Art shows for 2011

Hello Everyone, I usually post my art show listing for the year at this time for all you summer vacationers visiting Maine and wanted to let you know that I have made the decision not to participate in any outdoor art festivals again this year. With the economy still lagging especially in Maine and the price of gas going up again along with show and booth fees it is just not economically feasible. Sadly for the last 2 years most artists have not been able to recover the cost of setting up for there outdoor art show, and is getting harder to justify spending the money investing in framing new artwork to display when the art sales are not forthcoming. Don't get me wrong I am not complaining as I perfectly understand. Artwork is not a necessity and people have to make a decision on what to cut. This is the reality of a recession and hopefully it will be better next year. That said, I will be adding a new Gallery Art Show page to my website this summer. It will feature Canvas Gallery Art and framed photography ready to hang. It would be like viewing some of my art work for sale if you were to visit my art booth at a art festival. So this way you will not miss seeing my new art that is available for sale. I will be adding this new Gallery Art Show to my photography gallery at: http://www.animalsinpastels.com/gallery/main.php by Memorial Weekend. So even though I will not be attending any art festivals this year, you can always visit my website to view my latest art work and photography. And don't forget to check out my Gift Shop page at http://www.animalsinpastels.com/gift-shop.html for unique gifts that are of course "Made in Maine." Also for you wildlife lovers visit my new wildlife portraits completed last year, click on this link: http://www.animalsinpastels.com/wildlife-portraits.html. Here you will see a pastel portrait of Jabal a male leopard, Tsavo a male lion and Botswana a lioness all painted to help raise awareness of the plight of the big cats living at Tiger Haven Sanctuary in Kingston,Tennessee. Hopefully warmer weather will be coming to stay and all this snow will start melting fast. Think Spring everyone. Until next time.... Love generously. Care deeply. Speak truthfully. Leave the rest to God... Sandra Lee Huston

Hapy New Year & catching up.....

Hello Everyone.
I wanted to take a few moments to wish everyone a very Happy and Healthy New Year. I am sorry it has been so long since my last post but I have recently lost my father to cancer and have not been interested in anything very much lately. I am hoping that the new year will bring back my jest for living and my passion for my art work will be renewed.

For those of you who were wondering about my new photographs in 2010, yes I did get to capture a few wonder full shots and I will hopefully get to download them to my online gallery in January for all to enjoy.

Sadly I was not able to finish my wildlife series this fall and Caden the Tiger will be added to the second series coming in 2011. For those of you who would like to view the first 3 pastels portraits completed to raise awareness for Tiger Haven, click here http://www.animalsinpastels.com/wildlife-portraits.html

Until next time, Love generously. Care deeply. Speak truthfully. Leave the rest to God...

Sandra Lee Huston

Children and Pet Portraits

Hello everyone!

I wanted to take a moment to show you Abigail & Hyde's pastel portrait completed last week. This portrait of Abby was taken by Tammie Grieshaber from Mainely Portrait Photography Studio ( http://www.mainelyportraitphotography.com/). I first saw this photograph of Abby on a coworkers desktop last Christmas and knew I wanted to paint her in pastels. I asked Beth to give me a picture of Abby's pet so that I could paint her and feature her on my website as an example of my Children and Pet Portraits in Pastels. Beth was more than happy to send me pictures of Hyde, Abby's little kitten and after asking Tammie's permission to use her photograph of Abby as reference I was on my way. Below you will see the two photographs used for reference and the resulting pastel portrait.

Up until recently I only worked with charcoals for my children and pet portraits, as of June this year I will also offer children and pets in pastels from your favorite photographs. When a photograph is simply not enough and you would like to commission a pastel painting combining one or more photographs together, call or email me and we can discuss the possibilities available to capture your children and pets in a beautiful pastel portrait that will last a lifetime. To view more of my artwork please visit http://www.animalsinpastels.com/

My webmaster Sheri Gordon, will be updating my new prices and sizes available by the end of June 2010, please contact bornhorselover@aol.com for inquiries. Until next time, take care and enjoy the warm summer sunshine~


Sandra Lee Huston

New artwork completed

Hello everyone just wanted to take a moment to update you on my latest pastel portraits completed so far this year. The first one was a commissioned memorial portrait of a Husky/chow mix named Java. This is a 16x20 portrait painted with soft pastels on suede mat board and was a gift my client purchased for her friend to help her through the loss of her beloved pet. The bond humans and animals have are very unique and is one of the reasons I choose to paint pet portraits. With my pastel portraits you can display the love and bond that you have developed with your animal companions and keep these cherished memories alive for a lifetime.

The second portrait completed in March was of my husband's great niece Alivia and her cat Ducey painted in soft pastels on suede which will be featured on my website's Children and Pets page later in April. This is the first time I have painted a childs portrait in soft pastels; usually I draw the children and their pets in Charcoal for my clients. But this year I wanted to expand my horizons and offer children's portraits in both pastels and or charcoal. I hope to complete two more children's portraits in pastels later this year as examples of children and there pet in pastels. If you know of anyone who would like to commission a portrait of their child and pets just direct them to http://www.animalsinpastels.com/ or email bornhorselover@aol.com and I would be happy to answer any questions.

