Art-by-MSR

Spanish Sangria

2012-01-30T05:00:00.001-05:00

Spanish Sangria 2012 Maria Soto Robbins

Spanish sangria was inspired by this lovely pitcher, that a good friend gave me some years back. I use it to mix the ingredients for our sangrias, and love these colors.

Sold with a frame, ready to hang. Varnished to protect it from dust and ensure longevity. This painting also makes a great gift.

Dimension: 11x14 canvas panel
Comes with flat brown wood frame measuring 16.5x19.5 overall with 1 inch white cloth mat insert)

Media:Oils

Check my etsy shop for Spanish Sangria oil painting.

New Painting for January

2012-01-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

"The days are long but the years are short." I love this quote from Gretchen Rubin and her Happiness Project, because it's so true!

Two thousand eleven came and went in a blur as did Christmas. Nevertheless, I hope the holiday season was a happy one for you. Although I was sick with the flu during Christmas, I spent quality time with my family and had a much needed break to rest and recuperate.

To start out 2012, I'd like to share this piece I've just completed. This series of Cuban Coffee paintings are definitely my most requested pieces. I love the comments I get from collectors telling me about the pleasant memories this subject brings to mind. Erin purchased one of these and recently wrote telling me:

"I want to let you know how excited I was when I found this piece! My boyfriend saw the image when he was doing an image search titled "Cuba". An image of this piece came up and he really admired it. His family is from Cuba and he does enjoy a cafecito every morning. I just want you to know that this was a much enjoyed birthday gift!!!"

Please check out Cuban Coffee, Lime and Creamer in my etsy shop here.

Cariños,

Maria

My Wish for You~~

2011-12-22T17:19:00.019-05:00

Merry Christmas &

A Very Happy New Year!

from Maria Soto Robbins (artbymsr)

Thanks for reading and following my blog and checking my online etsy, ebay, and fineartamerica stores. For all your kind comments and purchases throughout the year, no matter how small. I truly appreciate you!

Wishing all of you a wonderful holiday, filled with peace, joy and love this season and throughout this coming year!

cariños,

Maria Soto Robbins

Miami, Fl

Featured Paintings:

Poinsettia Closeup

This closeup of a red poinsettia was inspired by the season and all the potted poinsettias I have around my house. Can't help but want to paint her!

Check out my Fineartamerica store for cards and prints.

Check out my FineArtAmerica prints & cardshttp://fineartamerica.com/profiles/maria-soto-robbins.html

Flan:

I was inspired to paint this after making a delicious pumpkin flan recently. I was trying to capture some of the caramel goodness from my creation!

If you'd like the recipe, check out my blog post at:

http://artbymsr.blogspot.com

Check out my Etsy storehttp://artbymsr.etsy.com

Flan de Calabaza (Pumpkin Flan)

2011-12-12T17:05:00.000-05:00

Flans are a typical Cuban (and Spanish) custard-like dessert that usually include eggs, milk and flavorings. I'm partial to coconut flan but this time, I thought pumpkin would be a nice change from my usual since I was asked to bring a flan to a Christmas party.

This is what the flan looked like after being inverted from its baking pan.

And, as it turned out, it was a hit at the gathering we went to on Saturday. It's my own recipe after having tried several different variations, over the years. Since I was asked for the recipe several times, I thought I'd share.

Ingredients for caramel:
¾ cup white sugar + 3 tablespoons water for caramel

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Ingredients for filling:
4 large eggs
1 can condensed milk
2 cups whole milk
1 can pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix)
1/4 cup rum (or 1 tablespoon vanilla, if not using rum)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt

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

There’s a two step process in this flan, as in most flans. You need to melt the sugar in order to caramelize it and give your flan that beautiful golden color. A real easy way of doing the caramel is in the microwave (thanks to Linda Cicero):

Combine the sugar (3/4 cup) and 3 tablespoons water in a 6 cup glass measuring cup.
Cover tightly with microwavable plastic and cook on high for 4-5 minutes, until the syrup turns deep amber (the longer it cooks, the darker it’ll be). If sugar is still white after 5 minutes, add 20 seconds at a time till you reach the right golden color. Don’t overcook since you don’t want to burn it!
Uncover carefully and pour the caramel into the flan mold you’ll be using. Swish it around until the pan until it is all covered with the caramel. Wear gloves and be careful!
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Put all the ingredients, for the filling, mentioned above into a blender (or food processor) and process for about 3 minutes. I did it in the blender in 2 batches since it was too much liquid. Then I poured it into a big mixing bowl and whisked it gently together.

Carefully pour into your flan pan (a 2 liter glass Pyrex is good) that has been covered with the caramel.

Put the uncovered pan in a bain-marie (also known as a water bath/baño de Maria) in your oven for one hour at 350 degrees. After one hour, insert a knife or toothpick in the center and make sure it comes out clean before you remove from the oven.

Refrigerate overnight. Once it’s thoroughly set, carefully place a serving plate on top and gently flip it over. You will have a gorgeous, delicious flan that is pretty easy to make!

Mine cracked in the center after baking, but it doesn't matter because you'll be flipping it over!

After flipping it over, it should look like this:

Enjoy!

Art Basel 2011

2011-12-06T13:50:00.001-05:00

Art Basel is, "The world's premier international art show for Modern and contemporary works, Art Basel features nearly 300 leading galleries from North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa. More than 2,500 artists, ranging from the great masters of Modern art to the latest generation of emerging stars, are represented in the show's multiple sections."

Over the week-end, we had the pleasure of going to Art Basel, at Miami Beach Convention Center, which celebrated its 10 year anniversary. I'd like to share some images which I found intriguing.

"Joshua" was interesting to me only because someone close to me knows him, and told me to be on the look-out for it. Funny thing is that he's not Jewish and his real name is not "Joshua"! Artistic license, for sure!

Some people might relate to this photo after spending time at the show:

Havana Forever

2011-11-29T05:00:00.002-05:00

I remember very little of Havana, quite frankly, and unfortunately that includes seeing El Morro. We lived about 15 miles away from the city in "La Playa de Santa Fe" (Santa Fe Beach). I was only a child when I left and I've never been back. I've just picked up a beautiful hardcover book though, Havana Forever, by Kenneth Treister, Felipe J. Prestamo, and Raul B. Garcia which profiles the beautiful architecture and gives a historical background on the founding of the Cuban capital. I'm enjoying it's beautiful photographs and learning

Havana Forever

quite a lot about the history of Havana and its Spanish roots. The last 50 years of Castro's dictatorship have left most of the buildings in this city neglected, decayed and in desperate need of repair. However, at the same time, there is something positive about this de-facto preservation. In the course of the years, new modern buildings haven't been built en masse around these older structures (including new McDonalds or Starbucks) to destroy the old colonial charm that does exist.

Check this book out here, if you're interested in Cuban history or hope to visit the city in the future. It would be an invaluable guide.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T12:53:00.000-05:00

Though I try to be grateful every day, this holiday really makes a celebration of our thankfulness. So, what am I personally thankful for?

My family. Our health. My supporters and collectors. I am so grateful to be painting, especially during challenging times such as these, and the reason I can do that is because of you. Thank you!

Hope you have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving.

Peace and Blessings
Cariños,
Maria Soto Robbins
http://artbymsr.etsy.com

Sunflower Sunshine

2011-11-17T05:00:00.002-05:00

This 8x10 oil painting started out as a study for a bigger sunflower painting I recently worked on. You may remember this commission. Anyway, the contrast of red, yellows and the brown center was very pleasing to my eye, so I went with it.

