Here is a step-by-step oil painting progression. 
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1) After pencil sketching on a 9x12 canvas panel, I start with the focal point. For this painting the focus is the head and shoulders.

2) I paint the shapes of dark and light. Looking only at shapes right now and not at all interested in detail.

It's all about choices!  Decisions have to be made constantly throughout a painting.

3) At this point I have put in a dark background to show the highlights. I chose to go dark with the background, but I could have gone light.

4) Within the tulle of her skirt, dark shapes have to go first to add the structure or foundation. Then mid tone shapes are added followed by light highlights and detail. The final focal is the emphasis of light shining on her legs and tulle skirt. So those shapes are strengthened.

​I hope you enjoyed this progression.

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My drawing, Intermission II, was selected for this exhibit. I am pleased and honored to be a part of Lindenwood's outstanding exhibit which includes so many talented artists. The pieces selected for the exhibit were curated by Senior Professor of Art & Design, John Troy of Lindenwood University. 23 pieces were chosen from the Galleries at Heartland Art Club (formerly OA Gallery). 

Golden Lace
Pastel on board
​24" x 16"

Available at Heartland Art Gallery
Contact Marie to inquire about this painting.

Watching the sky, as the sun rises in the morning, creates such a peace within; it is a time filled with quiet and hope. This favorite time of the day is the inspiration for my pastel painting Golden Lace.

For my model, I was fortunate to have a lovely, classically trained ballerina pose for me. She wore this beautiful and intricate white lace dress which inspired choosing a morning landscape that would echo nature's lace, for the background.

My hope is that the painting creates a calming, quiet moment full of hope.

Golden Lace, Visit OA Gallery to view this painting in downtown Kirkwood, Missouri.




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It was a very fun, Night at the Derby!  The Missouri Ballet Theatre Fundraiser was held last week celebrating the Kentucky Derby.  Dining, horse racing, and hats galore filled the evening's glamour to support the Missouri Ballet Theatre. 

A very special part of the evening was the Silent Auction offering exciting, fun prizes.  One of the prizes, donated by Marie Donato Fine Art, was a personal 16 x 20 inch charcoal & graphite portrait of someone's favorite ballerina!  

 Here is the sample portrait that was on display.

Champagne for all!  It was a wonderful evening!

Hats Galore! 

Thank you Missouri Ballet Theatre!


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