Public Enemy Number One

An Endangered Species

Here it is - the real problem. All the misery, troubles, illness, tragedy of this nation can be traced back to this innocent looking little can.  It is filled with evil. It is what is making us fat.  Terrorists? Crime?  Unemployment? They don't matter. Soft drinks can make us fat. And fat is the root of all evil. Our new worst enemy.  This week it is my Pepsi, but beware, next week it will be your candy bar or french fry. Eventually the government will be telling us not only what we can eat, but how it can be prepared.  A massive tax on stir fried veggies!!!!  And what about all those people who lose their jobs when the soft drink companies fold? Who will take care of them? Never mind, I already know the answer to that.

Yes, I know soft drinks are empty calories. Lots of sugar. They add no nourishment to my body.  But they are nonfat, non alcoholic and they taste good.  The bubbles make me happy,  I can drink a Pepsi or a Coca Cola, a Sierra Mist or a Root Beer and then jump into my car knowing that I am still in control of my actions.  No delayed reactions, no impaired jugement - at least not according to any tests I have heard of.  If the government really wants to eliminate everything that doesn't nourish our lives, maybe they should begin with television.


Well, I for one am going to fight back. I am going to start hording this stuff now, buying cases of it at a time, storing it in the basement, the attic, under the bed, so that when it is no longer available in this country, I can still have my bliss. Who knows? Maybe I will be able to sell it on eBay and make a fortune.

Sorry for the rant. It was at least partially tongue in cheek. Have a good day!

Seascape Sea Gull on Rocky Maine Coast

Maine Seascape

Oil on Canvas

10 x 20

Disturb Us, Lord...

"Disturb us, Lord,
When we are too well pleased with ourselves,
When our dreams have come true
Because we have dreamed too little,
When we arrived safely
Because we sailed too close to the shore...

From a writing by Sir Francis Drake, in 1577 

to read the complete piece click here

Last summer I took a trip to the East Coast and saw the rocky shore of Maine for  the first time. Our younger son had interned in Maine at  Acadia National Park and fell in love  - with the place, and with a beautiful young woman named Keegan. I am not sure which came first, but either way, I am glad he had the good sense to fall in love in Maine.  I fell in love once, a long time ago, and wound up in Woodward, Iowa. But that is another story. Anyway, the coastline is beautiful, filled with seascapes and landscapes that it would take a lifetime to paint  and I had a great time there. I didn't do any painting while I was visiting as we didn't stay long enough, but I took lots of photos. This painting was done from a combination of several photos and my memories of standing on the rocks and looking at the ocean. It was amazing for this land-locked Iowan to see, but even more amazing to hear the roar of those waves. For a little while I felt like that tiny gull gazing out across the vast ocean. Then he flew away and I was still standing on the rock, so the feeling left. 

This painting is an oil on canvas, wrapped and stretched. All the edges have been painted and no staples show, so that it may be displayed as is, without a frame. 20% of the sale price will be donated to Old Dog Haven. It will be listed on Daily Painters and Art Helping Animals tomorrow, April 5, and on Ebay later in the week.

How Did He Really Look and Does it Really Matter?

Recently I saw a television program about a man who had used modern technology to create a "photo" of Jesus. He used the images from the Shroud of Turin, which many believe was used to cover the body of Christ before His burial. Regardless of your belief about this relic, it was a fascinating story. But given our tendency toward idol worship, I am not so sure we are supposed to have an exact likeness of Him.  It might prove a distraction for those of us who call ourselves by His Name and spend our lives trying to focus on who He was and what He did. Still, it does help to remember that when He walked the earth, it was as a human being who probably looked like us. I have done several paintings of Jesus in my lifetime and have noticed that different paintings speak to different people. That is because we all know Him in different ways, at different times in our lives. One painting, one story, one song will never say everything there is to say about Him, but every artist who attempts to portray Jesus, does so with the idea of expressing his own feelings, experiences and understanding. None of us have the complete story.


