Fine Art by Mary Beth Brath

Wildwood Sanctuary Painting...Sold!

2012-01-14T14:35:00.000-08:00

Wildwood Sanctuary Plein Air

11x14" Acrylic on Canvas

SOLD

I received a call today that my Wildwood Sanctuary Plein Air painting sold through the Art and Soul Gallery in Lemoyne PA. May the buyer enjoy the painting as much as I enjoyed painting it this past August.

K.I.S.S. - An Old Field Study

2011-11-29T04:32:00.000-08:00

The acronym K.I.S.S. echos in my brain quite often. I heard a motivational speaker talk about the idea around 15 years ago. The letters stand for Keep It Simple Silly. Ever since, when a situation becomes too complex (without the need to be complex) I come back to this idea and it helps me sort through the "junk" to get to the solution.

This painting was created on location in about 20 minutes about 3 years ago. I was leading a fellowship group for artists at my church (West Shore Evangelical Free) and the session was to be relaxing and social. Although it is not a masterpiece, I really like it. Today it will help me stay focused while I work on a 4 day agenda for the Gettysburg 2012 Artist Colony and prepare for the grand opening of my own gallery.

Grand Opening Information for Brath and Hughes Fine Art, LLC

2011-11-16T19:20:00.000-08:00

A New Fine Art Gallery in an Old Bank Building

2011-11-14T17:06:00.000-08:00

Brath and Hughes Fine Art, LLC

On November 1st, 2011 Brownyn Hughes and I started our own gallery in Mechanicsburg PA. We both have a passion for art and our community. In addition to showing our own artwork, we will represent several local and regional artists. Regular hours will start at 10am on Nov. 15th. The grand opening will be Friday December 2nd from 6 - 9pm.

See the Gallery's Blog at

www.brathandhughesfineart.blogspot.com

Codorus State Park - Lake Marburg by Mary Beth Brath

2011-10-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

11x14" Acrylic on Canvas

Started plein air and finished in the studio.

Well, I am finally able to get back to blogging after technical problems with my computers. This is the most recent painting that I have finished. I have piles of paintings around the studio in various states of completion. I am happy to be back to blogging and painting!

www.marybethbrath.com

Codorus State Park WIP by Mary Beth Brath

2011-09-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

Codorus State Park (current work in progress)

11x14" Acrylic on Canvas

I started this painting a few days ago on site (plein air). Yesterday I made a few minor changes and am almost finished. There are a couple of places that I need to soften edges and adjust saturation.

My First Gallery Representation by Mary Beth Brath

2011-09-27T06:06:00.000-07:00

11x14" Acrylic Streetscape of the Vancura Gallery in the Summer of 2011

In 2005, I was accepted into my first fine art gallery. The Vancura Gallery of Fine Art in Middlefield Ohio is owned by Donna Vancura. My professional art career started with 5 gallery wrapped canvases painted in bold saturated colors. Donna actually painted my wall royal blue to showcase my work. I was so excited and inspired. It is so important to have people in your life that believe in you. Many years ago I read a book titled "Balcony People". Donna is a balcony person in my life and the lives of so many other artists. Thank the people in your life that sit in the balcony and cheer you on to reach your dreams.

www.marybethbrath.com

50 Daily Paintings in 50 Days #8 and #9 by Mary Beth Brath

2011-09-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

50 Daily Paintings in 50 Days

#8 - "Together Forever"

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" ATC - ACEO Mini Linen Canvas Paper

#9 - "Elissa Gore at the Gettysburg Artist Colony"

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" ATC - ACEO Mini Linen Canvas Paper

The "50" challenge has made me search through my photo reference files from June and July.
#8 - "Together Forever" - I came across these trees at Cook Forest State Park PA while hiking this summer. Wish I could have painted it plein air while I was there but my family was eager to find the next discovery along the trail. I would love to see David Bottini and James Browne paint their versions of this scene.

#9 - "Elissa Gore at the Gettysburg Artist Colony" - This summer I worked as a consultant for the Gburg Artist Colony. Elissa came all the way from NYC to participate in the event.

www.marybethbrath.com

50 Daily Paintings in 50 Days #6 and #7 by Mary Beth Brath

2011-09-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

#6 of 50 Daily Paintings - "Sailing at Pinchot"

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Mini on ATC - ACEO Linen Canvas Paper

#7 of 50 Daily Paintings - "Gettysburg Festival Plein Air"

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Mini on ATC - ACEO Linen Canvas Paper

And the challenge continues. These mini paintings have me longing for a huge canvas!

#5 of 50 Daily Paintings in 50 Days by Mary Beth Brath

2011-09-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

50 Daily Paintings if 50 Days Challenge

#5 Cottage Wetlands after the 2011 Flood

Acrylic on 2 1/2" x 3 1/3" ATC - ACEO Linen Canvas Paper

During the flooding this month, a wetland area outside of Mechanicsburg was extra wet. That night, I decided to do my daily challenge painting from memory.

www.marybethbrath.com

50 Mini Paintings in 50 Days #3 and #4 by Mary Beth Brath

2011-09-10T18:24:00.000-07:00

50 Daily Mini Paintings in 50 Days

#3 - This painting was completed for the September DPP Challenge and my personal challenge.

#4 "Helen's Table"

All "50" paintings are 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Minis on Linen ATC - ACEO Canvas Paper. The completed series will be available for sale in November 2011 - just in time for Holiday Shopping. Details to come...

