70 Popes

Painting featured in Etsy Treasury for the 24th Time

2012-01-17T11:01:00.000-05:00

My painting titled "Panama" was featured in an ETSY Treasury 'Sloth visits Rhino' along with other work from the talented artists on Etsy.

Artist: Lynda D'Souza
Title: Panama (A Panama hat against a brown background)
Size: 8" x 8"
Medium: Oil on Hardboard

The treasury was curated by Megan of Blushie shop, a talented lady who creates handmade soaps, mineral make up and perfume oils. Her soaps look good enough to eat. Do drop by her shop to see more of her beautiful creations.

Blushie Etsy Shop

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

ARA student meet up

2011-12-10T11:25:00.000-05:00

(from L to R) Tamara, Denise, Margaret, myself, Brigitte and Fanny

And these are my lovely colleagues from Art school at our monthly art meet up. A big part of the meet up is eating and keeping ourselves dehydrated (wink!) and talking about our favorite subject ART. They are all very talented artists and I am in awe of their skills. They make going to school even more fun! You guys are super awesome ladies....................a very wonderful Christmas season to all of you.

Sequinned kimono

2011-12-08T16:25:00.000-05:00

via Sea of Shoes blog

Kimonos are everywhere! While I have been pining for a silk kimono I spotted this sequinned beauty on Jane's blog 'Sea of Shoes'...............seriously how cool is it! I die!

So after much searching on ebay, craigslist and Etsy I finally found one with a tassled fringe in black and white and ordered it! last night!!............and now just waiting for it to arrive at my doorstep. I do hope it gets to me before the Christmas partay........I so want to wear it for that!

Weekly live model drawing - sustained pose

2011-12-06T10:46:00.000-05:00

This is a construct of the live model sustained pose for 12 weeks. We start of building the construct on rough paper and then transfer it to water color paper cold pressed. The transfer is done in charcoal and built up by filling in with the charcoal and using a synthetic brush for shadow work. I loved the pose and the angle I work from but unfortunately I will not be able to finish this as the 12 weeks are coming to an end soon....sigh...

LIFE is............

2011-12-05T23:11:00.000-05:00

Mr. Lagerfeld

2011-11-28T18:43:00.000-05:00

via the They all Hate us blog

Nice to see him doing something other than designing.................K.L.

Gilded Ram horns

2011-11-27T14:17:00.000-05:00

We are really into antlers and already own a pair which hangs in our bedroom that we picked up at a garage sales (gotta love garage sales!). But then I saw this and started pining for it - seriously how good will it look in the middle of a coffee table sitting atop 3 coffee table books............gorjuss I say...............just gorjuss!

(cannot remember from which blog)

Free People

2011-11-25T10:32:00.000-05:00

If I had a million bucks I'd spend it all at FREE PEOPLE. Their clothes are so very Moi......a very fashion forward brand that I find the other stores are nowhere catching upto......well maybe H&M! Their lookbooks are inspiring and can be put together with elements you might have in your wardrobe currently.

Some of the looks I prefer.........

Painting featured in Etsy for the 24th time

2011-11-24T23:38:00.000-05:00

My painting titled "Yellow and Green" was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other work from the talented artists on Etsy.

Artist: Lynda D'Souza
Title: Yellow and Green
Size: 8'' x 8''
Medium: Oil on hardboard

The treasury was curated by Lisa Russo Photography, a talented lady who seeks beauty in things that have stood the test of time. One of my favorite photographs is this one of the carnival carousel...love the deep colors, the mouldings...so baroque. Do drop by her shop to see more of her beautiful work.

Lisa Russo Photography

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Winter Looks 2011

2011-11-23T17:12:00.000-05:00

These are some looks I would be sporting if I had the elements in my closet but I don't.....Sigh.

I found a gorgeous leather jacket at Joe Fresh - the softest faux leather, great tailoring and shaped cut but alas they did not have it in my size. Still on the look out for the perfect jacket and I will probably find it at the end of winter. All looks below created using Polyvore

Am so into long dresses right now....ooh and fringe bags

Snakeskin jacket......I want you baby!

Painting featured in Etsy for the 23rd time

2011-11-22T12:43:00.000-05:00

My painting titled "CARAMEL" was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other work from the talented artists on Etsy.

Artist: Lynda D'Souza
Title: Caramel
Size: 8" x 8"
Medium: Oil on harboard

The treasury was curated by OrangeBrand, a talented artist who's artwork can be viewed here.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

I like how it feels

2011-11-21T22:26:00.000-05:00

Dress- Thrifted; Jacket - Costa Blanca; Tights - Joe's; Belt - Thrifted; Boots - Aldo; Earrings - Forever 21

I love trolling fashion blogs and (some day I will post my favorite bloggers) so decided that I will post my daily outfits too. I spend most of my time thinking of different combinations and mixing things up. I tend not to repeat looks and like the challenge of thinking up something totally new, so thought I would document these ideas....for no underlying reason....it may help you...or may not...but it sure makes me happy!

This post is dedicated to my friend Vil................Happy Birthday doll.....Vamos echar un pie!

..............I like how it feels.............so do I...........so do I Mr Iglesias Junior! so do I..........

Halloween greetings you skeletons you!

2011-10-30T22:11:00.000-04:00

via Shiny Plastic Hag blog

Painting featured in Etsy for the 22nd time

2011-10-23T16:01:00.000-04:00

My painting titled "OUTLAW" was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other work from the talented artists on Etsy.

Treasury titled: Note from an outlaw

Artist: Lynda D'Souza
Title: Outlaw
Size: 8" x 8"
Medium: Oil on harboard

The treasury was curated by Mysoulcandance, a talented lady who makes unique jewellery. My favorites are these antique cream pair of earrings, do drop by her shop to see more of her beautiful work.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Fall looks

2011-10-22T15:22:00.000-04:00

Just some looks I lust for...............................

Party Decor contract

2011-10-21T23:39:00.000-04:00

And this is where the pom poms ended up!! I was contracted to do the party decor for a child's First Birthday party themed ' Winnie the Pooh'. With the color theme red and yellow I made up the pom poms to demarcate the dance area and then the table cloths/balloons added to the color. The customer wanted some characters for the main wall which I painted on large sheets of card stock. And finally they wanted a large line drawing of Winnie Pooh & his friends for the little ones to color in. This would eventually reside in the birthday girl's bedroom.

Pom Poms demarcating the dance area

The character paintings on the main wall

Painted these on card stock

and used double sided foam stickers to adhere to the wall

All done in acrylic on card stock

The line drawing done in acrylic for the little ones to color in

Thanks so much to Shyamala - it was fun putting this together and a big God bless to the birthday girl Mary Lou!!

Poms POMS

2011-10-20T17:59:00.000-04:00

Now when was the last time you saw a table full...full of tissue paper pom poms???!!! gawk away......more on this later.