This portrait was painted several years ago and only recently purchased.  I may make prints available sometime in the future, with proceeds going to a children's charity. But those decisions are for another day.

For today, I want to wish you and yours a Blessed Easter, and hope that you spend some time thinking about the reason we celebrate.  Be happy!

Thanks.

White Tiger Pastel

When I look In Your Eyes

White Tiger

Sold

One of my favorite places is the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska, and one of my favorite exhibits is the Big Cats complex.   I love all the animals, but one of the most fascinating is the white tiger. I haven't been able to visit Omaha for a few years now, but I believe the beautiful, majestic cat still rules there. This painting was done from a photo taken on a previous visit.

I am amazed by those incredibly beautiful blue eyes, and so decided to make him the newest in my series of paintings inspired by the song "When I Look In Your Eyes"  from the musical "Dr, Dolittle."

This is a different sort of technique, pastel on stretched canvas. The canvas is first prepared by applying a mixture of marble dust and Acrylic glaze medium.  Pastel is applied in thin layers, then brushed with water, resulting in a watercolor-like underpainting. The picture was then refined by strokes of soft pastel.  This was a new technique for me, seemed like a lot more work, but it did produce a nice effect, and it is always fun for me to try new things.   I think I will use the technique again, but probably not all the time.

Pastel on stretched canvas, prepared with marble dust. It is 8 x 10. As with other pastels, it should be framed under glass.  It will be available through Art Helping Animals and Daily Painters on Tuesday, listed on Ebay later in the week. 20% of the sale will be donated to Turtle Ridge Wildlife Center

A Yellow Hat, Chop Suey, Hawks, and Why I Am An Artist

 The Automat

by William Hopper

Last week I visited the Des Moines Art Center with my husband.  We try to go at least three or four times a year, more if there is a special exhibit going on. They take pride in their extensive contemporary art collection, abstract and post modern, and they also have a nice little collection of artwork by 19th and 20th Century artists, which is my favorite.  The exhibit that caught my attention this time was Edward Hopper: Images and Influences.  It was small, only two Hopper paintings and a few drawings plus some other work by artists of his era, but I have loved Hopper's work ever since being taken to the Art Center as a child.  I don't remember my exact age, but it must have been around ten or eleven and I probably tagged along on some occasion when my older sister wanted to go. Hopper's The Automat is part of the permanent collection and I remember being so excited about the "Lady With the Yellow Hat," which was my name for the painting, I couldn't stop talking about it. I loved the pretty lady, her beautiful clothes, the lights reflected in the window. I wondered what she was doing there alone at night, and of course had to know what an "automat" was.  My mother explained it was a restaurant where the food was kept behind a sort of wall with a number of glass windows.  A person would insert coins into a machine and then lift a window to remove the sandwich or piece of pie. Sort of a precursor of the vending machine, except that there was a kitchen behind the wall where the food was being prepared. I suppose it eliminated the need for waiters. Anyway it all sounded very romantic to me.  But the reason I have never forgotten this painting is that it made me aware of the world of art.  Drawing and re-drawing that picture drew me into a lifelong fascination with marks on paper, pictures that tell stories and colors that jump out and grab the viewer.  Though my work today doesn't show much of Hopper's influence, he was the catalyst.  He was the reason I wanted to be an artist.

Chop Suey

by William Hopper

This is the other Hopper painting in the exhibit. It is on loan from the Seattle Art Museum. Though there are many similarities, it has a different feeling from The Automat.  I like it very much, but am not sure it would have had the same effect on me.  What wold have happened if the Des Moines curator had bought the other painting?

As an adult, I discovered that Hopper's work reflected his perception of the isolation of modern life.  This is evident in both paintings, though perhaps more obvious in The Automat.  In Chop Suey, the figures while not entirely alone, are really not relating to each other, neither the two young ladies having tea, nor the couple in the background.  The painting, Night Hawks, (not a part of the Des Moines exhibit) emphasizes even more the concept of being alone, even when you are not alone.  If you are not familiar with this one,  here is a copy of it.

