Painting Each Day

Trumpet

2012-01-29T12:23:00.004-05:00

Trumpet
1 meter x 80 cm

Well, it's been two months since I've posted on my Painting Each Day blog ... and I do apologize for that ... but, I have created only one 6" x 6" painting since then. I've been working on larger paintings of instruments ... including the Red Violin, Saxophone (2) and Trumpet (seen here).

I enjoy painting these paintings. The new series * JAZZ * will feature paintings measuring 1 meter x 80 cm. That's approximately 39.5 inches by 31.5 inches. It was necessary to have custom stretchers built because I want these paintings created in metric sizes (I checked nationally and I could not find any stretchers in metric). The reason being is that I have beautiful 3.5" silver frames that work well with these paintings and they were created for my first 'Jazz' series. They were built to the 1 meter x 80 cm specs.

I'm hoping for what would be my 5th exhibition in Europe to take place this summer. Preferably in Antibes Juan les Pins and preferably during the fabulous 'Jazz a Juan' festival. Trust me on this ... it's Paradise. C'est paradis sur terre ...

My next painting will be the Soprano Saxophone in honor of Sidney Bechet. I listen to my Sidney Bechet cds in my studio with the 'Midnight in Paris' dvd playing on my laptop. To me, 'Midnight in Paris' is the perfect film. Thank you Monsieur Woody Allen !!! I'm still waiting for the Sidney Bechet sheet music to arrive from France to complete the background for this painting.

The Clarinet, Trombone and 'high hat with brushes' are also on 'the list'. I'm hoping for a collection of 10 or 12 instruments. Suggestions are welcome !

Feel free to comment if you would like. I appreciate your opinions and observations.

As I complete these * JAZZ * paintings, I will post them for you to see ... Merci et bon Jazz !

Les trois tomates • The three tomatoes

2011-11-29T12:13:00.006-05:00

Les trois tomates • The three tomatoes • sold

The tomato originated in the New World and was brought to Europe by the early Spanish explorers. For much of its early existence in Europe, the tomato was considered poisonous and was used only as an ornamental plant. What may not be as well known is how pervasive the tomato is in modern times in French cuisine.

The tomato, tomate in French, first came to Provence from Italy in the last half of the eighteenth century. It was a group of Provençales who introduced Paris to the tomato on July 14, 1790 as part of an early celebration of the new republic.

For a fabulous and delicious French Tomato Tart recipe by David Lebovitz, please click on the following link:

French Tomato Tart

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

If you visit my comprehensive website, click on 'site map' (under my name on the left panel) and you can see all of the Painting Each Day paintings at one time.

If you would like to purchase a 6" x 6" oil painting on stretched canvas that you see on this site, or commission a painting that is special to you, please email me.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

La pomme verte • The green apple

2011-11-28T17:59:00.005-05:00

La pomme verte • The green apple • sold

Continuing with my 'Hommage à la France • 'Hommage à Antibes' ... I present to you 'La pomme verte • The green apple'.

Normandy is a major cider-producing region (very little wine is produced). Perry is also produced, but in less significant quantities. Apple brandy, of which the most famous variety is calvados, is also popular.

The mealtime trou normand, or "Norman hole", is a pause between meal courses in which diners partake of a glassful of calvados in order to improve the appetite and make room for the next course, and this is still observed in many homes and restaurants. Pommeau is an apéritif produced by blending unfermented cider and apple brandy. Another aperitif is the kir normand, a measure of crème de cassis topped up with cider. Bénédictine is produced in Fécamp.

Apples are also widely used in cooking: for example, moules à la normande are mussels cooked with apples and cream, bourdelots are apples baked in pastry, partridges are flamed with reinette apples, and localities all over the province have their own variation of apple tart. A classic pastry dish from the region is Norman Tart a pastry-based variant of the apple tart.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Pomegranate IV

2011-11-18T11:22:00.003-05:00

Pomegranate IV

So ... if you just happen to be at Steel Stacks this weekend, I will be painting there. There are lots and lots of beautiful pieces of artwork from local artists including paintings, jewelry, raku, wood carvings, photographs, ceramics and more ...

It's a wonderful comprehensive collection of great works. I hope to see YOU there !

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Pomegranate III

2011-11-14T08:43:00.005-05:00

Pomegranate III • sold

Taking the bus ...

Well, Thursday evening I was driving home from my studio in Bethlehem. I was about two blocks from my home when I was driving under the train trestle. Well, I heard a huge noise ... not unlike an airplane motor ... and thought Wow is that train loud. Well, as it turned out the loud noise was my car. Ouch. I did make it home and the next day had my 20 year old but always very reliable car towed to my mechanic's shop. Well, now it's Monday and I still haven't heard a peep. I'm thinking they're still totaling up the bill. Ouch again.

Now, having read this, if you come to my studio at the Banana Factory and see a painting that you just MUST have - for yourself or a loved one - please make a fair offer and I'll probably even do a little better than that - 'In keepin' with the situation!' as Mrs. Dilbert expressed to Scrooge ...

For now, I'm donning my running shoes and heading out the door for the 6.9 mile walk. It'll do me good ... fresh air, exercise ... and I'll be saving $2.00 if I don't take the bus. In Antibes I walked many, many miles each day ... sadly, walking from Allentown to Bethlehem is just not the same as walking around the Cap d'Antibes ... the blue skies, the even bluer water, the yachts, the palm trees, the grand estates ... the aroma of lavender in the air ...

Ahhh, one can dream, can't one ?

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Pomegranate II

2011-11-11T13:59:00.005-05:00

Pomegranate II • sold

This is the second of five pomegranate paintings that I have completed this week. Now this is a beautiful fruit !! Its beautiful exotic nature, its wonderful juice and seeds and its extraordinary deep red and alizaron color. You can taste the richness by just gazing upon it.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Pomegranate

2011-11-09T08:36:00.005-05:00

Pomegranate • sold

Perhaps stemming from the old French word for the fruit, pomme-grenade, the pomegranate was known in early English as "Apple of Grenada".

Pomegranate Pear Cocktail

2 ozs pomegranate juice

2 ozs vodka (pear)

ice 1 Place ice in a glass. 2 Shake juice and vodka together and pour over ice. 3 Serve.

How easy is that ? Mmmm I could go for a Pomegranate Pear Cocktail right now !

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Les Deux Anjou

2011-11-04T08:23:00.006-04:00

Les Deux Anjou • this painting is sold

Spiced Red Wine-Poached Pears

Total Time: 3 hr 50 min
Prep 20 min
Inactive 3 hr
Cook 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Level: Intermediate

Ingredients 2 cups dry red wine, such as cabernet or merlot
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar 1 orange, juiced (about 1/2 cup)
1 (1 by 3-inch) strip orange zest
1 cinnamon stick
2 cloves
4 firm, ripe pears

Directions

In a 4-quart saucepan, combine wine, sugar, orange juice, zest, cinnamon stick and cloves. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. While liquid is simmering, peel pears, leaving stem intact and being careful not to blemish the flesh of the pears.

Slice 1/2-inch off the bottom of the pears to create a flat bottom. Gently place pears in poaching liquid, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even color, until pears are cooked but still firm.

Remove saucepan from flame, uncover and cool with pears upright in pan. Once cool, cover and chill in refrigerator at least 3 hours or up to 24 hours, turning occasionally, if desired.

Gently remove pears from liquid and allow to come to room temperature. Meanwhile, reduce liquid by about half over a medium-high flame for 15 minutes, until liquid is thicker and slightly syrupy. Remove from flame and let liquid come to room temperature. Drizzle each pear with 2 tablespoons syrup and serve.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Pear

2011-11-03T18:13:00.006-04:00

Pear • this painting is sold

Continuing with my 'hommage à France'

Here is yet another pear. I'm taking all of my 'unsold' 'Painting Each Day' paintings to the 'Cocktails and Collecting' event at the Allentown Art Museum of the Lehigh Valley. It will be my third time as an exhibiting artist. It's a FANTASTIC event .... so much Fun !!

So ... I do hope that I see YOU there .... we'll listen to great live Jazz, sip the cocktail of your choice ... mine will be one Bourbon Manhattan with two cherries at the end of the evening ... and let's find the perfect home for the perfect painting.

See you there mes Amis !!

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Green Apple, Red Pear

2011-11-02T19:53:00.006-04:00

Green Apple, Red Pear • sold

You might have noticed that I didn't post comments since October 27th ... well ... that was because I spent Trick or Treat evening with my beautiful great nieces .... AND .... then on Saturday, October 29th, we had a very heavy and wet snowfall in the northeast. We still had lots of beautiful Autumn leaves on the trees and with the heavy snow it created a perfect storm of downed power lines. Electricity returned just yesterday for me ... ouch.

Because of the storm I couldn't even visit my studio ... doors were locked, no way to enter. Sooo ... I lit the candles and played my beautiful antique Baby Grand piano - Brambach nee 1934.

I played the complete score of 'Yentle' several times (Michel LaGrand) and the beautiful and haunting 'It's not Mozart' ... composed by Hans Zimmer and translated for piano as a gift to me from my lovely friend Julia. I played all weekend and it was musical bliss for me. Each night after blowing out the candles, I covered my piano keys with the leather piano keys protector, a gift from Michaele and Conrad ... each of these friends from my beloved Schwaebisch Gmuend, Germany.

The only thing missing ... my future husband ... maybe by the time we have another power outage, he will have found me ... J'espére ...

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Deux Poires Rouges

2011-10-27T09:22:00.007-04:00

Deux Poires Rouges • sold

Gâteau aux Poires

2 pounds pears 100 g butter
250 g confectioners sugar
juice of 1/2 lemon
2 tsp Calvados or Pear Schnaps
250 g flour
1 1/2 tbsp backing powder
3 egg yolks
125 ml milk
1/2 tsp vanilla
a bit salt
28 cm pie plate

Preheat the oven to 350°F and butter the pie plate very well and sprinkle with sugar. Peel and core the apples and cut them in thin slivers. Melt 1/2 of the butter in a pot and add pears and 1/3 of the sugar, the Calvados and let caramelize. Take out the pears and keep the remaining liquid and let it reduce to a nice syrup.

On a clean counter pile up the flour and baking powder and make a well add the remaining ingredients and with your fingertips form a dough and fill in to prepared pie plate. Arrange the pear slice nicely on the cake.

Bake 30-40 min till the dough is golden brown. Minutes before you take the cake out sprinkle with a bit Calvados and salt if you like! Drizzle with the syrup and let bake a bit. Let the cake rest couple of minutes and serve with whipped cream or crème fraîche.

Enjoy It tastes best eaten the same day - but you can also keep it up to two days in a cake tin.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Perrier

2011-10-26T10:26:00.004-04:00

Perrier • sold

I remember my first taste of sparkling mineral water. It was several years ago ... I was artist in residence in Schwaeabisch Gmuend, Germany. The sparkling mineral water was heavier than tap water and refreshingly bubbly ... it tasted great and made me feel great. Each morning when I was artist in residence in Antibes, France, I started my day with sparkling mineral water ... and then took my two hour brisk walk around the Cap. It made me feel sharp and healthy and alive.

The spring in Southern France from which Perrier is drawn was called Les Bouillens. It has been used as a spa since Roman times. Local doctor Louis Perrier bought the spring in 1898 and operated a commercial spa there; he also bottled the water for sale. He later sold the spring to Sir Saint-John Harmsworth, a wealthy British visitor.

Harmsworth was the younger brother of the newspaper magnates Lord Northcliffe and Lord Rothermere. He had come to France to learn the language. Dr. Perrier showed him the spring, and he decided to buy it. He sold his share of the family newspapers to raise the money. Harmsworth closed the spa, as spas were becoming unfashionable. He renamed the spring Source Perrier and started bottling the water in distinctive green bottles. The shape was that of the Indian clubs Harmsworth used for exercise.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Angostura Bitters

2011-10-25T13:58:00.005-04:00

Angostura Bitters * this painting is sold

Well, I am happy to report that this little 6" x 6" oil painting has a new home ... in Trinidad ! More exactly, at the ANGOSTURA company itself !!

My Grandma used to mix a great 'Old Fashioned' and then sit on her porch across from West Park and sip and enjoy and listen to the Allentown Band ! How wonderful those times must have been ... to sit across from the park, set up the card table, play some Bridge and enjoy. I still wish that I lived in that beautiful home ... where my Father and Aunt Betty were born ...