My next project is a series of paintings for my new wildlife page dedicated to Tiger Haven, a safe place for big cats. This wildlife portrait page will feature the pastel portraits of Jabal the leopard, Tsavo a male lion, Botswana a lioness and Caden the tiger. After visiting Tiger Havens website and learning that this sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing abused and unwanted big cats I decided to help them by adopting Jabal a male leopard and painting this series in hopes to generate more awareness of the plight of these magnificent animals. If you would like to learn more about Tiger Haven and there mission to rescue these big cats please click here http://www.tigerhaven.com/ Please be aware you may end up spending hours at there web site. I know I did, and don’t miss the education page here you can listen to the sounds of many of the big cats at Tiger Haven. Enjoy~

Below is a pastel painting of "Jabal" a male leopard and the first portrait completed for this series. This painting is available for sale framed and ready to hang. You may also purchase the originals or 8x10 prints for $25.00 each of any of the other pastels paintings that I will be painting in this series. 20% of the proceeds will be donated to Tiger Haven to help with the cost of feeding and caring for more than 200 big cats still residing at their Sanctuary. I hope to have the first 3 paintings in this series completed by the end of April. Please visit my new web site's wildlife page to view the next in the series for Tiger Haven, which should be uploaded and ready to view by the end of April.

Until next time take care and happy spring~

Sandra Lee Huston

Catching Up...

Hi, just wanted to take a few moments to catch everyone up on the latest. I will be taking the year off from any outside art shows this year and will spend this year working on original art work and updating my website. I have several ideas and will be adding wildlife art work to my website this year. As soon as I complete each new piece I will be sure to let you know on my blog.

As for my photography, sadly last year was very frustrating with all the rain we received here in Maine. But I did get to capture some stunning florals and a few new loon photographs that I will be adding to my photo gallery for you to view shortly. You can check out this link www.animalsinpastels.com/gallery for new photos captured .

As always you can visit my gift shop page and purchase a variety of items including, original art work, prints, note cards and magnets, also canvas gallery prints of any of my digital photographs. Just click on this link and enjoy: http://www.animalsinpastels.com/gift-shop.html

For those of you who are looking for copies of my book; "Loons of Tacoma Lakes" please email me @ LoonsofTacoma@aol.com and I will be happy to send you a autographed copy with free s+h. Sadly with the economy so slow bookstores have not been restocking books as freely as before so if you cannot find a copy in your area, do not hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to send you a copy for 24.95.

Until next time, stay warm and think Spring~
Sandra Lee Huston

Loon books still available

Hello everyone,

This morning I spotted two loons flying over my house heading towards Tacoma Lakes, I think they were letting me know to get my kayak out this weekend and meet them at the lake. I cannot not wait to be out at camp once again. Its been a long winter and I miss my time spent kayaking in the early mornings and watching the area loons interact with each other.

This year will make 4 years that I have spent photographing the loons at Tacoma Lakes region and 3 years since I first published my book "Loons of Tacoma Lakes " - A book celebrating the love of loons. www.animalsinpastels.com/loons-of-tacoma.html It has truly been a humbling experience to be allowed such an up close and personal look into their daily lives. And in the summer of 2008 I was able to capture the same breeding pair that I had photographed in my book with there newly hatched chicks and those photographs were amazing. For those of you who would like to view some of the new photographs captured since I first published my book click on this link www.animalsinpastels.com/gallery here you will find some wonderful photography of Tacoma's loons in Litchfield, Maine. And for those of you who would like to purchase a copy of my book, below is a list of the retailers who currently have a copy for sale.

Apple Valley Books - Winthrop, ME 207-377-3967
Gulf Of Maine Book Shop - Brunswick, Maine 207-729-5083
Books-N-Things - Norway, ME 207-743-7197
Country Cottage - Fort Kent, Me. 207-834-6791
Cry of Loons - South Casco, ME 207-655-5060
Loon Preservation Gift Shop - Moultonborough, NH 603-476-5666
Maine Goodies - Albion, ME 866-385-6238
Maine Made & More - Waterville,ME 207-872-7378
Maine Make & More - Augusta, ME 207-443-9338
Marlows - Kennebunk, ME 207-985-2931
Moosehead Traders - Greenville, ME 207-695-3806
Ecopelagicon Nature Store - Rangeley, ME 207-864-2771
Kennebunk Book Port - Kennebunkport, ME 207-967-3815
Owl & Turtle Book Shop - Camden, ME 207-236-4769
Reading Corner - Rockland, ME 207-596-6651
Stacy's Hallmark - Augusta, ME 207-623-3781

If you prefer to order direct from the author email me at LoonsofTacoma@aol.com
and I would be happy to ship you a signed copy. Take care, have fun and enjoy your summer.