Night Hawks

by William Hopper

Of course, none of this mattered to me. I saw a pretty girl in a yellow hat and I wanted to draw a picture of her.  Who knows where things will lead?

Now, how I got from drawing ladies in yellow hats as a child to where I am now is another story for another time.  So I guess this blog will end with "to be continued.."

Equine Art Black Friesian Horse Close Up by Della Burgus

 When I Look In Your Eyes

Friesian Horse
Sold 

I love seeing the horses at the state fair. This year I was especially impressed with the "Heavy Horses" group: the draft horses, sometimes called work horses, originally bred more for labor than beauty. Yet they are all incredibly beautiful, and none more so than the Friesian Horses. With their black coats, thick, wavy manes and regal bearing they look like something out of a fairy tale. I have been told they generally have a gentle, dignified nature, but can also be playful and full of energy.  They have even appeared in some of my favorite moves such as Zorro and the Narnia Chronicles. I have to confess to falling  a little in love with this guy, as I always do with the animals I paint. There is something in the process of painting that brings me a little closer to their spirit. helps me to understand them better.

Painting this horse was a bit of a challenge for two reasons. How do you portray the size and strength of this wonderful creature on a small canvas?  I considered many different approaches, finally deciding to focus  on the expression of strength and spirit in the face. Taking it closer and closer until the eyes and the nose told the story.  I would love to do a full portrait some time, but it will take a big canvas and a lot of time. The second problem was the color.  As an artist I find that the dark colors are the most difficult to portray, and Friesians are very, very dark .  For me, using black straight from the paint tube results in a painting that is flat, dull, lifeless.  If you look very closely, you can usually find areas of color in the lights and in the shadows of even the darkest fur - a touch of blue here, a bit of orange or brown there. Black is not really black but a combination of colors opposite on the color wheel, light and shadow, warm and cool. 

This is an acrylic on stretched, wrapped canvas, 8 x 10 x .75, standard depth. All the edges have been painted and no staples show so that it may be displayed with or without a frame.  It is the newest in the series of paintings, "When I Look In Your Eyes," It will be available through Daily Painters and Art Helping Animals on Tuesday, March 23, and on Ebay later this week. 20% of the sale will be donated to True Blue Animal Rescue

Black Friesian Horse

Acrylic on Canvas

8 x 10, standard depth canvas

American Lop Eared Bunny, The Velveteen Rabbit

Velveteen Rabbit

When I Look in Your Eyes

Another in the series "When I Look in Your Eyes," inspired by the song from the Dr. Doolittle musical.  I saw this little guy at the Iowa State Fair last summer and thought him so sweet and friendly. He posed for several photos, and of course I found myself wishing I could take him home.  But, alas, I must be content to love him from afar, because our menagerie has already gotten out of hand. Anyway, I loved his bright, inquisitive eyes and sweet expression. He reminded me of the hero in one of my favorite children's books, The Velveteen Rabbit. It is the story of Rabbit, the stuffed toy who wants with all his heart to become Real. In the end he discovers that the only way to be Real is to be loved.  If you have never read the story, or if it has been a while, click on this link: The Velveteen Rabbit to read it.  It is very short and very sweet, just like our little friend here. And it may bring tears to your eyes, just as painting this picture did to mine. But they are good tears.

This painting will be listed on Tuesday, March 16 on Daily Painters and on Art Helping Animals. 20% of the sale will be donated to Rimrock Humane Society. Perhaps you are feeling alone and unloved, and maybe you are wondering if you are Real. If so, you might consider adopting a pet.  Taking care of another is a big commitment of time and energy, but it is also a good way to combat loneliness and find someone to love.