Sunflower on Bible - Number 2 of 50 Daily Paintings in 50 Days by Mary Beth Brath

2011-09-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

50 Daily Paintings Challenge

"Sunflower on Bible"

Number 2 of 50 ATC Mini Daily Paintings in 50 Days

Heavy Acrylic on 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" ATC Linen Canvas Paper

On Friday September 2nd, I didn't get a chance to paint until after midnight. Determined to stay on task, I sat down at the kitchen table and painted this little sweetie. I attended First Friday in Lancaster PA and visited my favorite Lancaster Artist Christiane David. So inspired by her work once again, I was driven to do a sunflower. I had a couple in a vase that I gathered while plein air painting at Windmill Creek Studios. I placed the flower on my bible and intended to have the writing in the background, but I just couldn't get that to look right so I left the background solid.

Banana's - Mini ATC - ACEO daily painting by Mary Beth Brath

2011-09-06T11:13:00.000-07:00

Banana's Mini ATC - ACEO daily painting

Banana's is not a part of my current daily challenge. This one was created during my summer vacation at our cabin in Northwestern PA. Completed in one sitting late at night. All of my paintings are available for sale. Either contact one of my galleries in Ohio or PA or email me directly and I will refer you to the proper dealer.

For information on the galleries and shops that carry my work, go to http://www.marybethbrath.com/.

"50 Daily Paintings" Challenge #1 "Berries" by Mary Beth Brath

2011-09-02T05:21:00.000-07:00

50 Daily Paintings Challenge

In April of 2011, I started some new goal setting and heavy analyzing of my career in Fine Arts. One of my plans was to start a daily challenge for myself on September 1st. The children are back in school at this time and I have always enjoyed "nesting" in the fall. Well, yesterday my day was packed solid from 6am to 9pm...that did include a 30 minute nap. I love naps. Sometimes my naps are longer.

At 9:30pm I was determined to get in my first daily painting for my challenge. Here are the details...

I will challenge myself to paint 50 mini ATC - ACEO sized paintings in 50 days.

I finished the first in this series around 10:40pm. Here is the result.

"Berries" 1/50 - 50 Daily Paintings Challenge

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" ATC - ACEO Sized Canvas Paper

See more of my work at http://www.marybethbrath.com/

Gettysburg Paintings Find a Happy Home by Mary Beth Brath

2011-08-20T19:40:00.000-07:00

So many changes happening in in my career this month. Some doors closing and some doors opening. God's timing is so perfect. What a joy to get a phone call yesterday that 2 more of my paintings sold.

Sold - View From Hauser's Estate Winery

Sold - View From Steven's Knoll - Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Tour - plein air

Tomorrow I will be plein air painting in Brooklyn along the waterfront just outside of BWAC. If the weather does not cooperate, I have a plan to paint inside next to my art exhibit. Life is good.

www.marybethbrath.com

Evening at Camp by Mary Beth Brath

2011-08-15T12:08:00.000-07:00

Painted plein air in 2 evenings last month as the sun was dipping behind the mountain. What a wonderful vacation.

Recently Sold Paintings in North Jersey by Mary Beth Brath

2011-08-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

Sold - The Willow at Pheasant Field Inn Bed & Breakfast

20x24" Acrylic on Canvas

Last month a long time client and supporter of mine from Northern New Jersey bought 2 paintings from me while I was visiting. Thanks C!

The other painting that sold was a smaller romantic french scene that may be used for a dust jacket on an upcoming novel she plans to publish. That image has not been released online.

My Final First Friday with the 7 Lively Artists at Gallerie Thirteen by Mary Beth Brath

2011-08-04T06:11:00.000-07:00

I have really enjoyed my time directing Gallerie Thirteen over the past 18 months. The gallery will be consolidated back into the parent gallery named 2nd Floor Gallery at the end of August. My time at Gallerie Thirteen has been filled with wonderful artists and patrons.

This Friday is our opening reception for a well known group of artists named "The 7 Lively Artists".

When I first moved to the South Central PA region in 2006, the "7" were being honored with a group show in Carlisle PA and a lovely book was published showing various works and great history about the group that has met for over 50 years to paint. I stood in front of the paintings thinking how exciting it would be to meet some of these artists. The group reminded me of the New Hope Pa Impressionists.

One opportunity led to another. Not only have I come to know a few of the members, I can call them my friends and have painted with them. This week I am helping to hang a large featured show of the group's work at Gallerie Thirteen.

Friday night will be bitter sweet. Personally, I am realizing how far I have come in my art career since moving to South Central PA in 2006. Perhaps this month will be a milestone marker in my artistic journey. Many exciting projects are waiting for my attention.

I wish the artists of Gallerie Thirteen and the 2nd Floor Gallery the best of success. Dream Big and Work Like Crazy.

The 7 Lively Artists

Photo shows many of the members during a group exhibit held at the Mechanicsburg Arts Center.

See over 50 original paintings and meet the 7 Lively this Friday Evening at Gallerie Thirteen from 6 - 9pm. Free and Open to the Public. Live Music and Refreshments.

Time For Dessert by Mary Beth Brath

2011-07-20T10:44:00.000-07:00

Time For Dessert

Currently Showing in Brooklyn New York at BWAC

MB Surrealism hits NYC. Guests at the reception enjoyed my rendition of Time's Square. My New York Style Cheesecake is falling and it is "Time For Dessert". Notice that the billboard ads below the cheesecake are re-makes of other paintings in the show. The top one is a wheel of cheesecake. The middle one is titled Lady Liberty of the Susquehanna. The painting on the bottom is one of my landscapes titled "Spring Peepers".

It was so fun looking out the window near my display and seeing the Statue Of Liberty and then looking at my painting titled Lady Liberty of the Susquehanna that depicts the statue that stands in our river north of Harrisburg. Come to think of it...it was surreal.