When initially doing a study, of course, it's usually rough and you might not even apply enough paint. You'll maybe do one layer, or rough sketch, just to see how you'll approach the subject. After I finished with this initial study, I decided to give it a couple of more layers of the oil paints, and really thickened up the center of the flower. It kind of painted itself! I'm very happy that my little study didn't get discarded after its intended purpose was accomplished!

Sunflower Sunshine is available here.

Cuban Coffee and Lime Red

2011-11-09T05:00:00.003-05:00

Another in my series of Cuban Coffee and Lime paintings. This one is done in a vibrant, impressionistic style with brushes and palette knives and shows a demitasse full of Cuban coffee together with the typical Italian espresso coffee maker and cut lime. Thick, impasto foam on the coffee! A great brew to share with a friend!

Size: 10x8x.75 gallery wrap canvas
Media: Oils
Free Shipping now in my Etsy store. Click here for more information.

Sunflowers Three

2011-11-05T05:00:00.001-04:00

Well, it's finally finished. I don't think I over worked it, but I'm never sure.
Thankfully the Collector loves it, particularly the center impasto and the contrast with the yellow and red (which will go in her living room perfectly, she tells me).

Dimension: .24x36x75 gallery wrapped canvas

Media: Oils
Sold

For prints and cards, please go to my FineArtAmerica store.

The Art of Emilio Sanchez

2011-11-01T05:00:00.000-04:00

Emilio Sanchez was born in Camaguey, Cuba in 1921 to one of the wealthy families of the area. He moved to New York in 1944 to study at the Art Students League of New York City, and at the Columbia University School of the Arts. He lived in that city until his death in 1999. His foundation has put together a new book celebrating his life and work called “Hard Light: The Work of Emilio Sanchez”. It's elegantly compiled and beautifully written.

His light and shadows and the architectural subjects that he paints are particularly appealing to me and although he's reminiscent of Humberto Calzada I find his subjects, depict particularly well, those memories I have of the beach town of Santa Fe, where I lived in Cuba. His "Casita al Mar" reminds me of my casita that my dad and brothers built for me in our back yard, when I was small. It had the same veranda except it didn't have the sea directly in the background! Memories of a simpler, happier place and time.

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-30T05:00:00.001-04:00

Work in progress

2011-10-27T12:24:00.000-04:00

Still working on this sunflower oil painting and having a lot of fun with it. Glazing is something I haven't done too much of and I've glazed the leaves with at least a dozen different coats of thin paint, in different colors of the yellow family. In glazing, you need to let each layer dry completely before applying another layer so it becomes very time consuming. You can use mediums to speed up the process but I've only been using linseed oil to thin the paint with my water mixable oils.

The center, however, in a typical sunflower is composed of numerous disk flowers and I wanted to capitalize on this area and have thick impasto since I know my collector likes this technique. So, what you see in the center, is the background for the impasto which will be added later. I'm not too happy with the leaves showing in the upper left flower. Will have to work on that...

I really like the red background contrasting with the yellows. Let me know what you think!

Work in progress

2011-10-17T05:00:00.000-04:00

These babies are the inspiration for a new Sunflower painting I'm working on. It's a request from a collector who wants a red background behind the yellow flowers. She plans to put the painting, which measures 24x36, over her living room sofa. I'll let you know how it goes.

Sketch

Laying in the local colors

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield: Winning the Inner Creative Battle

2011-10-13T05:00:00.003-04:00

I just finished reading this powerful little book after recently finding myself devoid of any desire to paint for several weeks.

Steven Pressfield writes that "we don't tell ourselves, I'm never going to write my symphony." Instead we say, "I am going to write my symphony; I'm just going to start tomorrow." I can relate.

Pressfield is better know as the writer of The Legend of Bagger Vance, (which was made into a movie with Matt Damon and Will Smith). In this book about winning the inner creative battle, he talks about the major creative block we will ever encounter, Resistance, with a capital 'R' and how that keeps so many of us from doing that which we were destined to do. Not exclusively as visual artists, writers, or creative types but those who have a "mission", or who aspire to "evolve to a higher station morally, ethically, or spiritually" and for whatever reason, don't pursue it, as they know they should.

This little absorbing book is divided into three sections. In the first section Pressfield describes Resistance in its many varied forms. The second part is spent on ways to combat it. And the third is the most controversial part of the book where he talks about his muse, angels, and the New Age type of mysticism that many people believe in, but I personally can't relate to. However, I don't think you should let that detract from the important message he conveys.

At 165 pages, I read it in no time but I plan on a second reading. Pressfield packs a lot of wisdom in his little tome and I highly recommend it, particularly if you know that you need a kick in the pants to do that "thing" which you are neglecting in your life. Read it!

Bougainvillea Bloom

2011-10-07T17:10:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Aga in Chicago for purchasing Bougainvillea Bloom oil painting. This little painting was another study in painting from life. Bougainvillea blooms are so incredibly cheery and colorful. They're also pretty abundant down here in south Florida. I love to snip a few blooms and fill a vase full of them for a pretty centerpiece. Even with its thorns, I love this plant!

My Unique Gift Guide

2011-09-27T17:11:00.000-04:00

Karen Terry, one of the hardest working administrators of the Unique Women in Business group, has put together a wonderful gift guide for the holidays. It lists participating shops from the members of uwib. I'm so pleased to have been included in the Art Section which features some of my favorite artists (who are also, coincidentally, uwib), Robin Maria Pedrero, Kristen Stein and Tamara Garvey.

There are however, lots of different categories of artisans and all price ranges. For example, check out my favorite personalized dish towels from Sharon at Grandma's Craft Garden. (I've bought quite a few of these and everyone loves them.) Or the cute Dirty Paws towels, for your special fur baby, from Danielle at Rendach's. Or, take a look at my favorite monogram coasters from Bridget at Japip. Can you tell I like personalized gifts??

So, please go on over and check the gift guide here. It's not too early (or late-I hope) to start shopping for Christmas!

Stay tuned for an upcoming post about the many talented jewelry designers in our group.

Is your life "Organized"?

2011-08-12T05:00:00.006-04:00

I'd like to think that mine is, but...we've just returned from our annual trek to Illinois to visit family and I feel out of sorts. I'm having a hard time getting back into the swing of things and do all that I know I need to do! So, I've been referring back to different suggestions I originally found rather helpful. These have come from different sources like the wonderful http://zenhabits.net and http://brightboldbeautiful.blogspot.com.

Tips for getting and staying organized (in no particular order):

1. Three most important tasks for the day. Apparently if you tackle those, everything else will fall into place!

2. Some professional organizers suggest you make a "to-do" list every night before you go to bed. If you write it down, your mind will relax and you don't have to worry about forgetting important things.

3. If you don't like, or have the discipline for all those daily lists, another great option is to have a "weekly to-do" list. Here you will input items you need to address each day and you'll just check them off as you do them. Somewhere on your weekly list, you can write all the things you need to do that week. At the end of the week, you transfer any items that didn't get done, into the new weekly list. (I do this.)

4. Do it now. If you pick up something, do not put it down until you finish it. For people who forget everything, like me, this is invaluable.

5. Go through your emails in the morning. Delete the ones you do not need, and respond to the ones you do need.

6. Prioritize. Get the important things done first. This is just common sense!
If you have commissions or orders you need to complete, logic dictates that that should have priority. If you need quiet time for your calls, be sure to make them when you won't be disturbed. Save the laundry and other household duties for later in the afternoon.