Sandra Lee Huston

Art Show Schedule for 2009

Hello Everyone, Hope you are enjoying this beautiful spring weather.
I wanted to take a moment to list my Art Show schedule for 2009. I will once again be joining the Art Fair in Bethel, Maine and have decided to try the Brunswick Outdoor Arts Festival this year. See below for more information.


20 Annual Bethel Art Fair
Date: Saturday, July 4 th 2009
Where: On the Bethel Common
One Broad Street
Bethel, ME 04217
Time: 9 am to 4 pm

In addition to the art, the fair will have musical entertainment and will include a special young persons' area where children will be able to take part in a variety of activities. Several local eateries will be serving their special fare for purchase. The fair is open to 50 artists and fine craftsman alike. Not only will you find original paintings and photography to choose from, but also sculpture, stain glass, woodcarving and fine handmade jewelry. Sorry no rain dates.


3rd Annual Brunswick Outdoor Arts Festival

Date: August 15, 2009
Where: Maine Street
Brunswick, ME 04011
Time: 9 am to 5 pm

This is a juried art show to display fine arts and crafts in booths set up along the sidewalks up and down Maine Street in Brunswick. There will be original art work along with numbered reproductions and fine crafts available to purchase. Many outstanding local performers will be providing traditional musical entertainment along with street performers, dancers, mimes and jugglers. There are also many cafes and restaurants up and down Maine Street for your dining enjoyment.


Stop by if you are in the area and say hi. I will have many of my latest photographs on display framed and ready to hang and also a few new small gifts items like photo utility holders and magnets for the wildlife lover on your gift list. Take care and hope to see you this summer~

Sandra Lee Huston

Loon books still available

Hello Everyone,
I hope all of you enjoyed a nice thanksgiving holiday with family and friends as we did. Since I have had several messages on my answering machine as to where you can pick up a copy of my book I wanted to quickly type up a list and publish it online for your gift giving pleasure.
Below is a current list of bookstores that have copies available:

Gulf Of Maine Book Shop located in Brunswick, Maine 207-729-5083
Bath Book Shop located in Bath, Maine 207-443-9338
Maine Made and More located in Augusta, Maine 207-622-5723
Maine Made and More located in Waterville, Maine 207-872-7378

If you prefer to order direct from the author email me at LoonsofTacoma@aol.com and I would be happy to ship you a signed copy.

Have a wonderful Christmas holiday and a Happy New Year~
Sandra Lee Huston

Summer is Over and Fall is upon us.....

Hello Everyone!
Can you believe that summer is over and fall is just around the corner? I guess its time to get our warm clothes out and enjoy the crisp fall days. This summer kayaking and photographing the wildlife at Tacoma Lakes was a little frustrating with all the rain we had, but I was able to capture some stunning close ups of a loon family with their newly hatched chicks and a few great shots of a Bald Eagle. I just finished uploading all my new photographs captured in 2008. So for those of you who have been waiting to view my new photographs just visit my photo gallery at www.animalsinpastels.com/gallery you will even find a wonderful photograph of a doe and fawn captured while kayaking early one morning. As always you can order a number of different gift items from my photographs, just select the drop down menu on the add to cart or download the order form available and enter the items you would like to order. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to email me.

I also have a number of my Loons of Tacoma Lakes book available for those who are unable to find a copy at your nearest bookstores. Just email LoonsofTacoma@aol.com to order your signed copy from the author and I will be happy to mail you a copy. I decided to write this book in 2005 because I wanted to share the incredible experience I enjoyed when a special pair of Maine common loons allowed me to photograph them while they raised their chicks. If you would like more information about my book just click here www.animalsinpastels.com/loons-of-tacoma.html I continue to be blessed with the trust of the loons at Tacoma Lakes and I am truly amazed as they allow me to continue to capture up close and personal shots as they interact among themselves each summer. It is a very humbling and exciting experience and I truly enjoy sharing these wonderful moments through my photographs with all of you.

For those of you who will be visiting Maine during the month of October, stop by and visit my Art display at the Central Maine Medical Center Art Gallery on High Street in Lewiston, Maine. You will be able to view and purchase a number of my framed Scenes of New England photographs and view a small selection of my original pastel and charcoal artwork from September 26th to October 30, 2008.

For those of you who wish to contact me about commissioned pet portraits for the holidays please email me by October 15th. I have one opening available for the holiday. Email bornhorselover@aol.com Enjoy the beautiful fall weather everyone, until next time.

Sandra Lee Huston

Art Shows and Fairs for 2008

Happy Spring Everyone!

I wanted to quickly mention my list of art shows and fairs for those of you who like to plan your visits to Maine around the summer and fall. If by chance you are in the neighborhood stop by and say hi!

19 Annual Bethel Art Fair

Date: Saturday, July 5th 2008
Where: On the Bethel Common
One Broad Street
Bethel, ME 04217
Time: 9 am to 4pm

In addition to the art, the fair will have musical entertainment and will include a special young persons' area where children will be able to take part in a variety of activities. Several local eateries will be serving their special fare for purchase. The fair is open to 50 artists and fine craftsman alike. Not only will you find original paintings and photography to choose from, but also sculpture, stain glass, woodcarving and fine handmade jewelry. Sorry no rain dates.