Beech Springs Farm during 2011 Gettysburg Colony by Mary Beth Brath

2011-07-15T09:15:00.000-07:00

In order to get a decent photo, I had to take it from an angle and use a flash. Straight on muted all of the colors and softened edges. Anyway, I kept at this painting this morning until I felt that I could move on. The gold finches visited often while I was painting on site so I had to add them in to the composition.

Studying with Bill Schmidt at the Gettysburg Art Colony by Mary Beth Brath

2011-07-14T05:45:00.000-07:00

During the juried artist colony at this year's Gettysburg Festival, Master Artist Bill Schmidt http://www.billschmidt.net/ taught onsite at Beech Springs Farm. I started to draw out my idea on canvas and block in some color when Bill came by to take a look.

He asked if I would mind if he made some suggestions. Well, I was more than happy to have him help. He pulled out a piece of charcoal and this was the result.

I continued to block in colors and adjust lines but ran out of time to finish. Below is the current state of the painting as it was at the end of the plein air session.

I hope to work on this today to completion. Sometimes a plein air painting is not completed onsite.

http://www.marybethbrath.com/

http://www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com/

Coming Soon by Mary Beth Brath

2011-07-08T16:24:00.000-07:00

Coming Soon by Mary Beth Brath

Acrylic on Canvas

This is a streetscape of Brooklyn in early March. The elderly woman is carrying a box that reads "MB Confections". This is one painting that will tie together my Pennsylvania Landscapes with my Confections Series. The other painting that ties my show together will not be shown online until the night before the opening reception.

http://www.marybethbrath.com/

http://www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com/

Vancura Gallery of Fine Art - July 30th - 11am - 4pm

2011-07-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

I will be painting en plein air and enjoying the afternoon at the Vancura Gallery as a featured artist on July 30th, from 11am to 4pm. I will have 6 new paintings along with me. Come and enjoy an afternoon of food, fun and laughter.

Congratulations to the gallery for celebrating their 5th Summer Season!

http://www.vancuragallery.com/

http://www.marybethbrath.com/

http://www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com/

Tonight is the Daily Painters of Pennsylvania Reception

2011-07-01T06:41:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to see everyone tonight at the DPP Public Reception for the 2011 Capitol Exhibit!

New Growth to Restore the Battlefields of Gettysburg by Mary Beth Brath

2011-06-29T18:57:00.000-07:00

8x10" Acrylic on Canvas

Plein Air - painted on location during the 2011 Gettysburg Festival

This was the fourth year for me to paint at the Gettysburg Festival. This was painted at the Bushman Farm along the auto tour of the battlefields. The landscaping is being restored to what it was like during the Civil War.

http://www.marybethbrath.com/

Do you know emerging artist Brownyn Jean Hughes??

2011-06-25T14:22:00.000-07:00

Brownyn Jean Hughes has started her own blog site. She has been selling her original paintings for the past ten years, but is now ramping up her career. I encourage all bloggers to follow her blog.

www.brownynjeanhughes.blogspot.com

Congratulations Brownyn! Thank you for supporting local and regional artists!

Plein Air in the Evening at Pinchot State Park by Mary Beth Brath

2011-06-07T05:54:00.000-07:00

On May 29th, our family went to the lake to canoe and explore. When we went to unload, we realized we forgot the oars. My husband headed back home, the boys played and fished and I set up my easel OF COURSE.

I finished most of the painting before my husband returned - about 30 minutes - I was in my own race against time.

I came back to shore with my canoe a little before dark so I could finish the painting. My son took a picture of me at the easel. The next morning, I cleaned up the colors in the water and called it complete.

This is the third painting of this same area. All are different. One sold last year, one is in my home and this one will go out to one of my galleries.

8x10" Acrylic on Canvas
Pinchot State Park.

Romance on Depression Glass by Mary Beth Brath

2011-05-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

Romance on Depression Glass by Mary Beth Brath

8x10" Acrylic on Canvas

NYC Bound

Another new piece for my show in New York City. What a wonderful time I have had preparing fresh work for the Big Apple! Mmmm...Red Velvet Cake!

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

Trout Run Preserve by Mary Beth Brath

2011-05-17T05:47:00.000-07:00

Trout Run Preserve by Mary Beth Brath

3 1/2" x 3 1/2" Mini on Acrylic Paper

Trout Run Preserve is an area between housing developments in Cumberland County PA. I am so glad that people stepped up to keep this small piece of land natural. Really, I think it is too wet to build on anyway so it is perfect for a small park with gardens.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

King's Gap State Park Mansion by Mary Beth Brath

2011-05-16T09:18:00.000-07:00

King's Gap State Park Mansion

10x8" Acrylic on Canvas

This painting was created for the Garden Harvest Day Festival 2009 at King's Gap State Park in South Central Pennsylvania. I paint with a plein air group that was invited to exhibit in the mansion on the day of the festival. We demonstrated in the gardens and enjoyed talking to the public on the day of the festival. In preparation for the event, we painted several weeks in a row at various locations in the park.

http://www.marybethbrath.com/
http://www.marybethbrath.blogspot.com/

Leave It Plein Air or Fix It by Mary Beth Brath

2011-05-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

A Gettsyburg Battlefield

8x10" Acrylic Plein Air Painting on Canvas

Well - yesterday I was in Gettysburg for festival meetings about the paint outs. I also managed to get out to the battlefields and paint. This painting is plein air, but now that I am home, I would like to change the green in the closest shadow and clean up a couple of small items in the distance. This area is along the Auto Tour just past Culp's Hill.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

I Want Some More by Mary Beth Brath

2011-05-04T05:19:00.000-07:00

"I Want Some More" by Mary Beth Brath

6x6" Acrylic on Gallery Wrapped Canvas

Yup - I am really stuck on this genre. Absolutely loving the Confections Series. This little piece will be shown in Brooklyn in July. The Confection Series is starting to fill a wall in my studio. This experience has already been a huge turning point in my artistic journey.