Painting featured in Etsy for the 21st time

2011-10-19T21:03:00.000-04:00

My painting titled "Calla" was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other work from the talented artists on Etsy.

Artist: Lynda D'Souza

Title: Calla

Size: 12" x 12"
Medium: Oil on Canvas

Sarah Sedwick of Sedwick paints included my painting along with some beautiful other portraits from Etsy's artists. Sarah herself has a very nice collection of oil painting in her online shop - my favorites are the still lifes of the Christmas baubles / ornaments - do pop by to see more of her work. Thank you Sarah for including my painting !!

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Art & Craft show at AT & T United Way bazaar

2011-10-16T20:26:00.000-04:00

Last week thursday I was invited as a vendor for the second time to the AT & T staff bazaar at their office premises. It turned into a fun day and it was great seeing everyone again - these events allow us artisans to meet others like us and that I like! Thanks so much to Eva and Roz who organized a fantastic event and for inviting me again. Thanks also to Aynette Fernandes who was a huge help in so many ways!

...............living my life just the way I wanted to...............!

At the AT & T United way bazaar

Juried Show

2011-10-11T22:22:00.000-04:00

Margaret (left) and self
Title: Red Skirt
Medium: Acrylic on canvas

Title: Pink Light
Medium: Oil and canvas

Etobicoke Art Center

Margaret Stawicki, my fellow student at ARA (The Academy of Realist Art) had two of her paintings picked for the juried show at the Etobicoke Art Center. We were all so proud of her as her work is a beautiful expression of color and form.

CONGRATULATIONS MARGARET !!

Her work and others are being exhibited at the Etobicoke Art Center till October 27, 2011 - do drop by if you are in the area. There are over 34 artists showing their work in water color, oil, acrylic, mixed media and sculpture.

Painting featured in Etsy for the 20th time

2011-10-08T16:57:00.000-04:00

My painting titled "ABIGAIL" was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other work from the talented artists on Etsy.

'Treasury Tuesday on a Saturday Night' curated by BorgandIvee

Artist: Lynda D'Souza
Title: Abigail
Size: 12" x 12"
Medium: Oil on canvas

The treasury was curated by BorgandIvee, two talented artists who created beautiful oil paintings. You can view their art here.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Bargue assignment IV - part 1

2011-10-02T22:05:00.000-04:00

Just started my fourth assingment and after the creating the construct, have moved to the articulation stage. It's pretty complex as this time we do not have axis to use as a reference. So we create reference points on the outside of the image.

This assignment is different to the earlier three as we are creating a copy of the image in a large size. I have always loved horses as a subject and also as animals - like a big dog you can't hug! After I complete this I move to level 2 - charcoal!! yay!

Garage sale find !!

2011-09-16T20:44:00.000-04:00

Vintage Top Hat

Original hat box

Original hand written script showing hat was purchased for $4.00 back then

This is why we love garage sales! because you walk away with a Vintage Top hat in excellent condition in original hat box. I squeaked when I saw this lying at the garage sale we stopped by last weekend. It was covered in a beautiful black velvet and lined in red silk. Not a scratch on the hat but can't say the same about the box. I still am keeping the box though as the print and text is so cool. D will make me a stand for the hat which will go on my showcase alongside the sconces.

The funny thing was the hat was purchased back then for $4.00 and that was the exact same price I paid some fifty years later.

Bargue Assignment III - Jeune Femme - part 3 completion

2011-09-13T12:06:00.002-04:00

Completed drawing in graphite of Jeune Femme. On the left is the print that I reproduced.

My best work so far !

Close up of the facial details

Here is the completed drawing of Jeune Femme, didn't think I would finish it but finish it I did! whew!

Click here to view progress of the drawing.

Formal Gardens

2011-08-21T20:14:00.000-04:00

This entire summer we have gone back and forth on the plan for the backyard but work has kept us too busy to get started. It's looking like a project for 2012 which is just as well as we have so many ideas for that space. It started with a cabana for the husband and me, then a back deck, then a vegetable garden, on deck fire place.....and several other cool ideas. Yes its what we love discussing.......ideas for creating magical spaces!

I tend to lead toward formal gardens i.e. lots of symmetry, rows and rows, identical plants, tall trees....very French. While this is all in my head I have no idea on how to get it started. It's a good thing it has been delayed to next year as it gives me time to figure it out. Until then I am saving these images for my research bank

Seriously! I cannot get my backyard started and this is on a rooftop?!?!!!

Love the Church in the background

I say it again....its all about the symmetry

Courtney Cox's Private Retreat in Elle Decor

2011-07-21T11:20:00.000-04:00

I fell in love with Courtney Cox's home and bought the Elle Decor magazine yesterday just so I could pour over every room. What I loved the most was the 'grey' palette used all over and the outdoor decks just blew me away.

The coffee table is made of composite wood and the husband is going to make us one for when our back deck is ready. Don't you just love the greys and whites.......so calming.........and the glass wall............so clean.

This is like deck porn! I mean seriously....can you imagine the view from this place!

...the concrete table...........love the different zones she has created within a small space...

the black iron edging around the doors and windows......

again the greys and whites.......

You can read the whole feature here on Elle Decor on line.

Wednesdays live model drawing

2011-07-15T22:24:00.000-04:00

Another sustained post of 12 weeks but I didn't get far this time. Since I knew that I would not have much time I decided to spend the last few sessions modelling just one part of the figure which was the arm. Using the brush I spread the charcoal to create the values and roundness of the flesh. I was happy with my measuring this time round and achieved good proportions in the figure.

I keep telling myself its not a race Lynda......but it's like I have two brains - one talks and the other just does not want to listen !

Cartoon created on rough paper with shadow areas blocked in

Cartoon transferred onto water color paper and worked on with charcoal

Painting featured in Etsy for the 19th time

2011-07-14T10:33:00.000-04:00

My painting titled 'Yellow and Green' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other work from the talented artists on Etsy.

Artist: Lynda D'Souza

Title: Yellow and Green

Size: 8" x 8"
Medium: Oil on Hardboard

LilaO curated the treasury. They are a Mother and Daughter team that makes and sells cute clay products. One of my favorite pieces are the clay tags. Please pop by their shop to check out more of her products.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Bargue assignment III - Jeune Femme - part 2

2011-07-13T14:28:00.000-04:00

Jeune Femme alongside image I am reproducing.

Close up of Jeune Femme - the right eye is what I spent the last 3 days on.

'Jeune Femme' is about 50% done and I am in the shadow modelling stage now. I really enjoy this stage - creating the 3 dimensional illusion with the values and shapes. I spent the last three days working on the right eye (not yet added the eyelashes) and have now started work on the left eye. Of the three assignments this one has the largest shadows to work on. I should think another months work is left.

Someone asked me yesterday if this is hardwork - I would say no - its just time consuming. The product is directly relative to the time you have spent on it.....and I am loving it !

Click here to see stage 1 of Jeune Femme.