When Hess' Department store closed its doors (then The BonTon) several years ago, my brothers and sisters and I visited 'The Patio' on its last day ... and we sipped Old Fashioneds ... what a great drink ! Those people really knew how to enjoy themselves back in the day. And, I enjoy the taste of Bourbon too so .... maybe tonight on my way home I'll stop at Pistachio Bar and Grille (where my cocktail paintings hang) and treat myself to an Old Fashioned and think of Grandma.

Thank You Angostura !! I appreciate it ! Cheers !

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Two Pears

2011-10-24T09:52:00.003-04:00

Two Pears • sold

If Apples Were Pears

If Apples Were Pears
And peaches were plums
And the rose had a different name
If tigers were bears
And fingers were thumbs
I’d love you just the same.

-Anonymous

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Brer Rabbit Molasses

2011-10-23T10:20:00.003-04:00

Brer Rabbit Molasses

This is possibly the fourth time I painted a bottle of Brer Rabbit Molasses. My Mother used to keep a bottle on the pantry shelves lining the steps to our basement. I don't remember what she used it for ... maybe pancakes and desserts ... Wouldn't it be the best gift to go back in time and have that chance to bake with your Mother ...

Brer Rabbit Spiced Fruit Cobbler

Ingredients

4 cups apples and/or pears, unpeeled and sliced
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
1 1/2 tsps. baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup BRER RABBIT Molasses, light or dark
1 egg
2 tbls. margarine, melted
nonfat vanilla yogurt, optional

Directions

In 8x8x2 inch baking dish, arrange fruit; set aside.

In medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder and cinnamon. Stir in milk, molasses, egg and margarine just until blended (Batter will be lumpy). Pour batter evenly over fruit. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Serve warm topped with yogurt if desired. Makes 9 servings.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

ILE de FRANCE • Le Brie

2011-10-22T09:55:00.013-04:00

ILE de FRANCE • Le Brie • this painting is sold

This is the 576th painting completed in my 'Painting Each Day' project (actually there are lots more but I didn't document them ...)

In 1936, Ile de France Brie was brought to the United States aboard the famed Ile de France ocean liner - the first refrigerated sea vessel. It was the first time Americans had access to the delicate French fromage. Ile de France takes its name from the famous ship and continues to supply authentic French Brie to American cheese lovers.

The Ile de France Ocean Liner

The SS Ile de France was a French ocean liner built in Saint-Nazaire, France for the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique (CGT). Known to cheese lovers as the first ship to carry Brie Cheese to the United States (it also was the first ship ever equipped with refrigeration) it had a long and illustrious story beyond its role in the history of fromage.

The first major ocean liner built after World War I, it is often considered the most beautifully decorated ship ever built by the CGT and was the first ocean liner decorated entirely in the Art Deco style.

The Ile de France was launched in 1926 at the Penhoët shipyard and was greeted by thousands of government officials as well as workers, journalists and French citizens.

In 1927, the Ile de France traveled from Le Havre for its maiden voyage to New York, where it received great attention from American media. A crowd of thousands congregated at the docks to see it.

Later, the ship served members of the American and British military after being converted to a troop ship in 1941. It would serve the Allied interests until September 1945.

In 1947, it was returned to France and underwent a two-year reconstruction to once again become a luxury passenger ship. It played a major role in a 1956 rescue operation after a collision between two other passenger liners near Nantucket. About 750 out of the 1,706 passengers and crewmembers on the Andrea Doriawere ship were taken aboard the Ile de France during a six hour rescue operation.

By 1959, air travel had become commonplace and business for posh ocean liners was rapidly declining. The last public appearance of the Ile de France was as a floating prop for a Hollywood film - "The Last Voyage." After filming ended the ship was taken to a scrap yard.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Christmas Bulb Earrings

2011-10-20T13:58:00.006-04:00

Christmas Bulb Earrings • this painting is sold

Well, today marks 65 days until Christmas. Sooo ... if you are considering a hand painted gift exclusively for that 'special someone', just let me know. I have painted fruits, vegetables, flowers and plants. I've painted board games, sports items and items in jars and cans and wrappers and bags. I've painted instruments and ballet slippers ... sneakers and hats and earrings and brooches. I've painted cat toys and toys for children. I've painted antiques and modern items ... and mostly everything under the sun.

If you would be interested in owning - or giving - one of my 'Painting Each Day' paintings, just let me know. You can check out my website and click on the link 'site map' under my name on the left panel to give you some ideas ... just scroll down to the 1000 6"x6" paintings listed there. Or maybe you already have an idea of what you would like ... perhaps it's something that I haven't already painted ...

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

If you visit my comprehensive website, click on 'site map' (under my name on the left panel) and you can see all of the Painting Each Day paintings at one time.

If you would like to purchase a 6" x 6" oil painting on stretched canvas that you see on this site, or commission a painting that is special to you, please email me.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Corkscrew and Cork

2011-10-19T15:17:00.005-04:00

Corkscrew and Cork

Well, we had a great time at the Bacchanalia on Saturday ! That is a great event ! With the price of admission you are treated to several delicious restaurants from the Lehigh Valley including Cactus Blue, Bolete, Blue Sky Café, Tally Ho, Sal's, Molly's, Claudio's and Yianni's ... AND each restaurant is paired with a lovely wine.

All that while listening to the fabulous The Gary Rissmiller Trio ... nothin' better than great food, great wine and great jazz !

Hopefully we will see you next year - get your tickets early because they sell out fast !

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

If you visit my comprehensive website, click on 'site map' (under my name on the left panel) and you can see all of the Painting Each Day paintings at one time.

If you would like to purchase a 6" x 6" oil painting on stretched canvas that you see on this site, or commission a painting that is special to you, please email me.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

GOYA Capers

2011-10-14T08:50:00.003-04:00

GOYA Capers

Goya was started in a small storefront in Lower Manhattan, New York, catering to local Hispanic families by distributing Spanish foods such as olives, olive oil and sardines. Driven by the belief that there was a growing consumer market for high-quality, fresh-tasting, Latino foods, the Unanues infused their personal philosophy throughout the company. This commitment to excellence is the cornerstone of Goya's popular credo, "If it's Goya, it has to be good". The result of this simple, yet deeply resonant pledge is the evolution of Goya Foods into a leader in the Latin American food industry, with operations spanning the globe.

Chicken Breasts in Caper Cream Sauce

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 teaspoon lemon pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried dill weed
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup whipping cream
2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed

Directions

Season chicken breasts with lemon pepper, salt, dill weed, and garlic powder.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place breasts in skillet, and increase heat to medium-high. Turn chicken frequently, until brown, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium, and cook 5 to 7 minutes, until breasts are cooked through. Remove chicken to a warm serving platter, and cover with foil.
Return skillet to stove, and increase heat to high. Whisk in whipping cream, whisking continuously until reduced to sauce consistency, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in capers. Pour sauce over chicken, and serve.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Lime Wedges

2011-10-12T11:24:00.004-04:00

Lime Wedges • this painting is sold

Le Margarita Des Artistes Drink Type: Cocktail

Ingredients

1 1/2 oz. Cuervo Tequila
1/4 oz. Grand Marnier
1/2 Lime (Juice of, fresh)
1 splash Triple Sec
1 splash Orange Juice
2 drops Vermouth
1 oz. Sour Mix

Instructions Shake to a froth and pour into a chilled and salted up-glass.

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

If you visit my comprehensive website, click on 'site map' (under my name on the left panel) and you can see all of the Painting Each Day paintings at one time.

If you would like to purchase a 6" x 6" oil painting on stretched canvas that you see on this site, or commission a painting that is special to you, please email me.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Apples 2

2011-10-11T11:25:00.003-04:00

Apples 2 • this painting is sold

I am happy to say that I am beginning my Painting Each Day project again ... after a short hiatus this summer. I painted all larger scale paintings and now look forward to my daily discipline of affordable paintings. It's nice for me to know that mostly anyone can afford one of my Daily Paintings.

I also accept commissions ... sooo ... if you have a nostalgic idea, don't hesitate to drop me an email. They make very nice and personal gifts ... and the holidays will be here before you know it.

If you're a little short on ideas, check out my website where you can view many, many of the Painting Each Day paintings.

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

If you visit my comprehensive website, click on 'site map' (under my name on the left panel) and you can see all of the Painting Each Day paintings at one time.

If you would like to purchase a 6" x 6" oil painting on stretched canvas that you see on this site, or commission a painting that is special to you, please email me.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

If you have found this entry through a search engine and would like to see the complete Painting Each Day blog, just click on PAINTING EACH DAY at the top of this page

Apples

2011-10-10T13:10:00.004-04:00

Apples • this painting is sold

So, after a summer break from my 6x6 painting project, I have now rededicated myself and am beginning again. I did create many larger works over the summer and even organized an exhibition in Schwaebisch Gmuend of my 'Parade People' paintings. They can be found on my comprehensive website listed below:

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Over the summer I also participated in an exhibition in the Cote d'Azur entitled 'Art et Vin'. The painting 'Enchantément' was featured at the Chateau de Saint Martin in Taradeau, Var. It is incredibly beautiful there ... and happily six of my cocktail prints sold to boot !

I am pleased to say that this painting 'Apples' and another that I have previously painted are sold and will be brought to beautiful France. That makes me very happy.

So ... after painting 1000 6x6 paintings, I begin again. Please feel free to visit my blogging website to see what the latest painting will be. If you would like one for your home or office ... or maybe for a friend or to bring to your favorite foreign country, just drop me an email. I also take commissions in case you have something specific in mind.

If you visit my comprehensive website, click on 'site map' (under my name on the left panel) and you can see all of the Painting Each Day paintings at one time.

If you would like to purchase a 6" x 6" oil painting on stretched canvas that you see on this site, or commission a painting that is special to you, please email me.

These paintings are priced at $100.00 plus s/h.

info@annelizabethschlegel.com

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

Thank You!

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10th Anniversary • Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival

2011-09-09T09:11:00.009-04:00

Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival * 10th Anniversary !!

My 'art' booth

So tomorrow we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival !!

And, once again, I am proud to be the 'featured artist' of the event. Each year I design their poster. So ... I must get ready, pack my car and begin the 2 hour and 45 minute trek to upstate New York. It's a beautiful festival ... and there's lots to do ... Great food, wine, entertainment ... and art !

I hope to see YOU there ... let's toast with a nice glass of Rosé !

See you this weekend

Ann

www.hudsonvalleywinefest.com

Auf Wiedersehen beautiful Schwaebisch Gmuend

2011-08-30T16:43:00.010-04:00

Dinner with Barbara, Michael and Felix at the Roten Löwen

Last night, Monday, I was happy to share dinner with my friends Michael and Barbara .. and also to see their sons - Max and Felix - turn into young men. I met them 10 years ago in my studio in Bethlehem, PA. And since then, we have shared great moments and great laughs ... and even with the passing of the years, it's like we've just picked up where we left off ...

Thank you Michael and Barbara ... you are cherished friends ... and I look forward to seeing you soon ... xoxoxo

Michaele, Benedikt and Conrad

I wanted to spend my last evening with Michaele, Conrad and Benedikt. From the very first moment I arrived in Schwaebisch Gmuend - eight years ago - they have been my wonderful, kind and loving friends.

It still captures my never ending curiosity to walk through their beautiful shop and admire their creative ideas turned into beautiful objects d'art. Fantastic. They're the best. Nix Besser as my Dad would have said. I explained to another friend in Schwaebisch Gmuend, Conrad and Michaele are in some ways as Jean Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle ... they can create wonderful creations from found objects ... turning the something into the something great ... The highest quality is natural to them ... but, with that said, also they are humble and kind and generous and sweet and loving and funny .... and I am so very happy to not only call them 'friend' but to really be friends ...

Thank you Conrad and Michaele ... you are very dear to me as you know ... It was a great GREAT time in beautiful Schwaebisch Gmuend ... xoxoxoxo Love, Ann

Benedikt's socks ... made by his Grandmother ... Michaele's Mother ... ahhh comfort

Laughter and Happiness

These are the flags of the sister cities of Schwaebisch Gmuend. And I, for one, am SO very happy to be a sister of Schwaebisch Gmuend ... for ever ...

Schwaebisch Hall

2011-08-30T16:14:00.007-04:00

Willkommen to Schwaebisch Hall

Conrad, Michaele and I traveled to Schwaebisch Hall ... a winding road through the country side ... through villages and up and down picturesque hills and valleys ... a beautiful drive ...