Don't Let Anyone Steal Your Dream.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

Eat Your Fruit By Mary Beth Brath

2011-04-25T06:27:00.000-07:00

Eat Your Fruit

11x14" Acrylic on Canvas

Fruit with cheesecake is the best! The slice in this post came from the "Wheel" in the last post. Starting another one today. I actually have a landscape and a still life on easels this morning. If I only had more arms.

My studio at home is filling with new works. I have 4 exhibits for 2011 planned out on my walls. Andy and Linda Smith reminded me to keep my inventory fresh. Also need to supply fresh work for 4 galleries. The good part? I love all of it...even the business side of it.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

Wheel of Addiction by Mary Beth Brath

2011-04-24T17:11:00.000-07:00

Wheel of Addiction by Mary Beth Brath

18x24" Acrylic on Canvas

NYC Bound

Watched a movie last night...Julia and Julia. Happened by it while filling Easter Baskets and plastic eggs. What a total "chick flick". Really related to parts of it.

Anyway, I had a great time playing with perspective in this painting. Funny thing is if I turn the painting on its side, it is more readable, but to traditional for my purpose. In addiction, nothing is balanced.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogpsot.com

The Braths Go To New York - BWAC

2011-04-08T05:20:00.000-07:00

In March Phillip and I went to NYC with our 4 boys. Great trip! The photos are from a huge fine art gallery in Brooklyn called BWAC - Brooklyn Waterfront Artist Coalition. I will be having my first NYC exhibit this July at BWAC. The above photo shows the boys taking part in an interactive piece of art at BWAC.

This is Phillip and the boys standing outside of the gallery on the Brooklyn Waterfront.

Culture Happens!! Ha Ha. Not sure if the boys will ever be the same.

This is Fritz Weiss and his wife and I. Fritz is on the board of BWAC and he now has a studio within the gallery that I help run in Mechanicsburg PA. Thank you Fritz for the opportunity to show in NYC! I can't wait!

See the website for BWAC at www.bwac.org.

United Water Facility by Mary Beth Brath

2011-04-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

8x10" Acrylic on Canvas

Finished. Two hours outside yesterday, about 10 minutes in the studio today. This is my second plein air of 2011. This one really shows my love of the Pennsylvania Impressionists of New Hope.

Plein Air at United Water by Mary Beth Brath

2011-04-05T05:05:00.000-07:00

April 4th, 2011 was an overcast but warm spring day. My husband and I decided to spend part of the day outside together. He fished in the Yellow Breeches and I set up my easel. We enjoy the area around the United Water Facility. Phillip is an environmental/civil engineer and I love painting landscapes on location. I have heard artists say "there is no color" on a day like this. I don't agree. This is one of my favorite times of the year to paint. My sketch is done in burnt umber with a very stiff short hair brush. I did not have time to tint my canvas yesterday. Usually I prime the canvas with burnt sienna mixed with gesso.

I only had about 2 hours to work. Before I leave a location, I try to have the painting completed enough to only make small changes back in the studio. Hopefully today I will touch up some tree structure issues and add my husband in with his fishing pole.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

Room For Dessert by Mary Beth Brath

2011-03-07T07:14:00.000-08:00

Room For Dessert by Mary Beth Brath

5x5" Acrylic on Acrylic Paper

Many changes going on with me lately. I am preparing for a very special show that will open just 3 days before my birthday in July. I have been a dreamer since birth. My elementary report cards prove it in the teacher comments section. A dream without action is nothing. A dream with passion and constant perseverance becomes reality...in July.
I completed this painting yesterday in one sitting. Yes...it is another "bedroom" painting and is a part of my Confections series. I photographed the cheesecake quite a while ago, but pulled up the reference photo in order to add it to the still life yesterday. I have always wanted to paint pictures of my early 1900's Art Pottery. This was so fun. This series has been like self portraits for me.
The story unfolds as July approaches...

Most of my Confections series paintings are currently at the 2nd Floor Gallery in Mechanicsburg.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

Corner of the Bedroom by Mary Beth Brath

2011-02-16T05:53:00.000-08:00

Corner of the Bedroom

4x4" Gallery Wrapped Canvas

Holbein Water Soluble Oils

This is a quick study using Holbein Watersoluble Oils. I was not feeling well last week and I decided to get some painting done while resting. The picture hanging on the wall is of another one of my own paintings. The jewelry box was my Mother's and the vase is 1920's Art Pottery in my favorite color. In the left corner is my guitar...no, I don't know how to play, but would love to learn. Really this little painting is a self portrait.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

Fall In To Winter by Mary Beth Brath

2011-02-10T10:33:00.001-08:00

SOLD
Fall In To Winter

2x2" Mini on ACEO ATC Paper

Sold through Gallerie 13

This mini painting is just 2" x 2". Very fun to create and challenging. I used a toothpick for the details. This sold during the month of January at Gallerie 13 in Mechanicsburg. The still life was set up in my dining room at the end of November. I still had a pumpkin out for fall and the floral and pomegranate were ready for the Christmas season.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

House in Boiling Springs by Mary Beth Brath

2011-01-16T16:18:00.000-08:00

House in Boiling Springs PA

12x16" Acrylic on Canvas

Sold through Gallerie 13 in December 2010

Selling artwork is funny. An artist studies for a lifetime and ultimately paints for thousands of hours. We invest our lives and money in our work. When we finish a painting what do we do? Sell them to buy more canvas and paint.

I find myself wondering about the pieces after they sell. Even miss them. But mostly overwhelmed with the thought that they are making someone happy. And my passion for painting grows even more. I will never paint enough and the journey goes on...