7. Delegate. We all want to do everything ourselves. However, this is not productive, and it will wear you down. Focus on the big picture, and decide which items you can pass on to someone else.

And after all is done, I won't feel so guilty about relaxing here:

Miami Beach Sunrise

I'd love to hear your tips on staying organized!

Thanks for stopping by!

Ixora Bloom oil painting

2011-08-05T05:00:00.021-04:00

Ixora Bloom oil painting

Ixoras are blooming all over south Florida. They love the rainy season! We have them as a hedge in several different areas of our yard, and did you know that they belong to the Rubiaceae family which includes the coffee and gardenia plants?

Here is a photo of one of these inspirational babies:

Click here to see Ixora Bloom in my FAA store.

Thanks for stopping by!

Red Geranium oil painting

2011-08-03T05:00:00.001-04:00

Red Geranium

This is one of my favorite flowers. Geraniums remind me of sunny balconies in Spain and my mother, who loved them.

Click here to see Red Geranium oil painting.

Thanks for stopping by.

Summer Absence

2011-08-01T05:00:00.009-04:00

Pineapple Impasto Oil
Thanks to Jutta in Carmel, CA.

I've been MIA for some time and I apologize if you've missed my posts. June was spent in our condo on Miami Beach, relaxing by the beach most days and July brought an onslaught of work for my "other" job. Throw in a mix of health issues, doctor's visits, etc. and plain laziness when I had some free time, and ergo, you have an ignored blog!

Despite all this, my paintings have managed to be bought and shipped on to loving homes. For that, I'm ever so grateful!

Cuban Coffee and Lime Red.
Thanks to Erin in Ringoes, N.J.

Oil Paints
Thanks to Mathew in Royal Oak, Michigan

Tropical Fruits
Thanks to Mary in Glade Spring, Virginia

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Summer!

2011-06-17T11:27:00.000-04:00

Add caption

The weather has been pretty much perfect down here lately. I'm afraid I've been totally slacking off and ignoring this blog, oil painting, and so many other things! However, I have been doing something quite important in it's own way. RELAXING on the beach. This, I'm afraid, will continue for the next couple of weeks! (smile:)
Enjoy your summer!

Plumbago or Embeleso Original Oil painting

2011-06-02T05:00:00.026-04:00

Plumbago auriculata is native to South Africa, and is a popular ornamental plant in subtropical gardens in Florida, Cuba and other warm-winter climates across the world. My friend has a huge brick planter in front of her house with this plant and I've been meaning to paint an "embeleso" or plumbago for some time now. They remind me of Cuba. When I was little, my mom showed me how to string them together to make leis. What a fun way to keep a little one busy!

Sold~Thank you!

For more flowers, please click here.

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-30T05:00:00.003-04:00

Many of these items come from the different shops of some very talented unique women in business (uwib) team.

If you have your own online handmade business and would like to join this incredible group of supportive women, click here for more information. You will not regret it!

Go here to see this treasury in etsy.

Sunflower Fields Forever oil painting

2011-05-27T05:00:00.008-04:00

Sunflower Fields Forever

The Studio Atelier May challenge was this pretty field of sunflowers posted by artist, Barb Benik. I couldn't resist. You know I L O V E sunflowers!

I did change the layout of the flowers in the background. Initially, I placed them like they appear in the photo but it didn't look right in the painting so I staggered them a bit. I'm happier with this composition. Let me know what you think!

Check my FAA online gallery for more information on Sunflower Fields Forever.

Colorado Sunflower Field

Spring Flowers

2011-05-13T05:00:00.001-04:00

One of my Cuban art collectors recently asked me why I paint so many flowers since he prefers to see my Cuba-related themes the most. At the time, my response was that "I like flowers!" Lame, right?

It's true that creating art is an expression of who we are and what we know and love and as I thought more about it, I would have explained to him that nature (and flowers in particular) have a tremendous impact in how I view the world. And flowers, for me, connect me with so many important memories on a deeper level. The geraniums that I love, remind me of my Spanish heritage, and the stories of long-ago when my parents and brothers lived in the north of Spain. The hedychium coronarium or Mariposa Blanca, is the Cuban National Flower. My birth place. With its wonderful fragrance, I'm reminded of the sweet smelling air when we sat in our front porch, in the beach town of Santa Fe, when I was little. The hibiscus, bromeliads and birds of paradise are quite common in south Florida. These lovely flowers represent my adult self. Putting down roots in a new land. Tending my garden and cultivating a relatively new-found passion, fine art painting.

So, thank you for letting me share my connection to the world of flowers and in honor of spring, I'm including some new ones in my etsy shop. Use coupon code Maysale10 to receive 10% off any item in my store!

cariños,

Maria Soto Robbins

Purple Hyacinth Impasto oil painting

2011-05-11T05:00:00.001-04:00

Purple Hyacinth Impasto oil painting

My friend gave me a lovely hyacinth plant for my birthday and I was inspired to paint her! I can still smell that awesome fragrance! Thanks, Tere!

Dimenson: 14x7x.75" gallery wrap canvas

Media: Oils

To see Purple Hyacinth in my etsy shop, click here .

Bird of Paradise 2 Oil Painting

2011-05-09T05:00:00.001-04:00

Bird of Paradise II

Another lovely Bird of Paradise flower. We have these in south Florida but it reminds me, nevertheless of some exotic island in the Caribbean.

Dimension:
14x11x 1 & 1/2" gallery wrapped canvas painted black on the sides

Media: Oils

Click here to see Bird of Paradise in my etsy shop.

Bird of Paradise Oil

2011-05-06T15:22:00.000-04:00

Bird of Paradise III

This impressionistic painting was inspired by my love of the bird of paradise flower. It's so modern looking and minimalist, if you can say that about a flower!

It has gently textured leaves. I used oils and this lovely flower doesn't need a frame since it's staple free and painted black on the chunky one and one-half inch sides to display without a frame. Varnished to protect it from dust and ensure longevity.

Click here to see this Bird of Paradise in my etsy store.

Dimension:
14x11x 1 & 1/2" gallery wrapped canvas

Media: Oils

Geranium Bloom 2

2011-04-29T05:00:00.001-04:00

Geranium Bloom 2

My set up for Geranium Bloom 2

Here is another geranium. I'll be painting a few more of these. I just love this flower.

To see Geranium Bloom 2 in my etsy shop, click here.

Geranium Bloom

2011-04-27T17:00:00.010-04:00

Geranium Bloom

Geraniums are everywhere right now in south Florida. They won't last long since once the heat cranks up, they shrivel up and die. At least, I'm confident that those that belong to me, will! I think I kill them with too much love (or over watering). So, in the meantime, I wanted to paint some closeup views. They're such a pretty plant and they remind me of Spain, and of balconies full of geraniums so common over there. And they remind me of my mother, who loved them as well. I think I'll paint some more.

To see Geranium Bloom in my etsy shop, go here.

Easter Wishes

2011-04-24T05:00:00.001-04:00

Best wishes for a very Happy Easter!

To see this little Easter Lilly in my etsy shop, click here.

Blog2Print Year Two

2011-04-22T05:00:00.027-04:00

April 15th is my blog anniversary. Two years old! It's been fun connecting and sharing with you, and I appreciate you peeking in and seeing what I'm writing about.