Painting featured in Etsy treasury for the 18th time

2011-06-27T22:00:00.000-04:00

My painting titled 'Panama' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other work from the talented artists on Etsy.

Artist: Lynda D'Souza
Title: Panama
Size: 8" x 8"
Medium: Oil on Hardboard

Cyndy owner of the 'Out of Doha' antique store curated the treasury. She sells vintage and antique decor pieces from repurposed or upcycled objects to industrial and shabby chic items. One of my favorite pieces is the cast iron weighing scale. Please pop by her shop to check out more of her products.

Vintage American Made Urban Industrial Gray Cast Iron Scale

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Screen Printing serviettes

2011-06-08T20:54:00.000-04:00

We screen printed serviettes to match the FHC card and I created the artwork using the same font from the invite card and added the date of the event. We matched the blue shade to one of the colors used in the invite card's artwork. We love screen printing as its a project the whole family gets involved. I do the artwork, D creates the screen and the girls run back and forth with the serviettes.

Last year D helped the girls print Valentine day cards for their class mates. Click here to read the post on the husband's blog.

D holding the screen up while Layla registers the napkin

D applying the screen print ink which was custom mixed by myself to match the invite card

The first print.....only 99 more to go....

The serviettes drying............

Voila! they turned out just great!

First Holy Communion Artwork

2011-05-31T22:45:00.000-04:00

This was artwork I created for our nephew's First Holy Communion card using Corel PSP. They wanted the bible, rosary and the child's initial incorporated. So after buying this image from an image data bank I then proceeded to age the image and added the transparent initial using a glamorous font. The card looked fantastic and more importantly they loved it!

Summer time and the living is easy...........

2011-05-23T20:18:00.000-04:00

Image via Oh Hello Friend blog

With the great weather we have been having lately I have been thinking of the summer bbq's we will soon begin hosting. I would so love to have a set up like this.........with the oversized cushions and rattan shades....and projector....so perfect!

Illustrative Commission

2011-05-14T19:50:00.001-04:00

Thought I would give you a sneak peek of what I was working on last month. A talented make up artist friend commissioned me to create some illustrations for her training material. Samanth Frith teaches make up application and her work is simply gorgeous. I created several templates for make up application, story boards like the one featured below and colored illustrations with make up. It was so much fun collaborating with her to create this work. Click here to find out more about the course she teaches 'Int 500 Professional Make up Artistry Course'.

Thank you Sam for this wonderful opportunity! It was a joy working with you!

If you would like any illustrative or Fine Art work, email me here. You can also purchase many items found on my blog at my shop 70 Popes.

To Subscribe to my blog 70 Popes click here.

FEAR

2011-05-10T09:36:00.000-04:00

"Fear"
Digital Artwork by Lynda D'Souza

Created another piece in Corel using the feather background for the page. The font was perfect for the word 'FEAR'. This program is friggin awesome!

Live model drawing session contd...

2011-05-08T21:18:00.000-04:00

The drawing is now transferred onto the Arches watercolor paper and I have blocked in all the shadows. A big lesson I took away from this is to block in the background color first thereby allowing you a comparison for your other values. That took alot of time but still not as flat as I would like it to be. I then used a brush to create the values in the shoulder area. Time only permitted me this much but grateful to even get this far. She was a great model.....did not move and a wonderful pose to work with.

Live model drawing session

2011-05-07T13:41:00.001-04:00

During the live model sessions we are sometimes blessed with the same pose over an extended period. So this model was available to us for all of 12 weeks. The first stage (above) was the construct stage after the 15 line gesture drawing (top left corner). I think I am finally getting a hang of the comparative measuring system and my drawing looks proportionate (to me!). Have blocked in all the shadows and next will be transferring it onto the Arches watercolor paper.

Bargue Assignment III

2011-05-06T12:43:00.000-04:00

"Jeune Femme"
Bargue Assignment III

Am working on my third assignment (there are a total of 4 assignments in Level 1) and still in construct stage of 'Jeune Femme'. Am being pushed to get the shapes accurate and all the angles. The school teaches us to move our eyes back and forth to identify any mistakes through animation. Have realized I am quite an impatient person and can't wait to start work on the modeling but they won't let me! :(
Nevertheless I just know I am going to enjoy completing "Jeune Femme".

Bargue Assignment II Completed

2011-05-05T10:16:00.000-04:00

Have finally completed my second Bargue assignment and in the process of framing it. The prof pushed me alot towards the end to keep working on the shadows and I am glad he did. I got an A- on this and learned alot in the process. This along with my first Bargue will look great in my living room when I complete refurbishing. Am selling all of the furniture I have and going for a French / Industrial look......I digress....more on this in another post.

Click here to view the drawing in early stages.

Bargue Assignment II

Close up of drawing

Cool Combinations

2011-04-09T22:44:00.000-04:00

After months of wearing those ugly snow boots I can finally bring out my fancy boots and with it all the colored tights, jackets and scarves! Some nice combinations spotted on the Collage Vintage blog - she puts together great looks! Below are some looks I would definitely put on especially the short dresses with ankle boots. Not sure how I'd carry off the maxi lengths which are so popular right now but I am going to give it a shot!

Digital Artwork

2011-04-01T12:51:00.000-04:00

Some more work I created in Corel...having fun !!

Transient Guests Are We............

Another world....

2011-03-31T11:05:00.000-04:00

Google Art Project

2011-03-30T10:54:00.000-04:00

If there is a company I would like to work for it would be Google..such innovators. The newest project they have come up with is called 'Google Art Project'. It allows one to view the artworks in various museums around the world from your desktop. Not only can you view the artworks but you can also take a virtual tour around the entire museum.

For artists like moi it allows us to zoom in on each painting to such a degree that I can analyze the colors used to paint the eye. Helps very much when studying value and brush strokes. Click here to read the article written by one of the innovators at Google and click here to get to the Google Art Project home page.

To give you an idea of the level of detail one can zoom into, see the pics below:

Marie-Antoinette de Lorraine-Habsbourg, Queen of France and her children

New toys to play with...

2011-03-29T17:36:00.000-04:00

OMFG !!! I have found a new toy to play with and I am loving it - Corel PSP is awesome. Of course initially it is maddening but the more you play with it the more you learn. D dug up a `PSP for Dummies`book for me and I am painstakingly going through each page as I really want to learn this program. So many options...so much you can do with it..........

A peek of what I created this afternoon.....all digitally!!

Painting featured in Etsy Treasury for the 17th time

2011-03-27T19:00:00.000-04:00

My painting titled 'Blushing Turnips' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other work from the talented artists on Etsy. Roneprinz curated the treasury and she makes & sells sculptural, whimsical jewellery - really love her birds on wheels pieces and the stunning chair necklace - so quirky!!! If you are into steam punk jewellery you will love her work. Please pop by her shop to check out more of her products.