CMMC Gallery

Date: Sept 26 through Oct. 31st, 2008
Where: Central Maine Medical Center
Lewiston, Maine 04240

The artwork of Sandra Lee Huston will be featured during the month of October by the Woman's Hospital Association of Central Maine Medical Center. The artwork on displayed will include Scenes of New England Photography also Pastel and Charcoal animal portraiture.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For those of you who have not visited my website lately check out my new additions on my gift shop page www.animalsinpastels.com/giftshop.html here you will find new Canvas Gallery Wrap art work and Photo Wall Plaques to order easily from the comfort of your home and for those of you who love sunsets,don't miss the panoramic view of a sunset I captured over Mooselookmeguntic Lake in Oquossoc Maine last fall located at the bottom of my gift shop page. For the Draft Horse enthusiast visit my gallery of Draft Horse photographs captured at the Famous Fryeburg Fair www.animalsinpastels.com/gallery including the famous 8 horse hitch. So if you are unable to make any of my shows this year you can still enjoy viewing my new additions on line at my website. Enjoy~

Until next time, take care,

Sandra Lee Huston

Catching Up

Hello everyone,
A lot of changes have occurred this past summer and fall. My son was married in June for one and in October I accepted a full time position at Spillers working in their credit/collection department. http://www.spillersusa.com/. This is something my husband and I discussed at length and felt with the slow economy the way it is and with health insurance cost for individual coverage skyrocketing, it was best for me to go back to work and receive health benefits through my employer. At least now we will not have to face a monthly insurance rate of $600.00 a month, with an increase slated to go up to 728.00 by Jan 2008 for a $10,000.deductible policy for the both my husband and I.

What does this mean for my Animals in Pastels business and my clients? Mostly there will be a change in the amount of time that I will be accessible to the public during the day. You will still be able to reach me by email and leave messages by phone, and I will do my best to answer all inquiries after 4 pm in the afternoon Monday through Friday. As far as portrait commission I will have to limit the total to 6 per year and the turn around time will change from 2 weeks up to 4 to 8 weeks depending on my waiting lists. For those of you who are unfamiliar with my portrait work visit this link: http://www.animalsinpastels.com/pet-portriats.html

I will still be marketing my loon books to local bookstores, schools and any one who just wishes to buy one as a gift. Even though sales have dropped dramatically from last year my book is still very well received. For those who still wish to purchase a copy of "Loons of Tacoma Lakes" for the upcoming holiday just visit this link for more information http://animalsinpastels.com/loons-of-tacoma.html . You can easily place your order my mail or by emailing LoonsofTacoma@aol.com As a holiday special, through the month of December I will be waving the shipping cost for all single copies ordered.

My other big change came in September with my photography, I decided to go completely digital and replaced my Canon Rebel 2000 with a Canon Digital Rebel XTI and have been very please with my decision. No more waiting to have rolls of film developed and saving images in digital format. Now I just download my images and use my Paint Shop Pro image software to edit my photographs. In the spring I hope to add a new 500mm image stabilized lens to my equipment so that my wildlife shots will have even more detail. Even using my old 300mm lens I am able to capture some exceptional pictures with this Canon digital XTI. When you have a chance visit my online photography gallery at http://www.animalsinpastels.com/gallery/main.php Here you will be able to view and order a variety of my scenes of New England photographs as magnets, greeting cards and prints right from the comfort of your home. Over the winter months I will be uploading many new photographs including draft horses captured at the Fryeburg Fair, sunsets in Rangeley, Maine, flowers and of course my new loon photographs. So check back often to view all the new photographs I have captured.


On a sad note, in October we lost our beloved Choc lab, K-C to cancer. She was a very special dog and my husband and I miss her dearly. You do not really know how intertwined your lives become with your pets until you have lost them. Everywhere we go we are reminded of her. This past Sunday breakfast we looked at the leftover pancakes, and tears came to our eyes knowing we would not be sharing them with her again. I am even reminded of her when shopping for steak because she would always lick her lips in anticipation of having the leftovers. I am fortunate, though being an avid photographer I had taken many photographs of her throughout the 11 + years she was with us. And of course her pastel portrait that I painted 5 years ago hangs in our living room with her looking over us. That old saying is certainly true that dogs leave paw prints in our hearts. May you always have water to play in and squirrels to chase. Until we meet again my friend. K-C March 19, 1996 ~ October 26, 2007

Until next time, wishing everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful Christmas season.

Sandra Lee Huston

2007 List of Art/Fine Craft Shows, Photography Contests and Book Signings

The following is a list of the show dates and book signings I will be attending this year. If you are in the vicinity please drop by and say hi. I will update this listing as new dates and venues are added to my schedule throughout the year~

March 3, 2007 "The Arts of March"

Sponsored by the Kennebunk Land Trust

Saturday between 10 AM - 4 PM at the Kennebunk High School,

Art & Fine Craft Show celebrating Maine's beauty in many forms.