We arrived in about an hour to Schwaebisch Hall ... there was a very thorough and important exhibition celebrating Niki de Saint Phalle at The Kunsthalle Würth in Schwäbisch Hall. It was fantastic to say the least ... and I was very happy to have taken it all in ...

Conrad offered to take my photo in the mirror of one of Niki de Saint Phalle's outdoor sculptures ... ok ... I'm looking ... I see my scarf, Conrad's hand, my camera ... Hmmm ... Conrad - where is my head ?! Maybe it's better this way ...

After the Niki de Saint Phalle exhibition, we ate at this beautiful Indian restaurant: Indian Forum

Check out my dejeuner ... the curry was delish ... and all of these tastes ... sooo lovely ... and a beer from India as well ! Danke Conrad and Michaele - it was sooo very nice to be here with You !

My Father loved tulips ... and my Mother loved white daisies ... but one day I heard my Father say 'I like Tuberous Begonias' ... and here they were outside the Indian restaurant ... It's a good feeling to see these beautiful reminders of my beautiful Parents ...

The very pretty town of Schwaebisch Hall

These steps are home to 'Shakespeare' performances

Michaele

ok ... well, I get the thought behind it ... BUT ... I cannot imagine for the life of me that this would feel good between the toes .... just watch ... next year I will be wearing these everywhere !!

City Hall - Rathaus

I love these incredible sculptures ... and they are everywhere where a sculpture would be appreciated ... This is great on the steps ... you can feel the pull and resistance ... AND it's a railing for gosh sakes !!

After a beautiful today together ... we head for home ...

Germany ... traveling to Strümpfelbach

2011-08-28T17:13:00.016-04:00

Willkommen to Strümpfelbach

Today Conrad, Michaele and I traveled to Strümpfelbach. It's a beautiful and quaint village with many, many houses of wine ... and today, there just happend to be a great wine festival. BUT, before we would partake in the eating and drinking, Conrad and Michaele treated me to a walk up the hill with the vines ... and WHAT a hill it is !!

So here is just one of the hills filled with vines ... taken from our soon to be 'after' destination ... the party ! Yes, it is true, we DID walk all the way up this hill ... but, with that said, there was a lovely walking path that winds its way so you don't have to go straight up. Well, that is, until Michaele said 'hey wait, we didn't see THAT sculpture ... and then up the steep, STEEP steps we climbed ... straight up. But now I can say that I did it ... and then could afterwards eat and drink guilt free ... semi guilt free that is.

Here's Conard and Michaele sitting on a sculpture bench. I should mention that these bronze sculptures are the works of Karl-Ulrich Nuss and they are FABulous !! And ... there are a lot of them ... throughout the town ... but also up on the path throughout the vineyard. Incredible !!

Ready for harvest

The view from up on the hill

A favorite of Michaele's ... me too !

What an incredible stroll ...

Conrad's new buddy

Looking down into the village

Love in the afternoon ... in the vineyard

from the atelier of Karl-Ulrich Nuss

stopping to cluck 'Guten Tag' to the chickens

Bacchus ... at first sight I though it was a sculpture of a woman 'in the family way' ... but then upon closer inspection ...

I think I know the model for this sculpture !!

Ahhhh time for Italian style brick oven pizza and wine !

Saying 'hi' to the band !

We had the great pleasure of meeting the sculpture artist (right) Karl-Ulrich Nuss and the owner of the Weingut Kuhnle (vintner and wine fest) - Werner Kuhnle ... lucky, LUCKY us !!

Werner Kuhnle giving us a private tour of the keller

Conrad, Mr. Wilhelm and Werner Kuhnle

Mr. Wilhelm was kind to show us the private collection of incredible sculptures of Karl-Ulrich Nuss ... FABULOUS to say the least !!

Me ... and a sculpture by Karl-Ulrich Nuss

What a great day today was !!! Blues skies, puffy white clouds, long walk up the terraced vineyards of Strümpfelbach ... taking in the incredible art, afterwards delicious pizza (flat bread with onions, cream and ham, grilled in a brick oven ... yummy !) two glasses of Riesling, meeting the Vintner AND the sculptor - FANtastic !!! ... but most of all, a day spent with friends ...

Nix Besser !!!

Strümpfelbach Wine Trail Video ... lovely !!

Last Evening in Antibes ... Traveling to Germany

2011-08-26T15:01:00.014-04:00

On the eve before my last evening in beautiful Antibes, Patricia, her brother Patrick and I took a walk down to the old village of Antibes ... just to sit and look at the harbour. Tranquility at its finest.

Patricia preparing dinner in her newly installed beautiful kitchen ! (almost complete)

Patrick helping with the mixing ...

Two Friends ...

Dinner on my last night ... my favorite: sautéed salmon with lemon and herbs

Steamed French green beans - haricot verts

And Voila !! An incredible dinner ... And incredible presentation ...

Bon Appétit !

Sooo ... waking up to this beautiful view ... including beautiful clouds

Patrick and Patricia were kind to drive me to the airport. Patricia suggested being photographed under the 'Arrival' sign ... as a good will gesture to return to Antibes soon.

Beautiful 'flight' sculpture in the Nice Airport ...

L'ENVOL Sculpteur: Kees Verkade ... 'l'envol' translates to 'soaring' ... breathtaking for sure !

I know it's weird, but I always take a photo of myself in the women's bathroom when I'm traveling. I usually have on this same beach coat ... and always carry my Olympus E620.

Nice Cote d'Azur Airport - women's bathroom, August 26th 2011

I think I do it because I'm not usually in my own photos ... and I need the justification that I actually was there ... although this could be any ol' bathroom ... n'est-ce pas?

Flying over the spectacular Cote d'Azur. Au Revoir beautiful Antibes ... I hope I see you soon ...

Hmmm ... what to have for brunch ... ?

Landing in Zurich, Switzerland

Arriving at Stuttgart ... taking the S Bahn (subway) and then catching the train ... to Schwaebisch Gmuend. Guten Tag !!

So, my friend Michaele was right. She encouraged me to go to Antibes for a couple weeks. After being a victim of a terrible robbery in the Cote d'Azur, I was a little hesitant to return ... at least with the same gusto that I had before. Michaele thought it would be a good idea ... to have another chance ... to restore my soul. Ok ... plane ticket purchased.

I had to wake up early, cart my 55 lb suitcase and 20 lbs carry-on to the train station (plus purse plus camera), catch the train, catch the subway, take two flights ... and then two buses ... and after many, many hours I arrived in beautiful Antibes ... just in time to lug my luggage all the way to my friend Patricia's office.

I enjoyed Antibes for two weeks ... and what enjoyment it was !!! I walked several miles each day, drank great wines, swam in the Mediterranean, hung with the artists of the Marché Provencal, ate delicious meals, 'worked' on my suntan, dined with friends, visited the 'Art et Vin' exhibition (the 'Enchantément' painting of mine is there - Chateau de Saint Martin, VAR, France) ... and ... well ... I could go on and on. It was paradise found. Again.

Thank you SO much Patricia. We had FUN !!! It was sooo nice to stay with you ... relaxed, late night talks, comfortable bed, beautiful vista views, great healthy dinners, long walks ... it was my pleasure to stay with you. I value our friendship so much. I thank you from the bottom of my heart and hope to see you soon ...

... and also you, beautiful Antibes ...

Bord de Mer

2011-08-23T04:16:00.008-04:00

Jacques and Michelle Kimmel

Continuing with our lovely day ...

After leaving the Chateau de Saint Martin, Jacques and Michelle treated Patricia and me to a ride along the sea coast ... from St. Raphael to Antibes. The weather was beautiful and we drove in the open air convertible.

Passing by the magnificent l'Esterel Mountains

... and the beautiful Mediterranean

We passed by the incredible Chateau de la Napoule ...

... and the 'French Kiss' café

... and the legendary 'Hotel Carlton' ... you might remember the 'French Kiss' scene filmed there

After our tour of the 'Bord de Mer' ... Jacques and Michelle treated us to a lovely dinner in their home ... and also treated us to this lovely bottle of Champagne ! They had saved it for six years and wanted to wait for the right occasion to 'pop the cork' .. how very nice of them !

... and they enlightened us with the 'Recipe of a Happy Union' ... dust off your French dictionaries !

It was a fantastic day !! One of the nicest I ever had in France ... and there were a lot of very nice days !!

Enchantèment and the Chateau de Saint Martin

2011-08-22T05:26:00.013-04:00

Michelle and Jacques Kimmel

I am happy to introduce you to Jacques and Michelle Kimmel. They are the creators and organizers of the exhibition 'Art et Vin'. I met them last year in Antibes and was invited to participate in the art contest. This participation resulted with my painting Enchantèment being included in 'Art et Vin' exhibition in the beautiful Chateau de Saint Martin. I was one of five artists ... three from France, one from Belgium ... et moi !

Today, Jacques and Michelle invited Patricia and myself to share the day together ... to enjoy a lovely 'dejeuner' in a beautiful restaurant ... and then visit the Chateau de Saint Martin to see the exhibition. Cool.

This is the lovely restaurant where we had our dejeuner: Restaurant le Brin d'Olivier.

Selecting our table for dejeuner

Beautiful buffet .... for us !!

My friend Patricia

The next course .... fish ... or stuffed chicken, fresh vegetables ... freshly baked bread

Cool sorbet for dessert

Chef Claude

Continuing our journey to the Chateau de Saint Martin

Chateau de Saint Martin

Strolling around the grounds of the Chateau de Saint Martin

Where the Comtesse lives ... avec le chien

Voila ! My painting 'Enchantèment' ... and 'Ms. Manhattan' nearby

The spectacular 'cave' ... very ancient and still being used today

The beautiful gift shop. The Chateau de Saint Martin presented me with a lovely bottle of rosé wine ... Merci beaucoup beautiful Chateau !!!

After the Chateau, Jacques and Michelle treated us to an open-air convertible ride along the Bord de Mer ... spectacular !!!!

... more to come !

www.chateaudesaintmartin.com

By the way, 'Enchantèment' has a price of 4000 euros ... which includes a very distinguished Provenance !

Today ... in Antibes

2011-08-18T20:09:00.011-04:00

Getting ready to head out for my long walk ...

This photo was taken in the beautiful Ambassadeur Hotel in Juan-les-Pins. One time last year I sat at the piano in their lounge and played 'Winter' composed by Tori Amos. After I had finished, a woman from Newport Beach said to me, and in front of her friends I might add, 'keep practicing, you'll get it' !!! Hah ... that was funny to me because I thought I had played it quite well ... even the bartender came over with a complimentary Heineken for me.

... maybe it was a ploy to get me to stop playing.

Just one of the beautiful cars along the way ... parked in front of Belle Rives

Hotel du Cap

... or otherwise known as Eden Roc. This hotel is stunning ... and my wish it to swim in the infinity pool ... sipping champagne with my future French husband.

Question ... what - or do I dare say 'who' - do you think the model was for the white posts out front ?

Continuing my walk around the Cap d'Antibes

Sunbathers in Antibes will rise to any challenge just to lie in the sun. Check out this woman ... she navigated all those rocks ... I just can't imagine that the spot she has chosen could be comfortable ! ?

More rock climbers - I wouldn't even begin to know how to get there !

Rounding the bend to this beautiful site ... la mer, boats ... and the old village of Antibes

So every Thursday there is a large open air market in old Antibes. I already bought so many beautiful Provencal tablecloths in prior years that it's difficult to get my tablecloth drawers closed. And, the nice man who I always buy my tablecloths from wasn't there this time. So ... I just walked around and looked.

I did end up buying a pearl (faux) necklace ... I'm still not sure about it ... maybe I should've saved the five euros for something I'd prefer more ... like a Mediterranean baquette and small Heineken at my favorite little food stand.

Also today, tomorrow and Saturday there are sidewalk sales ALL over Antibes. All the shops are clearing out of their summer stock in preparation for the change of the season. Ok ... I admit, I DID buy two more tablecloths ... time for larger drawers.

Walking past the Boulangerie ...

The cats of France. I love cats ... and will bravely cross busy streets just so I can pet the head of a sweet kitty.

Look how bored this cat is ... My, what a grand tête you have Monsieur !

Here's the sweet train that takes you from Antibes to Juan -les-Pins. It also has informative commentary playing as you pass the sites. I never took the train ... but it's on my to-do list.

