Paintings by Anastasia: Scrapbook

New York Times Article

On November 4, 1999 the had an interesting article about online galleries.  It makes clear that it is often much easier to buy art via the web than at a physical gallery.  Plus, that there is high quality art available, if you look for it. I was surprised and pleased that one of my paintings was chosen an as example of such high quality.  My company was Andy Warhol and Van Gogh! I must admit my head swelled for awhile.  Click on the rose to see details about my painting.

The Artist's Magazine Annual Competition

In 1995, I was surprised to find my name in the Artist's Magazine.  I had submitted a couple of images for their 1995 Annual "Dream Studio" competition. My painting "Amarettini and Olives" on the left was in the list of finalists out of more than 2,200 entries! I hadn't really started thinking of professional painting yet, and this gave me some important confidence to pursue a dream.

"Judge's Choice"

In June, 1994 it was exhilarating to win the "Judge's choice" award at the Phil Sheridan Days Art Show.  This was just a bit over a year after starting taking painting classes.  I barely knew which end of the brush to use, but my teacher, Roberta, encouraged me to enter.  All my paintings won awards, including best of show! In those days I signed my paintings AJC, but when that was what the reporter wrote, I decided     was more appropriate.

My First Iris

In 1994, I discovered the beauty of irises when visiting the Schreiner's Iris Gardens.  My first painting of an iris was a small (12"x9") painting   "Iris: Pure Pleasure" -- so titled because painting it was a true delight.  It took many years to transition from small renderings to large paintings: but all are done with the same love and passion.

My Teacher

My teacher and mentor is Roberta St.  Louis. She is a wonderful artist (her passion is horses), and gives of her knowledge, wisdom, and care through gentle guidance.  Her motto "You can do it!" has been a constant encouragement as I undertake ever more challenging projects. The image is of her painting "Ready to Ride" © Roberta St.  Louis, 1998 .

Roberta St.  Louis, my teacher and mentor.