If you have any questions about this or other paintings,  or just want to chat, send me an email
Email Della

Close Up of a Maine Coon Cat

Tiger's Eyes

When I Look in your Eyes
SOLD

This is the fourth in the series inspired by the song of the same name from the Dr. Doolittle musical. There is something hypnotic and otherworldly about staring into the eyes of a cat. They are wise yet non-judgemental, Unlike the family dog, whose devotion borders on worship, cats have no illusions about us, yet they accept us for the bumbling idiots that we are, and they somehow manage an honest affection for us inferior beings. The love and respect of a cat are not easily won, but but it is a treasure worth seeking.

This is a pastel on Ampersand Pastel Board, 5 x 7.   It will be listed on Daily Painters and Art Helping Animals on Tuesday of this week. All pastels come mounted on foam core, with a white mat and ready to be framed. 20% of this sale will be donated to Tabby's Place.

Canine Art Cavalier King Charles Painting

 

A Merry Heart 

SOLD

The title of this painting has been taken from one of my favorite Scriptures.  Proverbs 17:22  tells us "A merry heart does good like medicine..."NKJV  How true! Ever notice how just being around a happy person makes you feel better? Our society tends to underestimate the value of pure joy,  favoring instead some of the more serious endeavors of life. Things like making money, making a mark, doing important things, changing the world.  But God has different priorities.  "He has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise and the weak things to put to shame those who are mighty and the unimportant things to shine beyond the important." That is from 1Corinthians 1:26. Della's Paraphrase. Anyway, there is nothing in all the world with a merrier heart than the humble dog, and few dogs as merry as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.  They smile when they look at you, they wag all over, not just the tail, but the whole dog,  they would move heaven and earth just to make you happy, And yet, they have a certain gentle dignity about their bearing,  not a fearful cowering but a joyful celebration of life and love.

As an artist, I consider it my highest calling to bring joy to someone's life. This joyful painting is an 8 x 10 Acrylic on stretched, wrapped canvas. It will be available through Art Helping Animals or Daily Painters beginning on Tuesday of this week.

Be happy, and spread some joy today. It will make you feel better!

Siamese Cat in the Window

Favorite Perch 

Every cat is unique and each one prefers to be treated as an individual.  They seem to have an opinion on everything, and some of them can be very vocal about their likes and dislikes. But as different as they are, nearly all cats enjoy certain pastimes: soaking in the sun and looking out the window.  The flights of birds mesmerize them, scurrying little creatures make them stand up and take notice, and dogs!  Well, having dogs traipse down the sidewalk is just downright insulting!   It is enough to make a cat turn her head in disdain - but not enough to make her leave her perch.

The Siamese can be among the most vocal and expressive of cats.  As a child I became friends with two who belonged to my aunt.  Although they were aloof when it came to most people, they considered me a rather odd looking kitten and treated me with condescending tolerance. When they  tired of my childish antics, they simply disappeared.  It was an amazing trick and they performed it often.  But they never told me to go away and stop bothering them.

This is an  8 x 10 oil painting on stretched, wrapped canvas. It will be listed on Art Helping Animals and Daily Painters this week. 

Equine Art Horses White Arabian Horse

Contemplation

Click on image for large view

 

 Usually I like to write a little about the "story behind the story" of my paintings, but I will let this one speak for itself.  I hope it brings a feeling of peace in this chaotic, frenzied world. 

This was painted in oil on canvas and will be listed on Daily Painters and Art Helping Animals on Tuesday, Feb. 16. Have a beautiful day!

Canine Art Dogs French Bulldog Pastel Dog Painting by Della Burgus

 

French Bulldog 

A Soulful Glance

I love to visit dog shows, also cat shows and horse shows.  There is nothing like entering a huge  building filled with beautiful animals, some exotic, some very familiar.  The people who belong to these animals are very friendly and are usually happy to allow photographs. Sometimes they even pose them so I can get just the right angle.  They also love to talk about their favorite breed.  I learned that a French Bulldog is a loving, gentle creature, devoted to its family and friendly to others.  I fell in love with the soulful eyes of this one.

I want to share with you a photo I snapped of Three French Bulldogs leaving the show. The photo is a bit blurry, partly because I didn't have the settings on my camera right, and partly because they were moving so fast.  For such little ones, they sure could run.  But I think it is kind of cute.