Over 70 artists and fine crafters will be attending. Located at the high

school gymnasium - 89 Fletcher St. Kennebunk, ME 04043

March 30 to April 1, 2007
State of Maine Sportsman's Show - Photography Contest

This 3 day event is located at the Augusta Civic Center in

Augusta, Maine. The sportsman show displays art work, photography

and wood carvings in categories depicting Wildlife, People in Outdoor

Activities, Landscapes, and macro (close-up) photography of flowers,

butterflies and insects. All art work and photography will be hanging

on walls on display and not in individual booths with the artists.

Winners will receive ribbons and trophies awarded by judges. Also a

"Sportsman's Choice" award will be voted on by the general public.

~

July 7, 2007

18th Annual Bethel Art Fair - 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Located on the Bethel Common, One Broad Street, Bethel Maine 04217.This event is being held on the beautiful village common in the National Historic District of Bethel, Maine. In addition to the art, the fair will have musical entertainment and will include a special young persons' area where children will be able to take part in a variety of activities. Several local eateries will be serving their special fare for purchase as well. I will be located in booth #14 to the right of the Chamber info tent and raffle area. There will be a total of 50 artist booths set up for your enjoyment. Sorry no rain dates.

~

August 18, 2007 Winthrop, Maine 04364

Winthrop's 20th Annual Sidewalk Art Show - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Located on Main Street downtown Winthrop. Put on by the Winthrop Area Chamber of Commerce. This show is open to 84 artists, sculptors and photographs. There will be a general display of art work for the public to purchase. Art show purchase prizes to be purchased by participants for $350.00, also Art Show Judge's awards. Look for display maps set out for locating your favorite artists. Sorry no rain dates.

~

Canine Art Guild - Online Art Show

The Artist's Best Friend" CAG online Art Show will be live April 1st 2007. This a newly formed group of canine artists showcasing artwork depicting their own dogs or dogs that have been influential and inspiring to them. Below is a sneak preview of my entries.

My best canine friend is our beloved chocolate lab, K-C. Her portrait is featured in a place of honor at the top of my pet portrait page on my website. (www.animalsinpastels.com/pet-portraits.html )This 11x14 soft pastel painting was completed when she was six years old and painted on grey tinted velour pastel paper. It was a joy to paint this particular portrait of her with all the different colors highlighted on her fur as she sat in the setting sun. She is now 11 years old and showing more white hairs around her muzzle and paws each day, but is still beautiful to us. My husband calls her my constant shadow, following me out to the barn each day, and curling up by my rocking chair when I read in the evenings. If I am working at the computer she is sleeping on her dog bed behind me in our office. Even in my studio while painting, you will find her napping at my feet and always runs to the door eagerly, if she hears "OK girl, time to take a break, let's go for a walk." K-C is the seventh dog my husband and I have owned and raised, each of the animals that have come into our lives throughout the past 30 years continues to weave a special place in our hearts. The love and bond between humans and animals are very unique and that special bond is the reason I have been painting commissioned pet portraits since 1990. Through my portraits my clients display the love and bond that they have developed with their animal companions and keep these cherished memories alive for a lifetime.

For my second online submission I would like to share with you a recent pastel painting that was of one of my client's best friends, a Yellow Lab, named Zeke. I chose a Crescent Moorman suede board with a Pearle tint to compliment the color of Zeke's beautiful golden fur for this soft pastel painting. Below is the completed 16x20 portrait commissioned in January 2007 and also a small close up version to show the finer details of the finished portrait. Even though I have always loved painting on French velour pastel paper with my soft pastels, I feel the Crescent Moorman suede board allows me to create finer details without compromising the softness of the animals fur. Judge for yourselves with the examples below. I hope you enjoy all the other wonderful canine artwork displayed for your enjoyment through our CAG online art show at www.canineartguild.com

The Artist Horse As Muse Show

The Artist Horse as Muse Show is a show of the Equine Art Guild Artist showcasing their love of horses. The online art show will be live on March 18, 2007. Below is a preview of my submission.

"Food for the Soul" ~ Black & White Photograph ~NFS

This photograph was taken in June of 2006 of my Morgan mare "Rosie" and I, by a friend and fellow photographer; Arlene McConnell. Rosie, who has filled the void in my soul since she came to us in 1994, is also a constant inspiration to me in my equine art. With Arlene's permission, I edited the photo by cropping and removing some of the background objects, enhanced the tonal quality by converting it to black & white, than added an artistic edging for this photograph submission of us together.