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

King's Gap Water Lily Mini by Mary Beth Brath

2010-12-16T14:55:00.000-08:00

SOLD

King's Gap Water Lily

Mini Painting 2x2" Acrylic on ATC Canvas Paper

Sold through Gallerie 13

This little mini painting sold the first day of the December Mini Art Exhibit at Gallerie 13 in Mechanicsburg Pa. It is just 2x2". I had so much fun with the colors. The painting is so small that I had a difficult time photographing the image.

Daily Painter of Pennsylvania Mary Beth Brath

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

www.marybethbrath.com

New Cumberland Boat Ramp on the Susquehanna River by Mary Beth Brath

2010-12-08T09:32:00.000-08:00

New Cumberland Boat Ramp on the Susquehanna

11x14" Acrylic on Canvas

The Susquehanna River provides endless inspiration for artists in Pennsylvania. This is a painting I completed this year. The area is private and I needed permission to paint at this location. Our State Capitol is shown in the distance. This painting is currently available through the Art & Soul Gallery in Lemoyne.

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

www.marybethbrath.com

Just a Sliver by Mary Beth Brath

2010-11-22T06:23:00.000-08:00

Just a Sliver

8x10" Acrylic on Canvas

#3 of the Confections Series

This could have been titled "A Few Of My Favorite Things" since it includes my favorite magazine, cheesecake and a plate my husband bought for me while traveling in Southern France. Yes, this is another painting in my bedroom series.

Yesterday I bought another cheesecake "wheel" and took my reference photos before my family enjoyed a slice. I have so many paintings in progress already, but can't wait to start my next "sliver".

Huntley Road Pond by Mary Beth Brath

2010-11-17T04:55:00.000-08:00

Huntley Road Pond

8x10" Acrylic on Canvas

Sold

My pond found a home. This painting recently sold through the Vancura Gallery in Middlefield Ohio. This is the scene from my back yard while living in Huntsburg Ohio. The pond was full of fish. Red Wing Blackbirds could always be found around the water and fields. I always found it amusing to watch the birds sway back and forth in the wind while perched at the very top of a sturdy weed!

The house and property were the perfect place to paint.

If you are ever near Middlefield Ohio, stop in at the Vancura Gallery to see more of my work. The entire gallery is a feast for the eyes. www.vancuragallery.com.

Blogging is a Modern Form of Journaling by Mary Beth Brath

2010-10-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

I have been told by many people that "journaling" is a great way to sort out ideas and feelings. I usually roll my eyes. Recently I realized blogging is a form of journaling but on a public level. Blogging is a way to communicate our thoughts to others. While staying still and quiet long enough to figure out what to type, I sort out the idea that is running around in my head. This is what I discovered today...

My Paintings Are My Form Of Journaling. I take the scene in front of me and try to communicate my feelings through the piece of art. (Now you are rolling your eyes) I guess I journal in a visual way every time I paint.

This painting was completed "en plein air" this summer at our family cabin in Northwestern PA.
While painting, I was thinking of my past. Mostly my deceased parents and brother. There is a journal in my mind of the day and the memories that only I can read while I look at the painting. My blog post is the public form of my journal.

OK - now back to painting...

Because One Is Not Enough by Mary Beth Brath

2010-10-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

Because One is Not Enough by Mary Beth Brath

Acrylic on Watercolor Paper

This is actually the first in my Confections Series. I am so excited about finally getting this series off the ground...or should I say "out of the oven"? The painting has been matted and framed and is currently for sale at Gallerie 13 in Mechanicsburg.

"Five Is Too Many" by Mary Beth Brath

2010-10-18T08:17:00.000-07:00

Five Is Too Many

ACEO - ATC - Acrylic on watercolor paper

I have started a series of paintings called Confections. This is an Artist Trading Card that has been matted and framed. It is available for sale at Gallerie 13 in Mechanicsburg.

Enjoy.

King's Gap Garden Corner by Mary Beth Brath

2010-10-06T07:41:00.001-07:00

Well...I thought I was finished with this one until I took the photo. I think I will break up the pinks so the bush is not so thick and add some darks to the tree in the distance. This was blocked in on site during a huge Harvest Day Festival at King's Gap State Park. This was painted with a constant stream of onlookers. Not sure at this point if I will consider it plein air since I have made so many changes.

Susquehanna River at Fort Hunter by Mary Beth Brath

2010-09-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

5 x 7" Acrylic on Canvas

Mini Plein Air Painting of the Susquehanna River at Fort Hunter. This was painted on a perfect early fall day in September 2009. It is currently available at my studio in Gallerie 13.

Fall in Boiling Springs - Mary Beth Brath

2010-09-13T07:32:00.000-07:00

Fall In Boiling Springs

8x10" Acrylic on Canvas

Can you tell I love color? This was painted earlier this year from my own photo. I created it while working at Gallerie 13 in Mechanicsburg PA. My easel was set up in the front showroom and I enjoyed talking to people as they came in to scope out the gallery. I am comfortable painting around a crowd since my entire career so far has been creating art while raising children. It is part of my journey.

www.marybethbrath.com

Dad's Bench

2010-08-18T17:27:00.001-07:00

Dad's Bench

Acrylic on 9x12" Watercolor Paper

I am finished. I added more to the rock and changed some things in the background. My camera is not picking up the details well so it is hard to see the small branchs I added to the tree. The coloring between the 2 blog posts is so different. Really odd. It is time to move on.

Thank you for all of the wonderful comments on the blog and facebook.

Work in Progress - Dad's Bench

2010-08-15T08:24:00.000-07:00

This is not finished. It is a very personal piece for me. At our family cabin in Northwestern PA, there is this bench under a crab apple tree. The original bench was there for 25 or so years and recently had to be replaced with new wood. It is such a simple bench. The tree has been split right up the trunk for over a decade now and has a huge hole as you can see in the painting.