The Pastel Painting will be offered on Daily Painters and Art Helping Animals on Tuesday.  It is matted and ready to frame. The image size without a mat is 9 x 11.  Thanks for looking.

Floral Art Flowers Peach Peace Rose by Della Burgus

 

A Rose Named "Peace"

It is not surprising that even after more than sixty years, "Peace" is still considered the most popular of all roses.  We still live in a world filled with strife, violence, wars and rumors of war,  and we desperately seek anything that speaks of peace.  This beautiful flower was developed in France in 1935, but fame did not come overnight. In 1939, when war in Europe appeared eminent, the "eyes" for its grafting were shipped to Turkey, Italy, Germany,  and the U.S. for safe keeping.  The American grower planned to introduce the new rose after the war had ended.  It was officially named "Peace" on August 29, 1945, the day that Berlin fell and peace was proclaimed. It has been beloved worldwide ever since.  

I like to think of it as a tribute to not only to peace, but also to all of those who worked so hard to achieve it.  People like my father-in-law who was drafted into the army and fought in the war, and my mother-in-law who stayed at home and waited for him to come home. And all the men and women who served but did not come home. Peace, whether it is world peace, individual peace or peace of mind, never comes without a price. Because nothing of value ever does. 

This painting is oil on stretched, wrapped canvas,  all edges are painted and no staples show, so that it may be displayed framed or unframed. It will be listed on Art Helping Animals and Daily Painters.  My website is being redesigned to accept payments through PayPal online. Until it is finished, I will also offer my work for sale on this blog. Please email me with any questions.

A Rose Called Peace
10 x 10 x .75 inches
$100, shipping included
10% will be donated to
Old Dog Haven

To Purchase, click here.

Landscape Oil Morning Snow by Della Burgus

Frosty Morning

In church a couple of weeks ago, our pastor asked us to greet one another by saying something good about the snow.  I couldn't think of a thing at the time, but a little while later I had one of  those V-8 moments, you know, like the commercial. Someone eats something really bad that tastes really, really good, then hits his head and says, I could have had a V-8.  Suddenly I realized - hey, I am an artist! The snow is really beautiful to look at, as long as you don't have to be outside in it. Why is it so easy to forget who I am, and to fail to be thankful for all the gifts of God?  He gives good gifts to men and women, but sometimes it takes a little digging for us to see their value. 

He has made everything beautiful in its time, and has set Eternity in the hearts of men. Ecclesiastes 3:11

This painting is an oil on stretched, wrapped canvas, standard depth. All the edges are painted and no staples show, so that it may be displayed with or without a frame.  It was painted in  a loose, "painterly" style,  a little more Impressionistic than some of my work. It will be listed on Daily Painters and Art Helping Animals on Tues,  Jan 26.  Or you may purchase it through  Pay Pal on this blog by clicking on the Buy It Now button.

Frosty Morning

Oil on Canvas

11 x 14

$100

20% will be donated to Rimrock Humane Society

Best of America Pastel Artists Competition

 

                  Panda, Pastel, 17 x 17                                                                           Palomino, Pastel, 9 x 13                                

The two pastel paintings above were selected to be included in the two volume book set, Best of America Pastel  Artists which was published in December and features the work of 123 pastel artists from all over  the country. According to the publisher, the works were chosen "based on numerous factors, with the most important being style, innovation and uniqueness..."

The books are 8.5 x 11, soft cover books and each artist has been provided with two full pages for artwork reproductions and contact information.  It is a great honor for me to be included among such artists as Larry Blovits, Alan Flattman and Albert Handell.  The contest sponsors are Kennedy Publishing Company, Dick Blick Art Materials, and Sennelier Pastels. 

The original paintings are no longer available.  Coincidentally, both were purchased earlier last year by Robin Edghill of "The Frame Up." in Richland Hills Texas.

