do not see her able to go again.
We had beautiful weather so I managed a few
spins on the bike...and painting. Linda is glued
to her desk catching up with the bookwork and
getting organized to fill orders for the new prints.
She is in her glory, her computer tower was
recased in silver/black with ports in the front
and she now has a new flat screen. Thank you to
her computer geek... he knows who he is!
Slowly we are catching up with modern equipment,
making life easier and faster. Jason has been home
all week so that is an added distraction. He goes
back to school tomorrow.

The studio is open by chance or appointment. I
suggest you call to make sure we are here but we are
trying to stay home. (In between care giving
and some volunteer work!) There is still a good selection
of original paintings and plenty of framed prints.
So, call and visit us.

Bed #3

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I have painted beds several times.
Shaker bedrooms have a starkness
to them. No fuss. Utilitarian.
The flow of the covers interest me.
The bed is made but not perfect.
There was an odd shaped piece of wood
laying on the bed. I painted it as it was
but cannot figure it out.

Other than painting, today was spent
winterizing my drafty old house. Also
squeezed in another food pick up for
the food bank

HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all.
I have a lot to be thankful for.

Shaker House #5

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

I am back to painting today after five days
off. Actually I was not off, just wearing a different
hat. My Open House hat! It felt odd not painting
after being so disciplined to paint everyday. I was
ready to get back to it. I am starting off with a
landscape. Canterbury Village in N.H. I liked the
red roof against the white building with a bit of
green grass and garden in the foreground.

Open House was a success, a huge THANK YOU

to all who attended and supported me with your
purchases. It means a lot to me to see clients who
after many years still love the painting they bought and
continue to buy even when they have no wall space left!

It is your patronage that allows me to continue painting
and not become a greeter at Wallmart!
Again I thank you all. It was nice to have Abbey and
Ben home to help out. They brought their cat "Stella"
home to be cat-sat while they vacation over Thanksgiving
in Costa Rica... Something is very wrong with this picture!

Monday was spent taking everything down and putting
the supplies away. Getting the house back to living quarters.

Getting the studio back to where we can frame and start boxing.
We volunteer at our local food bank and it is our job to pick
up donations. Today we had two big loads to pick up and put
away. But I did squeeze in a few hours to get my blog painting
done.

We are still taking orders for the new prints. Check out the
website and make your decisions. If you want to visit the
studio, just call and make sure we are around. If you are thinking
holiday gifts...keep me in mind! I even have Gift certificates!

24th Annual Open House

I have been negligent in getting a blog written
all this week. I hope if you are new to my blog
you check back after open house. I will be back
on a regular schedule. I did spend the week painting
and framing and setting up the house. There really
was not one free second and if I found one, Linda
had something to fill it!

We are ready... I think...

I did not consult Linda
before I made this
declaration. I was ready
this morning, it is now
8:30pm and Linda is
still finding things
that need attention.

There is a sampling of new originals on my
website under "originals" Make sure you check
it out. I hope you are planning on a visit this weekend!

ANDY SMITH'S 24TH ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE
Our Studio & Home Will Be Open On...
FRIDAY 11/16/07 from 2PM to 10PM
SATURDAY 11/17/07 from 10AM to 10PM
SUNDAY 11/18/07 from 12 to 6pm
at 4 North Spruce Street, Lititz, PA

Waterlily #2

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I am into waterlilies. The lily color is actually
yellow with a pale green hue. It photographed
more green than it actually is. This lily just
rose up from the water, the pads are out of view.
There was a great shadow in front. I was
interested in the way the water reflected light.

6 more days to open house. Linda had help in the
studio today, they worked from 8am to 7:30pm.
I helped by staying out of their way and ordering
meals! I did paint all day, that counts! I am home
all weekend...you guessed it, painting. If the rain
stops I am going for a morning bike ride. We may
try to sneak in a movie, American Gangster. Other
than that, painting and framing is on the schedule.

Apples

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

This is actually part of my fall collection.

It was temporarily put on hold while
concentrating on other paintings. I found
this inspiration at our local market. A
box filled with apples.