But you see, this was my father's favorite place to sit at our cabin. The New York Yankee hat symbolizes his lingering presence. Mom and Dad have both passed away, but when I am at our camp, I feel like we are all together as it used to be.

I need to work on the rock some more and vary the design more in my background. Maybe add some twigs reaching out from the crab apple tree through the leaves. It is what it is...Dad's Bench.

Downtown B&B in Mechanicsburg by Mary Beth Brath

2010-07-12T05:46:00.000-07:00

Downtown B&B in Mechanicsburg

20x24" Acrylic on Canvas

This spring, my plein air buddies and I painted at a local B&B. I started it on site, took it into the gallery down the street where I work and continued to work on it there when I had a chance. I brought it home last weekend and put on the final touches and varnish.

Lately I have been in a few conversations about scenes that lack people vs. scenes filled with people. Many of my pieces are quiet with a little of the human element. I think this is due to the fact that my life is so packed with people and events that when I go out to paint for my own pleasure, I look for peace.

Happy Artists and Collectors

2010-07-10T12:58:00.000-07:00

Artist Deb Richardson and a Happy Collector

Artist Susan Gray and Happy Collectors

Artist Pat Keough and a Happy Collector

Organizing and Curating Events is a very exciting part of my artistic journey. During the Gettysburg Festival I was able to watch these highly disciplined plein air artists work in very humid 90 degree weather. On the last day of the paint out, we had a fantastic exhibit and sale of our work. These photos show 3 artists that sold work at the exhibit.

At the end of the exhibit, I was already busy gathering artwork to show in a gallery Patriotic Group Exhibit in Mechanicsburg. I am currently organizing a large group exhibit for the Daily Painters of Pennsylvania that will hang in the PA State Capitol Building East Wing Rotunda during the month of September.

Curating and Planning Events has become a passion of mine. There is something so special about bringing together the artist and the collector whether it is in a gallery setting or an independent exhibit.

If you are looking for a curator for an upcoming event, contact me at mbbrath@verizon.net.

View from Hertzler's Farm by Mary Beth Brath

2010-06-30T06:34:00.000-07:00

View from Hertzler's Farm

Painted Plein Air during the Summer of 2009

Near Mechanicsburg PA.

8x16" Acrylic on Canvas Board

This was a lovely day to paint on site. Some days everything comes together as if someone else is doing the painting. Other days are not so easy! This painting was shown in Schmucker Hall of the Gettysburg College Campus last week.

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

www.marybethbrath.com

Day 3 of the Gettysburg Fringe Festival Paint Out

2010-06-21T15:41:00.000-07:00

Today in Gettysburg we gathered at Sach's Covered Bridge next to President Eisenhower's farm. It was a peaceful clear day with 14 artists creating artwork in several mediums.

Lyn O'Neal

Glen Souders and Deborah Lovelace Richardson

Marti Yeager

Michele White

Jackie Mickler

For more information on the paint out, go to http://www.gettysburgfestival.org/program/event_detail.asp?event_id=817

Wildwood Sanctuary - Harrisburg PA

2010-06-10T16:09:00.000-07:00

Acrylic on Canvas 16x9"

This painting was started on site and finished in my studio earlier this spring. The trees were just starting to look crimson and the new growth was ready to burst. Wildwood Sanctuary is located just outside of the capitol of Pennsylvania.

Daily Painter of Pennsylvania Mary Beth Brath

Preparing Canvas for Gettysburg Festival

2010-06-08T12:11:00.000-07:00

I am preparing canvases for the Gettysburg Festival. This year I will be involved in both the Main and the Fringe Festivals. Since I will be plein air painting for about 10 days, I need to have many supports ready to go. It is an intense week, but a great challange.

Brath Accepted into Gettysburg Art Colony

2010-05-23T13:45:00.000-07:00

Photo is from the 2009 Gettysburg Festival and shows the painting "View From Gettysburg Battlefield Amphitheater" nearing completion.

I will be studying under Master Artist Lisa Egeli during the 2010 Gettysburg Festival Art Colony. For 3 days, selected plein air artists and sculptors will gather in an art colony setting to study and exhibit. For more information on the Gettysburg Festival, go to http://www.gettysburgfestival.org/.

Hunter's Valley Winery by Mary Beth Brath

2010-04-14T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hunter's Valley Winery in Liverpool PA by Mary Beth Brath

16x20" Acrylic on Canvas

$260

This painting was about 80% completed on site at the winery late last summer (2009). The winery hosted a plein air painting and wine tasting event. The Susquehanna River can be seen in the distance. This place is a piece of heaven on earth and I hope to be invited to paint there again this summer!

Daily Painter of Pennsylvania Mary Beth Brath

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

Mountain Laurel by Mary Beth Brath

2010-03-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

Mountain Laurel

by Daily Painter of Pennsylvania Mary Beth Brath

11x14" Acrylic on Canvas

Available at the Vancura Gallery of Fine Art

Pennsylvania is full of mountain laurel. When I vacation near Cook Forest State Park, I am in heaven while walking through the twisted branches of the laurel. This painting is part fantasy, part reality. It has a European feel although it was inspired from hiking in my own state of PA. This painting is currently available for sale at the Vancura Gallery of Fine Art in Middlefield Ohio. For more information go to http://www.vancuragallery.com/.

Spring Peepers by Mary Beth Brath

2010-03-17T16:28:00.000-07:00

Spring Peepers

Daily Painter of Pennsylvania Mary Beth Brath

9x12" Acrylic on Canvas

$150

Spring Peepers was started on site "plein air" and finished in my studio. If you look to the right of the tree, you will see little tiny green frogs. This was early spring and the peepers were so loud! The willow was just starting to bloom and the bushes all had that gorgeous new red growth (well...alizarin crimson in painter's lingo). The scene is from Lower Allen Community Park.