Last year, for the first time, I ordered a book that covered all my blog posts from my Blogger blog. You can read about that here. This year I decided to compile 2010 and had them do another one.

It is so extremely easy to do (and reasonable) that I highly recommend it. Blog2Print does not pay me anything, (I wish!) but I do think they do a very nice job. So, if my blog disappears overnight, which we know it can happen, at least I have a hard copy. Oh, there is a way to download and save your blog content but that's the subject for another post.

Inspirational Home Studio Spaces

2011-04-18T05:00:00.006-04:00

I love to check out studios of other artists. Don't you? Visit their work space on the web, I mean. I guess I'm nosy but you can tell a lot about a person by their creative surroundings, don't you think? My home studio needs help but not in an organizational manner. I just need a bigger space and I don't think I'm going to add another room anytime soon. So, in the meantime, I'll keep dreaming...

Chris Orlikowski has an art studio that is wonderful in every respect. Here she explains the inspiration and construction of her work space. It was a very involved project with new construction in a free standing building adjacent to her house but well worth it, I'm sure.

This is the art studio of Laura Trevey. She's a watercolorist and I love her cheerful, bright and well organized space.

Do it yourself network (DIYnetwork) shows you how to build this art table and how to create an idea wall for inspirational pictures.

This space is in a new model home so, I think, it's totally impractical, but remember, I'm dreaming here and the space is awesome. Big windows throughout and dark floors to hide all the splatters! And cool track lights-love those! You can see more pictures here of this space. Thanks to Lauren Fay for the inspiration photos.

Navy and Fuchsia Hyacinth

2011-04-14T05:00:00.067-04:00

We all have favorite customers we like to deal with or in my case, "collectors" when we make art. Some people are a pleasure to work with and you want to do your best for them and strive to make them happy, others-not so much.

I'm lucky in that most of my repeat collectors, are great. One of my favorites is Ileana (and her sister). She recently asked me to make two hyacinth paintings fashioned after little aceo's I have in my etsy shop.

So I've been working on this commission recently. These two 8x10's are the result of her input. She specified the colors that will co-ordinate with the room she's decorating in her new home. Using the palette knife and swirling the oil paints on thick kind of reminded me of decorating a cake with frosting! I really love the results but most importantly, so did Ileana!

Thank you, Ileana. I hope they put a smile on your face whenever you glance their way.

If you see something in my shop that you would like in a different size, color, etc., please contact me at msr107@gmail.com.

Vamos a la playa~

2011-04-08T06:00:00.001-04:00

Are you glad it's Friday? I know I am. We're going to spend the week-end at the beach since the weather is supposed to be wonderful and this little upbeat video (my first) is my little gift to you. Enjoy!

Tinajon at the Door or Welcome Home Bougainvellia

2011-03-29T05:00:00.061-04:00

Some artists have a real knack for creatively naming their paintings. Not me. I'm afraid that I'm very unimaginative when it comes to titles. It is what it is, as far as I'm concerned and my title usually reflects that. So, I thought it would be fun to ask my Facebook Friends to suggest some titles for this painting. Here are some of the good suggestions:

Welcome Home
Tranquility
Peacefulness
My Secret Place
Tinajon en la Puerta (Earthen Jar at the Door)
Tinajon de Verano (Summer Earthen Jar)

I couldn't settle on just one so it has two names. It is what it is! Thanks, Karen, Carlos, Ana, Johanna, and Theresa, for your suggestions!

Dimension: 11x14x .75" gallery wrapped canvas

Media: Oils

Please click here to get more information on Tinajon at the Door or Welcome Home Bougainvellia

Help Japan Auction

2011-03-21T11:35:00.000-04:00

The subject for the DailyPaintingChallenge for this week is Help for Japan. Artist, Keiko Tanabe, who was born there, explains the challenge this way:

"I am pleased to host the Help Japan Challenge especially because it is dedicated for us artists to raise money to help those who were affected by the recent disasters in Japan.

As a fund-raiser, this is a bit different from our usual Challenges. There's no specific set-up or instructions. I have chosen "home" as a theme. All I ask you is to paint whatever comes to your mind when you think of your home."

My contribution is Royal Poinciana Lake oil painting. I completed this work some time back and for me, it "brings to mind" my idyllic memory of my homeland. I added a lovely blue sky, peaceful lake and my favorite tree, the royal poinciana!

100% proceeds for this painting will be donated to to the American Red Cross for relief efforts for "Help For Japan".
There is currently one bid. Please check it out here.

Tres Leches-Simplest Recipe Ever!

2011-03-16T05:00:00.001-04:00

The TikiTiki blog had a delicious and simple recipe for one of my favorite desserts ever, Tres Leches. Even though Laura Feo-Fernandez simplifies the traditional recipe a lot, I went a step further since I was pressed for time, and made it with the Entenmann's ready made (and always delicious) pound cake.
Here are the ingredients that I used, everything that Laura mentions except the white cake batter in a box (again, I used the ready made pound cake):

First step is to slice lengthwise each of the Entenmann's pound cake in two pieces. You should have 4 total pieces. You will have one piece left-over since we will use only 3 pieces.

Place each of the 3 pices in a 9x13 inch glass dish.

Prick the cake throughout with a fork.

Take the 14 oz. can of sweetened condensed milk, 12 oz. of evaporated milk, 8 oz. of cream, 2 tablespoons of rum (or vainilla) and wisk by hand.

Pour over your holey pound cake. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. I know, you WILL want to try it right away, but trust me, it'll taste even better after it's refrigerated.

I garnished it with some fruit and everyone absolutely loved it!

Enjoy & Buen provecho!

Bridesmaid's Custom Original Art Pendant

2011-03-14T05:00:00.000-04:00

Cuban Mariposa Art Pendant

One of my favorite bloggers (and a collector:), Cuban in the Midwest, suggested that my glass pendants would make a wonderful necklace for all the bridesmaids in a wedding party. She said, "wouldn't it look pretty to have the bridesmaids... all wearing the same pendant with a flower that matches their dress. I think they would be a hit!" So, with that input, I created this . I love it when my collectors, aka, my friends, offer their input and try to help spread my art!

White House in Santorini

2011-03-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

I dream about this place! On my bucket list is spending time in Santorini and taking in the fantastic views of the white washed houses overlooking the Med.

I actually painted this as an entry into Carol Marine's Daily Painting Works Challenge. The One Color per Stroke Challenge required the use of brights (a type of brush) and limited brush strokes.

Click here to see White House in Santorini in my Etsy shop.

Zippo-Light My Fire Oil Painting

2011-02-25T05:00:00.005-05:00

This painting was inspired by the latest Daily Painting Works Challenge. We were to use only burnt sienna, ultramarine blue and titanium white. That's it, no other colors!

It was a bit difficult to achieve a wide array of values and temperatures with these 3 colors only, but I think it came out very nicely and it was fun working with these colors that I've always loved.

Dimension: 8x10x canvas panel
Media: Oils

To see Zippo in my Etsy store, click here.

Facebook

2011-02-23T09:54:00.000-05:00

I love Facebook. But I don't like them changing things on me just when I start to get used to doing it a certain way. For example, FB now will only show the feed from certain friends that you interact with the most. Yes. If you are wondering what's happening to the rest of your friends, FB knows better, they figure you only want to interact with the same folks over and over again. And yes, they're filtering out many of your friends.

Thanks to Dan York, who explains it very well here. So that you can see all of your Friends feed, you need to do this:

"If you scroll down to the bottom of your NewsFeed and click the "Edit Options" button:

You will see the option "Show posts from":

With the option set by default to "Friends and pages you interact with most".

