Sunlit Arbor

Sunlit Arbor, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

This garden gate leads to a quaint beach cottage on St. Simon's Island. I love intimate garden glimpses; and this one really struck me. It was on my walking route while I was visiting in April and May. Each morning I looked forward to seeing the sunlight beaming through the pretty picket fence. 


See other Small Works

6th & San Jacinto

6th and San Jacinto, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

A couple weeks ago, Plein Air Austin met downtown to paint our city streets in the quiet of the morning. As you can imagine, it wasn't deserted for long. Soon it was hopping with cars and people. This corner is smack in the middle of Austin's famous "6th Street" - at night, it completely transforms into a wild music and party scene. College kids love it.


Tomorrow I am headed to New York to paint in the Adirondacks for a few days and visit my sister. I look forward to painting in some of the same locations as the Hudson Valley River School Painters of the middle 19th century. It's beautiful country with an inspiring artistic history. So excited - it will also be a little cooler there... :)

Rio Vista Rapids

Rio Vista Rapids, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

Today our painting group met up on the San Marcos River, where the water is still flowing in spite of the drought we are having. It's a great place for tubing and kayaking and just staying cool in the heat. Lots of moms were there with their kids enjoying the glad freedom of summer.


AND, I got the funniest plein air comment yet...
While I was painting, a little girl named Amanda came over to watch. After awhile she announced, "I am going to be a painter when I grow up, too. I am going to practice and practice and when I get good enough to make a painting like this I am going to give it to you!" Then she thought about that for a minute and added, "that is, if you are still alive... But if you're not, don't worry, I will just put it on your grave." 


True story... And I took it as a compliment! :)

New Gallery and a Summer Show

Dune Grass, L. Daniel, 9 x 12

I am very pleased to announce that I have recently joined the Buchanan Gallery on Galveston Island! It's a wonderful gallery and a beautiful space, and I look forward to seeing what will come of this new relationship. In addition, I was invited to participate in the Summer Group Show featuring 9 gallery artists, and tomorrow (June 11) is the opening reception. If you are in Houston or anywhere near Galveston, please come by, I would love to see you!

"Summer Group Show"

Buchanan Gallery

220 25th Avenue (one block off The Strand)

Galveston Island, Texas

Opening Reception June 11, 6-9 pm

Show runs through July 9

Visit my website to view works in the Buchanan Gallery show. 

In addition to the Buchanan, my work will continue to be represented 

by the Davis Gallery in Austin, Texas and by the 

Anderson Fine Art Gallery in St. Simons Island, Georgia. 

Holy Ground - Wedding Joy

Country Pavilion, L. Daniel, 9 x 12, NFS

I painted this wonderful old, rock pavilion last fall after my daughter chose it as her marriage site. Last Saturday was her wedding day and she married the love of her life. I felt as if I was on holy ground as they exchanged vows and committed the rest of their lives to one another. It was truly a magical time.


Many of you have sent me kind notes of congratulations - thank you so, so much. Here are a few pictures of the beautiful day...

Happy Bride and Groom.

Proud father takes his daughter to the altar.

Husband and wife pass under the military 

sword arch into their new life together.

My son ushers me to my seat.

Stolen Moment

Stolen Moment, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, NFS

Back in Austin, I am immersed in the final preparations for my daughter's upcoming wedding - just 8 days away. It seems like we have been thinking about it and planning for it for so long, and now it's here. It's a deliriously wonderful and emotional time. I catch myself tearing up at the strangest things. Today it was the little pre-school aged girls in the grocery store pushing their mini carts through the aisles. I remember those days like they were yesterday.

So, with that as a backdrop, this painting truly represents a "stolen" moment in an otherwise ridiculously hectic week. Yesterday morning, Julie Davis and I met up under the low water bridge to paint before facing the demands of the day. It was much needed time to just stop and take in... and I went away completely refreshed!

Sylvan Glow - a study, a larger piece and a friend

Sylvan Glow Study, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

This glowing tree in St. Simons Island, GA was so captivating that I had to paint it twice. The top piece was first. My challenge was to capture the glowing quality of the foreground tree as well as the glowing road behind. AND it included Spanish Moss to just make things more tricky. :)

It was a study in temperature. Observing the relative warms and cools was important to getting it to work. Several days later I went back in the same kind of light to try it again (see larger piece below). This was a very helpful exercise to really understanding the light and color. 