21 chair sterling silver necklace

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Artist: Lynda D'Souza

Title: Blushing Turnips

Size: 7" x 7"

Medium: Oil on Hardboard

Spring Fashion

2011-03-24T10:59:00.000-04:00

First day of Spring was this Sunday and I refuse to let the recent snowfall dampen my spirits. My wardrobe is being shopped for Spring Fashions and some of my inspiration is here...............

I do like the rocker look mixed in with some feminine pieces and definitely ankle boots. My hunt for the perfect Parka continues...............

And on a good note I've heard TOPSHOP is coming to CA !!!!.............in the fall..........of 2011. The Bay will be hosting the store and I am so so excited! I do miss the British brands from living in the Middle East for over 15 years....Next, New Look, Top Shop, Vero Moda to name a few. Good times are ahead.........

Painting featured in Etsy Treasury for the 16th Time

2011-03-22T22:29:00.000-04:00

My painting titled 'Fall Fays' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other portraits from the talented artists on Etsy. What I am very chuffed about is that my work has been featured along with other artists who I greatly admire and religious follow their blog / works. To be featured along with Krystina81, Janet Hill Studio, TushTush, BeHappyNow to name a few is humbling.

DanaAndCarol curated the treasury and she sells unique paper wreaths and her white ones are so so pretty. Please pop by her shop to check out more of her products.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Artist: Lynda D'Souza
Title: Fall Days
Size: 12" x 12"
Medium: Oil on gallery canvas

Click here to buy Original

Featured on Designwali's Blog

2011-03-21T14:39:00.000-04:00

The lovely Designwali has featured my work on her blog and I am so so grateful for the exposure. In the online world every footprint goes a long way!

This is the article and click here to check out the post on her blog. I love her blog..she chats about home decor and furniture and features some beautiful design ideas with an Indian flavour. Please pop over.........

Thank you Designwali....ps. love your tablas!!

Painting featured in ETSY Treasury for the 15th time

2011-03-10T10:47:00.000-05:00

My painting titled 'Ava' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other items from the talented sellers on Etsy. Blue Rose Retro curated the treasury and she sells unique vintage items in her online store. She has quite a selection of household items, clothes and shoes - please pop by her shop to check out more of her products.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Artist: Lynda D'Souza
Title: Ava (Portrait painting)
Size: 12" x 12"
Medium: Oil on gallery canvas

Click here to buy Original

Beautiful Quote

2011-02-28T17:36:00.000-05:00

Via the French By Design blog

Painting workshop - completed painting

2011-02-19T14:40:00.000-05:00

This is the completed painting of Mr Antonio completed in 12 hours at school. It was the first time I was painting over a stretched period of time and with a dried canvas. Most of my previous work I have done alla prima and over 3-5 days. So much I learned....and painting from a live model is..........ah what's the word........exquisite. Yes exquisite, because it allows one to see so many colors. This was a workshop without instruction so the painters all did their own thing - its more like playing with our paint.

Click here to see pics of the studio and the model himself.

Inspiration Board - part 2

2011-02-11T20:39:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in an earlier post I was looking for a gold frame to make myself an inspiration board. Found this gorgeous frame in a liquidation store for $6/- and love it's big size. I even love the pic in it, such a pity I will have to discard it. Now just to find the fabric for the inside............definitely something grey.

Bargue Assignment 1 completed

2011-02-10T10:56:00.003-05:00

I just realized I had blogged about my first assignment but never put up a pic of the completed drawing so here it is! It was such an eye opener...learning to use my knitting needle to measure, understanding the different pencils, pushing the graphite into the grooves of the paper........! And the best part was the light form modelling...once I put that in it was like putting the final icing on a wedding cake - just made the drawing pop.

Found this gorgeous gold frame which has a sienna sort of patina to it and will hang it along with my second assignment somewhere in the living room.

Oh geez I should sign it...I always to forget to sign my art.

Click here and here to see the drawing taking shape.

Carved stamp

2011-02-06T12:40:00.000-05:00

Feelingcrafty I was in the mood for carving something and found this gorgeous book we bought a while ago on 'Detail, Cottage and Constructive Architecture'. I used my carving tools & rubber slab, and set to work digging out the intricate moldings of this beautiful design. I have since used this stamp to stamp out images on cards and on my abstract canvas paintings. It was so much fun......in fact I am feeling the itch to do another one....maybe later this afternoon...........

Inspiration board

2011-02-02T14:49:00.000-05:00

Via the Eclecchicc Blog

Now that the studio is complete (thanks to the dear hubby) I have been perusing ideas for my inspiration board. I had one earlier but it was just a big piece of foam board that I pinned things on. This time round I want something pretty - where the board itself is a statement piece...............quite like this one featured on the Eclecchic blog. Love the gold trim and the wood carving on top. I might go with a burlap or cream cotton canvas background cover as opposed to printed fabric. Nice no!

Painting workshop

2011-01-31T16:50:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I enrolled in a six weeks painting workshop that takes place on friday afternoons and we have access to a live model (fixed pose) for 3 full hours. It is so much fun to get the paint under my nails again and painting from a live model is another experience altogether...you see a myriad of colors, form, values.....things you do not see from a flat picture or photograph. There are a dozen other students some painting, drawing, pastels...just playing with our mediums.

That's a pic of my painting and the model posing with me. Antonio is just the best model I have met....one - because he doesn't move at all (and its pretty hard staying still for 23 mins at a time) and two because he brings us goodies every friday...last week was Foccachio with sun dried tomatoes, ham and cheese! seriously which model feeds the artists!!! we love him!!

Quotes

2011-01-30T15:27:00.001-05:00

Via the Sacramento Street blog

Academy of Realist Art classroom

2011-01-28T21:09:00.000-05:00

Academy of Realist Art - Bargue Room

...and this is where I spend my week days...in the 'Bargue room' where we work on our Bargue assignments and live model drawing sessions. After completing 4 assignments we will graduate to the next room for charcoal drawing and final level of oil painting. We have soft classical music playing in the background and lots of natural light. Peers who's thoughts & words match my world. It is a dream come true studying here.

We have students travelling from the US, Australia and Hongkong to study here and I am so fortunate that this school is in my province....just a train ride away!

Bargue - Assignment II

2011-01-27T08:31:00.000-05:00

Been working on my second Bargue assignment and learning so much more. This piece involves much more modelling on the lights and darks. Prof insists on us working the darks ONLY first before moving onto the lights. So right now I am softening the bed bug line and spreading the diffusion outwards. It's already been a month since I have been working on this....enjoying every moment.

Portrait of Chanel

2011-01-26T11:21:00.000-05:00

Title: Chanel

Oil on canvas

10 x 10 inches

CLICK HERE TO BUY

Uploaded this painting in the shop recently. Really pleased with the softness in the face, loved the process of blending.