What this means is that if you don't "Like" or "Comment" on updates from a friend or a Page over a certain period of time... then updates from those friends and pages will STOP appearing in your NewsFeed.

The fix is, of course, to simply change the option to "All of your friends and pages"."

By the way, I've just set up a Fan Page on Facebook and if you could LIKE me, I'd be so grateful!

Red Rose Bloom

2011-02-22T05:00:00.002-05:00

My Red Rose Bloom was the entry for the recent Valentines Day Rose at The Daily Painting Works Challenge. And a real challenge it was too! I struggled with the little petals, trying to keep them impressionistic and to not over work them. In the end, I learned a thing or two about painting a red rose and I'm happy with the overall outcome. What do you think?

There are over one hundred and thirty fantastic versions of a red rose on the DPW site. Take a look here.

Dimension: 8x10x.75" gallery wrapped canvas
Media: Oils

For purchase information, click here.

Happy President's Day

2011-02-21T05:00:00.001-05:00

Happy President's Day!

White Sepia Rose

2011-02-18T05:00:00.001-05:00

This impressionistic painting was inspired by my love of roses.

It has gently textured impasto and I used oils and this lovely flower doesn't need a frame since it's staple free and painted brown on the sides to display without a frame. Varnished to protect it from dust and ensure longevity.

Dimension: 8x10x.75" gallery wrapped canvas

Media: Oils

Guardian Angel

2011-02-17T11:47:00.001-05:00

I had a special request for this little guardian angel. My friend, and collector, explained that her daughter had surgery when she was only six months old and that the baby's godmother sent her a blessed card with an angel to guard over her. She taped this card over her crib as she recovered and now that her daughter is 31, she still carries this angel card in her wallet. What a beautiful keepsake!

Now, the godmother is very ill and my friend, contacted me to paint a guardian angel for her friend. I was flattered that she would ask me and what a touching way for her to repay the godmother's kindness to her own daughter!

Although I had never painted an angel before, I couldn't resist particularly after she ended her request by telling me, "I can't think of a better person to ask because your paintings come from your heart." ♥

Miami Beach Sunrise in Treasury

2011-02-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Miami Beach Sunrise was included in this lovely etsy treasury!

Royal Poinciana Caminito

2011-02-07T05:00:00.000-05:00

Royal Poinciana Caminito

I can hardly wait for the summer when this tree will be blooming all over south Florida again. I wrote about that here.

This impressionistic impasto oil painting was done with palette knives and brushes on gallery wrapped artist canvas. The blooms on the tree have raised impasto flowers, almost three dimensional and the entire painting is very textured. Click here to see Royal Poinciana Caminito in my Etsy shop.

Size: 9x12x.75", gallery wrapped canvas.

Media: Oils

And the winner is...Miami Beach Waiting for You

2011-02-04T05:00:00.004-05:00

Miami Beach Waiting for You

One of the etsy teams I belong to, Florida Etsy Street Team (Fest) has a challenge each month and I was the lucky winner for January!
Check it out here. There were some fantastic entries for the month and you can check on those here.

Thank you to all who took the time to vote for me!

Royal Poinciana Palette Knife Oil Painting

2011-02-03T05:00:00.001-05:00

Royal Poinciana Palette Knife
oil painting

This impressionistic painting was done in thick oil paint with palette knives and it shows a beautiful Royal Poinciana tree in full bloom. The flowers on the tree are almost 3 dimensional--truly a unique piece of art. This original painting has found a happy home but prints and cards can be found here.

Miami Beach Escape Art Necklace

2011-02-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

Miami Beach Escape

This beautiful pendant is a collaborative effort with Susy Paredes of Earthexpressions on etsy. She handmade it from a square recycled glass tile decoupaged with a beautiful photography print of my original painting, "Miami Beach Escape".

Dimensions:
Measures 1" x 1" x 1/4". Large silver plated aanraku bail is attached for easy stringing.

Comes with a black 17" single strand necklace.
Gift box included.

Click here for more information on Miami Beach Escape Art Pendant

Oil Painting for Dummies

2011-02-01T05:00:00.001-05:00

One of my "teachers", Anita Giddings, co-author of Oil Painting for Dummies describes, in this video, painting a copper pot in a still life. If you only had one book available to you in order to learn how to paint, I would pick this one, without a doubt. It's so comprehensive and takes any newbie through all the steps necessary to develop your painting skills or improve upon those that you already have. I read it some years back and now I'm on my second reading and have picked up new tidbits that I missed the first time. This is a great book for all of us self-taught artists and I highly recommend it!

Royal Poinciana Resort

2011-01-31T05:00:00.002-05:00

Royal Poincianas are one of my favorites to paint. They're such a vibrant, multi-faceted and joyful tree and remind me so much of Cuba! This one is not available but prints and cards can be found in FineArtAmerica. Take a peek here.

Yellow Sunflower Block Oil Painting

2011-01-28T05:00:00.001-05:00

This impressionistic painting was inspired by my love of the sunflower.

It has a very raised, textured, impasto center. I used oils and this lovely flower doesn't need a frame since it's staple free and painted black on the sides to display without a frame. Varnished to protect it from dust and ensure longevity.

imension:

5x7x 1- 1/2" gallery wrapped canvas

Media: Oils

Click here for more information on Yellow Sunflower Block oil painting

Bird of Paradise Oil

2011-01-26T05:00:00.001-05:00

This impressionistic painting was inspired by my love of the bird of paradise flower.

It has gently textured leaves. I used oils and this lovely flower doesn't need a frame since it's staple free and painted black on the sides to display without a frame. Varnished to protect it from dust and ensure longevity.

Click here for more information on Bird of Paradise 1

Bird of Paradise 2 Oil Painting

2011-01-24T05:00:00.007-05:00

This impressionistic painting was inspired by my love of the bird of paradise flower. It looks so exotic, don't you think?

It has gently textured leaves. I used oils and this lovely flower doesn't need a frame since it's staple free and painted black on the sides to display without a frame. Varnished to protect it from dust and ensure longevity.

Dimension: 14x11x 1-1/2" gallery wrapped canvas

Media: Oils

Click here for purchase information on Bird of Paradise Original Oil Painting

Maddie the Cat

2011-01-21T05:00:00.034-05:00

Rita, from Rita's Creative Nest on etsy, wrote very eloquently about Project Maddie in her blog. It's heartwarming to have so many uwib team members rally round Brie in her efforts to help save Maddie! One example of this generosity is the purchaser of this painting. Another uwib, she actually asked me to ship it to Brie as a present and a keepsake of her kitty! Isn't that incredible? The unique women in business is an awesome group!

The original oil painting has very textured, impasto paint and I used brushes and palette knives. It has since been sold
but 100% of my profits on Fineartamerica prints and cards is pledged to Maddie's fund.

Click here if you'd like information on Maddie the Cat, prints and cards.

Cuban Mariposa Art Pin

2011-01-20T05:00:00.001-05:00

Cuban Mariposa Art Pin

This beautiful pendant is handmade from a square recycled glass tile decoupaged with a beautiful photography print of my original painting, "Cuban Mariposa" (Hedychium Coronarium or butterfly jasmine). It's coated with jewelry grade resin to give it a shiny glass-like finish and long lasting protection. It is water, alcohol, and fade resistant, although it is recommended that you keep it away from water. It is also difficult to scratch. It has exceptionally vivid colors, a unique thick bevel, and a lovely sheen. This pretty pin will remind you of the national flower of Cuba and
will soon become your favorite!