Sylvan Glow, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

Available at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery 

in St. Simons Island, GA

Alyson Tucker and Laurel waiting for ferry on Sapelo Island.

This is my fabulous painting buddy from St. Simons Island, Alyson Tucker (and me on right). We have fabulous painting adventures whenever we get together, and this year was no different. We painted almost every week day I was there, and I SO appreciate that she is always ready to go anywhere, anytime! Thank you for a great visit, Alyson!!!! 

Boat Shed

Boat Shed, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

I painted this plein air piece the small, rural town of Meridian, Georgia. This shed sits right next to the local post office and I am pretty sure that every member of the community stopped by for their mail while we were painting. They were a friendly bunch and more than several of them stopped to tell us the history of the old shed...


Apparently, there was once an old country store next door that purchased "deertongue" by the pound (named for it's appearance - it looks like a deer's tongue). Deertongue is an indigenous, vanilla flavored plant that was used by the tobacco industry back in the 1900's to flavor cigarettes and pipe tobacco. Folks would collect these leaves in the countryside and bring them to the store for extra cash. One guy remembered working in these old sheds as a kid, processing and bundling the herb. Lots of history in this place! :)

Sapelo Lighthouse

Sapelo Lighthouse, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, SOLD

This lighthouse on Sapelo Island, Georgia looks like a toy, don't you think? Not only in my painting but in real life - I think it's something about the red and white stripes. While I was painting, another visitor to the lighthouse took the picture below and emailed it to me. It lets you see the story book quality of the scene... thanks MC!

See more Small Works

Coast Guard Lookout

Coast Guard Lookout, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

St. Simons Island has a wonderful, historic Coast Guard station that sits overlooking the ocean. It was built in 1936 and after many years of service was refurbished into a maritime museum. Sitting right next to the main public beach, it is also a major landmark for meeting up and the location of much summer fun. :)


I have some other fun news... yesterday, I had a visit from a blog friend, Kathy Cousart! She was traveling through the area with her husband and they stopped by to see us. This was the first time we ever met in person (though we have exchanged many a communication through email and our blogs). It was pure delight! We visited, talked plenty of "art" and instantly felt like old, old friends. It's a wonderful, small world. Thanks for visiting, Kathy!!!

Me and Kathy Cousart meeting up in Georgia!!!!

Hill Country Color - 5 x 7 Art Splurge Show

Hill Country Color, L. Daniel, 5 x 7

This is my second donation to the annual "Five x Seven Show" at the Jones Arthouse in Austin, TX. Though I am not in town to enjoy the opening weekend myself, I recommend a visit to this fun and fabulous exhibition if you are around.

Annual "Five x Seven" exhibit and fundraiser

Arthouse at the Jones Center - downtown Austin

Hours: Mon-Tues closed, Wed 12-11 pm, 

Thur-Sat 12-9 pm, Sun 12-5 pm

Exhibit runs through June 12

This is my other donated piece in the "Five x Seven" show:

Golden Splinters, L. Daniel, 5 x 7

Golden Splinters - 5 x 7 Art Splurge Show

Golden Splinters, L. Daniel, 5 x 7 

This weekend was/is the ever popular "Five x Seven Art Splurge" in Austin. It's a big fundraiser that benefits the educational programs at the Jones Center Arthouse and the above painting is one of my donations. For the second year in a row, I had to miss the big event because I am still in Georgia. I guess it's a small price to pay, but I do love this annual show and party. The exhibit includes hundreds of 5 x 7 artworks of every shape, style, medium and color; and all displayed anonymously. On the first night nothing can be purchased until a buzzer goes off at 9 pm. Each work costs $150 and it's a huge grab fest - competitive art buying at its best. SO MUCH FUN!!!

If you are in Austin, the show is open all weekend.

Hours: Saturday 12-9 pm, Sunday 12-5 pm, Mon-Tues closed, Wed 12-11pm.

Exhibition will be up until June 12.

Sneak preview of my second donated piece in case you go

(will post officially tomorrow):

Hill Country Color, L. Daniel, 5 x 7

Gateway of Palms

Gateway of Palms, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

These palm trees appear to be greeting the river like a giant natural gateway. I love how the one is leaning out toward the water, almost as if to beckon. 

Happy Mother's Day to mom's everywhere!