Being published has been  a lifelong dream of mine and an honor for any artist. Thank you for allowing me to share my joy with you.

When is spring? Work in Progress

The weather has been cold and awful here, but it has resulted in the most beautiful scenery.  I decided it would be fun to paint a snowy landscape, so yesterday I ventured outside to take some reference photos. The frosty trees made a wintry fairyland of our neighborhood.

What a difference a day makes!  Good thing I took the photos yesterday. Once again, Iowa has been canceled due to the weather.  No photography today - I can't get my front door open! All that lovely frost has gone now and everything is covered with ice. Not nearly so pretty, and not at all nice.  As the ice melts and refreezes,  I hear limbs falling onto the roof. It is a terrible sound. Hope it is over soon. We had one of these storms a few years ago that lasted for three days and  left everything looking like a war zone.

Click on any photo for a larger view.

        

Here are some of the shots I took yesterday.   My husband offered me the use of some of his also. I think he has thousands.  I will combine elements of them into a composition.  Something to help me remember this winter - as if anyone can forget it.  I can't promise how it will turn out, but watch this space for further development...

White Stallion in the Snow - Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

Sold

...forgetting the things that are behind and reaching out for the things that are ahead...
 
A little late for my New Year's greeting.  This painting was supposed to be finished a couple of weeks ago.  But it has been said - and quoted often on this blog - "Life is what happens when you are making other plans."  How true.  And that is what makes life exciting!

2009 was a roller coaster ride for me as well as for many others. Good times and bad, happy and sad, confusion, chaos, and very little clarity. But, like the horse in my painting,  I have found there is no direction to go, except forward.  No living in the past, no going back to undo it. I can only hope to face the future with the same determination, faith and joyous abandon that this horse shows as he gallops through the snow. 

This is an oil on canvas painting, 14 x 18, standard depth. All the edges have been painted and no staples show so that it may be displayed without a frame, but would look beautiful in the frame of your choice.  This will be listed on Daily Painters and also on Art Helping Animals on Tuesday.

Strength and Elegance

Oil on Canvas

14 x 18

10% will be donated to

True Blue Animal Rescue

This piece has now been sold. Thanks for reading and please check again for new artwork!

Feline Art Cats Persian Beauty

 Persian Beauty

Acrylic on Stretched Canvas

8 x 8 x .75 inches

20% will be donated to 

Rimrock Humane Society
This painting has been sold.

When I Look In Your Eyes, Part 3

Third in a series of paintings inspired by the song of the same name from the Dr. Doolittle movie.  See Siamese Cat and Western Palomino Horse. 



Persians, like Siamese are an exotic looking breed. With their long, silky fur, intense gaze,  and aristocratic walk, they are themselves a work of art.   Though beautiful, glamorous, and more than just a little mysterious, they are also cats and in many ways behave as other cats do. They have their likes and dislikes - especially when it comes to toys, food, and people.  They can be loving and affectionate, or disarmingly cool and thoroughly disinterested. Just like any cat, and almost all people!

This painting is being sold to benefit a new charity for Art Helping Animals, Rimrock Humane Society. They are doing a wonderful work with and for animals in the Billings, Montana area.

Their mission is:

  "To alleviate needless, inhumane suffering of animals and to
bring to our region a higher level of compassion for the creatures
who share our planet with us but who otherwise have no voice."

This wonderful kitty is fortunate enough to have a home and people who love her, but there are many others who do not. The Rimrock Humane Society has some loving,  caring people and many adorable adoptable pets. Please check out their link by clicking on the link below.

Rimrock Humane Society

Persian Beauty is an acrylic on stretched canvas.  All the edges have been painted and no staples show, so that the painting may be displayed with or without a frame.  20% of the sale will be donated to Rimrock Humane Society.  It will be displayed on Daily Painters Gallery and the Art Helping Animals blog. 

Floral Art Pink Rose by Della Burgus

Summer dreams...