This has been an exciting week. I started cutting
the mats for all my new original paintings. I
love watching them come together. There is a
wonderful sense of accomplishment. If you go to
my website and click on "Originals" you can view
some of them. Linda spent the morning getting them
listed. Titles and prices will follow after all the framing
is finished. I am also so excited, Linda worked on
this new framing concept for my small pieces. They
are mounted in a shadow box, giving a contemporary
look to the paintings. I can't wait to show them to
someone. Also today we started putting
the display panels up in the house. It is coming together.
With all that going on, Linda had a training session with
her web guru. She works with several and I never know
what is going on, I can't keep up, I just reap the benefits!
I am getting a little nervous overhearing chat about
something wireless and a web cam. They mean business,
the little TV is already located in the bottom
corner of this blog. She's just waiting for some cash to
come in for the gadgets. I am sure there will be a big
announcement when she's ready...
She also learned how to put a live auction thingy below
this painting... Now I need some bidding to watch it
really work. Don't embarrass me with no bids on a live auction!
Man, if anything happens to my darling wife I am in trouble.
Without her I will be off line and back to snail mail in a flash!!
Don't worry, I know how to keep her happy, she just needs
a few hours in her garden every now and then.
Enough about her and back to me! I am really
happy about the direction my painting are going. My colors
are more vibrant and it feels like my paint just flows. I
can't wait for open house to start so I can show off my new
paintings. Hope you are all planning a trip to the studio.

Waterlily

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

I went with a waterlily today. A great study
in the contrast of shadow and sun with reflections.

My past weekend went well. I balanced selling
with working on a painting. It was nice to
exhibit with such a high caliber of artisans.
For all the new clients visiting my blog for the
first time, bare with me while I get through
my open house. I just cannot devote the time to
the blog that I did earlier. It is a delicate balancing
act! 11 days to go and the stress level is rising!
Another $2000. worth of frames arrived today.
You know what Linda is doing tonight. She had
a long pleasant chat with our daughter today so that
has her in a good mood! Abbey may be home to help
out at open house.
My website has been updated, you can now
order the new prints on line.
Wow, it is only 7:30pm and I am posting my blog, that
is almost a record. Ok, I am back to work for a few
more hours, I have a large painting that needs my attention.

Shaker House #4

6" x 4" original watercolor $250.00
contact: andy@andysmithartist.com

This sun drenched painting was inspired
from my favorite subject site. I never tire
of painting the New England Shaker Villages.

I needed to create some cash flow so I am showing this
weekend. It would have been easier to stay home
and continue painting but there are bills due! I
painted this morning then at noon stopped to pack
the van. This show features a holiday theme so we
had to dig in the Christmas boxes for tablecloths and
"decorations" to spruce up the booth. You might think
self-employed artists are "free"... but there is always
a boss, and always rules and demands. We just like
to think we are free! So off to Reading, PA. Set up
went smoothly, and the booth looks "holidayish". Next,
we went into Lancaster for 1st Friday. Our new helper
had some jewelry on display and we needed to see her
work. Then it was off to the grocery store to pick up
Moms weekend supplies. Back home by 8pm and
a finished blog by 11. Now I am free!! But to tired
to do anything about my freedom...

The show:
Nov. 3 & 4 The 58th Annual Holiday Craft Show
Held at the Berks Campus of Penn State University
in Reading, PA Sat. 9-5 Sun. 10-4
This is a Guild show so the quality is top notch!!
There is a coupon at: http://www.rbcrafts.org/rbg.htm

I am getting orders for the new prints so don't wait to call.
Linda will be in the studio framing all weekend and will take
orders. Any opinions on the new prints?? They will be available
to order on line shortly.

Pathway #5

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

This pathway was cut through a field
in N.H. Pathways ultimately are
a study in perspective. They give
a sense of distance.

Tonight was trick or treat and I really enjoy
seeing the kids in costume. We had a lot less
kids this year. Both Moms came for dinner tonight.
My Mom is uncomfortable being home alone
on Halloween so she came for the evening.

I took all my mailers to the Post Office today,
so watch the mail for your invite! I am still
working on this large still life piece. I have
been at the same one all week. I should cut
another case of glass tonight in an effort to keep
up with Linda's framing and I really should spend
a few more hours painting. Thats a lot of shoulds
when your tired! Linda is also dragging and
I think she is trying to rationalize a night on the sofa.