I took this photo for my sweet little 'Valentin'. He's the little son of Michael and Julia ... We often played together in Germany and now that I'm not there, he notices ... So whenever he hears a plane, he points to the sky and says 'Aaaayyyynnnn' ... ahhh ... sweet.

Nice is nice ! My journey to Nice ... and back to Antibes

2011-08-16T15:58:00.008-04:00

Since my friend Patricia is in Toulouse visiting relatives, she has been extra generous in allowing me to stay in her bedroom. Ahhhh ... comfort. This is the view when I wake up. pas mal n'est-ce pas ? It's a bit hazy, but if you squint, you can see the mountains in the distance ...

So, since I have a bit of sunburn on my face, I decided to forgo lying in the sun ... and spend the day in Nice.

For those of you who have visited Nice, this will be a familiar sight to you. It's the very recognizable building that faces west and catches the sunlight. It's located in the vieille ville ... the old city. Nice was property of Italy ... and then 150 years ago France acquired Nice. Now, I don't know WHY Italy would give up the largest city in the Cote d'Azur ... but you can bet your bottom euro that I will investigate and find out ... I'm curious to say the least.

In the old section of Nice there are buildings lined with restaurants and cafés ... and the flower market ...

I always love to see the 'tournesols' ... sunflowers. Tournesol translates roughly to turning toward the sun ...

I love to see the quaint shops and windows

Ohhh .... tablecloths ... my weakness ... along with 'herbes d'Provence, garlic dishes, olive oil, lavender, moules-frites, salade Niçoise ... and beautiful French men !!

I actually backtracked a few steps to take this photo. My brother in law's name is Boby ... WHO would have ever thought that I would see his name in the Cote d'Azur ... here's to you Boby ! Maybe I need to call him Monsieur Bobichon from now on ... ha !

Place Massena ... notice the men on the top of the poles ... they light up in different colors at night ... and then slowly change colors. These also were created by Jaume Plensa ... the artist who created 'Le Nomade' in Antibes ... super !

At first I thought these were pigeons on this beautiful man's head ... they're horses ... don't ask me why ... ?

So ... last year I found this wonderful little pedestrian way ... with little cafés and shady trees. I walked and walked today to find it again ... voila !! AND, I sat in the very same spot as I did last year. How's that for variety !

My little table .... for one

Salade Niçoise et du pain avec une verre d'vin rouge ... trés fantastique !!

This is the 'plage' - beach - in Nice. All rocks. Give me my white soft sand in beautiful Antibes and Juan les Pins s'il vous plait ! Of course the dress code is the same though ... bikini bottoms required.

The fabulous Le Negresco Hotel ... or, it might be now considered a 'Palace' I believe.

Funny story, I went there with my friend Isabelle last year ... and in the foyer was a great bust (sculpture) of Louis XVI. So, I said 'hey Isabelle, look at this Louis XVI sculpture' ... and with that the 'le Capitan' ran over and said 'no, No, NO ... c'est Louis Quatorze' '14th' !!'. Well, Louis XIV was not big and fat ... excusez-moi, I mean 'Rubenesque' like Louis XVI ... so I do know le difference ... PLUS, I read and read French history ad nauseum ... so I knew it was NOT Louis XIV ... but in fact WAS Louis XVI ... it even said it on the plaque after closer observation. Plus ... there was a sculpture of Marie Antoinette, his wife, on the table nearby. Maybe what threw le Capitan off was that he still had his head attached. Marie too.

My friend Patrick tells me I'm more French than the French are ... ahhh that's sweet ... Merci beaucoup Patrick !!

So ... after a lovely walking day in Nice, I boarded the 200 bus to Antibes. What beautiful views from the bus ... BUT I was soooo tired .... I almost fell asleep. I thought maybe instead of walking the additional miles to Patricia's apartment, I would catch a second bus. So ... Bus number 9 pulled up and I had only a 20 euro bill. The driver couldn't make change ... and let me ride for free ! I gave him a Mr. Martini post card and took his photo ... he was sweet. BUT, I won't post it just in case the authorities are reading this. I wouldn't want to get a kind soul in trouble. Merci kind sir !!

From Patricia's room ... this is what I see before I go to sleep each night.

Beautiful ... Bon nuit mes Amis ...

Walking and Sunning and Roman Abramovich

2011-08-15T15:24:00.019-04:00

This beautiful view is what I wake up to each morning in the lovely home of my friend Patricia. If you look above the old restored farmhouse, you can see the steeple of St. Theresa. The chimes begin at 8:00 a.m. ... just after the rooster starts crowing. The funny thing about that rooster is that he crows all day long ... an overachiever for sure.

So today I walked several miles to my favorite sunbathing spot - Plage de la Gravette. It didn't seem this crowded when I was lying there ... I placed my 'Antibes' towel close to the water, treated myself to a cold Kronenbourg and nestled down for a suntan ... or as it turns out ... sunburn. I did however, have a beautiful swim in the cool and refreshing Mediterranean. Ahhh ...

This ladies and gentlemen is the grand work of art entitled 'Le Nomade'. It was created by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. It was officially inaugurated on March 25, 2007, but then the creation was relocated to the United States. The one that now stands in Antibes is the second ... and it was installed in 2010. Personally, I like it. I love the shadows it creates ... and since it's a 'wikipedia', I'm still searching for the connection of an A and two Ns.

By the way, the Nomade is overlooking the largest yacht in the world.: 'Eclipse'.

Eclipse

This is the spectacular yacht 'Eclipse'. The largest yacht in the world ... I can't even imagine what it must be like to board this incredible vessel. Reportedly, there are two swimming pools, two helicopter pads and a 6 foot television screen in every room. That's just hearsay by the way. This beautiful object d'art is currently floating right in front of the old village of Antibes. And it's a sight to behold.

Roman Abramovich is the proprietor. He also lives in one of the most beautiful villas in the Cote d'Azur ... I would say in the whole world ... but I've only seen it from the sea ...

Dear Mr. Abramovich ... I'm a painter from the U.S. I've been the artist in residence in Antibes for two summers ... I can pretty much paint whatever I'm asked to paint ... maybe you might need some original paintings for your yacht(s) or home(s). I've read that you enjoy art ... and I very much appreciate creating paintings for people who enjoy art. If you have some moments in your incredibly busy schedule, could you please check out my website:

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

If there's any painting that tickles your fancy, please let me know.

Sincerely,
Ann

From inside 'Le Nomade'

From this vantage point, Le Nomade looks suspiciously like a big breasted woman. I'm admiring her black lacy bra ... I just bought one exactly like that at the market on Saturday in a slightly smaller size.

Grimaldi Castle ... The Picasso Museum

I was so fortunate to be the artist in residence in Antibes during the reopening of the Picasso Museum in 2008. Once again ... spectacular. I love the old window panes on the top floor overlooking the orange clay rooftops and the gleaming white yachts ... oh ... and of course, the original Picasso paintings !!! My favorite: la joie de vivre, bien sûr !!

From the side of the Picasso museum facing the blue Mediterranean

Walking through the lovely narrow streets

Antibes Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Platea d'Antibes)

WHEN my fFhasap (future French husband as soon as possible) finally finds me ... I'm going to get married in this beautiful church. That is, however, after the civil ceremony in the Peynet room in the Hotel de Ville. I love this old church ... it's a national monument of France ... AND there's a statue of Saint Teresa inside ... my Mom would have loved it, too.

Can you hear those church bells ringing ?

So ... it's just before 11:00 p.m. I'm thinking about going to sleep before midnight ... I would like to get up early, enjoy a coffee ... and go on a long walk in the morning. Today I walked maybe eight miles ... not like yesterday's 13 miles. My Keds feel great ... but they look like gross, misshapened American white sneakers - nothin' worse than that in the French Riviera !! So, maybe I'll walk to the shoe stores and see what's on sale ... I might even lug my cocktail prints with me ... just in case there might be a stampede of people needing 'Mr. Martini' prints.

So ... bon nuit mes amis !!! À bientôt j'espère !

Walking and Sunning ...

2011-08-15T03:43:00.004-04:00

Sunday ... August 14th. Today I trekked 20 kilometers ... that's about 12.5 miles. It was no problem because I was surrounded by everything beautiful. I walked from Patricia's apartment all the way to Juan les Pins. I took off my shoes, skirt and shirt and plopped down on my towel to bathe under the soleil. très fantastique ... and then a long awaited swim in the Mediterranean ... cool and refreshing. ... now WHERE did I put my bikini top ??

This beautiful structure is the Villa Fontaine. I lived here for three months in 2009. I was the first artist to be asked ... and I chose the months of June, July and August ... c'est parfait ... I experienced some of the happiest times of my life here ... and was glad to also share my fortune with Jim and Diana ... they stayed for two weeks. The view from the upstairs bedroom is spectacular ... so spectacular that robbers will scale the outside stone wall JUST to have a look ! And then take everything that you have.

It's such a shame that this happened because it had such a definite impact on my life ... but also took some of the joy out of my time there ... I was crushed. But, I'm hoping that the powers that be will bring me back again ... to have another chance ... I hope, I Hope, J'espère !!!

Christopher, this photo is for you ...

Bas Castelet ... the street where I lived

Hotel du Cap ... Eden Roc. This fantastically breathtaking hotel is reputed to be the MOST beautiful hotel in all of the world ... and it's in Antibes. Cap d'Antibes that is. It's spectacular ... my one desire is to swim in the beautiful infinity pool nestled in the rocks just a short walk behind this hotel ... it's lavish ...

Hotel du Cap

Approaching Hotel du Cap from behind ...

The beaches in Juan les Pins

I've always loved this beautiful sculpture ... it has a very 'deco' feel for me ... great Gatsby ... the era of discovering summer life in Juan les Pins ... Gerald and Sara Murphy, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Hemmingway ...

There's something beautiful and timeless about this sculpture ... and yet ... a feeling of ... waiting ... maybe for her fFhasap .... just like me ...

So today I will walk to the Plage de la Gravette. I had intended to lie there in the sand yesterday ... but as soon as I saw the white sands of Juan les Pins, I took the first opportunity.

If you are seeking a beautiful sunny place to visit, I highly recommend the French Riviera ... the Cote d'Azur ... you might remember seeing glimpses of it in 'French Kiss' ... or 'To Catch a Thief' ... or James Bond movies ...

Or, if you prefer to stay put and maybe acquire a 'French Riviera' painting for your home or office ... please visit my website ... and click on the Antibes series ... maybe you will find something that speaks to you as well ...

www.annelizabethschlegel.com

à tout à l’heure

Bonjour Antibes !!

2011-08-14T03:02:00.016-04:00

Ahhh .... Bonjour Antibes !!

... Ok, even having been robbed and experiencing the worst moment of my life, it hasn't eclipsed my profound amour for beautiful Antibes. I have no choice in the matter, I'm powerless ... it calls me ... as a painter and as a lover of life. I was born on Valentine's Day under the sign of Aquarius - the water bearer - and there is a desire in me to always be near water. I lived in Cape May, NJ for six years ... and never tired of looking at the ocean.

So, for me, Antibes is paradise. I've carried my easel and paints and canvases to many picturesque spots along the Cote d'Azur. I've painted in the exact same places as Claude Monet and Picasso ... I'm overwhelmed with emotion ... there's not really a word for it in English that I can think of that describes the feeling. I'm awed.

I have a song in my heart when I stroll down these quaint little alleys ... there are always beautiful boutiques and intimate shops to discover ... and then there are the aromas ... The aromas can change step to step ... from bread baking to lavender sachets to expensive cologne ... Mmmm ... maybe the cologne of my fFhasap !!

So, after coffee and a shower, Patricia and I walked into town. She used to live RIGHT in the middle of the old village ... around the corner from the Antibea Theatre ... in a very cute apartment ... but the view was of the wall of the opposing building. It was still gorgeous ... BUT ... then Patricia relocated ... her new place is AMAZING !! The view ... outstanding !! Right now as I type, the old chapel is ringing her bells and a rooster is crowing from the garden center below ... and the view, the VIEW ... of parasol pine trees and gardens, and you can see for miles and miles ... from her new lovely apartment ... the one other great difference is that it is not in the old village of Antibes ... there's a walk ... and what a walk it is !! It takes at a brisk step maybe 50 minutes to arrive in town ... that's when I'm not getting lost on the twisting narrow streets. But, even to get lost is wonderful ... to see the beautiful villas and gardens and olive trees ... to smell what is cooking inside their homes as I pass by ... AND, ok, yes, there is the added benefit of my aching muscles getting fit again. So, it's a great plus !!