Dimensions:
Measures 1" x 1" x 1/4".

Gift box included.

Click here for my etsy shop listing

Miami International Fine Art Fair

2011-01-18T05:00:00.007-05:00

This vibrant mosaic piece, from Andrea Salvador at the Miami International Fine Art Fair, glistens in the light and you WILL want to touch her!

I'm including some images of work that stood out for me, at the Miami International Fine Art Fair in Miami Beach this past week-end. There was also the Pinecrest Art Fair, which I wanted to attend as well, but too many things to do, and not enough hours in the day, I'm afraid!

Wifredo Lam

Notice the bee and the fly~

This is my kind of caged bird!

Art Pendants

2011-01-17T05:00:00.003-05:00

Once again, Susy Paredes of earthexpressions has created some lovely pendants for me. She uses the decoupage technique with my images and recycled glass, and makes beautiful, unique, wearable art. I absolutely love the craftsmanship. Here are the newest images:

She uses a square recycled glass tile and then will decoupage it with a beautiful photography print of my original painting. It's then coated with jewelry grade resin to give it a shiny glass-like finish and long lasting protection. Lovely work, again, Susy~thank you!

Dimensions:
Measures 1" x 1" x 1/4". Large silver plated aanraku bail is attached for easy stringing.

Comes with a black 17" or multi-strand silver tone necklace. Let me know which one you want. Gift box included. Makes a wonderfully unique, present.

Check out my etsy shop for special introductory price on our pendants!
(Only $15.00 with free shipping-continental U.S.)

What's that, Mom? Rookiepainter Entry

2011-01-15T05:00:00.001-05:00

What's That Mom?

The Rookiepainter challenge this month is a very nice beach scene with people walking by the shore. Jen explains that this month's challenge is her ode to Karin Jurick from Differentstrokesfrom differentfolks art challenge. That was my first foray into art challenges and I miss it!

So, this is my interpretation of the photo Jen has provided. I'm a sucker for beach scenes, as you know. If I could, I would live right on the beach! I do have a hard time with figurative painting though, but this one was fun to do and I thought it would be cute and a bit more interesting if the young boy spotted a lobster-like creature in the sand!

Here is the reference photo for the rookiepainter:

Dimension: 8x10 gallery wrap
Medium: Oils

Click here for purchase information in my etsy shop.

Varadero 2 Oil Painting

2011-01-14T05:00:00.003-05:00

Dimension: 9x12 inches gessoed canvas panel

Frame not included

Media: Oils

Please click here to see Varadero 2 in my etsy shop

Varadero Oil Painting

2011-01-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

I love Varadero! Varadero is probably Cuba's most famous beach. It has more than 12 miles of white sandy beaches. The first tourists visited Varadero as early as the 1870s, and for years it was considered an elite resort.

Dimension:
8x10 inches gallery wrapped canvas with staples on the back
(20x25 cm)

Media: Oils

Please click here to see Varadero Oil painting in my etsy shop

Trinidad Church, Cuba

2011-01-10T05:00:00.000-05:00

This scene shows the tower of the "Iglesia Parroquial de la Santísima Trinidad" which happens to be the largest church in the entire country of Cuba, constructed in the 1800's. Trinidad in general, is dominated by moorish, neo-classical and baroque architecture. Trinidad, Cuba is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. My impressionistic painting has gently textured impasto and shows the view of the tower with the surrounding rooftops.

Dimension: 8x10 inches gallery wrapped canvas with staples on the back
(20x25 cm)

Media: Oils
Varnished to protect it from dust and ensure longevity. Frame not included.

Click here to see Trinidad Church, in my etsy shop.

Happy Birthday!

2011-01-07T05:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Cupcake and Strawberry Oil Painting by Maria Soto Robbins

This impressionistic painting was done in thick oil paint and it shows a lucious, delicious, dulce de leche cream topped birthday cupcake! My favorite...thick, rich impasto frosting-yummm!
Can be placed on an easel or framed. Frame not necessary.

Dimension: 5x7x.75 inches gallery wrap canvas

Media: Oils

Click here for more information on Happy Birthday Cupcake and Strawberry.

Miami Beach Waiting for You

2011-01-06T05:00:00.000-05:00

Miami Beach-Waiting for You Original Oil Painting

About the painting:
This is a vibrant, sunny seascape of our favorite spot on Miami Beach. There is a vendor with the yellow umbrellas in this area and we always get our lounge chairs and umbrellas from him. Can you see yourself relaxing here? It's done in an impressionistic style with gently textured impasto.

Dimension:

8x10x.75" gallery wrap canvas with staples in the back

Media:Oils

Sold without a frame.
Varnished to protect it from dust and ensure longevity.

Click here to see Miami Beach Waiting for You.

Miami Beach Art Cards

2011-01-05T05:00:00.000-05:00

Miami Beach Avalon Thunderbird Art Card

Miami Beach Avalon and Thunderbird original oil painting has since gone on to a happy home. But these art cards are a great item to share with those who love Miami Beach, like I do.

Original Art - Fine Art Note Card Trio
"Miami Beach"
Set of three cards and envelopes

Description:
These high quality note cards were created from my original oil paintings. These cards measure approximately 4.25"x5.5". They are printed on heavy card stock and each come with a white envelope and references the painting and artist on the inside.

Set of three different Miami Beach scenes:

"Miami Beach Avalon & Thunderbird"
"Miami Beach Lifeguard~Yellow 46 St"
"Miami Beach Lifeguard~Green 41 St"

Visit my Etsy store to purchase Miami Beach Art Cards.

Miami Beach art cards

Miami Beach Sunrise

2011-01-03T05:00:00.003-05:00

A brand new day and a brand new year! I hope this year brings the best for all of you. Thank you for stopping in since without you, my little blog would be a very sad and lonely place!

There is something very rejuvenating about waking up early and catching a sunrise on a beautiful day. Particularly on the Miami Beach boardwalk, overlooking the Atlantic. It's an energized feeling that you can handle anything that comes your way! This was my inspiration.

Dimension: 12x16 canvas panel

Medium: Oils

Check out my etsy shop here for Miami Beach Sunrise

My Best Wishes for a Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T14:25:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year To You

Happy New Year to you!
May every great new day
Bring you sweet surprises--
A happiness buffet.

Happy New Year to you,
And when the new year’s done,
May the next year be even better,
Full of pleasure, joy and fun.

By Joanna Fuchs

Merry Christmas & Felicidades for the New Year!

2010-12-22T05:00:00.004-05:00

I'd like to send you my best wishes for a joy filled holiday full of love and good cheer.

Thank you for your encouragement. For purchasing my work, for reading this blog, and for your warm and encouraging comments throughout the year. For connecting on Facebook, and Twitter, reading my newsletter, and for sharing your life and thoughts with me. My life is so much richer because I know you're there!

I sincerely wish you a very Merry Christmas, and may the New Year be full of peace, good health and lots of opportunities to be creative!

Lots of love and cariños,

Maria

If you would like to see more of my work,
please click here.