ANGLES

6" x 4" original watercolor $200.00
SOLD

I have been painting large painterly pieces lately
and I wanted to paint something just for myself.
To experiment with angles. This was an interior
hallway. To the left is a hint of steps going down.
The light from the window draws you back the hall.

I painted all weekend, late into the night without
much of a break. Ok, I did take a short bike ride
but I was right back to my desk! Linda, her Mom
and a friend, Becky and her daughter spent the
weekend stuffing, licking and stamping 6500 envelopes.
Our annual Open House mailer is ready to go to the
post office. My new prints are here and I am pretty
excited with this years selection. 18 days...
Everyone mark your calendar for Nov. 16-18.
Its almost 10pm and I am going to cut glass for frames
for an hour or two. In case you think all I do is paint!

Pastoral View #4

4" x 6" original watercolor $250.00
contact: andy@andysmithartist.com

I have not painted a pastoral piece
for a while and I needed a change
of scenery from the larger still life
I worked on all day Tuesday.

I finished my last class yesterday. They
are a great group to work with and I will
miss them looking over my shoulder
oohing and ahhhing at my abilities!
They are good for my ego.
Next class is January 2008. That doesn't even
sound right. Today I took my Mom to the
hairdresser, an important all morning event.

That left the afternoon to create. Linda is both
excited and panicked, the mailers are ready to
be delivered, that means lots of weekend work
for her. Plus her fastest stuffer/helper is out sick!
The invites go out snail mail so if your not on my
mailing list, email me your address and you will
be sent one.

Tomorrow my internet is going to high speed.
We are switching servers just in case there are
glitches I am warning you ahead of time!

A Chicken...

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I really resisted painting this chicken.
I had been painting nonstop all weekend
and have had no time off! So I wanted
something a little less challenging for today's
blog. But, Linda has this thing for chickens
and she thought it would make a good painting...
I am a city boy but Linda has dragged me to
several farms for fresh material ~ no pun intended!
I always like the paintings after I do it, and it is the
same with this one, now that its finished I
am rather pleased with myself!

I had a productive day. I was up at the crack of
dawn to ride my bike. Back home for fresh baked
oatmeal which Linda spoils me with. Then down to
business. I painted the blog which took about
5 hours. I do not crank out my blog paintings. They
are complete watercolors and often take longer than
they should. Anyway, I also sketched a large
bench with a garden, and now I am working on
the one I had started on Sunday. It is 9pm and
I am still a long way from bedtime!

Friday update...

I did not get much painting done today. I spent
the morning at the printers, proofing my new prints.
They look great. I am very pleased.
Then home to pack the van. I needed to switch
all the outdoor show items (tarps and tents) for
indoor show items (rug and lights).
At 3PM we left to set up for the show in
Wilmington, DE. It is 9:50 and we just got home.
So...no blog painting tonight. I plan to demonstrate
at the show this weekend.

Oct. 20 & 21 Hagley Musuem Craft Fair
Held at the Hagley Museum on Buck Road
off Rt 100 Wilmington, DE
10am-5pm Admission $4
Booth #44 in the Library Reading Room
http://www.hagley.org/event-craft.html

Basket of Pears

5" x 5" original watercolor
SOLD

Another in my "fall collection". I found a basket
filled with pears at the market. They combine
a realistic plus contemporary style. I think they
would look great in an extra wide mat and a
black frame.

I know I missed yesterdays blog entry. Don't
for one moment think I am not painting! Just
working on my larger masterpieces!
We took time out tonight to enjoy a wonderful
dinner at a downtown Lancaster restaurant
called Checkers. Good meal with great friends.
Happy Birthday Bonnie!

Only 30 days to go...

I only have 30 days until my 24th Annual Open House.
That means madness in the Smith house. Linda gets
a little crazy with the amount of work to do. We put in
17 hour days. Money we have yet to earn is spent at
a wild pace. I only need to concentrate on creating
magnificent paintings, no pressure there.
For the past few days Linda has been putting 6,500
labels on envelopes while mumbling about the cost of
postage. Luckily she is in another room so she is not
messing with my painting vibe. After 24 open houses, we
have a routine down. I leave for a show and come back
to piles of completed work! We try to stay out of each
others way. This is a really big deal. It is a huge
investment in invitations, postage, frames/supplies, new prints,
food and wine...all on the gamble that
"if I paint it...they will come" Oh...and buy!