Romaine Brooks

2011-01-25T19:29:00.000-05:00

I have noticed my paintings are developing into a similar range of muted colors. I find I cannot use bright colors and end up graying my colors quite a bit. I also find my clothes and furniture are in a similar palette. I guess this is what they mean by "Life imitates art or Art imitates life".......... Discovered this artist whose palette I can very much relate too, she is definitely bold in her choices for that period but I am loving the subdued palette and subject matter - ROMAINE BROOKS. Quite a life she led - read more here.

Romaine Brooks (May 1, 1874 – December 7, 1970), born Beatrice Romaine Goddard, was an American painter who specialized in portraiture and used a subdued palette dominated by the color gray. Brooks ignored contemporary artistic trends such as Cubism and Fauvism, drawing instead on the Symbolist and Aesthetic movements of the 19th century, especially the works of James McNeill Whistler. Her subjects ranged from anonymous models to titled aristocrats, but she is best known for her images of women in androgynous or masculine dress, including her self-portrait of 1923, which is her most widely reproduced work.^[1]

Self Portrait (1923)

The Black Cap (1907)

Peter, a Young English Girl (1923–1924), a portrait of the artist Gluck

All images via the Little Augury Blog.

Painting featured in Etsy Treasury for the 14th Time

2011-01-24T12:04:00.000-05:00

My painting titled 'Fall Days' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other items from the talented sellers on Etsy. Ms Melissa from Sahetah curated the treasury and she makes/sells beautiful handmade jewellery on Etsy. My favorites are her pink rose quartz earrings - please pop by her shop to check out more of her products.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Title: Fall Days

Oil on Canvas

Print 8 x 8 inches

Click here to buy Print

Click here to buy Original

A Romantic Loft In Paris With The Spirit Of The Eighteenth Century

2011-01-22T19:43:00.000-05:00

Our living room is finally painted white and trimmed with crown molding, high baseboards and golden oak floorboards. The decor I want to keep a mix of French and Industrial. My inspiration is the beautiful loft featured below with just the right blend of both styles.............drooling right now...........

the limed closet doors look gorgeous............

lovely blend of the metal industrial corner table against the gilded framed painting........

my favorite room of all.......everr single piece of furniture is swoon worthy...

such nice wall art........

Via The Essence of the good life blog

..............need a tissue to mop up the drool!!!

Madame de Sévigné's Gallery

2011-01-20T16:38:00.000-05:00

via Parisatelier.blogspot.com

I want to paint this so much.....I have half a mind to source the 19th century dress from ebay and enlist one of the models from my art school..................hmmmm maybe I just can. My fingers are just itching.........the set up below is so period............

I know now what they meant when they said "When you start painting from live models you just cannot go back to painting from photographs.......I know exactly what they mean".

Paul Reeves - Ice Dancer

2011-01-19T08:49:00.000-05:00

Have you ever heard a piece of music where you felt like closing your eyes and imagine yourself floating, you want to hear it over and over again and you desperately wish it was more than 2 mins long.............

................this piece does that for me. I have played it around 30 times today alone, got the girls humming it, playing it in my head and D royally pissed off!

ENJOY - Ice Dancer by Paul Reeves.

Painting featured in Etsy Treasury for the 13th time

2011-01-18T10:34:00.000-05:00

My painting titled 'Ebba' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with items from the talented sellers on Etsy. The treasury was named 'Still I rise - Strong Women' and features some very beautiful women along with my painting (yay!). Ms Brandy from Nomadic Notebook curated the treasury and she makes/sells beautiful stationary and jewelery. My favorites are her personalized pendants - please pop by her shop to check out more of her products.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Title: Ebba

Oil on Canvas

12 x 12 inches

Click here to buy Original

Golden Globes 2010...11

2011-01-17T18:37:00.000-05:00

Uhh still getting used to typing 2011....so did you watch the Golden Globes yesterday...we did and my favorite dress of the evening was Jennifer Lopez's Zuhair Murad white number. Love the detailing of the transparent cape covered in sequins and theSwarovski clutch. If you must know the Harry Winston jewellery was only $5 million! ...which was your favorite dress? Gotta watch the Social Network now, wasn't planning to...........

Painting featured in Etsy Treasury for the 12th time

2011-01-11T10:08:00.000-05:00

My painting titled 'Abigail' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other items from the talented sellers on Etsy. The treasury was themed 'Vintage Charm' and featured a wide range of charming items. Ms Anita from Bird Apparel Canada curated the treasury and she makes/sells unique clothing items. My favorites are her organic lingerie...clean, simple lines - please pop by her shop to check out more of her products.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Title: Abigail

Oil on Canvas

12 x 12

Click here to buy

Wow...it's 2 0 1 1 ...

2011-01-10T21:47:00.000-05:00

My X'mas break went on for a little longer than I expected but I am backkkkk !!
Happy New Year everyone....do hope you had a wonderful start to this year...it feels promising and hopeful and new!! I hope you get to try out everything you wanted to...and more!

Just completed this portrait on hardboard using a stippling technique which allowed the blending of colors to have a smoother finish than if I was just brushing it on....don't ask me where or how I know this because I really do not know how I ended up doing it this way. I tried it.....it worked and so I continued stippling for the entire face. Ooh I do love painting portraits....such a challenge...so much detail yet so much form....I would be quite happy just doing portraits all my life.

15th Wedding Anniversary

2010-12-16T10:04:00.000-05:00

15 years ago on this day I married my best friend.....

Gosh I remember that day so clearly...me being the psycho control freak, I was paranoid about everything going perfectly. But what I didn't know was that everything was perfect...I had my D by my side and a whole future of memories to make together.

15 years down the road, 2 beautiful daughters, 1 adorable dog, 3 relocations, our own home and the bestest of family and friends to support us. I could not ask for anything more.......I am blessed and truly grateful.

Happy Anniversary Baby!

Painting featured in Etsy Treasury for the 11th Time

2010-12-15T22:01:00.000-05:00

My painting titled 'Hepburn' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other shoes from the talented sellers on Etsy. Ms Debi from Sunny Plain Quilting put the treasury together and she makes and sells quilted gift items on Etsy. My favorites are her pretty Christmas wreaths - do pop by her shop to check out more of her products.

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Title: Hepburn

Oil on Canvas

8 x 8 inches

Click here to buy Original

What is an ETSY TREASURY?
The Treasury is an etsy member-curated gallery of short-lived lists of 12 hand-picked items each. Members can feature their favorite items, items selected on a theme, or just whoever they like.

Winter Fashion

2010-12-10T11:30:00.000-05:00

I tried to keep this blog purely about my art and craft but I can't do it anymore.....cannot keep my fashion out of it because Fashion is a big part of who I am ! I love keeping up with trends, mixing the edgy and feminine elements, fashion blogging....and shopping of course!

So I will start my ramblings with Winter fashion...under all those ugly layers one could look pretty sharp and here are some options.

From one of my favorite Fashion Bloggers BARTABAC

I love mixing things up...like a guys sweatshirt with a pretty pleated skirt, skinny leather pants with an oversized sweater....so many options above to play with. Enjoy browsing!