Solo Exhibit Reception March 9th, 2010 - 5:00 - 7:30pm

2010-03-04T05:02:00.001-08:00

Charlie Krone Gallery inside the New Cumberland Library

Reception on Tuesday March 9th, 2010

Time 5:00 to 7:30 pm. Open to the Public.
Refreshments Provided.

During the month of March, I will have over 20 paintings on display in the Charlie Krone Gallery of the New Cumberland Library. The gallery is located on the second floor. There is a lovely room off of the gallery hallway for friends to gather and enjoy refreshments and music on March 9th from 5 to 7:30pm. Exhibit brochures are located on the podium shown above along with a guest book for you to sign. Exhibit will remain on display until the end of March.

Talking With Observers While Painting On Location

2010-03-02T05:35:00.000-08:00

Gettysburg Festival Plein Air Event - 2009

Friends Painting Along the Auto Tour

Certain questions seem to pop up over and over. Sometimes, people don't know what to ask, but would like to talk so it is a conversation starter. To others, it is a deep question and they are searching for an answer that will connect them to their own dreams. Whatever the intention of the initial question, this is a chance to share your background...a little.

To me, the joy comes from watching hope appear on the face of the observer.
Perhaps they are thinking "Can I do this?" or "I always wanted to do this" or my favorite "If she is doing it then I know I can". That is just one of the reasons that I love to paint plein air in front of the public. While living my dream, demonstrating in front of others can get them to reach for their dreams.

Willow Tree at Pheasant Field Inn

2010-02-24T05:25:00.000-08:00

Pheasant Field Inn B & B Willow Tree

20x24" - Acrylic on Gallery Wrapped Canvas

Soon it will be time to go and explore the grounds of the Pheasant Field Inn B&B located just outside of Carlisle PA. The pond will be taken over by families of turtles. Simply heaven on earth to watch them sun themselves on the fallen tree limbs. Birds singing in the trees. New foliage bursting on the willow branches that gently rustle in the breeze.
The owner of the Inn enjoys having plein air artists come and work on site. The Inn is a destination point on the "Route 15 By Way of the Arts" Pennsylvania Artisan Trail.

Cook Forest PA by Mary Beth Brath

2010-02-09T09:46:00.000-08:00

11 x 14" Acrylic on Canvas

Every summer my husband and I vacation at our family cabin near Cook Forest State Park PA. Last summer, I painted this scene along the Clarion River.

Hunter's Valley Winery by Mary Beth Brath

2010-01-27T06:36:00.000-08:00

Hunter's Vallery Winery and Vineyard - Liverpool PA

18x18" Acrylic on Masonite

One of the romantic locations along the Susquehanna River is the Hunter's Valley Winery and Vineyard. Every summer, the vineyard hosts a plein air painting event. Many artists from the region gather to paint and chat with onlookers. Live music was provided at the 2009 event by Jonathan Frazier, also a very accomplished painter! There is a lovely shop to purchase unique items and of course wine! This is all up on top of a...well...small mountain that overlooks the scenic Susquehanna River and the Millersburg Ferry.

The painting shown in this post is from the 2008 event.

For more information about the vineyard, go to http://www.huntersvalleywines.com/.

http://www.marybethbrath.com/

http://www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com/

Plein Air in the Wetlands of Pennsylvania

2010-01-22T05:45:00.000-08:00

8x10" Acrylic on Canvas with Satin Varnish

$125

These photos were taken while plein air painting in Mechanisburg PA. The weather was very cold and my hands were going numb. I am fortunate to paint with a great group of local professional artists. I used my "artist license" when I added in the flowers on the painting.

www.marybethbrath.com

Bellefonte PA Mini ATC - ACEO by Mary Beth Brath

2010-01-11T05:23:00.000-08:00

Bellefonte PA Mini ATC - ACEO

by Pennsylvania Daily Painter Mary Beth Brath

Acrylic on an ATC - 2 1/2" x 3 1/2"

$50

Located in the middle of Pennsylvania is a very charming Victorian town called Bellefonte. My husband and I have traveled through this town for about 25 years while going from one side of the state to the other. I did a larger version of this scene and recently created this mini ATC - ACEO.
There is something missing from the scene and that is the reason for the painting. A wonderful old hotel so typical of our PA towns was demolished a few years ago in Bellefonte. The hotel would have been in the top right section of the composition.

http://www.marybethbrath.com/

http://www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com/

The Rest Of The Story To This Painting

In January 2011, I finally figured out what I still needed to do to this painting. I reworked some details, colors and added a man walking a dog. Funny thing, I put it in one of my brick and mortar galleries and it sold 2 hours later. I never even took a picture of the final outcome.

...and that is the rest of the story!

"Community Park" ATC ACEO by Mary Beth Brath

2010-01-04T09:21:00.001-08:00

Community Park - Cumberland County PA

Artist Trading Card - ACEO 2 1/2" x 3 1/2"

Acrylic with Satin Varnish

"Community Park" was painted on site (plein air) last summer. My children played while I sat under the trees and completed this mini ACEO.

http://www.marybethbrath.com/

http://www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com/

The rest of the story...

This painting sold at Gallerie 13 in December 2010.

Remembering My First Gallery Sale...

2009-12-30T05:45:00.000-08:00

Sunflowers, 16x20" Acrylic on Canvas

SOLD

I so enjoy the week between Christmas and New Year's. I organize, plan, throw out, dream of the future and remember the past. This painting was the first Gallery Sale of my career. I came across the photo and decided to post it on my personal blog as a way of closing out the current year.