Island Alley

Island Alley, L. Daniel, 12 x 9

As kids, we used to play in the alley behind our grandparents' home in Wisconsin. There was always an intrigue about being in that "in between" place separating the backyards. (And I remember there were always hollyhocks growing there.) This dirt alleyway has that same kind of draw for me. This is not the alleyway of my childhood, but I have been wanting to paint it for a long time. :)

Fishing Boats

Fishing Boats, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

I loved this turquoise boat docked on the river. The light was hitting it "just so" and the tide was swirling beside it. For those who know this area, I was under the bridge on Jekyll Island and after painting, we had a lovely lunch on the wide outdoor porch at Sea Jay's! Life is good! :)

Before the Storm

Before the Storm, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

Available at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery 

in St. Simons Island, GA

We have had some great dramatic skies on the east coast this week (still in Georgia); but I'm happy to report that we had no tornados. On this particular morning, the clouds were rolling so swiftly over the marsh that they were hard to capture. The low ones in front were menacing, while the ones in back were fluffy and illuminated! I am not sure I completely got the effect here, but it was beautiful to see.

Hidden Beach Path

Hidden Beach Path, L. Daniel, 16 x 12

Available at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery 

in St. Simons Island, GA

A glimpse of the ocean through this over-growth of trees revealed an infrequently used path to the beach... I knew my plein air search was over for that day. AND, a wonderful breeze off the water kept me cool and bug-free! :) 

Lighthouse

Lighthouse, L. Daniel, 12 x 9

Available at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery 

in St. Simons Island, GA

In addition to being an important ocean beacon, this lighthouse is a famous landmark on St. Simons Island. It's the subject of Eugenia Price's locally beloved novel entitled "Lighthouse", which tells the story of the man who built it in post revolutionary Georgia. The station was finished in 1810 and is made of tabby (a mixture of lime, sand and oyster shells). I love to imagine those early days on the island; and this lighthouse saw it all.

Windy and Blue

Windy and Blue, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

This is another piece from my painting day in Brunswick, Georgia with the Plein Air Affair (painting event last weekend). This lovely old Victorian home caught my eye, particularly appealing with the heavy Spanish Moss draped like a veil in front of it. The day was very windy, and I found protection behind a big church across the street.


Happy Easter weekend, all!

View From Newcastle Street

View From Newcastle Street, L. Daniel, 9 x 12

Across the causeway from St. Simons Island is the town of Brunswick. It, too, sits on the marshes and inter coastal waterways of coastal Georgia and was a designated painting site in the Plein Air Affair event last weekend. Driving through the old downtown, I spotted this perfect composition and knew I had to paint it. You might say that it selected me! :) I love the delightful serendipity of plein air painting!

4th of May Cafe

4th of May Cafe, L. Daniel, 12 x 9, SOLD

This past weekend I participated in The Plein Air Affair, a 3 day plein air event that took place on St. Simons Island, Georgia where I am visiting (and painting) for the next few weeks. The event was a fundraiser for Glynn Art, the local art association. Eighteen of us painted, displayed our wet paintings, and painted some more. It was a wonderful group of artists to hang out with. This piece sold in the grand finale silent auction on Saturday night. Great cause, great fun!!


"4th of May" is a little cafe in the village of St. Simons Island. It's a favorite eating spot for locals and tourists alike... and a lovely sight on a sunny morning!

6 Inch Squared Exhibition - Randy Higbee Gallery!

Morning Breaks Study, L. Daniel, 6 x 6

Garden Quiet, L. Daniel, 6 x 6

These two paintings will be part of the "6 Inch Squared" exhibit at the Randy Higbee Gallery in Costa Mesa, California. The show opens Saturday, April 16, and features 500+ small paintings that are all 6" x 6". I would so love to be at the opening to see all the paintings. There are works in the show by many of my favorite painters - little jewels I am sure! If you are in CA, drop by the gallery and see the exhibit! 

"6 Inch Squared" 

Sale and Exhibition April 16 - May 6.

Gala Reception April 16, 5 - 9 pm.

Randy Higbee Gallery, 102 Kalmus, Costa Mesa

800-506-7624

Blinding Light (enlarged)

Blinding Light, L. Daniel, 18 x 18

This early morning sunrise transformed the water off the gulf coast of Texas where I was painting last fall. It was one of those moments that compelled an unplanned stop on the side of the road to take it all in. This piece is available in my current show at the Davis Gallery.


Click HERE to visit my web site and see the complete collection of work in the show.

Opening Night at the Gallery!