Painting featured in ETSY Treasury for the 9th time

2010-12-08T23:21:00.002-05:00

My paintings titled 'Scarlet Slingback' has been featured in an ETSY Treasury along with work from other Etsy sellers based in Toronto. I am so proud to be featured along with these much talented folks.

Thank you to the very nice Ms Sandy from Tesoro Del Sol (Treasure of the Sun) Etsy Shop for curating this wonderful collection of RED items. Sandy makes exquisite jewellery, one of my favorite items is a chain which is designed to hold your glasses. Please pop over and check out her beautiful creations.

You can view the entire treasury here and as well as others.

Title: Scarlet Slingback

Oil on Hardboard

Size: 8 x 8"

Click here to buy

Painting featured in ETSY Treasury for the 10th Time

2010-12-08T23:00:00.036-05:00

My painting titled 'Fall Days' was featured in an ETSY Treasury along with other items from TORONTO ETSY SELLERS. We have formed our very own ETSY Team called T.E.S.T which stands for Toronto Etsy Street Team and brings all local sellers together to support each other. There is lots to learn from each of these talented people and we will be meeting up soon to discuss 2011 events. Next time you are shopping on Etsy use the search tag "Toronto Team" to bring up handmade items from all Toronto Etsy sellers. Watch this space for more on this!

This treasury was curated by the lovely Ms Glenda from the Winter Garden Etsy Shop and she makes cute knitted brooches and bracelets. One of my favorites are her knitted items embellished with tiny pearls...so cute! Please pop over and check out her goodies!

The treasury can be viewed here as well as many others.

Title: Fall Days

Oil on Canvas

12 x 12 inches

Click here to buy Original

Click here to buy Print

Christmas Tree decorating.....

2010-12-04T22:02:00.001-05:00

Via the Jennifer Rizzo Blog
Decorating with Tags

Now imagine decorating your entire Christmas Tree with my beautiful tags............so pretty......!

Beautiful labels for your gifts

2010-12-01T22:54:00.000-05:00

Such a personal way to say Thank you or tell someone How Special they are...these tags make a beautiful gift label when presenting a gift to someone...office colleagues....school mates......everyone!

Christmas in Paris
Click here to buy

Flowers series
Click here to buy

Christmas Time
Click here to buy

Cherubs
Click here to buy

Gift Tags - more designs in Etsy Shop

2010-11-30T13:47:00.000-05:00

These pretty designs have been loaded in the shop. The flip side of the tags are blank with enough space to write a personal message to your loved one. Enjoy browsing !

Snowflakes
Click here to buy

Scripted Tag
Click here to buy

Happy Holidays
Click here to buy

Gift Tags Baroque series in Etsy Shop

2010-11-30T10:45:00.003-05:00

These are from the Baroque series and I have done 3 colors in gold, copper and lavender. Hope you like!

Baroque Gold Gift Tags
Click here to buy

Baroque Copper Gift Tags
Click here to buy

Baroque Lavender Gift Tags
Click here to buy

Gift Tags now available in ETSY Shop

2010-11-29T10:21:00.000-05:00

Leading from much demand for my pretty gift tags I have uploaded them in my ETSY shop yesterday. There are several series I have created with some specific to Christmas and others that can be used for Birthdays, Get Well Soon, Thank yous, etc. Do browse the Etsy shop to view the entire selection.

JOY Gift Tags
Click here to buy

Hummingbird Gift Tags
Click here to buy

Winter In Paris (green) Gift Tags
Click here to buy

Painting featured in Etsy Treasury for the 8th time

2010-11-28T15:07:00.000-05:00

My painting of Ava was featured in another Etsy Treasury by Ms Cyn. I enjoyed painting this one particularly rendering the background khaki color to compliment the portrait colors.

The treasury is called "Amongst pretty things" and includes a beautiful collection of dolls, felted products and other dainty goods. You can view the entire treasury here as well as other ones too.

Featured Artist - article on Jane Sloss Blog

2010-11-27T11:35:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Lynda D’Souza, who is the next artist in the featured artist series. She is an oil painter who aims to capture the essence of the subject while interpreting it in a more impressionistic style. Lynda has been making art in different forms for the last 15 years. Faux wall finishes, stained glass painting, mosaics, ceramic painting and murals are some of the media she has sampled. In a professional capacity she has designed exhibition stands, corporate backdrops and even designed high fashion garments. 10 years ago her husband gifted her a canvas and box of oil paints on the birth of her first daughter and she hasn’t stopped creating original art since. Lynda has a passion for all things vintage, fashion related and portraits, and this is reflected in her choice of subjects. Her vast travels have influenced her perception of the world and she strives to bring out the beauty of her subjects......even if it is a simple ‘teapot’.

Her original oil paintings can be found in private collections in USA, Netherlands, Australia and India. Her works can be found on Etsy and on her blog.

"Rosa," oil on canvas, 10"x10," Lynda D'Souza, 2010

What inspires you about painting portraits?
From a young age I have been doodling eyes and lips not realizing that it will come full circle to me painting portraits. I love people watching and having a degree in psychology l am constantly 'reading' people. After having tried still lifes and landscapes, portraits presented a nice challenge and one I enjoy the most...the challenge of accuracy, proportions, capturing the mood and expression.......a combination of everything that has left me wanting to excel at portrait painting.

"Vespa," oil on hardboard, 8"x10", Lynda D'Souza, 2010

What have you found most challenging or most exciting (or both) about your transition to full time artist?
I'll start with the positive - transitioning to full time artist is 'living my dream'. I still pinch myself sometimes when I realize I am at my art school surrounded by phenomenal art, great teachers and warm & friendly colleagues. Being stress free, more present in the moment and giving my undivided attention to my children is my first goal. Being able to create everyday is more than I could ask for. I am truly grateful for this moment in my life.

The challenging bit is organizing my time better. I have a weakness for blogging and suddenly a whole afternoon has gone by just blog hopping. So I have resorted to giving myself a reward of 15 mins of online time provided I have completed 2 full hours at the easel. It's working....I think.

"Shine," oil on hardboard, 8"x8," Lynda D'Souza, 2010

Many of your paintings beautifully depict everyday objects: shoes, articles of clothing, teapots and other household items, does the aesthetic of vintage fashion or décor influence these paintings, in terms of subject matter or style?
I am drawn to vintage things and can often be found at flea markets, thrift stores and antique markets. My choice of subject matter is influenced by my love for all things with a history. I am often caught wondering who used the 50 yr old typerwriter we have at home, which deer shed those antlers .... the antlers are on our bedroom wall. To me, things of the past have a charm about them and need to be cherished accordingly.

"Baby It's Cold Outside," oil on hardboard, 8"x8," Lynda D'Souza, 2010

More about Lynda....
Lynda was born in Mumbai, India after which she moved with her parents to Qatar and then Dubai, where she briefly worked in an Ad agency before her curiosity led her down the corporate route. Her job led her from Dubai to Bahrain and she now resides in Brampton, Ontario.