My Second submission is an 8x10 digital reproduction titled ~ Celebrating the Love of Horses ~Available to purchase @ $25.00 +s&h. This reproduction is from my original pastel painting of my first horse "Misty" purchased by my husband for me in 1982. She was my childhood dream come true and I was very fortunate to have owned such a wonderful animal for my first horse. My fondness memory of "Misty" was when I rode her bare back on a snowy winters night with the full moon shining across the freshly fallen snow. Over the years we would jump fences fearlessly and complete our first level dressage test together. I will never forget my 3 year old son walking up to this mare in her stall after we first brought her home, telling her to back with authority so that he could pass, whereas this mare backed and then followed my son through the stall door and into the pasture. My husband and I both looked at each other and knew than that our son was safe with this mare. This print is actually from my original Morgan montage completed in 2004, painted in soft pastels on Moorman Suede board. Since most of my time is spent painting commissioned portraits of other people's animals, I wanted to paint this montage for myself as a remembrance of the horses we raised. The original 24x36 montage is displayed in our living room and continues to evoke fond memories of our beloved Morgan horses each time we pass. If you would like to view the complete montage as displayed on my website, click here: www.animalsinpastels.com/images/morganmontage.jpg You will notice my Morgan mares depicted at different ages throughout their lives starting when they were just a few weeks old. I also added the stallion's portrait of each of my mares in the lower corners, "Immortal Command" on the left and "Merrilee Aquarius" to the right. I than finished the montage with a small portrait of my son, Christopher, meeting our first horse Misty when he was three years old.

My third and final submission for this online muse show is of "Beau" a Shire Draft horse. This is an 11x14 original pastel on rose-colored Moorman Suede board. For those who are interested, Beau's original portrait is available for sale, framed and ready to hang for $400.00 + s&h. Also available are 8x10 prints of the original for only $25.00 each +s&h. To view the framed portrait please visit my website link at www.animalsinpastels.com/graphics/framedbeau.jpg Beau is the current ambassador for the Rockin'T Equine Rescue Farm here in Lisbon Falls, Maine. I fell in love with Beau nearly seven years ago when I first saw him just after he was rescued. Standing alone, nobly in the corner of the paddock with his mane snarled and matted, his frame bone thin and his legs severely mite infected. Over the next two years during his rehabilitation, I visited Beau several times taking many rolls of film of him and sneaking little hand fed treats. Slowly a bond began to develop and it wasn't long before I could stand outside his paddock and call his name and he would come running to greet me. I decided to paint this painting in celebration of his recovery and the dedication of all the people caring for the animals at Rockin'T. To see him today you would not believe he is the same horse with his shiny coat, long mane and beautiful black and white feathers surrounding his legs. 25% of the proceeds of the sale of this painting will go towards the continued care for all the animals currently residing at the rescue farm. If you would like to read more about Beau and his rescue please visit the link on my website (http://www.animalsinpastels.com/rockin-t-rescue-farm.html ) Thank you, and enjoy all the other wonderful equine artwork displayed for your enjoyment through our EAG Muse Show at

http://www.equineartguild.com/gallery/index.php

Latest Commissioned Portraits

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and was able to enjoy the festivities with family and friends. The month of December is especially busy for us artists who accept commissioned portraits as gifts for the holidays. I promised to post the ones I completed for my clients for you to view. Below are the three I completed in Nov/Dec. The first one is a 11x14 memorial portrait of a dog named Katherine. This portrait was painted with soft pastels on Moorman suede board with Mt. Katahdin in the background.

The next memorial portrait below is a 11x14 pastel pencil portrait on Canson paper, commissioned for a client in Vermont of his White Shepherd named Cain. The last portrait completed was a 11x14 Charcoal portrait of a young boy named Chase and his dog Jaxson for a client from Washington State. I hope you enjoyed viewing my latest work as much as I enjoyed painting them for my clients. Wishing everyone a very healthy and Happy New Year !

Loons of Tacoma Lakes book

Hello Everyone, hope most of your Christmas shopping is complete. Only a few days left before Christmas! Surprisingly, we still do not have any snow here in Maine. That is very unusual for us Mainers, and has been very hard to get into the Christmas spirit, but it has been nice to have 40-50 degree weather in the afternoons and easy driving conditions for traveling. Maybe Christmas Eve we will have a little dusting just to put us more in the spirit......

For those of you who would like to purchase a copy of my book Loons of Tacoma Lakes (ISBN#0-9785143-0-0) as a Christmas gift, please call your local bookstores or gift shops to see if they still have a copy on hand. I have restocked my book in 30 locations throughout Maine, NH and VT . If you are unable to locate my book and still wish to purchase an autographed copy please email LoonsofTacoma@aol.com and I would be happy to mail you a copy. Enclose a check for 24.95 plus 5% tax (Maine residents only). Mail to my studio: Animals in Pastels, 162 Main Street Lisbon Falls, ME 04252 . For those of you who enjoy viewing loon and scenes of New England photographs please visit my new gallery at www.animalsinpastels.com/gallery here you will be able to view and order a selections of my new photographs captured in 2006 as prints, greeting cards, photo magnets and book markers.