Today I will walk and meander and end up at the Plage de la Gravette ... my favorite beach. It's located right in the heart of the old village ... and I love to lay in the white sand and soak in the view of the stone buildings. Nicolas de Staël, the great Russian artist acquiring French nationality, had lived right next to the Plage de la Gravette. Sadly for us, he jumped to his death on March 15, 1955 ... in beautiful Antibes. I often look over to where he lived ... and think of how I would have loved to have known him ...

Two French Amies

First stop - after the market of course - the newly restored St. Bernadin Church. Patricia is a tour guide in this beautiful church dating from 1591 ! I wish that I could have been part of the restoration because I have done paintings that were similar ... when I was part of the painting group of six who painted the 110 foot mural on the back of Symphony Hall in Allentown, PA. My job was to paint the instruments and fruit in sepia ... way up on scaffolding ... yikes !

Place Nationale - c'est très fantastique !

Déjeuner ... ok ... time for enjoyment. I wanted to treat Patricia to déjeuner - lunch, so I took her to one of my favorite spots 'Le Rustic'. Jim and Diana and I ate there a few times ... Mmmm ... salad avec moules frites et une petit carafe de vin rose .... Nix Besser !!

Salad avec moules frites et vin rosé

Renato Manese

Ladies of America ... this is Renato Manese. He's a great painter ... and also nice to look at ! His studio is located on a lovely tiny street in the old village on Rue Fersen. I tell him that he should come to America and have an exhibition of his paintings in NYC ... Pourquoi pas - why not I say ??!

After Patricia and I spent the day in the old village of Antibes, we started our journey back to Patricia's home ... another 50 minute walk - uphill ... hmmm ... maybe I'll be a svelte tanned sun goddess by the time I depart in two weeks ... maybe I WOULD be ... except for the wine, bread and brie ... ahhh ... paradise !

Walking home ... like I said ... ahhhh ... awe ...

Bon Voyaging ...

2011-08-14T02:04:00.008-04:00

Schwaebisch Gmuend Bahnhof - train station

Arriving back at my apartment, after our dinner party at Julia, Michael and Valentin's, I lied down but it was impossible to sleep. I was thinking about all of the wonderful moments I had in Schwaebisch Gmuend and also wondered about what would lie ahead of me in beautiful Antibes.

I knew I had to get up at 5:15 a.m., take two trains, two airplanes and then two buses to reach my destination. Although navigating airports poses few, if any, problems for me, I am not used to taking the train and I'm traveling alone ... with heavy, heavy luggage !!

The Cockpit

I didn't bring my luggage scale with me ... and of course my large suitcase was 5 kilos OVER the allowed amount. My large suitcase weighed 55.11 pounds. So, I took out my Adult Beverage prints and carried them along with my laptop bag and purse. WHY do I over pack ?? Well, I had to bring my paints, easel, canvases ... and a whole assortment of clothing that I might not even wear. I always wear the same thing .... the same blue jeans, the same skirt, the same black t-shirts ... but then it's like ... hmmm ... maybe I might need this blue sweater that I haven't worn in three years ... you get the picture. Anyway, it was a lot to lug around ...

So ... I treated myself to a visit to the 'cockpit'. A nice, cool German beer at 9:45 in the morning ... but, since I didn't sleep at all, it was like it was still last night. Prost !

Take off !! I always try to reserve a window seat. I am fixated on looking out the window ... flying over Germany and France is amazing. Germany is very recognizable because most of the rooftops are red .... soooo charming.

Arriving in Zurich

One of my favorite sights from the air is flying over the Alps. How fantastic !! I don't believe it's ever possible to tire of this amazing sight ! You can see the long hiking paths ... which my friends Julia and Michael hiked on ... from Germany, through Austria to Italy. Hiking nine hours a day, for seven days. Whaaaat ?? I saw the photos of them climbing up steep rocky cliffs. Now, if there's anything that I avoid in life, it's climbing up steep rocky cliffs. I'm a scaredy-cat and I'm deathly afraid of heights ... BUT ... it's a different feeling being high in the sky in a plane ... I love it !!

So ... there is no longer the 200 bus coming to the Airport. So, it was either take my 55.11 pound suitcase - now even heavier since I jammed my prints and jacket back in it, my heavy computer bag and my purse, while wearing my black suit jacket (it was chilly in Germany) ... and walk down the road in very warm Nice, climbing down stairs, going under the Promenade des Anglais, climbing back up the stairs on the other side and waiting for the bus for just one euro ... or taking the express bus from the Nice airport directly to Antibes for 8.50 euros. I took the express.

Then I had to lug my stuff several blocks until ... voila ... I have arrived at the office of my friend Patricia !!

Patricia

Beautiful Antibes ... I have arrived !!

Catching up ... again

2011-08-13T17:49:00.013-04:00

Wednesday evening my friend Gundi invited me over for a lovely dinner. Did I mention in addition to being a fabulous designer, decorator and gardener, to say the least, she is also a fantastic 'chef de cuisine'. She's a great cook and the petit pois soup was indescribably delicious !!

After the petit pois soup, we enjoyed this lovely creation ...

Ahhh sweet .... shrimp tempura with potatoes in a heart presentation. We had such a nice time ... it's always luxury - and fun - at Gundi's house ...

Thursday ...

Julia and Valentin visiting me ... on the day before my Antibes departure ...

A beautiful Rose and Daisies from my little guy Valentin ...

Little Valentin is 1 and 3/4 years old. He's sooo smart and funny and loves the 'auto' ... 'auto, auto, auto' ... and that's what he says the most. ... and, at first when we met, he called me Aaaeeesss ... hmmm ... it sounded very similar to the word ... well, you know which word I mean ... But then one happy day for me, Valentin said 'Aaaaayyyyynnnnn' .... and I was, in a sense, no longer an Aaaeeesss ... arguably speaking that is ... ha !

Maultaschen

On my last evening in Schwaebisch Gmuend before leaving for Antibes, Julia cooked one of my favorite Swabian dinners - 'Maultaschen'. Maultaschen are a Swabian specialty from southwestern Germany. The word means "mouth pockets," and they are akin to Italian ravioli made with ground pork and spinach. It's 'Yummy' !!! We also shared an excellent bottle of wine ... and after, Julia, Michael and I played two rounds of Skip-Bo - my Parents' favorite card game. We had fun, Fun, FUN !! ... even Valentin came running down the hallway and jumped into my arms. Now THAT's a wonderful 'send-off' for sure !!

Vielen Dank my cherished friends in Schwaebisch Gmuend. I will see you in two weeks :-))

Returning to Antibes ...

2011-08-10T12:55:00.019-04:00

Antibes Juan les Pins

Returning to Antibes. For the next two weeks I will be once again in Antibes. I am looking forward to seeing the staggering beauty of the old village and the very blue and beautiful Mediterranean. My plans are to walk, walk and walk some more ... and lay on the sand at the Plage de la Gravette ... eat wonderful things from the sea, fresh salads and sip chilled rose wines. That's it. That, and sharing stories with my friends.

And, although I love Antibes de tout mon coeur, I go with trepidation as I am still wounded by the terrible robbery when I was the artist in residence. I will worry about my purse, my camera and my computer ... but, in the mornings I will put on my Keds and make the trek to beautiful Antibes ... and relax in the sand, closing my eyes and just drifting off ...

I enjoyed painting this painting ... Le Musicien ... it was a gift to Jean Leonetti, Monsieur le Maire AND now the Minister of European Affairs ... way to go Jean !!

This painting of the Marche Provencal was a gift to my friend Patricia ... I very much look forward to hearing her stories and spending time with her. We love to walk far, talk about life, make salads ... after the devestating robbery I had nothing left ... Patricia, in addition to other friends, was kind and helpful ... and this has made all the difference ...

My Funny Valentine ... the engagement day of my parents ... and then I also was born on Valentine's Day ...

Les Voiles d'Antibes ... this painting hangs in a special place in Antibes

The 'Orchid Shop'. I was overflowing with joy ... and I was sooo pleased with this painting ... It looks like how I felt ... happy.

This was my first painting after the terrible robbery. I find it difficult to view this painting and speak about it without reliving it ... so ... 'nuff said ...

So ... beautiful Antibes that I love so much. I come back to you ... I look forward to walking your crooked narrow streets, smelling the aroma of your perfumed air, being overwhelmed by your beautiful structures, being seduced by your food and wine ... and seeing la Mer once again. ... maybe THIS time my future French husband will finally find me !!! ;-)

à bientôt

Why I love Antibes ... (click here s'il vous plait)

Merci beaucoup Christopher for publishing these beautiful and sensitive moments of Antibes, France ...

Trekking to Strassdorf

2011-08-08T10:01:00.025-04:00

Ok ... here is the starting point for my big walk ... although ... technically, I did start from my wonderful apartment and walked over here. But, we'll just say I began my 'trek' from the Marktplatz.
First stop: coffee.

There is a fabulous walking path ... and also for bicycles ... that originally was the way for the train lines. Of course fabulous Germany would turn train tracks into a walking path. The path meanders through the country side for miles and miles ... and you can walk from Heubach to Lorch ... if you had the stamina. So, for today I will walk to Strassdorf. As the crow flies it's approximately 3.3k, but the path is much longer and meanders in a wide circle. I did it once before, several years ago, but on my Strassdorf trek three weeks ago, I had forgotten about the path and walked up the huge hill for cars. Not quite as peaceful. The path is also safe. There are only cyclists and walkers ... I even passed by a Nun today in the woods ... and the view is spectacular !!

So here I am on my journey ... I turned back around toward Schwaebisch Gmuend for this photo ... pretty ...

Beautiful landscape

A little sprinkling of raindrops ... then the sun

walking through beautiful forests

This is the one thing that was such a curiosity for me. Tall pines with tall trunks. I remember the first time seeing the Black Forest ... It was amazing to see the pine trees with the branches and needles only on the upper part of the tree ... so very Hansel and Gretel ...

This beautiful mountain is 'Rechburg'. Notice the church at the top of the hill ...

Once I reached Strassdorf, I toured the cornfields and photographed the monumental sculptures ... fantastic to say the least ... peaceful and beautiful and profound ...

Cloud portrait ... a blustery day !

finding a new path back ... oops ... dead end ... back up the hill

Now ... this is very strange to us Americans. All over Germany there are 'foot massaging baths' and they're free. AND ... if it's free it's for me ... so after my three hour trek, I happily took off my socks and shoes, rolled up my jeans and stepped in .... Eeeeeesshhhhh !!! C-c-c-cold !!! Freezing cold. I only could do one lap around because it was on the unbearable side for me and after one lap I couldn't feel my toes any longer. Maybe if the day is hot (it's been mainly chilly here), then it would be somewhat refreshing ... but ... I will have to work up to doing two 'laps' around the wading pool. I've actually sat and watched people walk in circles for several minutes ...

HOW do they do it ? I'm thinking 'Hefeweisbier' ...

Jörg Kähler

After my long trek ... I treated myself to a Bratwurst mit Brötchen mit hot homemade ketchup, senf (mustard) and Tobasco. Jörg was kind to present me with two 'free' coupons for a sandwich at my exhibition opening ... no better time for a delicious bratwurst than after a three hour walk I say !!!

One thing about this cute little bratwurst stand ... Jörg rides this bratwurst stand to the Marktplatz each day ... notice the bicycle attachment. Incredible !! I can only imagine how his legs and feet must ache after a long day of bicycling 500 kilos (over 1000 lbs.) of weight AND standing on his feet all day !!

Maybe I need to show him the location of the 'foot massage bath' !!!

Thanks Jörg, it was 'yummy' !!!

click here for Jörg's info ... cute video !!

Catching up ...

2011-08-08T08:47:00.019-04:00

Since my opening exhibition in the wonderful Paulaner, I have done sooo much - just like before my opening - and didn't really give myself the time to update my writing to you ... entschuldigen Sie mich mein Freund ... so ... today I continue ... just for You !!

Thursday evening I attended the Bach Ensemble - featuring the incredible Joshua Rifkin. Did I mention that on Tuesday, the evening before my exhibition opening, I not only met Joshua - and the ensemble - but sat next to him outside at the Paulaner. We drank Hefeweißbier and talked about music and art and Bethlehem where my painting studio is located ... and also ... the oldest Bach Choir in the United States ... and they're great !!