She has completed a degree in Psychology from the University of Bombay and a post grad diploma in General Management from the Leicester University, United Kingdom. After 20 years in the corporate world Lynda decided to pursue her Fine Art studies full time and quit her management job in September 2010. She is currently studying at the Academy of Realist Art (ARA), Toronto completing a 2 year program modeled on the 19th century European academies. She is living her dream...making her art....being among like minded souls and giving her full attention to her family. She encourages everyone to follow their dreams ‘now’ and seek to make yourself happy first.

“Not only can we create art, art creates us”--Maria Eskenasy

Many thanks to Lynda D'Souza for sharing her work with us.

What do you think of her masterful portraits and beautiful depictions of ordinary objects.

Featured Artist...one more time!

2010-11-26T12:10:00.000-05:00

Pinch me...I must be dreaming, but no...it is true!! I have been featured as Artist of the month for the SECOND TIME in one month. My work has been featured on the blog of Jane Sloss who is a wonderful watercolor artist and architect. Her beautiful renderings of simple objects like a door are brought to life with watercolor.

Amate House North, watercolor, Jane Sloss

Her urban landscapes are unique in that they have a different vantage point.

Seattle Sunset, watercolor, Jane Sloss

She also designs elegant wedding cards so if you are looking for something original do check out her work at her blog `A Good Days work`.

Thank you so much Jane.....you are most kind!

Click here to read my article.

Star Portraits - Seaon 2

2010-11-25T14:42:00.000-05:00

I am avidly following the Star Portraits show and season 2 features some of my Art School`s students. The show features on Bravo TV Canada and you can catch the current episodes online.

Star Portraits is a TV series that explores and celebrates the art of portraiture, while providing a unique and compelling twist on celebrity profile.Each episode begins by bringing together one famous Canadian and three accomplished portrait artists for a sitting. The sitter's identity is a secret, the only clue being the specially chosen location. First, our host Louise Pitre introduces us to the three artists, then with a dramatic set-up, brings on the surprise guest, and kicks off the sitting. The artists are given three hours to study, sketch and photograph the sitter, and generally get to know them through conversation and questions. Then, the artists are sent off to their respective studios for exactly two weeks to complete their works.

ARA grads and former students that are competing include: Pauline Bradshaw, Yevgeniya Savosta, Diliana Popova, Shawn Downey, and Matthew Tarini.

http://www.bravo.ca/television/star-portraits/index.asp

Painting featured in Etsy Treasury for the 7th time

2010-11-24T22:08:00.000-05:00

My painting of the Cheltenham Badlands was featured in an Etsy Treasury aptly named `Stormy weather`. Some beautiful pieces have been included in this treasury featuring the colors of a stormy grey day. The treasury was created by Ms Caroline from the Cool Ranch studio. Caroline makes petite acrylic paintings and her shop currently features a whole series of Christmas art...do check it out.

The treasury can be viewed here and other ones too.

Rose Theatre Winter Art & Craft Festival

2010-11-23T13:07:00.001-05:00

My table located in Studio 2

What a show! we had a great time at the Rose Theatre....it was wonderful seeing everyone...thanks so much for dropping by....hope you found some special gifts for your loved ones. I have to say the show was well organized and the other vendors were amazingly talented. The organizers did a fantastic job and I learned much from my 'first' proper show! Will I do again? hell yeah! and hopefully will see you at the Summer Show in July 2011.

Side view of my table..in all its vintage glamour!

I was so pleased with the way my table turned out...spent a whole afternoon trying different options and then the pieces I chose just fit together. The paper cone wreath and pearls finished off the look. Can you spot the 'wine bottle'??

More pics on my facebook page.

Tags - Baroque series

2010-11-19T15:51:00.000-05:00

Gift Tags - Baroque series

Okay folks.....a few hours to go...busy packing up everything into the car as we have to set off at 7am tomorrow morning. I am so looking forward to seeing everyone there....I do hope you can make it....its a wonderful event...great vibe and wonderful people.

Do come by my booth No. 55 in studio 2......would love to meet you!!

Tags - Snowflake series

2010-11-18T10:33:00.000-05:00

These are part of the 'Snow flake' series and I have kept them very simple and elegant. The snow flake is a glittery sticker and the flourishes are stamped with gold ink. All will be affixed with a ribbon later today.

Back to work then.............

Paper Cone Wreath

2010-11-17T09:25:00.000-05:00

Just finished making the paper cone wreath for my table at the Rose Theatre Winter Art and Craft Sale on NOVEMBER 20, 2010. It will go on the front along with some over sized pearl garlands. If you look closely you will spot excerpts on Robin Hood...thats because I used the pages from an old Robin Hood book....they were beautifully yellowed with age, with rough edges and soft like blotting paper. Hope to y'all there!

Christmas in Paris

2010-11-16T11:14:00.000-05:00

'Christmas in Paris' Tags

My 'Christmas in Paris' series............stamped and embellished with a beautiful glitter sticker......they sparkle so beautifully. Still to put the ribbons on them....maybe tomorrow. Listening to Harry Connick Jr's album When My Heart Finds Christmas....love Big Band music.

A shout out to the Little Tweeze for helping me with affixing the stickers...you the best!

Gift Tags - Flora & Fauna series

2010-11-14T18:58:00.000-05:00

Gift Tags
Handmade by Lynda D'Souza

Still working on the tags and thought I would post pics of some of them. The show is in exactly 5 days and I am terribly excited.......don't forget people.....November 20, 2010 at the Rose Theatre for the Winter Art & Craft Festival. Got my table site today and I will be located in studio 2 which is nice as it is near the snack bar!!!

This series I call the 'Flora & Fauna' series. They have a post card look to it and embellished with pics from a vintage Nature book. I will put the ribbons on them later in the week.

I am also taking advance orders and will ship to anywhere required. Just email me at 70popes@gmail.com.

Factory Line

2010-11-11T09:35:00.001-05:00

Been busy making the tags for the Winter Festival show on November 20 at the Rose Theatre and I have set up a factory line of sorts in my studio. Just a long table laid out with my stamps and embellishments so everything is at a hand's reach. I have been busy at work everyday and all day. Coach is very bothered by it and most times he will patiently wait for me to take a break and play with him, and most other times he will jump onto the armchair in front of my work table and call out to me......like this!! and he won`t leave until I do!

"So where's the ball?" says Coach

My work surface with my current series in progress...`Vintage Bugs`...I think they are my favorite so far!

My work surface showing current tag series being created.

Bargue drawing

2010-11-07T20:05:00.000-05:00

A quick update on my Bargue drawing...after completing stage 1 construct and stage 2 articulation, I then transferred the drawing to 'good' paper and proceeded to stage 3 contour. In this stage I had to match the values within the shadows paying close attention to the shapes. The last stage 4 rendering will be where I copy the fine details...outline of the eyes, soft edges, etc. I learned much about the 'bed bug' line and how it is darker just before it reaches the edge of the shadow. The school really trains our eye to 'see' things better......shapes...... curves...edges.