For school librarians looking for a new book for their students, my book has been very well received not only with the adult nature lovers of this area but also the student photographers as well. The following is a review written for the Winter issue of the Maine Audubon Habitat Newspaper by Luke Seitz, a ninth grader at the Falmouth High School in Falmouth Maine. (permission to reprint courtesy of the editor:Marie Malin, of the Habitat Newspaper)

Loons of Tacoma Lakes is a spectacular book documenting a single family of common loons in the Tacoma Lakes region of central Maine. The author, Sandra Lee Huston, kayaked the lakes photographing and observing the loon family, and the book's wonderful, full-page images- over 40 of them-record the lives of the chicks from late summer through fall.
My favorites aspect of this book is the spectacular photography. On every spread, there is a full- page color photograph showing another stage in the breeding life of common loons. All images are extremely sharp and well exposed.
Natural history information about the loons is included in many of the photograph captions and descriptions. Some examples include the stage of molt the bird is in, feeding behavior, and the interactions between the adult and young loons. There is also basic life history information scattered throughout.
As a beginning photographer, I found the chapter explaining the author's photography process very rewarding. It was helpful to learn how Huston photographs the birds, and her tips on developing film. Overall, you can see that I enjoyed Loons of Tacoma Lakes immensely. The spectacular photographs, photography pointers and great information regarding the life of common loons made it a pleasurable read. I recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in photography, loons or natural history in general. Luke Seitz - Falmouth, Maine

For librarians who are interested in purchasing my book, I offer a discount of 30% off the 24.95 retail price, your discounted price is 17.46 + 1.95 s&h for each book ordered (for two books ordered s&h would be 2.95). For more information on ordering books email: LoonsofTacoma@aol.com If you would like to view more information about my book just visit www.animalsinpastels.com/loons-of-tacoma.html here you will be able to view 12 of the 40 photographs published in my book, read the preface page, bio and a sample of other review comments.

Soon after the holidays, I will post my new commissioned artwork completed this past month, for you to view. Until than, Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Sandy

Happy Holidays

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends and is not getting too stressed out with shopping for Christmas. I have been very busy with commissioned pet portraits for clients and marketing my loon book "Loons of Tacoma Lakes". Sales continue to go strong and we have just passed the $8,000.00 mark. Unfortunately we have not paid the printers bill yet, but we are hoping for strong Christmas sales so that we will see a profit by the beginning of next year. My 5th and next book signing will be at Percy's Burrow - located at the Lewiston Mall on East Avenue in Lewiston, Maine. You can find us between the Radio Shack and the Silver Feather between 1 and 4 PM on December 16th. I will also have my new loon photographs, book markers, greeting cards and 4x6 loon photo magnets along with my autographed books for sale. Stop by and pick up some unique gifts for the loon lover on your gift list.

Our last book signing in Meredith, New Hamphsire on October 28th at the Innisfree Bookshop turned out to be very nice even though the weather was particularly rainy that day. On our way home we stopped at The Loon Center in Moultonborough, NH and they also purchased 2 dozen books to sell during their Christmas open house. Not only can you find my book in gift stores and many independent bookstores throughout Maine, but now NH and just recently Stowe, Vermont. For those of you who cannot find my book at your local book store or gift shop, please visit my website here you can order by email or phone. I will be happy to mail you an autographed copy of my book- with free shipping and handling for December. For additional gift ideas click on my Gift Shop page, here you will find an assortment of gift items to purchase including gift certificates for the animal lover on your gift list.

Starting in December I will have a new Photo Gallery Album complete with shopping cart from which you can order one of several items easily by clicking on the drop down menu after selecting an image. You will have your choice of ordering greeting cards, magnets, digital prints also book markers. This will be a new item, so if there are any problems please feel free to email me to let me know. This new photo album will showcase all my Scenes of New England Photographs including my most recent loon photographs captured in 2006. And do not miss checking out my unique 24- month custom made calendars located on my gift shop page. Many are now ordering them with a new loon picture. After the holidays I will post my newly finished artwork for your enjoyment. Until then, wishing you all a safe and happy holiday !
Sandy ~

Fall Splendor

Hello everyone, I hope you have had time to enjoy all the beautiful Indian summer weather we have been having. I know we have. During our vacation the first week in October, we enjoyed a nice walk on the beach also a visit to the Fryeburg Fair and just enjoyed the warm sunshine while catching up on some yard work. The Fryeburg Fair turn out this year was great, with the weather warm and sunny for most of the week. This year I took time to walk around behind the scenes at the draft horse barns and captured some unique photographs of the horses being harnessed, bathed and even captured a few draft teams during warm up before the pulling contests began. The photograph to the left and below are two from the 6-hitch draft horse show held on Wednesday October 4th. Notice the matching ribbons braided in the manes of the horses matching the color of the wagon they were pulling. All of the draft horses in this show were beautifully presented with their polished harness and shiny coats, all decked out in their best for this spectacular event.

