Ok maybe it’s not a fight, but I do have an awful lot of pillows. 🙂  I’ve been working really hard to make my artwork available in more ways.  I am working with an art agency who is marketing my work to major stores and restaurants right now.  You can find me in Spencer’s and College Bookstores.  But you can also get my work on pillows, cell phone cases, etc.  These are pieces of art in themselves and can be a focal point in your bedroom, living room or how bout your house boat?  The possibilities are endless.  

See MORE pillows here:

http://society6.com/SharonCummings/pillows

Many people these days take pretty pictures.  Digital photography makes it easier and easier to get stunning imagery. However, most of these attractive photos do not create an emotion or make you think.  True art comes from a technical aspect and even more so from a great eye and heart.  Zina Zinchik is one artist who has both of these qualities.  When I look at her work I can “feel” the emotion behind it.  I can see that she is meticulous at setting up her shots, but also that she makes a story as she does so.

I caught up with Zina recently to learn more about her work.  Here are her answers:

What inspires your works? Photography for me opened the doors to share my fantasies, my anxieties and my emotions with people. 

Which of your photographs is your favorite? My favorite is Night Sonata which was taken…

I’ve always envied people with a lot of patience.  When I take photos, I just randomly snap whatever catches my eye.  This is not the case for Gerald Marella.  When I was first introduced to him and his work, I could tell that he was different.  He was certainly interactive in our social media group, but it was obvious that his heart and mind were always on his craft.  He made excuses for absences sometimes, but there was really no need.  His work shows where he spends his time and the results are utter perfection.

I recently asked Gerald the same questions I have been asking other photographers I am featuring.  Here are his responses:

Milkweed Loving A Mountain Stream Abstract
Purchase a custom print of this painting here and enjoy it for years to come…..

I was taking a bike ride with my son on one of my favorite trails and we came across this wonderful flower growing peacefully by the side of a mountain stream. I always carry my camera with me when I venture into the outdoors and this day was no exception. I was captivated by this beautiful plant and took a picture to remember it with. I re-visited this image lately and decided to paint it. I love the colors and the wonderful details on the leaves and in the water. I am hoping that i have conveyed this vivid splendor here 🙂

“Common Milkweed is an important plant because so many species of insects depend on it. Monarch Butterflies, Milkwee Bugs, and Milkweed Leaf Beetles only eat milkweed, and…

I have had the great opportunity to see some amazing artwork and photography since I started participating in groups on Fine Art America.  One shining star from my interactions is Florida photographer Deborah Benoit.  Being a native Sunshine State girl it was such a delight to find her fresh Florida photography.  I can relate to her images for sure, but it is more than that.  She captures the moments and then makes them shine.  Her work draws the viewer in.  You feel as if you are “there”.

I caught up with Deb recently to ask her to share some insight into what moves here.  She answered these questions for us:

What inspires your works? 
Nature is a big inspiration to me. I feel it is important to everyone`s life.
Which of your photographs is your favorite? 
Wildlife, especially birds for some reason are my favorite. I do not have one single…

I have been talking an awful lot about myself lately and have decided that this week will be dedicated to others.  I want to share some amazing photographers with you.  First up are Charlie and Norma Brock of Avinger, TX.  I first had the pleasure of meeting these two through a support group for artists/photographers.  Not only are their images exceptional they are both just super nice people.  Their inner compassion shows through in their work.  I asked them the following questions so we can all learn more:

What inspires your works?  A passion to see things that others overlook…the beauty in ordinary or obscure things.

Which of your photographs is your favorite?  Reflections – a sunken boat filled with the reflection of a cloudy sky. It was taken near Clifden, County Galway, Ireland in 2007, during a fantastic holiday on the Emerald Isle.

Is there a photographer you relate…

Ancient Tree Reflecting the Sunrise

A very long time ago this tree started its existence here on Earth. It grew tall and strong and absorbed the light and energy of the days it grew into. Over time the area that it grew in was transformed from a meadow into a lake. This tree was cut and water flooded over it’s remaining stump. As the water recedes and the new day begins, this ancient memory of a tree is reflecting its essence into the water surrounding it. I love the history that is reflected in the small ripples and displayed in a new beginning.

A Quiet Place

I really enjoy parks and recreation and everywhere I go I look for the quiet place to enjoy the peace that nature offers up daily. This spot is a really cool example of a quiet place to sit for a minute and contemplate life. It is also an attractive lunch option if you bring a picnic. Many moments have been spent by the banks of the Methow River and summer days are enjoyed as the shade of the trees and the structure provide a respite from the afternoon heat and sunshine. The local swimming pool is not far away and the cleansing waters of the river tinkle softly as it flows by. Taking a break from my day I capture a moment in time that I can savor and remember.

Our local parks are a gift to all of us. We can gather there in groups or…

Will You Be My Beaver

These two fantasy creatures ooze affection for one another. They are gazing lovingly and touching softly. Over time the bright color of their bodies fades but the affection remains. Painted clay and hardened cement provide a solid background for them to live happily together as long as the elements support them. Over time as these images fade from view along the trail, they will live forever in the painted reality I created for them. Visit my beavers and feel the love as you enjoy the colors and circular motions. Or better yet visit the Methow Valley and see them for yourself.

I love to wander on trails with my camera and look for interesting images to bring home with me. This particular painting is based on an image that I encountered near the Foster Tawkes Suspension Bridge in Mazama. Along the MVSTA community trail is…