Ocean Beach (diptych), L. Daniel, 24 x 48

Last night we had a wonderful opening reception for our exhibit, "ON SITE: The Appeal of the Real". This three person show includes Julie Davis, Stephen Parker and me, and it is on display until May 7 at the Davis Gallery. We had a wonderful turn out, incredible support from collectors and friends AND we had fun! Thanks to all who came. 

Now off to the gallery talk and then I am headed to the beach... :)

Here are some pictures:

Stephen Parker, Me, Julie Davis

See a complete preview of my work in the show on my website: www.laureldaniel.com

Golden Fence Line

Golden Fence Line, L. Daniel, 24 x 36

The Texas Hill Country is so beautiful in the spring - the wildflowers emerge and it's like a wonderland. I love driving down the back roads and finding unexpected spots to paint and do it whenever I can. This year has been rather full with preparations for my show and our daughter's wedding, so this piece was actually painted from a study done last spring. I can't wait to get back outside painting again - next week!


Visit my website for a preview of my work in the Davis Gallery show.
Exhibit Opening Reception - this Saturday, April 9, 7-9 pm.
Reviewed by American Art Collector, April issue (p. 104).

Marsh's Edge (enlarged)

Marsh's Edge, L. Daniel, 24 x 24

This is another large piece that is in my current show. I guess it's pretty obvious that I love the marshes on the east coast - and I love to paint them. Next week, after my opening at the gallery, I will be heading back to Georgia for a few weeks of painting and relaxation. I will drive by this spot every day while I am there. :)


Please visit my website to preview all my work in the Davis Gallery show - opening reception Saturday, April 9.

On another note, I want to thank Andrea Erins for including me in her top 15 painting blog list! Read the article and see her other favorites: “Inspiration Meets Canvas: The Top 15 Oil Painting Blogs” (click title to view). What an honor - thank you Andrea!

Morning Breaks (enlarged)

Morning Breaks, L. Daniel, 18 x 36

You might remember this scene... in January I posted two small studies I painted in preparation for this larger piece. It always helps me to try different angles and compositions before starting a large canvas. In this particular case, I so enjoyed that process; and lingering for a few days with this deserted country road and silhouetted chapel. This is one of my favorite pieces in my show at the Davis Gallery that opens this weekend.


Please visit my website for a preview of all my paintings at the Davis Gallery.
Read my show review in the American Art Collector, April issue (p. 104).


Show info: (I wish you all could come!)

Honorable Mention @ Salon International 2011!!!

Hillside Wonder, L. Daniel, 18 x 18

Honorable Mention at Salon International 2011

I've just returned from the festivities of the annual Greenhouse Gallery Salon Show in San Antonio, where my painting won an honorable mention. WOO HOO!!! I am so honored and thrilled to receive this recognition!!! You will see my smiling face in the pictures below. It was a great time of seeing great art and meeting up with wonderful painters. Yes, I am still grinning! :)

Smiling with my ribbon! 

...with the competition judge Daniel Greene...

...with new and old artist friends at lunch - so much fun!

Left to right: Cynthia McBride, Jeannie Breeding, Jeanne MacKenzie, Michelle Borgwardt, Paula Holtzclaw, Christine Drewyer, Peggy Immel, Joan Breckwoldt, me

Abandoned Dock 2

Abandoned Dock 2, L. Daniel, 18 x 36

This is one of my favorite places. It's one of the first sights I see upon arrival at the Georgia coast; a sight that causes all those feelings of excitement that come with beach vacations and long anticipated getaways. It never ceases to inspire.

Available in my upcoming show at the Davis Gallery.

Please visit my website for a preview of all my paintings in the exhibit.

Read a review of my show in American Art Collector April issue (p. 104).

Help Japan Auction #2 - Marsh's Edge Study

Marsh's Edge (study), L. Daniel, 6 x 6, SOLD

I am so proud to share that the artists of Daily Paintworks, my online gallery group, has raised over $20,000 for aid to Japan in the first week of painting auctions!!! I am so excited that I am putting another small painting on the auction block. Click here: Help Japan Challenge to place a bid and help me make a difference in this great tragedy. 


This piece represents a "home away from home" for me. The marshes along the Georgia coast are a magical place that I have come to know and love over the last 32 years. It's the home of my husband's family and a true place of my heart. I don't know who lives this house, but they sure are lucky to call it home!


Proceeds of this sale will go to "Save the Children for Japan" recovery efforts.