If you would like to view more of the draft horse photographs captured that day visit my website at http://www.animalsinpastels.com/ click on the link named My Gallery on each of the photography pages and or the gift shop page. Or click on this link: www.animalsinpastels.com/gallery Look for the sub title horses album and you will view more photographs from the Fryeburg Fair also various new horse photographs will be featured here in the future. I took a total of 6 rolls of film in 2005 and again in 2006 of just the draft show at the Fryeburg Fair, so their is only a small fraction of the photographs displayed. If you would like to know if a particular draft team was captured and you do not see it, please email bornhorselover@aol.com and I would be happy to look through my archives to see if I have one of your team. Please give me the name of the draft breed, color of the wagon, any possible distinguishing marking (or color of ribbons on the horses) that may help me identifly your team. You may come back periodically as more photographs will be added when time permits. This is a new item that should be up and ready to view sometime in November/December of 2006. Here you can go and view all the photographs available to purchase in a variety of styles ranging fro 8x10 digital photographs, to 24 month custom calendars, including greeting cards, 4x6 photo magnets and even bookmarkers. You will also have available an order form to download where you can easily fill in any order you would like and simply mail in to my studio with a money order or check. For those of you who love loons, check out my new loon photographs captured the summer of 2006 at the Tacoma Lakes area. Many have surpassed even the photographs I was able to capture last year that were published in my new book titled "Loons of Tacoma Lakes" in April. For those of you who are not familiar with my book click on this link www.animalsinpastels.com/loons-of-tacoma.html. Here you will be able to read the bio and preface page, also view 12 of the 40 photographs published while listening to the calls of the loons in the background. To date we have sold and distributed over $7,500.00 of my loon book in over 40 locations ranging from Kittery to Moosehead, Maine including independent bookstores, giftshops and sporting good outlets. If by any chance you are unable to locate my book in a location near you, just email me at LoonsofTacoma@aol.com and you can order an autographed copy mailed to your home. I am even extending my free shipping and handling for all individual orders mailed in the US as a Christmas special.

For those of you who will be in the Meredith, NH area on Saturday Oct. 28th between 2 and 4 PM stop by at the Innisfree Bookshop where I have been invited to attend a book signing and give an informal talk about publishing my new loon book. I will also have my portfolio of my loon photographs available to view, including some gift items to purchase for all you loon lovers.

For those of you who would like to commission a custom portrait of your children or your beloved animal companion for Christmas there is still time to reserve a spot for this season if you contact me before Nov. 1st. After that date I have gift certificates that are available to purchase for that special someone on your gift list. Email bornhorselover@aol.com for more information about commissioning a custom portrait in charcoal or pastel. Enjoy the fall season everyone! Take care,

Sandy

Newest Charcoal portrait....

Here is the digital photo of my latest portrait, hopefully it will upload today. This is of my husbands niece, Marlene and her 6 week old baby girl, Samantha.

If you would like to commission a portrait of your children in charcoal, visit my website at www.animalsinpastels.com for prices and more information or email me at bornhorselover@aol.com. Have a great weekend.

Sandy

Busy in August....

Well, summer is over and fall is fast around the corner. August was a very busy month for me. The Winthrop Sidewalk Art show/ book signing hosted by the Apple Valley Bookstore on August 19th turned out to be a great day. The rain held off and the turn out was high. Although the 80+ artist's reported that art sales were down by 50% from last year. I not only displayed my book "Loons of Tacoma Lakes" ( http://www.animalsinpastels.com/loons-of-tacoma.html ) but also my Scenes of Maine greeting cards, bookmarkers, 4x6 loon photo magnets, small 5x7 framed loon cards and a few 8x10 enlarged prints of loons. I did very well with my small items, it seemed that my bookmarkers, loon magnets and greeting cards made up most of the sales for the day.

Besides continuing to market my book to the NEBA independent bookstores throughout New England I also managed to complete a few commissioned portraits.

This 11x14 pastel portrait of an English Setter was for a client in NH. Jesse's dog portrait was painted on Rich Beige, Art Spectrum Colourfix Pastel Paper.

This next pastel portrait was also for a client in NH. This is a memorial portrait of their beloved cat, Casper. My client wished to have their cat portrayed full size with his toy mouse and large double paws showing. Casper's, 18x26 pastel portrait was painted on Blue Haze, Art Spectrum Colourfix pastel paper.

And I have also just complete a charcoal portrait of my husbands niece and her new baby girl, Samantha. Marlene's 11x14 charcoal portrait was drawn on Flannel Grey, Canson Mi-Tientes pastel paper. This is a new addition to my commissioned portraits advertised on my website. I have decided to also include commissioned portraits of families in charcoal besides children and pets. (sorry, it seems that blogger.com is not uploading this new charcoal portrait for you to view, I will try again on another day)

For anyone who is interested in commissioning a portrait for a Christmas gift there is still time. I accept orders up until Nov 1st. Please visit my website at www.animalsinpastels.com for more information on the styles of portraits that are available for you to commission. Gift certificates are also available for that someone special on your gift list.

On my weekends at camp, (when it hasn't rained that is) I have continued to capture some more beautiful loon photographs at Tacoma Lakes. These new loon photos will make a wonderful calendar that I hope to have published and begin to market next year on line and at giftshops and bookstores throughout New England.

Well, that is all my news for now, enjoy the Indian Summer weather everyone and have a great fall season.

Sandy