Spring is on its way!

[Helen Read]

Hi everyone and a big welcome to our newest members!

From here in Northern Illinois - it finally feels as if Spring may be
making its appearance. This weekend, every time I went outside - I
could hear the sounds of geese returning to their summer locations.
They were hard to see - very high formations flying north - but making
lots of noise! That plus the warmer temperatures and some sun shining
upon us encourages me that Spring may be around the corner!

First - for my group of Studio Friends (you all) - I'm working on
monthly plans for various different contests, drawing, offers, etc.
Seems like a good idea - with the economic situation being what it is
- and news usually being gloomy. My first one is underway.

I'm having an online Title Party. I have 3 paintings that need
interesting titles. For the rest of March - please submit your ideas
for titles. (email your ideas to me at studio_...@hotmail.com)
At the end of March, 3 titles will be chosen, and the 3 who submitted
the chosen titles will receive my newest set of notecards - florals
for spring! They are so new - that they are not yet produced. But
they will be ready by April. You could be the first to have a set!
Next month, I'm planning a drawing for something from my studio.

See the 3 paintings that need a title here:
http://helenreads.blogspot.com/2009/03/for-my-studio-friends-our-first-contest.html

In order to participate, you have to be a member of our group! Of
course, I'm hoping to find more art lovers who would like to join us,
and I'm hoping to make your connection with me more interesting and
fun. So, please invite your friends to join us!

I've been working on several things in my studio - I've gotten a start
on another triptych - another floral which is composed of 3 smaller
canvases, and I've done some long needed reworking of a larger
landscape. I've also done some experimentation which may end up
yielding a new piece at some point - we'll see.

I hope you have a great week. As we head toward Spring Break, I'm
sure mine will be busy!
Till next time, Helen.