Joshua Rifkin studied at Juilliard and is well known in music circles for the complete revival of Scott Joplin music and for creating arrangements for Judy Collins on her albums In My Life and Wildflowers. He's a pretty major deal ... and there we are sipping beer together in Schwaebisch Gmuend under an umbrella at the Paulaner. This group was so much fun and also kind and generous ... thank YOU for the Hefeweißbier !! I hope we meet again ...

Augustinuskirche, Schwaebisch Gmuend, Germany

That's Joshua Rifkin on the right ... sorry for the fuzzy photo ... but it was the best that I could do sans flash. Naturally, the concert was fantastic. Four singers accompanying the ensemble .. or is that visa-versa. Thank you Michaele for the treat of the ticket !!! It is appreciated !!! xoxoxo

So ... Friday evening I attended the art and atelier opening of my artist friend Connie. My little gift to her was photographing the event in color and black and white. Of course, I heartily took part in the offerings of Prosecco and bruschetta and a petite cigarillo ... maybe two.

Connie - Atelia Lia

For me, when I photograph an event, I am always happy when there is one incredible photograph !! So ... this photo, in my eyes, is the one incredible photograph from Connie's event. The photo is cropped here ... she is actually leaning against a car ... and although the larger view is really nice, I prefer the close-up where you can see the magic of the Olympus E620 with the black and white feature. I always compare it to the classic 'LIFE' magazine style ...

Connie's hallway atelier next to her main atelier

The great Eckhart Dietz in attendance

Saturday, I met my friends Julia, Michael and Valentin ... and a surprise visit from Gundi !! We shared a beer together at the Paulaner ... but then for the rest of the day I just relaxed in my beautiful apartment. I've been soooo busy walking here, rushing there, painting and hanging and designing and organizing and concert going that I just needed one night to 'chill' and relax in my beautiful apartment. I know before too long, I will be headed to the airplane to take me to the States ... but for the last two months it's been pretty much paradise !!!!

The Market place on Saturdays ...

Sunday ... after stopping in the Muenster Cathedral to hear Mass, I went to the Paulaner to have lunch. Pray first, party later. Mmmm ... what to order ? I always get the kleiner Salat mit Schwarzbrot und einem großen Hefeweißbier. And ... it's always delish !! But, today, I think I will order something different. Schwäbische Maultaschen, geröstet mit Ei und unserem Kartoffelsalat mit Schwarzbrot und Rotweine. Once again ... delish !!

Nix Besser as my Dad would have said ...

My Vernissage !!!

2011-08-04T09:44:00.026-04:00

Oberbürgermeister Richard Arnold and me

I'm just going to jump ahead for a moment ... because i like this picture so much. This is Richard Arnold, the wonderful and incredible Mayor of Schwaebisch Gmuend. He's smart, funny, speaks at least three languages that I know of ... and is very easy on the eyes to boot ! I was very happy that he attended my exhibition opening at the Paulaner !!!

So ... right to the point. It was GREAT !!! My vernissage - exhibition opening - was everything that I hoped it would be. Soooo many wonderful friends, new acquaintances, an accordionist and even the Oberbürgermeister himself !! It was fun, Fun, FUN !! I even received beautiful roses ... The drinks were on me ... Paulaner Hefeweißbier, wine, sparkling water ... whatever you wanted ... and lovely little finger food - meat and cheese and tomatoes and spread on sliced baguettes. Perfect !!!

It was my little way of saying 'Vielen Dank' to my friends who have always been so good to me. I felt that everyone had a very nice time. Also, thank you Ollie and Nastasia - the owners of Paulaner - for welcoming my exhibition. For me, it was the 'happiest' exhibition that I ever had ... or ... for that matter, that I ever attended.

My little man, Valentin in his sweet Bavarian shirt and Lederhosen !!

Was ? ... für mich??? What ? ... for me ???

Singing 'Alois' ... the anthem for Schwaebisch Gmuend

Beautiful flowers for my friends ... and a Hefeweißbier for me !

Nathalie ... and Oberbürgermeister

Men of America - pay attention. This is the beautiful fräulein (before you get your lederhosen in a twist, yes I know I'm not supposed to say that word, but I LOVE that pretty word) who was our waitress for the evening. Nathalie. Every day she comes to work in a beautiful dirndl. She is so nice and sweet that it makes drinking your already enjoyable beer even more enjoyable !! Prosit !

By the way, if you happened to have missed my opening reception, no worries, the paintings will be there on exhibit through September 14th, 2011.

Gmuender Tagespost article

What's in a Name ...

2011-08-03T06:23:00.022-04:00

My Father always took such quiet pride in the name Schlegel. There was the undisputed significance of the well respected 'Schlegel' brothers who were not only philosophers ... but poets, critics and scholars - Karl Wilhelm Friedrich von Schlegel and August Wilhelm von Schlegel. ... I'm still kickin' around 'Ann Elizabeth 'von' Schlegel'.

Karl Wilhelm Friedrich von Schlegel and August Wilhelm von Schlegel

Also, one cannot forget the film 'Howards End' ...

This picture received massive critical acclaim. On June 5, 2005, Roger Ebert included it on his list of "Great Movies". Well, it stars Anthony Hopkins, Vanessa Redgrave, Emma Thompson and Helena Bonham Carter - the latter two being Ms. Schlegel and Ms. Schlegel. It's almost distracting for me to hear Ms. Schlegel so many times in the movie ... my sister Karen stopped counting at 47 !!

Then, of course, there is the importance of the great Schlegel Brauerei established in 1854 ... possibly the greatest beer ever brewed ...

My Aunt Betty had brought beautiful fine Schlegel Bier glasses and ashtrays back from Germany as a gift for my parents. My Father would often treat himself to a beer in the Schlegel glasses. But mostly, he kept them for 'special' because they were so fragile. ... and, the fact that he had an incredible collection of antique German beer steins which naturally held more beer and included a 'lid' to keep the flies out.

In 2004 my friend Hinrich and I drove to Bochum on a pilgrimage to acquire Schlegel bier. We bought 9 cases and brought them back to Schwaebisch Gmuend ... just in time for Conrad's birthday party. I also brought 10 bottles of beer home with me so my family could drink Schlegel bier on my Dad's birthday.

So ... you're getting the point on how respectable and important the 'Schlegel' name is ...

... and then came 'Alf'.

Alf on the phone with Wayne Schlegel

Now, I know Americans are a group of folks that like their tv. When I'm in Europe I insist on NO tv because I don't want the distraction ... and, as an American, I am naturally distracted by tv. The only tv I watched while in Germany since mid-June was the Women's World Cup ... and WHAT tv that WAS !!! Now THAT tv programming was worth watching !!

In the 1980s we, in America, had this one particular show on tv .... called 'Alf'. I'm sorry to say, and maybe the German folks will disagree, but I thought this show was 'el stupido'. Not only that, but embarrassing and painful to watch. BUT, I have come to know that these brilliant minded German people not only enjoy this show, but even know that 'Alf' had a buddy named 'Wayne Schlegel' (of Michigan Life and Casualty). Believe it or not, there is even 'The Wayne Schlegel Band' in Germany !! In one or some episodes, Alf either was electrocuted or fell on his head and actually thought he WAS 'Wayne Schlegel'. So ... the deflation of my pride with the beautiful name of Schlegel began.

It was my friend Michael who first said to me ... 'Schlegel' as in 'Wayne Schlegel' from Alf. WHAT ?? Alf ?? huh ?? ... I cannot begin to tell you how many times I have heard the reference to Wayne Schlegel in Schwaebisch Gmuend. Then, one day I decided to spend the day in Stuttgart. I was photographing the fish shop in the incredible market ... and afterwards I gave the fishmonger my card ... and as I was leaving the fish market, the fishmonger ran after me and said 'hey, your name is 'Schlegel' just like 'Wayne Schlegel' from 'Alf'. ..... ouch.

It doesn't end there ... I heard giggling one day in the Culture Bureau ... apparently 'Schlegel' can mean several other things including:

stick
drumstick
maul
miner's hammer

But combined with other words means it can mean something else. For example: hühnerschlegel ... that means 'chicken leg - or 'chicken drumstick'. For a little while, I was referred to as 'Ms. Chicken Legs'. Ouch ... again.

It's a good thing that I can take a joke !!! And ... by the way, my friend Julia invited me over for a delicious hühnerschlegel meal the other day:

Ok ... Schlegel might not be as refined as lobster tail or caviar ... but my 'Schlegel philosophy' is that there's nothing more comforting and satisfying than a home cooked hühnerschlegel meal with friends ....

... and if you're lucky, you might also have a Schlegel bier to quench your thirst. Nix Besser!

Prost !

What a day this has been ... what a rare mood I'm in ... well it's almost like being in Love !

2011-08-01T12:11:00.023-04:00

Le Montmartre de Schwaebisch Gmuend

What a day this has been ... what a rare mood I'm in ... well it's almost like being in Love ! You may know this great composition (Frederick Loewe) and lyrics (Alan Jay) from the wonderful vocals of Ms. Ella Fitzgerald.

While painting this collection I listened to Ella Fitzgerald, the soundtrack from Chocolat and Natalie Cole's 'Unforgettable' ... over and over and over ... I'm sure that the neighbors are glad that I am finally finished painting in the wonderful petite atelier which Conrad named 'The Montmartre of Schwaebisch Gmuend' ... and it was !! ... at least for me ...

So my lovely friend Julia volunteered to be my assistant for the morning. She loaded her car with my paintings, drove them - and me - over to the Paulaner, carried every one of them up the stairs by herself and practically hung the exhibition AND offered me expert advice. Thank you Julia !! Here she is hanging the paintings while I am burdened with the important tasks ... like supervising and sipping my Hefeweizen Bier.

I am SOOO very happy to have my work at the Paulaner !! I am the first artist to have an exhibition there and I couldn't be more pleased. Ollie and Nastasia are the kind and generous proprietors of the Paulaner ... and I feel very grateful to them. .... and, of course, to all of my very dear friends in Schwaebisch Gmuend.

Here is just a glimpse of the nine paintings in the lovely eating room ... or as we say in America, the beer hall. Notice my Paulaner sitting front and center on the table. Sooooo .... mark your calendars ... Wednesday, August 3rd ... for the vernissage at the Paulaner. It begins at 6:00 pm sharp.

For more information, click on the link below.

It will be fun, Fun, FUN !!!

PAULANER exhibition

You're Everywhere ... like dog sh*t

2011-07-29T15:54:00.033-04:00

Ok ... it's not my saying (and my Mother would NEVER want me to repeat such 'piggishness') ... but once I heard someone say about an artist with paintings in several locations ... and I quote - 'he's everywhere ... like dog sh*t'. ... nice.

So ... guess what ... I'm everywhere ... like dog sh*t !!! And, it's not sooo bad at all !! ... it's more like ... fertilizer. I have three paintings in the window at d'Orado, five framed prints in the window at Bilderbogen ... AND, as you might be aware, I have an exhibition opening in the PAULANER Wirtshaus am Markt on Wednesday !!! So ... yes, I guess I am everywhere ... well, you now know the saying.

Not only that, but my exhibition poster is in at least 25 shop windows ... hahahah ... funny !!! So ... here are just some of the finer addresses of Schwaebisch Gmuend. I might need another hour or so to photograph the rest of the shops ... hehehehe

So, sit back and enjoy the show !!

this is one of my more favorite spots ... right underneath the 'toiletten' sign

And last, but not least ... in the window of the beautiful Paulaner ....

Prosit !

It's so funny for me ... I see some people looking in the windows and I think ... I'm so incognito .. they don't know who I am but I'm watching them checking out the funny poster. I love it ! It's almost the same feeling when I created the 20th Anniversary Musikfest poster ... and nineteen thousand beer mugs were created with my painting ... and EVERYONE had the Musikfest beer mug - they actually sold out in four days ... and I ditched the tent that they gave me and hung out in the Hofbrau tent and signed thousands of mugs ... and free Hofbrau for me !!! (I drive a hard bargain !!)

And then on the last evening of Musikfest, the lovely volunteers cut down the beautiful Hofbrau banner with the blue and white diamonds and presented it to me as a gift ... I received two banners that year. We had them hanging from the large maple tree in my Parents' backyard for my Schwaebisch Gmuend slide show party .... good times ... really good times ...

Mittwoch -- Yeah !! Next Wednesday is the Day !