Inspiration: 
 Last week I came across some photos of our rose bushes taken last summer.  I remember the day they were taken, early morning, beautiful warm sunshine, soft breeze. As I bent to inhale their fragrance,  their soft petals kissed my face and I wanted to hold on to that moment forever.  Photographs were the next best thing.  Originally I had planned to do a composition with the bushes, or perhaps a few of the flowers, but the memory of that moment expressed itself as a close up of one bloom. The color, the fragrance and the delicacy of the petals take me back to that warm summer day, even in the midst of this cold, cold, snowy weather.


Did you know that most of the roses that appear in the bouquets you receive from (or buy for) your special person have little or no fragrance?  They are special hybrid roses,  developed to last a long time in the vase, but the sweet, distinctive fragrance has been lost.  The result is a beautiful, long lasting rose... or is it?  Is a rose without fragrance still a rose? There is a lesson in that somewhere, I think. Also, of course, the thorns have been bred out and I know there is a lesson in that!  The thorns may be an inconvenience but they protect the flowers. Sometimes in our efforts to "improve" on the design of God, we miss some of His blessings.  And often the blessings of God come with thorns -  not to hurt, but to protect us.

Dedication:  Like many people I first heard Susan Boyle sing on YouTube and was overwhelmed by her spirit.  I have been listening to her CD and have especially loved a song called, Who I was Born to Be.  I am enough of a novice that I can't figure out how to include music on this blog, but I want to share some of the lyrics with you. 

Who I was Born to Be

When I was a child
I could see the wind in the trees
And heard a song in the breeze
It was there, singing out my name...


But I am not a girl
I have known the taste of defeat
And I've finally grown to believe
It will all come round again.


And though I may not 
Know the answers
I can finally say I am free
And if the questions 
Lead me here, then
I am who I was born to be.

She had a dream and overcame a mountain of miracles to work toward that dream.  Susan, this bud's for you...

About the Painting

Summer Dreams

Oil on Stretched, Wrapped Canvas

8 x 10

 All the edges are painted, no staples show

Display with or without a frame

$90, shipping included

20% will be donated to

Old Dog Haven

To purchase email me

Email Della

 

Wishing You a Merry Christmas

I love Christmas trees. We usually have at least one in every room.  This is one of my favorites - my Teddy Bear Tree.  To me Teddy Bears mean comfort,  companionship and joy.  Actually, this tree should probably be called a "Stuffed Animal Tree" because there are also a few poodles, a polar bear or two, and three Velveteen Bunnies. Which, by the way, is one of my favorite stories.  If you have bever read it, or if it has been a long time, you should read it soon.  Christmas is a great time for children, and for those few adults who haven't forgotten how to be children.  It is my prayer that you are included in that.  Because the Bible encourages us to have faith like a child.

Praying for you and your family the happiest Christmas, and a healthy joyful New Year.

Equine Art Horse and Bunny in the Snow by Della Burgus

Love in Any Language

Acrylic on Stretched, Studio Wrapped Canvas
16 x 20 x .75

Sold

We sometimes chose our friends because something about them reminds us of ourselves.  We have the same interests, the same likes and dislikes, we come from similar backgrounds.  Relationships built on our similarities grow because we enjoy the same activities and share similar feelings and ideas.  But every now and then you meet someone who is entirely different.  He looks and speaks differently from you,  he comes from a different place and sees the world from an entirely different perspective. As unlikely as it may seem, sometimes those differences result in the most magical of friendships. Real love is not so concerned with a person's appearance as it is with his heart.

I began this as a horse painting over a year ago,  but was never satisfied with it. For months it was forgotten, hidden behind a stack of canvases in my studio.  But when I happened upon it again just last week I knew exactly what was needed. The horse was lonely, he needed a friend, so I painted one for him - a little bunny.   I have always been fascinated by the seemingly unlikely friendships between different species of animals. You often hear of dogs adopting baby kittens or cats taking care of squirrels or wild animals.  Earlier this year I shared the story of Bella and Tarra,  a dog and an elephant who have become devoted companions.  While this horse and bunny came out of my imagination, it was inspired by all the true stories of animal friendships.  Despite the confidence we have in our own superiority, we could learn a lot from all of God's creatures - great and small.

