"California Dreaming" Article / Life as a Human #ArtArticle #LifeAsAHuman #CaliforniaPaintings

"Wine Country" 24"x 24" oil on canvas - SOLD

Check out my second article entitled "California Dreaming" published in the art section of "Life as a Human" online magazine. I love the California landscape and capturing the drama and excitement through color and shape-inspired paintings that truly evoke the emotions of being there. 

If you love remembering your travels and adventures, consider an art experience commissioned painting. And bring the joy home everyday.  :-) Hope you enjoy the article and the online magazine.

Benzinger Vineyards

©2013 Debbi Smith Rourke

Benzinger Vineyards  6"x8"

Oil on archival panel / Framed in gold and black float frame
$250 + sh/h in Contiguous US
Available on ArtfulGalleries.com

I took a photo of the entrance to Benzinger Vineyards when I was touring the California wine country in 2006. I have painted this scene several times and always find new inspiration. Was fun to apply my new looser style, using both the palette knife and a brush. Love the thick paint and swirly paint. Fun!!

Wine Country ©

© Debbi Smith Rourke

Wine Country 24"x24"

Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas / unframed (no frame needed)

$1050 + $70 sh/h in Contiguous US

Contact me for purchase

I am continuing on my path of painting abstracted landscapes, using both brushwork and multiple types of palette knife application. Experimenting is SO MUCH FUN. I just get into a zone and paint up a storm. I love the looseness of this and the vibrant colors. I painted this scene from the CA wine country a few years back in a small format, in a more traditional landscape style. But I am loving this new direction. What do you think??

Amy Hillenbrand, Bill Oakey and I installed 25 paintings today in two large display cases in the Scarborough Building main 6th Street lobby here in Austin. Was fun and looks so wonderful. Will let you know if we are able to plan a reception. Hope you'll have a chance to view my 16 paintings, including 8 new works. It's up through early to mid April. Hoping to catch some SXSW attendees.