Take a break for beauty and check out the delicate works on paper produced by artist Anne Moore. Or better yet, come to her show at Sandstone Gallery in Laguna Beach this Thursday evening. Details inside.

Once again I painted live (in front of people) for an event highlighting the plight of the world’s orphans. Again I made oversized faces. Appropriate, perhaps, for an oversized challenge. Take a moment and consider the art, and the children.

It’s a bit of a wonder, the creative process. First there’s nothing, then there’s something. Like magic . . . though it’s not a trick.

We went to Oregon for three weeks of painting and printmaking. It was a time and a place “set apart,” as suggested in the title’s adjective. Here’s a brief overview and a peek at the art made.

Here’s an update on things visual, including our plans for an Oregon studio get away (with link for you to check out) and a time-lapse video of an hour-long portrait condensed to just one minute.

Here’s a quick look at work sold in 2011, and an invitation to subscribe to Blank Slate, a new blog on the art called “life.”

This issue we’re sharing six works that didn’t pass muster in a local competition and some thoughts about doing well anyhow. It’s something for all of us.

Here’s a brief e-gallery with only one picture (of 15 paintings). It’s announcing our studio show this weekend. Come if you can; you’ll love it, and we’d love to see you.

Always exploring new subjects and ways to paint them, this month it’s abstract landscapes, another way to experience beauty. And we’re inviting you to our open studio show, coming up November 12 and 13. Further info inside.

Here’s a look at the progress of a custom painting with custom colors for a custom space. It’s a sample of what can be done. Our environments can be made beautiful. If it gives you any ideas, let me know.