While living in the Lake Erie Snow Belt in Geauga County Ohio, I was basically "snowed in" from December through March. The year I started selling my artwork, I also had 4 young boys under the age of 8. My paintings from this period were mostly scenes of the French - Italian Riviera area. I was escaping to a warm and peaceful place.

There are still a few paintings left from that period and are available at the Vancura Gallery of Fine Art in Middlefield Ohio. The owner of the gallery, Donna Vancura has been such a wonderful encourager. See the gallery's website at www.vancuragallery.com.

www.marybethbrath.com

www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com

IF I ONLY HAD MORE TIME...

2009-12-18T05:51:00.000-08:00

Tritt's Butterfly Garden

Acrylic on Canvas, 11" x 14"

Currently Available at Gallerie 13

$190

We all have 24 hours in a day, 7 days a week, 12 months a year. What we do with that time will determine where we will be when next December rolls around.

Carpe Diem - MB

Create as a Family

2009-11-21T06:38:00.000-08:00

Gifford Pinchot State Park 2009

Acrylic, 5" x 7", plein air

Currently Available through Jeffery van Boskirk

John putting finishing touches on his piece.

We all have a life outside of the gallery scene. My husband and I have 4 boys. I share my home studio with my children so we can be together. While I paint or frame, they can do homework, play with legos, brio sets and army men and even paint/draw at their easel. We go hiking, canoeing, fishing and exploring together as a family. All the while, Mom has her camera and art supplies close at hand.

This day, the group of plein air artists that I paint with went to Gifford Pinchot State Park in South Central Pennsylvania. It was summer and the children were out of school...so...all of the boys came with me. We set up our area away from the other artists so we would not disturb their "right brain mode". It was an amazing day. We all had such a wonderful time. I sat on the blanket with one of my sons and completed a small work on masonite. He completed his scene on heavy paper for acrylics. The other boys fished and played near the water.

If you have never heard of Betty Anglin Smith and you think you can't start to pursue your artistic dreams until the children are grown, I encourage you to look her up on google. She has been such an inspiration for me the last 4 years.

CARPE DIEM - MB

DAILY PAINTER OF PENNSYLVANIA

http://www.marybethbrath.com/

http://www.dailypaintersofpennsylvania.blogspot.com/

Gettysburg College by Mary Beth Brath

2009-11-16T06:53:00.000-08:00

Gettysburg College

11" x 14" Acrylic on Canvas

During the annual Gettysburg Festival held in June of 2009, my friends and I were part of a plein air event. We painted on the grounds of the Gettysburg College. This painting was blocked in on site and finished in my studio. Available for purchase by contacting me at mbbrath@verizon.net.

We have been invited back to the festival for 2010. Big plans are in the making!!

www.marybethbrath.com

www.marybethbrath.blogspot.com

Visions Exhibit at Lebanon Campus of HACC

2009-11-11T06:45:00.000-08:00

This month in Lebanon PA. there is a very unique exhibit at the Lebanon Campus of HACC. The title of the exhibit is "Visions". Anyone that is spiritually inspired while creating artwork was welcome to enter. This is the first year for the theme.

I entered 2 paintings.

The field of flowers is titled Gettysburg Wildflowers and shows how the Lord covers our earth with beauty and gives us so much more than just the basics. This field is actually on the civil war battlefield auto tour!!

The waterlilies painting is titled God and Family. The lotus flower represents the Lord and the cluster of lily pads with the flower is my husband, four children and myself.

Brafferton Inn - Gettysburg PA

2009-10-29T05:57:00.000-07:00

This painting was started on location at Jackie Mickler's shop on York Street in Gettysburg PA and was finished in my studio. The scene is of the Braffferton Inn; a lovely B&B just off the square. The painting is currently on display in Jackie's shop and is available for purchase. The Pomeranian is a rendering of my own dog "Nelson".

Hunters Valley Winery Paint Out

2009-09-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, The Hunters Valley Winery in Liverpool PA. hosted a Plein Air Paint Out. Various Artists were invited to paint while the public enjoyed wine tasting, food and live music performed by Jonathan Frazier. The air was amazingly clear and we could see for several miles. My painting is not finished. I will make some adjustments in my studio.

HUNTERS VALLEY WINERY
3 Orchard Road
Liverpool, PA 17045
717 444 7211
www.huntersvalleywines.com

2009-09-21T04:54:00.000-07:00

Good Morning and Welcome to my blog. I am a full time artist that creates original paintings in acrylics. I enjoy working both in the studio and plein air (outside on location). More detailed information on my work and my background can be found on my website at http://www.marybethbrath.com/ .

I love to laugh and I have many stories to share. However, I am very busy with my career and my family. As often as possible, I will post on the blog. Well...with that said...let's get started!!

On Saturday, September 12th, I competed in a plein air event at the York in Pennsylvania. What a fantastic place to paint! Everywhere you looked there was a scene just waiting to be captured. So many colors and structures. People galore. Since the competition had a time limit of 5 hours, I just couldn't paint fast enough. What?? You are saying 5 hours should be plenty of time?? That is what I thought. On an average day when I paint plein air, I have most of the piece finished in under 2 hours and "clean it up" in my studio. During the competition, onlookers were a constant, people were taking pictures and the York Dispatch filmed a video. The video can be viewed at http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid15385135001?bctid=39934239001 . I so loved talking to the happy people that the time just flew by and it was time for the judging...whether you were ready or not.

Since this was York Fair's first year to hold a Plein Air Competition, there were only 5 paintings completed. I titled my 11 x 14 painting "Come out to the Fair" and it won 3rd Place. FYI - this was also my first plein air competition.

Time to get back to my studio - MB