Poinsettia Sgraffito Impasto Oil Painting

2010-12-21T05:00:00.001-05:00

I recently mentioned about how my poinsettias are inspiring me this holiday season. You can read about it here. There are several other ideas that I have for painting this lovely flower but a technique I hadn't tried before is sgraffito (not to be confused with graffiti-lol). I think you can guess that this involves "scratching" or "sgraffitoing" the surface of the painting through various layers of the rich, impasto oil paint. The end of a brush is a common tool but I just used the sharp end of a palette knife. Actually there was very little brushwork on this one, mostly palette knives. It came out very sculptural and three dimensional. It certainly was fun to do and I hope you like it!

Check out the prints and cards on Poinsettia Sgraffito Impasto Oil painting here.

msr107@gmail.com

And the Winner is...

2010-12-20T05:00:00.002-05:00

Bird of Paradise Art Pin

This cute Bird of Paradise Art Pin was my giveaway for this month. As you'll recall, from this post, one of my Collectors suggested these to me and I'm so glad she did. The pendant is handmade from a square recycled glass tile decoupaged with a beautiful photography print of my original painting, "Bird of Paradise" and coated with jewelry grade resin to give it a shiny glass-like finish and long lasting protection.

Drumroll, please! The winner as selected by Random.org is:

#2. It's no bad thing to celebrate a simple life! (Bilbo Baggns)

You know who you are! So please send me an email to msr107@gmail.com and tell me "Maria, I won the giveaway!".

If you're heartbroken because you didn't win it, just click here for purchase information on the last one!

Red Poinsettia & Bench

2010-12-15T05:00:00.002-05:00

This impressionistic painting was done in thick oil impasto with palette knives and brushes and it shows a poinsettia and bench with thick, rich impasto paint. This is what my front porch looks like each year around the holidays! I love red poinsettias next to my bench!

Dimension: 8x10x.75 gallery wrapped canvas with staples on the back
Media: Oils
Sold

Maria Soto Robbins
Miami, Fl
msr107@gmail.com

Poinsettia Closeup

2010-12-13T05:00:00.003-05:00

Poinsettia Closeup by Maria Soto Robbins

This is the quintessential Christmas plant. I explained about my poinsettia inspiration here and this is the first painting I've done as a result of that. I've been working and sketching a couple of others and I'll try to finish those before Christmas, I hope. There is so much going on!

Did you know that poinsettias are native to Mexico? That they represent over 85 percent of the potted plant sales during the holiday season? And you can tell if a poinsettia is fresh when they have little or no yellow pollen showing on the flower clusters in the center of the bracts. I love poinsettias and wanted to do this one in an impressionistic style and to show the bracts in raised impasto. Hope you like it!

Click here for purchase information in my etsy store.

Poinsettia Inspiration

2010-12-10T05:00:00.002-05:00

Looking around my house, I realized I have at least a dozen poinsettias in different spots around our back patio and in the front entrance. Home Depot had a great sale and I couldn't resist! Just love this plant and this time of year!

Of course I'm inspired to paint it...

and next time I'll show you what I've done.

Dulce de Leche Cupcake and Strawberry

2010-12-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

I was recently given a gift of Dulce de Leche cupcakes from In Style Cupcakes. They had some wonderful, caramely, dulce de leche tucked inside. They were SOOOO good!!! And no, they're not paying me to say this either. They were the inspiration for this little calorie-free birthday cupcake painting. Enjoy!

Dimension: 5x7x.75 inches gallery wrap canvas
Media: Oils w/ gently textured impasto

InStyleCupcakes

Wearable Art

2010-12-02T09:44:00.000-05:00

Red Hibiscus Art Pendant

The holidays are here! Do you need to send an inexpensive, but totally unique wearable art present to that girl-friend who you won't see this year for Christmas? Here is the perfect solution, order an art pendant from my shop, and I will ship it anywhere in the continental US for free! Yes, and it will include a Christmas card with your message! Free shipping is going on now in my etsy shop.

Cuban Coffee & Lime

2010-12-01T05:00:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I told you about this neat site I found that takes your jpeg pictures and puts them in different settings. It's strictly for fun and boy did I spend a long while exploring it! Just wanted to share a few other things I did:

And this:

Or this:

Check it out here if you think you'd like to have some fun with it!

art-by-msr in Photofunia Art Gallery

2010-11-30T05:00:00.004-05:00

Cuban Coffee and Lime thanks to Photofunia

Maybe you've seen this, family pictures in an art gallery setting with visitors looking at the exhibition. And, usually, the photos are of family members, in happy poses? It's very sweet and I'd been hoping I'd run into that application for some time.

Just by coincidence today, I discovered the app on Facebook (which I absolutely love because I've re-connected with so many family members and friends-but that's another story) and I immediately started to play with it. It is strictly for fun but let me warn you, it sucks you in, and I lost all track of time. It is so much fun to use!

Here is some of the things I came up with. Of course, it's also great just for family photos.

Spanish Sangria and Cuban Coffee and Lime

And this:

Let me know what you think. Have you ever used it? There are even other templates besides art gallery related and I'll show you what I did with those tomorrow!

Bird of Paradise Art Pin

2010-11-24T12:57:00.000-05:00

I recently had a (very nice) Collector suggest these to me and I see she had a great idea. So, once again, I have the pleasure of collaborating with jewelry designer Susy Paredes of earthexpressions to bring you my original painting print as an art pin, this time.

And since I love having giveaways, I thought it would be a great opportunity to give one of these pins away. Instructions are simple, really. Please do any ONE of the following:

Follow me on Google Friend Connect (look at the left side of my blog and click there).
Friend me on Facebook
Leave a Comment right under this post. (Click where it says Comment)

You can enter as many times as you wish and do all 3 things above! I want YOU to win!!!

Random.org will pick a winner on December 20! Good luck!

Dimensions:
Measures 1" x 1" x 1/4".

Pomegranate or Granada

2010-11-19T13:04:00.000-05:00

Pomegranate-Granada

This month's challenge for the Paint and Draw Together blog was a luscious and lovely pomegranate or in Spanish, granada. To be perfectly honest, I have never in my life, eaten one of these fruits. And from reading about the best growing conditions, I can tell that they're not grown in south Florida, generally. I did love the chiaroscuro quality of the photo itself and thought that it would be an interesting challenge. Well, challenge, it was and I spent far more time on it then normal. I worked and re-worked those little seeds! And I'm not sure they convey the same lusciousness as the original photo but hey, I tried, and had fun, learned a thing or two...

For example, did you know that according to lore, with its abundance of seeds, the fruit has long been a symbol of fertility, bounty, and eternal life, particularly to those of the Jewish faith? Many paintings of the Madonna Virgin and Child prominently display a pomegranate. Ancient Egyptians were buried with pomegranates in hope of rebirth.

I didn't know that!

Dimension: 5x7 gallery wrap canvas
Media: Oils
Click here if you'd like to see more images of my Granada.

Bird of Paradise 2 Oil Painting

2010-11-16T05:00:00.007-05:00

This second Bird of Paradise oil painting was made as a companion piece to this one I posted about yesterday. It's such a unique and unusual flower. I love it's colors and vibrancy. Hope you enjoy!

Dimension: 14x11x 1 & 1/2" gallery wrapped canvas
Media: Oils

Bird of Paradise Oil

2010-11-15T04:00:00.017-05:00

I've been working on this Bird of Paradise for several days since I wasn't able to dedicate uninterrupted chunks of time to it, like I normally would. I've had a ton of interruptions while supervising tree trimmers and house painters which is no easy task, it seems! They seemed to require lots of frequent servings of Cuban coffee to keep them going! But finally they're done and gone and now I can get back to just doing my usual stuff...which includes painting!