Since I am working on major paintings I will not get
a blog painted every day. But I will try to show you
what I am working on. For today, I have an 11"x22"
window with blue bottles. I am showing you the whole
thing taped down to a painting board with my paint
colors dabbled on the sides. If you click on it, it will get
larger. Notice the pencil guide lines.
Comments or questions are always welcome!

"Shaker Bench"

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

After a busy weekend showing plus
working on a large painting, I went
with a subject I know well. I just
was not up to a challange today but
I wanted to keep up with my blog.
I fell back on a Shaker scene.

Evening #6

4" x 6" original watercolor $225.00
contact: andy@andysmithartist.com

We have had rain here the past few days
and this reminded me of passing storms.
This is a busy weekend.
Porchwalk starts tomorrow...
Oct. 12 & 13
Lititz Artisans' Porchwalk
Fri. & Sat. Featuring 33 artist & craftsman
on 5 porches in downtown Lititz, PA. FREE!
We are stop #5 Linda will be in charge here!
info...www.moravianmanor.org/artisan.htm

I leave in the morning for a show in VA.

Oct. 13 & 14 Virginia Fall Foliage Festival
Sat. & Sun. Held on the streets of
downtown Waynesboro, VA
Sat. 10am-5pm and Sun. noon-5pm
www.vafallfoliagefestart.org/home.htm

New Prints...

The decision has been made and the paintings are
at the printer. All last week I worked on the third
possibility and never got to share it with you. So you
are seeing the new pieces for the first time today. The
prints will not be available until the invitation goes in
the mail which is November 1st.

"Garden Club"











Still thinking about a title for this one...
maybe "Summer Gifts"












A word about printing. I am rather picky about
my printing. I am not sold on Giclee's and I am
definitely not interested in computer laser printing.
I still print the old fashion 4 color off-set lithography
method, where you need a loop to see the dot pattern.
I print all 450 at one time and I am present for the
printing and can make changes. I match color as close
to the original as possible. I print in the same size as I
painted the original. When they get to the studio, I
personally sign and number them.

The originals will be sold via auction bids. If you are
not on my snail mail mailing list send me your address
and you will receive an invitation to my Open House
and the new print info.

OK, that's it for tonight, back to the paints.
I am working on a 14x18 piece.
I will get a blog painting done tomorrow in between
the craftsman coming to set up for Porchwalk and the
long "honey do" list Linda has for me!

Bush River #2

6" x 4" original watercolor $250.00
contact: andy@andysmithartist.com

Another watercolor painted "Plein Air"
from the Bush River in Abingdon, MD

I have a 9AM appointment with my
printer tomorrow. That means I will
be working late putting the finishing
touches on the two paintings we
decided on.

Bush River

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

I actually sat out and painted this scene from
life! We artists call that Plein Air!
I rarely get the time to do that. It was
the view from my camper window. We stayed
at Bar Harbor RV Park in Abingdon, MD.

Our weekend plans did not exactly work as planned,
they rarely do. It was to be a hunt for new subject
material and inspiration. The plan was to take lots
of new photographs. Friday we stopped in New
Castle, DE and of course the beautiful weekend started
out overcast. I kept telling Linda it was morning fog
and would burn off. By noon it was drizzling! So, not
much picture taking. We then drove to our camp site.
I am surprised we both have been enjoying our camping
experience. I think it is the quiet. Learning to just sit.
Without a TV, you go to bed early so you are actually
rested. Saturday we drove into Annapolis. We planned
to park in the Navy Stadium, and when we pulled up there
were thousands of cars lined up to park. Well... maybe not
thousands but it was a lot. Who knew it was boat show
weekend. But we are troopers, paid our $10 to park. Got
on the free bus and went downtown. I thought Linda
would have a stroke, now there really were thousands of
people walking around. You could not walk on the sidewalks.
I am guessing we were there 30 minutes when I nicely
suggested we leave. Linda was back on the bus so fast I
almost lost her! So it was back to the campsite to try to
regain the serenity we lost. That's when I painted this scene.
Sunday we took our good old time and drove the long way
to Montchanin, DE. The good husband that I am had given
Linda a gift certificate for her favorite Inn. Men, if you need
a treat for your wife I highly recommend this place, but you
will dig deep into your wallet.
Check it out... www.montchanin.com
We returned today with enough time to take Jason back to
Hershey School. He had a weekend break. It has been a
tough adjustment for him but I believe he is getting the hang
of it. He looked great and went back willingly.
Tonight I attended a meeting at our local school, it seems
they have been having racial trouble and I wanted to hear
what they had to say. I decided they definitely need our
prayers. I am now back at my desk with paintbrush in
hand until 11PM.