2011-07-29T14:57:00.017-04:00

So ... a great day today !!! I enjoyed a Hefeweizen at the Paulaner with my little love Valentin ... sooo cute. He saw that my bier was on a coaster and pointed to the coasters on the table ... so I gave him one ... notice where he put his milk bottle ... hahaha !!

already a man after my own heart ! Beer (milk) and pretzels

So then, it was a painting day ... I have only Saturday and Sunday to complete my exhibition ... we hang on Monday. So, I cranked up the Natalie Cole, prepared my paints, poured a glass of Shiraz (very disappointing) ... and focused. I'm already pleased with the paintings ... BUT ... need to tweak a couple more ... then I will be able to say 'aha ... the exhibition is good ... let's party !!"

I'm looking forward to Wednesday ... I will wear the shirt that my Parents brought back from Munich in 1988 ... 23 years ago !!! ... and my tuxedo jacket ... AND ... hopefully we will have an accordion player ... that would be awesome !!! My wonderful Father played accordion for almost 70 years ... he was so great. If I could find an accordion player that could play 'Twilight Time' and 'Don't Blame Me' and 'Moonlight Serenade' ... and 'It's the Talk of the Town' ... I'd be overwhelmed ... I should have practiced more ...

So ... here are some of the paintings to give you a hint of what's to come on Wednesday ... at the PAULANER !!! How fabulous is THAT !!!! My Parents would have been proud ... they will be with me in spirit no doubt.

I decided to show you only this photo ... because I must keep some of the paintings a surprise !! I hope that you will feel welcome to come and celebrate on Wednesday ... and we can toast with a nice Hefe~weissbier at the PAULANER ... PROST !!

Why not wear your dirndl or lederhosen or marvelous hat !!!! ... and bring your instruments too !!

My Vernissage !!

2011-07-27T14:41:00.002-04:00

Yeah !! It's happening !! My third exhibition in beautiful Schwaebisch Gmuend. If you happen to be in Schwaebisch Gmuend next Wednesday, please feel free to stop by the Paulaner Wirtshaus to join in the celebration. It starts at 18:00 hours ... that's 6:00 p.m. to my American friends.

We'll drink Hefe~weißbier and have a little something to eat ... and make merry !

If you have walked in the Parade ... or plan to ... it might be fun for you to join us.

So, be welcome.

Prosit !!

Montmartre

2011-07-26T18:11:00.012-04:00

Conrad has renamed the petite atelier ... He calls it the Montmartre of Schwaebisch Gmuend. I thought that was funny and I was a little flattered by that ... but then ... without announcement or notice, FOURTEEN people came by my atelier today ... er, I mean Montmartre. It was sooo great !!!

Today I finished the painting of this lovely man ... I don't know WHO he is but I painted him two times ... it would be great if he could attend the vernissage which may be next Wednesday or Thursday at the Paulaner !!!! How special would THAT be !!

This mysterious lovely woman is Cornelia. She is a long time friend of Michaele and Conrad's. She also is an artist and spent the afternoon in Montmartre. Sipping a wonderful Spanish wine compliments of Gundi ... Notice the man on the left checkin' her out !!

Gundi, Conrad and Cornelia at Monmartre

Michaele invited me to European Church Music tonight ... it was spectacular !! Notice the instruments from the Baroque age.

More ancient instruments

This is the finale of the performance ... people were clapping and cheering ... just unbelievable. Perfection in voice and music !!

Mom and Dad

2011-07-26T17:51:00.007-04:00

John and Teresa Schlegel

The things that make me think of my Mom when I'm not already thinking of my Mom ...

White Keds and saddle shoes
Coca-Cola
When people say 'not so much'
daisies ... and hanging fuschias
A Whiskey Sour Cocktail
Skip-Bo card game
Anything Irish

The things that make me think of my Dad when I'm not already thinking of my Dad ...

Walking and whistling
Antique German Beer Steins
the word 'Gesundheit'
Accordion Music
Dachshunds
Skip-Bo card game
Anything German

Naturally, this is only the 'short list' ... and there's also kindness, humor, thoughtfulness, devotion, love ... there are sooo many moments and so many reminders of them ... all I can say is appreciate your loved ones while they are living ... life passes swiftly

oh my Papa ...

2011-07-26T03:42:00.009-04:00

This is my Dad and me (longer hair, smaller hips). We were toasting with our new beer mugs (my painting for the 20th Anniversary of Musikfest was on the mugs). That's my brother-in-law Boby in the back with the Panama Hat ... party at brother Jim and Diana's ...

Today is always a day of remembrance for me because it is the day my Father went to heaven to be with my Mother ... who left us just one year earlier. It's three years now. And so very often I think ... 'oh, I have to call Mom and Dad' ... so many little reminders of them.

Yesterday I was walking though 'City Center' (it's a large building with many stores) and I saw a pair of white canvas sneakers ... they looked like Keds ... and right away I thought of my Mom. She used to wear white Keds ... I can still see them hanging from the wash line in the back yard ...

And, yes, I know although they always live in our hears, it's still a crying day for me ... I just can't help it.

So, this morning I will go to my petite atelier and paint and think about how my Parents would love to attend an exhibition of Parade People at the Paulaner. For the vernissage I will wear the Oktoberfest shirt that my parents brought back from Munich in 1988 .. as well as wearing it today.

And yes, they will be with me in my heart as usual ... and I will toast to them with a Hefe~weißbier !! (that should probably be plural).

I miss you Mom and Dad ... every day ...

As of today ...

2011-07-25T10:00:00.016-04:00

As of today I have extended my wonderful European trip until the very last day of August !! Yeah !! That makes me sooo happy ! I love it here ... so much to do, so many places to see, concerts to hear, friends to share time with and outdoor cafes to visit ... and speaking of ... guess where my new exhibition entitled 'The Parade People' will be ...

Paulaner Hefeweizen Bier

The beautiful Paulaner restaurant and outdoor cafe

The Paulaner outside ... sitting and enjoying a Hefeweizen bier and watching the clouds. That's the lantern featuring the 'Einhorn' ... the beloved symbol of Schwaebisch Gmuend ... ahhhh ....

From inside looking out toward the Johanniskirche

The view from inside the Paulaner. The very sweet and quaint restaurant is up the stairs. It's very Bavarian ... featuring dark paneling and white walls and pretty gingham curtains ... I really enjoy it there ... always a petite salad (salad with potatoes) mit ein großes Bier, bitte !!

Now, if you guessed The Paulaner for my exhibition from my subtle hints ... you are correct !!! I thought about it and thought about it ... and it really is such a good place for them. The space will hold exactly nine 1 meter x 80 cm paintings ... exactly !! AND, it's bright and cheery ... and lots and lots of people go there to enjoy their lunch. I was there on Sunday for a little salad and large bier and the dining room was packed solid !!! Soooo ... I think it's the best place ... and what better place to have an art opening than a beer hall !!! So ... the Paulaner it is !!

I will keep you posted on the 'when and where' ... and keep a night open in early August ... hopefully I will see YOU at the Paulaner with The Parade People !!! Prosit !

www.paulaner-wirtshaus.com

The Parade People ... coming together ...

2011-07-25T05:07:00.012-04:00

This cutie pie was so great to watch .. and photograph .. and paint !

Well, I might just say that a good percentage of The Parade People are on their way to being finished ... I have to alter three of them, and then once they're just as I want them, I will have nine to show. Now .... to show ... where ? I do have a great idea ... and, if all goes well, they will hang in the perfect spot ... more info to come !

The paintings measure 1 meter high by 80 cm wide ... that transfers to us Americans, where metric is beyond us except when buying a 2 liter bottle of Coke, to about 40 inches by 32 inches. I used the sames stretchers that I used when I exhibited 'The Red Violin and other Compositions'. It's a beautiful size indeed !!

Every day when I paint, I always set up The Parade People around me. It inspires me more when they're in view than if I would paint them one by one and then just stack them somewhere until they're ready to be shown. When they're together I can see changes that I'd like to make and if they are all a good 'fit' together ... and if they will be exhibited, how to hang them, who goes next to whom ... and so on and so on ...

So each day I open up the petite atelier, turn on my music - yesterday it was track nine of Chocolat (repeat, repeat and repeat), bring them all out and position them. It's also nice if someone stops by ... when the paintings are out of the closet, er, so to speak, there's more interest ...

At the end of this week they should all be done and ready to go - at least for an exhibition ... keep your fingers crossed that they will be displayed at ... well, I'll let you know ... Prosit !!!

Happy Birthday Conrad !!! Joyeux Anniversaire et Zum Geburtsteg !!

2011-07-24T15:43:00.011-04:00

Here we are walking to Augustinerkirche für Europäische Kirchenmusik ... Brahms ... requiem ...

Check out this beautiful church - Augustinerkirche - incredible ... beautiful paintings, ceilings, pews, alter ... and there sits a grand piano ... waiting for the performance ...

I have met her only a few times ... and had the pleasure of dining with her at Gundi and Ali's home ... this is Katrine ... she is the blond woman to the right of the podium. She was the opera soloist ... très fantastique !!!! Imagine hearing this echoing beautiful voice resonating from the walls of this old church ... lucky me !!!

Afterward, Happy Birthday Conrad !!! ... Dinner at Trattoria ... and after, a champagne toast !! Bernd and Conrad -

I also say, Conrad loves Michaele ... and she loves him too !! Prost !

Work in Progress - 'The Parade People'

2011-07-23T10:28:00.019-04:00

'The Parade People' .... I just love this cutie pie !!

just getting started ...

I just wanted to give you an idea of the 'how and why' of The Parade People'. In Schwaebisch Gmuend there are five 'birthday' parades each year. They start on the second Saturday of June, and then continue each Saturday for the next four weeks. The first parade is for all those who turned or who will turn 40 in that same year, and then for the 50s and so on. Well, hard for me to believe, but I turned 50 this year - specifically on February 14th ... for those of you not 'in the know', that's Valentine's Day ... ahhh ... romance ...

So, as a birthday gift for me, my lovely friends from Schwaebisch Gmuend invited me to walk in the parade this year ... and I did !! It was fabulous !! I wore a conductor's tuxedo from CE Roth (11th and Turner Sts.), a pretty pink shirt that I purchased in Schwaebisch Gmuend and a long black skirt. Attention women of Schwaebisch Gmuend, if you would like to borrow my tuxedo jacket for when YOU walk in the parade, just let me know. My friend Michael will be able to help locate me.

If you're unfamiliar with the parade, there are marching bands, fanfare, singing, flowers, pull carts, tuxedos, top hats, dirndls ... a real celebration for sure !!

So after the festivities of the parade were over, I thought ... what to do, what to do, what to do with the weeks that I will spend here in beautiful Schwaebisch Gmuend. Years ago - eight years ago to be precise - I wrote a little book of my travels, experiences and observations of Schwaebisch Gmuend ... so, I didn't want to repeat myself in that sense ... and then I thought ... why not do a series of paintings of 'The Parade People'. Supposedly, it's not been done which I find so very hard to believe !! I still had nine stretchers from my 'Red Violin and other Compositions' exhibition at the Musikschule, and I had packed a roll of canvas in my suitcase ... so, I began 'The Parade People' series. It's been more than fun !

As always though ... sometimes a painting goes smoothly, and sometimes it doesn't. I've had hardships with color, with placement, with 'likeness' ... and then I've hit it spot on (or so I think). So, without future adieu, here is the newest painting of 'The Parade People'. Keep in mind that I just started it and it's most definitely a work in progress.

Now, I've only worked on this a few hours so it's just the beginning. I can see differences from the original photograph and tomorrow I will head back to the petite atelier to adjust the painting. Sometimes it takes another medium like photography to see the 'errors' ... but this series isn't about laboring over a replica portrait, it's about capturing the spirit of the day ...

What I need to change ... well, the eyes could be a little wider and a slight bit lower, the nose a little shorter and the mouth a little higher on the left ... and that's just for starters ... but I'm pretty much ok with my first attempt. Tomorrow I will view it with 'fresh eyes'. Portraits are not the easiest thing to paint ... it's not like a landscape or still life where subtle differences from the object to the painting are not crucial ... but, in a portrait, even if one feature is off just a centimeter, the portrait will not be correct. It's that exacting. ...

but, like I said ... just to capture the spirit of the day ...