And on a funny note I realized I need reading glasses. I could not see a particular shape within the copy thinking the image is too pixelated and thats why I could not make out the shape. After asking a colleague if she could see it clearly (she looked at me very strangely) and she could see it perfectly....she then told me I need reading glasses either 1.75 or 2.00.

And all this time I thought they did a bad job of photocopying!!

Artist of the Month - Lynda D'Souza

2010-11-05T19:38:00.003-04:00

I was featured as Artist of the month on the Facebook group ARTists for ARTists led by the lovely Cat Salter. The group was started by Cat and you can see some of her work here. She is very generous in giving us artists this exposure - eternally grateful Cat !!

Cathryn Smith November 4 at 4:41pm Reply • Report

Dear all

I hope you are enjoying the monthly Featured Artists. I am really enjoying reading about other artists experiences and inspirations. One of Lynda's paintings has been used for the groups avatar for this month. This months ARTists supporting ARTists is featuring LYNDA D'SOUZA. I hope you enjoy her lovely oil paintings: -

* * * *

Lynda D’Souza is an oil painter who aims to capture the essence of the subject while interpreting it in a more impressionistic style.

Lynda has been making art in different forms for the last 15 years. Faux wall finishes, stained glass painting, mosaics, ceramic painting and murals are some of the media she has sampled. In a professional capacity she has designed exhibition stands, corporate backdrops and even designed high fashion garments. 10 years ago her husband gifted her a canvas and box of oil paints on the birth of her first daughter and she hasn’t stopped creating original art since. Lynda has a passion for all things vintage, fashion related and portraits, and this is reflected in her choice of subjects. Her vast travels have influenced her perception of the world and she strives to bring out the beauty of her subjects......even if it is a simple ‘teapot’.

Her original oil paintings can be found in private collections in USA, Netherlands, Australia and India. Her works can be found on Etsy and on her blog.

Lynda was born in Mumbai, India after which she moved with her parents to Qatar and then Dubai, where she briefly worked in an Ad agency before her curiosity led her down the corporate route. Her job led her from Dubai to Bahrain and she now resides in Brampton, Ontario.

“Not only can we create art, art creates us”

Maria Eskenasy

Lynda D'Souza

Shop me: www.70popes.etsy.com

Browse me: www.70popes.blogspot.com

Friend me: www.facebook.com/lynda.dsouza

Mail me: lynda.dsouza@gmail.com

* * * *

If you would like your painting or creative efforts featured on the group, then please upload some of your work so we can see it.http://www.catsalter.co.uk/catsalter.co.uk/index.htm

Rose Theatre Winter Arts & Crafts Festival

2010-11-04T12:01:00.001-04:00

This year I have taken a booth at the Rose Theatre Winter Arts & Crafts Festival and will be be selling my original oil paintings, prints and tags. I am very excited about this event as over a 1,000 people attend it and the other vendors are very talented. D is making a three tiered stand for my art and I am still looking for something to display the tags in. If you see two very exuberant girls handing out my bookmarks those are my two girls.......indulge them please !!

If you have nothing planned for Saturday then do drop by the Rose Theatre on November 20, 2010 from 9 - 4pm. I look forward to seeing you there.

STAR Portraits on Bravo TV CA

2010-11-02T22:02:00.001-04:00

Since some of the artists on the reality show Star Portraits are from my art school I have been watching the series and am quite fascinated by the talent in Canada. I like that the show invites different kinds of artists ranging for oil painters, water colorists to encaustic artists, etc. One of my favorite paintings was of Gordon Pinsent done by artist Jim Bourke in wax medium (encaustic) and I love how the background color is repeated in the face, the impressionistic quality of the work and the bright colors....simply superb.

If you are a lover of the arts you will enjoy the show.

Halloween Nite

2010-11-01T21:53:00.000-04:00

It was cold last night but that didn't stop our girls from going round trick or treating. My older one dressed up as Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean and we picked up her blouse and vest from Value Village. The pants and scarves/hat we had at home. I put braids in her hair and hung some beaded bracelets alongside the braids then blackened her eyes with kajal. The younger one wanted to go as Frankenstein so we got her an over sized jacket and ripped the sleeves and pockets. One of her old jersey pants were ripped at the bottom and she wore her father's shoes for effect. The bolt was split and hot glued to a narrow black hair band. I think I got a bit carried away with her makeup. Total outfits cost - $10 - good old Value Village! However I would not recommend going there on the eve of Halloween - everyone else decided to check it out too...it was packed.

Hope y'all had a spooky Halloween.....

Etsy Shop - ( 23rd / 1st )

2010-10-29T22:59:00.001-04:00

Another shop that caught my eye was "23rd / 1st" run by Ms Meg who hand makes these gorgeous clutches and below I have featured two of my absolute favorites. Did you realize it's only 8 weeks to Christmas.....the shopping frenzy starts!

Click HERE to see the previous shops I have featured on my blog. I hope this is helping you with your Christmas shopping...I know how crazy that gets closer to the date.

Spooky Frontdoor

2010-10-28T11:41:00.000-04:00

As mentioned earlier the girls finally completed the cut out bats and we fixed them to the front entrance along with the spider on the mailbox. They were so thrilled with their efforts...today we carve the pumpkins.....although I think we are late no?

The wreaths were simple ones with black leaves and skulls that we picked up at 'No Frills'. I like symmetry (almost to an anal extent) and every season we put up wreaths correlating to the season.

Click here to see what we did last year for Halloween decor in our home.

Painting was featured in Etsy Treasury for the 6th time

2010-10-27T19:18:00.001-04:00

This is terribly exciting...Butternut Squash proves to be a favorite (for the second time) as it has been featured in another Etsy treasury taking my total features count to SIX ! yay! Thank you to the lovely Ms Tina from 123Pants for including my artwork in her treasury. Tina makes beautiful handmade cards using Sharpei markers and watercolors - please drop by her shop to see her beautiful creations.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ENTIRE BEAUTIFUL COLLECTION

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FIRST COLLECTION THIS PAINTING WAS FEATURED IN

CLICK HERE TO BUY

What would you say to an artist just starting out?

2010-10-26T18:35:00.000-04:00

What would you say to an artist just starting out?

Build up your self esteem to the level that might seem unwarranted. This will help you ignore both positive and negative responses to your paintings. Both are usually misguided, since they come from the outside. Be your most severe and devastating critic, while never doubting that you are the best thing since sliced bread. ~Alex Kanevsky

Alex Kanevsky is one of my favorite artists and often times I find myself going to his blog and spending hours staring at the layers within the layers. I am very drawn to impressionistic art and his work is like a cross between graphic + abstract + impressionistic. His website shows how he develops his paintings and it appears to change with each layer. So much confidence in every brush stroke.