Ladderback

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

I went with muted shades of brown today.

I had to squeeze my blog painting between
taking Mom to an appointment, a client visiting
the studio, and an evening dinner with friends.
I actually finished the blog at our friends house.

No show this weekend!! A break, however, we
are going on a hunt for new subjects. We are
leaving Friday morning, the first stop is
New Castle, DE historic district.
Saturday heading to Annapolis, MD and Sunday
to Ladew Topiary Gardens also in MD.

Gourds & Pumpkins

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

Part of my Fall Collection. I saw these at my
local farmers market. The sun was bouncing
off the bowl offering wonderful light and good depth.


Well, I managed to get to my doctors appointment
without bumping into our President, and I am happy
to report I am in good health. Other than that little
outing I have been glued to my chair diligently
painting, with plans to continue till about 11PM.

Blue Pottery on a Blue Chest

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

It is an interesting study to paint two objects
that are so close in color range and still have
them remain two separate items.

I also worked on another large painting.
It is the last one in the running as a possibility
to print.
Linda and I worked in the yard a bit tonight.
It was a beautiful evening. We need to get the
property all tidy and decorated for next weeks
"Porchwalk" For more info:
http://www.moravianmanor.org/artisan.htm

President Bush is comming to my town tomorrow.
We have an airport close by and they are blocking
roads in all directions. I have a doctors appointment
and it is across from the airport. It is just a blood
pressure check but I think it may be elavated
just from trying to get there!

I just had to stop writing this blog, my Mom called
and asked if I could come back to her shes having
a problem. I felt a rush of panic (Moms 85 and lives
in a cottage on our property) So we both ran back
expecting something bad...
She could not open her trash bag to put it in the
waste can... Ahhh the life of a good son.
Back to my painting, I plan to paint till 11PM
tonight. Ahhh the life of an artist!

13 Colonies Flag

6" x 4" original watercolor
SOLD

The color combinations is what attracted me
to this painting. The clear blue sky. I also am
into history so the 13 colonies flag intrigued
me. If you want a little info about the flag,
check out this site:
http://members.aol.com/MMichon/July4th3.html
I worked on this painting at my show over the weekend.
Which by the way was good! I also was able to connect
with an old friend who I don't get to see as often as I like
because they moved away. They have been buying
my paintings since 1989. Their dedicated support has
always come in when I most needed it. Thats what makes
my painting worthwhile...the friends I have made.

Friday update...

I was not able to paint today because I left
early to set up for my show in New Jersey.
This week I was able to finish my large Bittersweet
painting and get 3 blog pieces done plus keep up
with my teaching schedule. It may not sound like
much but I was hustling.

Next week I start a new series of classes, Tuesday
mornings from 9:30 to 11:30. Call if your interested.
I am not going to have evening classes for now because
I need to paint!

Linda and her girlfriend went to
www.chanticleergarden.org to visit the gardens
for the day. It was recommended by a client.
They had a great time. She thought it was well worth it
and they plan to go back several times next year
as the plants bloom. Should be interesting to
see what photos she took for me to paint!

The Show: SEPT 29 & 30
COLTS NECK ART & CRAFTS FESTIVAL
Held at the Colts Neck Fairgrounds,
Bucks Mill Rd, Colts Neck, NJ
10AM to 5PM ~ this is a pretty crafty show
but I usually have a good following.

Evening #5

4" x 6" original watercolor
SOLD

The leaves are turning.
A harvest moon...
Another in my fall collection.