'The Parade People' ... and Carl Orff

2011-07-23T05:08:00.008-04:00

So ... still continuing with 'The Parade People'. And, what is a German birthday parade without a beautiful Fraulein ? Ok, ok, before you get your 'knickers in a twist', I know ... the German's don't use the word 'fraulein' any longer, and regardless of marital status, all women are to be addressed as 'frau'. Personally, the word 'fraulein' warms my heart and I prefer to be called 'fraulein' more than 'frau' ... especially because Julia hasn't found my 'fhasap' yet. And besides, it's 'prettier'.

Here is the collection so far ... and a couple more in the other room. I think as a collection they're fun ... so, maaaybeee, before I depart beautiful Schwaebisch Gmuend, we will have a petite exhibition of 'The Parade People'. I hope so !

What's a lighted hearted day without a little Carl Orff ? My beautiful friend Vesna phoned me and invited me to join her for an evening at the Opera. Carl Orff: Der Mond - The Moon. You might know Carl Orff from his mega-masterpiece: Carmina Burana. Well, Der Mond is heavy, Heavy, HEAVY ... but wow, these high school students presented us with a fantastic performance !! The orchestra was powerful and the singers ... well, let me just tell you ... once again, incredible.

And, happy to say, that the Moon is now back where it belongs ...

Bravo ! Bravo !! BRAVO !!!

Germans ... designers and engineers

2011-07-22T04:52:00.011-04:00

German people on the average love design. And, every person here seems to be a designer in their own right. I never heard the word 'design' spoken more than in Germany. On the opening day of Gmuender Art, I counted hearing the word design. The result: 14

When I was painting in the Marktplatz during the 80s parade, a gusty wind came along and toppled my canvas from its easel. Three German men rushed over to help me. Well then, they immersed themselves in a lengthy discussion (in German) deciding the best way to readjust my easel legs taking in consideration the wind, the gusts from around the church corner, the updraft ... well, you get my drift ... designers ... and engineers. Incredible.

Germans have a natural knack for design. Check out this beautiful space. I photographed the living room from the upstairs library. Fantastic !! Clean, white ... and a perfect mix of old and new. That's what I like also ... but my apartment is more 'old world' ... must correct the balance when (if) I return to the States.

Beautiful dining area ... so light and airy ...

Imagine that this is the view from your home ... not bad !!

Imagine seeing this view from your bathroom ...

imagine seeing this on your dessert plate !!

Now, I don't normally ever eat sweets ... VERY rarely. It's not that I don't enjoy them ... I just don't have the desire for them like I do with more 'savory' foods. I crave fish and salads and pizza and pasta and mussels and, well, you get the picture. BUT, with that being said, WHEN I do finally eat something sweet - like this very same Black Forest Cake - it's like a culinary explosion ... as my Mom would have said 'wow, Wow, WOW' !!!

Yum ... what better to go with Black Forest Cake then a little liqueur. This was sooo good ... like a perfect blend of brandy and rum ... AND, a very cute label to boot !!

Once again, you gotta admire their sense of design !! Incredible ...

Walking. Lunching. Painting.

2011-07-21T11:20:00.011-04:00

I actually worked on this painting yesterday and I think it's pretty much finished ... although it has the 'unfinished' look. He has SUCH a great profile ... an incredible nose and I thought the juxtaposition of the vertical clock tower would be a great accompaniment. He was walking in the 80s parade ...

So, this morning I walked to the path where you can hike to Strassdorf. Although the initial plan WAS to walk to Strassdorf, when I came upon this lovely restaurant - Der Südbahnhof - my plans changed. Less walking, more relaxing !

Guten Tag, please come in ... ok

For my petite dejeuner I had a healthy 'kleine' (small) salad and a large beer.

And after lunch, I began my painting of Sabine - a beautiful woman who walked in the 70s parade. She was wearing a bright satiny green dirndl with a bright blue apron ... she looked soooo pretty and I thought, yes, I absolutely MUST paint her. Photo to come tomorrow.

Off to Klaus and Ursula's for a nice dinner with Michaele, Conrad and Benedikt -

Guten Appetit !!!

rain, Rain, RAIN ... and more rain !!!

2011-07-20T07:56:00.007-04:00

Marktplatz ... pouring rain !!

Marktplatz ... MORE pouring rain !!

Marktplatz ... even MORE pouring rain !!

Wow ... it has been raining fiercely since last night ! That's ok for me because I have walked, explored, seen and written about SO much of Schwaebisch Gmuend already that with this rain it gives me non-guilty time to sit in my beautiful apartment and catch up on all that I need to do internet-wise. So, that is what I am doing ... and believe me, there is NO rain let-up !!! Incredible !

Now, I will walk around the corner to my temporary atelier ... turn up the Ella Fitzgerald ... and paint, paint, paint until my heart's content !!!

And ... by the way ... I love the rain ....

Tuesday in Schwaebisch Gmuend ... Market Day tomorrow !

2011-07-19T15:14:00.017-04:00

Today I treated myself to a wonderful 'dejeuner' at the Cafe Exlibris. The Cafe Exlibris is a beautiful cafe with tables and umbrellas nestled in a pretty garden. The view is of the beautiful city library and other old buildings ... and a large tree covered in vines. There is a snake sculpture in the tree ... and a beautiful Adam and Eve sculpture nearby. It's one of my favorite 'sanctuaries' in Schwaebisch Gmuend.

So today I ordered the daily special ... Fleisch ... uh ... I forget the rest of the word ... and mit salat. It was soooo delish !!!! And, a glass of deep rich Italian red wine ... incredible ! Nix Besser !!

Here is a close-up of lunch ... I wasn't sure exactly what herbs were in this salad ... I identified the chives and parsley naturally, but there was something else that I couldn't quite put my finger on ... and when I asked the chef what herbs were added, she said 'hamburger' ... hmmm ... ok ... so, hamburger herbs it is. Yum !!

Tomorrow is Market Day !!! Every Wednesday and Saturday there is a lovely market in picturesque Muenster Platz. You can buy anything - as long as it's flora or fauna. They have local farmers that set up their pretty umbrellas and sell their wares. You can buy fish, cheese, herbs, veggies, flowers, oils, spices ... and even deer or rabbit meat !! I enjoy walking around, admiring everything and taking photos.

How's this for spectacular !!! The Münster Cathedral

I always think of my Mom. And ... I always, ALWAYS think of my Mom when I see daisies. My Mom loved daisies. Sweet and pretty and innocent. Just like her.

So ... tomorrow another painting day ... I have to finish two large paintings in progress and then two more large paintings and then four smaller paintings. It's so nice painting in the temporary atelier !! And there's my artist friend Connie right around the corner. You can check out her website:

Atelia Lia

Until then, einen guten Tag haben !!

USA vs Japan ... in Schwaebisch Gmuend

2011-07-18T05:47:00.010-04:00

Ok ... by this time you all probably know that Japan won the Women's World Cup last evening. For me, certainly I was thrilled when the Americans scored ... but, and with that said, I'm ok with Japan winning. The Americans had SOOO many attempts to score and the ball was either too high or off to the side etc ... and, I think, along with millions of other people I'm sure, that this win was good for Japan ... maybe a little bit of healing for them.

So, congratulations to both teams ! It was a great game !!

Yesterday in Schwaebisch Gmuend, the women's soccer group organized a little festival to celebrate the FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) Women's World Cup. It was really nice ... beer, wine, sekt (German champagne), soda ... and yummy weisswurst on a kaiser roll. OMG ... was THAT delish !!! I had one for lunch and then one for dinner. Why not take advantage of a great thing !! And ... it was raining which kept some people away and I wanted to support this nice little festival.

It doesn't get much bigger than that !

Rain in the afternoon ... BUT ... clear skies during the game !

Here are both teams coming onto the field, passing the trophy

About 30 minutes before game time, the clouds parted and we were blessed with blue skies !!! It didn't rain at ALL during the game. I sat front row with some new acquaintances ... this is Silvana and Thomas ... Thomas is German, but he loves America. Obviously.

Painting with Julia and the Opening Ceremonies of the Europäische Kirchemusik

2011-07-17T10:11:00.012-04:00

Julia

On Friday, Julia and Michael invited me over for lunch. Julia and I had made plans to paint together in my wonderful atelier in Schwaebisch Gmuend so we needed some good nurishment !! Julia is pictured here making a lovely dish of spinach noodles with salmon, a salad with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil and a nice chilled white wine.

Such a nice coffee with wee cinnamon cookies

Julia creating a drawing of the inside wall of my temporary atelier

Artists Karen and Fritz stopped by for a visit. Karen and Fritz used to be the proprietors of the Prediger Wein Stüble ... a place I really enjoyed ... Fritz would play the piano and Karen and Fritz would sing ... I spent many wonderful evenings there with these nice friends over the last eight years !! btw ... they are both great painters and we hope to paint together while I am here. Keeping my fingers crossed that this happens !!

The Critique. Verdict: Julia gets an 'A+'

This is the opening of the Europäische Kirchemusik in Schwaebisch Gmuend. How's this for Fantastique !!! It was a presentation of acrobats, light, music, fireworks and story.

Thank you Michaele and Conrad ... It was truly amazing !!

CD release - 'The Beauty of Twilight'

2011-07-16T05:46:00.003-04:00

Guten Tag mes Amis !!

Just a quick departure from my travels, observations and experiences in beautiful Schwaebisch Gmuend to announce the newly released cd 'The Beauty of Twilight'. The musician is Greek violinist 'Nikos Verykokkos'.

His friend and colleague, Eleni Tziamourani, found my painting 'The Red Violin' on the internet and requested permission to use it on the cover ... great ! It's not only on the cover, but on the booklet cover and inside the booklet as well ... And burned on the cd itself !! So, thank you Nikos and thank you Eleni !

For more information on the music of Nikos Verykokkos, click below ... you can also find him on Facebook.

Nikos Verykokkos

USA vs France

2011-07-14T06:25:00.010-04:00

Now, anybody who knows me knows that I have a love affair with Europe ... more specifically Schwaebisch Gmuend, Germany and Antibes, France. Actually, that includes all of France ... and pretty much all of Europe - at least what I have seen of it so far. In my younger years I was fortunate to attend the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-arts in Paris and traipse around and paint in Giverny and Provence as well.

So, considering my affection for France and being a citizen of the US ... when it was time for the World Cup semi-finals - USA vs France - I was sure to get a front row seat at the Cafe DaVinci in Schwaebisch Gmuend so I could watch the match 'en plein air'. Yes, that's the Paulaner Cafe right next door ... notice the man wearing the lederhosen !!

The Paulaner cafe

When the raindrops began, the large tv was brought inside. My friends Connie and Andy and I sat, once again, front and center. It was a great game ! I thought that the French women played well - and, for a time, I was at the edge of my seat - several times they came so close to scoring.

USA wins 3-1 !!

During the match, one of the greatest artists in Schwaebisch Gmuend walked in and sat at our table. This is the wonderful Eckhart Dietz. He's pretty big time. You can check out his website - although you might want to dust off your German dictionary:

http://www.eckhart-dietz.de

He then took out his drawing tablet and in just moments, created this great drawing ... that's moi ! What a treat his visit was for me !!!

Score !! that's the Americans scoring against the French

It was so exciting ... and what a fun evening that was !! Then, Connie and Andy and I stayed for Sweden vs Japan. If you didn't see the match - Japan won. Once again the score was 3-1.

So, on Saturday evening I will head over to the Cafe DaVinci and watch the match for third place -- France vs Sweden. May the better team win ... although I will have a glass of 'vin rouge, un peu de pain et un morceau de fromage' ... that might give you an idea of who I'm rooting for !!

And, on Sunday, I will be back front and center, enjoying a small salad and a cold Beck's and cheering for our girls ... Go USA !!!

btw ... HAPPY BASTILLE DAY !!!!!!!!! Vive la France !

My Cocktail Prints

2011-07-13T06:34:00.010-04:00

Now, if you happen to walk past the Bilderbogen in Schwaebisch Gmuend, Germany, you will see in the window, five of my framed prints - and there's one inside the shop as well. The window looks great ! I like the white mats and the metal frames have a beautiful 'bronzy' finish to them.

I brought the prints from the United States and I have very few with me ... so, if you just MUST have a cocktail print in your collection, stop by the Bilderbogen - he has one framed and one unframed of each print. They are signed and numbered ... and if you would like, I can personalize them as well.

Mr. Martini

Ms. Manhattan

Ms. Chardonnay

Ms. Cabernet

Ms. Margarita

Ms. Cosmopolitan