I do love the burnt umber, siennas, and oranges of this piece. It has gently textured impasto and was done in oils.

Click here for more information about Bird of Paradise Oil.

Royal Poinciana

2010-11-10T08:57:00.002-05:00

Copyright 2010 Maria Soto Robbins

Another in a series of royal poinciana paintings. Such a lovely tree and it's flowers inspire me to paint them!

This one is in a private collection however prints and cards are available through my FineArtAmerica store.

msr107@gmail.com

Art Attack! Thank you Marta!

2010-11-05T15:59:00.001-04:00

Amy, Maria and Marta 2010 Cuba Nostalgia

One of the joyful aspects of blogging, for me, has been to meet some really interesting people and learn a lot of new things along the way.
Whether they're art, marketing, or human interest related, Marta Darby from MyBigFatCubanFamily,has left a mark in my heart. She's one of the wonderful people who shares her innermost feelings about her life, family, believes, and does it in such an entertaining, thoughtful and endearing manner. She expresses herself so well, and since English was never my strong suit, I learn so much from her process. So you can imagine how ~~pleased~~ ecstatic I was when she notified me that she was blogging about my art and having a giveaway!

So, again, thank you, Marta! I'm honored that you would blog about me, and grateful!

Go here to enter the giveaway of my pendant in her blog!

Marta's Lucky Hibiscus-lol

Bromeliad Vriesea

2010-11-05T11:15:00.000-04:00

This bromeliad caught my eye because it was so unusual! It looks like the stems of the flowers were purposefully bent down. It was the only one like it and the tag only said that it was a bromeliad, not what TYPE of bromeliad. So, I went to forum.bsi.org -The place to discuss bromeliads- and found that it’s a Vriesea Bromeliad and not quiet as common as the others. It’s pretty, don’t you think?

Dimension: 11x14

Media: Oils on canvas panel and gently textured impasto

Click ebay here for discounted price and information on Bromeliad Vriesea

And the Winner is...

2010-11-01T05:00:00.001-04:00

And the winner is (drum roll please)... Number 7 in Random Generator, Capecodjewels. Please email me at msr107@gmail.com and put in the subject line: Maria, I won the Cuban Mariposa Art Pendant! So it won't go into my spam folder and I will be happy to mail it to you wherever you may be, Capecodjewel!

msr107@gmail.com

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-30T05:00:00.005-04:00

I'm ready for the kiddies, are you? Have a wonderful week-end!

Art Pendant Giveaway!

2010-10-28T05:00:00.000-04:00

Cuban Mariposa

My giveaway is ending in just a few days (this Friday) and it's just a reminder to please join in! And if you don't want it for yourself, the holidays are right around the corner. Free gift!

Anyway, this month, I'm giving away a lovely pendant made by my friend Susy of Earthexpressions. It's a beautiful pendant of my original oil painting, "Cuban Mariposa" (butterfly jasmine or hedychium coronarium). She decoupaged a recycled glass tile with a photo print of my painting and made this original, wearable art piece.

I would like to increase my friends on Facebook so please just 1) Friend me on Facebook (come back here and tell me you did it) or if we're Friends already, 2) become a Google Friend Connect (check out the bottom, left side of this blog), or 3) just leave me a comment, after visiting my shop letting me know which pendant you like the most. That's it...Easy!

Giveaway ends October 29. Random.org will select the lucky winner. Enter as often as you like.

Thank you!

Lemons and Flower

2010-10-27T05:00:00.002-04:00

Lemons and Flower

I've recently discovered the Paint and Draw Together blog which has a very useful purpose for those of us who are constantly striving to learn and improve our painting skills. This site will "try to gather all folks who want to progress in painting under one umbrella, so that, together we can all practice, progress, learn and advance much faster and in a more consistent manner than most people can on their own." Everyone is encouraged to critique somebody else's work with the hopes that it can only help all of us improve our own work. I'm game! There have been some wonderful entries for this month and once again, I'm struck by everyone's different approach to the same subject matter.

This 8x10 oil painting is available in my Etsy shop here.

Cafe con Leche and Cuban Toast

2010-10-26T03:26:00.017-04:00

Cafe con Leche and Cuban Toast

Cuban toast or "tostada", is made with Cuban bread and butter and it is a typical Cuban breakfast. You team it with a delicious cup of steaming Cuban coffee with milk, "cafe con leche", and you have a wonderful combination. Yumm!

I take this for granted since I can have this any time I want, but I know a lot of you don't have that option. I'm sorry! I lived in Gainesville, Florida years ago and it might have been in Djibouti, when it came to finding Cuban food! Other than that, Gainesville was a lovely, life-changing place, but I digress.

So this was my inspiration. I painted this impressionistic oil painting alla prima with gently textured impasto. No calories and wonderful reminder of this favorite Cuban treat! I can almost smell it!

Dimension:10x10x.75 inches gallery wrap canvas
Media: Oils
Check my Etsy store for information on Cafe con Leche and Cuban Toast

Art-by-MSR

Spanish Sangria

New Painting for January

My Wish for You~~

Merry Christmas &A Very Happy New Year!

from Maria Soto Robbins (artbymsr)

Featured Paintings:

Poinsettia Closeup

Flan:

Flan de Calabaza (Pumpkin Flan)

Art Basel 2011

Havana Forever

Happy Thanksgiving!

Sunflower Sunshine

Cuban Coffee and Lime Red

Sunflowers Three

The Art of Emilio Sanchez

Happy Halloween!!

Work in progress

Work in progress

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield: Winning the Inner Creative Battle

Bougainvillea Bloom

My Unique Gift Guide

Is your life "Organized"?

Ixora Bloom oil painting

Red Geranium oil painting

Summer Absence

Happy Summer!

Plumbago or Embeleso Original Oil painting

Happy Memorial Day

Sunflower Fields Forever oil painting

Spring Flowers

Purple Hyacinth Impasto oil painting

Bird of Paradise 2 Oil Painting

Bird of Paradise Oil

Geranium Bloom 2

Geranium Bloom

Easter Wishes

Blog2Print Year Two

Inspirational Home Studio Spaces

Navy and Fuchsia Hyacinth

Vamos a la playa~

Tinajon at the Door or Welcome Home Bougainvellia

Help Japan Auction

Tres Leches-Simplest Recipe Ever!

Bridesmaid's Custom Original Art Pendant

White House in Santorini

Zippo-Light My Fire Oil Painting

Facebook

Red Rose Bloom

Happy President's Day

White Sepia Rose

Guardian Angel

Miami Beach Sunrise in Treasury

Royal Poinciana Caminito

And the winner is...Miami Beach Waiting for You

Royal Poinciana Palette Knife Oil Painting

Miami Beach Escape Art Necklace

Oil Painting for Dummies

Royal Poinciana Resort

Yellow Sunflower Block Oil Painting

Bird of Paradise Oil

Bird of Paradise 2 Oil Painting

Maddie the Cat

Cuban Mariposa Art Pin

Miami International Fine Art Fair

Art Pendants

What's that, Mom? Rookiepainter Entry

Varadero 2 Oil Painting

Varadero Oil Painting

Trinidad Church, Cuba

Happy Birthday!

Miami Beach Waiting for You

Miami Beach Art Cards

Miami Beach Sunrise

My Best Wishes for a Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas & Felicidades for the New Year!

Poinsettia Sgraffito Impasto Oil Painting

And the Winner is...

Red Poinsettia & Bench

Merry Christmas &

A Very Happy New Year!