The Blizzard of '09 - Welcome to Iowa!

 

We have a good, old fashioned Iowa blizzard this week, the kind we used to have when I was a child. This is day two. Officially so far we have had 14.5 inches, although it isn't clear to me how anyone can be absolutely sure of that. There is so much wind that it is hard to tell what is coming down and what is being blown sideways.  All the highways are closed, but there is nowhere to go anyway. Wednesday, at least, has been canceled in Iowa. My husband was out taking pictures last night, but I believe that God gave us windows for such a time as this. The photo at right is the view from my living room, and I think it gives you a good idea of what it looks like here.

 This is a view of the world from my studio window. We added the room to our house about 23 years ago, and at the time I wanted north light for color clarity, so we have a bank of windows plus a skylight. Now I wonder what I was thinking. No matter how wonderful the window, how great the installation, it is cold in the winter when the wind blows. Even if it is all psychological, I would rather spend my time in some other room in the house.

The neighbors' "snowman" is almost buried by the real stuff. The wind whips his arms around, giving my dog something to bark about.

Speaking of dogs, they don't like this much either.  Larry had to shovel some snow off the deck this morning, just to get the door open for them to go outside.  Then he had to scoop a  path for them. They were grateful, but sure didn't stay long.  Barney usually loves bounding through the snow, but he hasn't been out much, except to bark at the snowplow -which seems to be the only vehicle running today. Button has a better idea...

Siamese Cat, Close Up Acrylic Painting

When I Look in Your Eyes, II

Acrylic on Stretched Canvas

9 x 6 x .75

$75 

Sold

 

Another painting inspired by the song, When I Look in Your Eyes, from the Dr. Dolittle musical.  This is a close up of the unmistakable face of a Siamese Cat, with the beautiful, intense blue eyes.  This is number two in a series of "face paintings," which focus especially on the eyes. You can see different things in the eyes of different animals - wisdom, patience, playfulness, sadness, joy... I know they know more than we think they do, I suspect they know a whole lot more than we do.

This painting is on stretched, studio wrapped canvas. All the edges are painted and no staples show. It may be displayed with or without a frame.

This painting is dedicated to the memory of my husband's cousin, Alex Fulmer.  In his honor we will be donating $50 to Tabby's Place - A Cat Sanctuary.

Equine Art Western Horses Palomino Horse

"When I Look In Your Eyes"
by Della Burgus
Acrylic on Studio Wrapped Canvas 
8 x 10 x .75
This painting is Sold, 
 

This painting was inspired by the song from the movie musical, Dr. Dolittle, the 1967 version starring Rex Harrison.  While the production itself was somewhat forgettable, I will always remember the song written by Leslie Bricusse.  The lyrics are haunting, and they speak to anyone who has ever loved and been loved by an animal...

When I look in your eyes, I see the wonder of the world in your eyes,

And it is no surprise, to see the softness of the moon in your eyes
The gentle sparkle of the stars in your eyes,When I look in your eyes
In your eyes, I see the deepness of the sea
I see the deepness of the love
The love I feel you feel for me...

As you are giving thanks for all God's gifts this holiday season, please remember to be thankful for the wonderful creatures who share our planet. They love us, serve us with devotion, give us laughter and tears, sometimes they are the only ones who understand us.  They ask nothing in return but our love - and once in a while, maybe a treat. My dogs told me to say that.

I hope that you will remember all those, both human and animal, who do not have the comforts that we enjoy,  pray for them and find a way to bless them if you can.

The complete lyrics to this song are printed below. Be sure you have a Kleenex handy!

Song Lyrics

Equine Art Horse Amish Style Buggy Horses

 Simple Gifts

There is something peaceful and comforting about the sight of an Amish style horse and buggy traveling down the road.  It takes me back in my imagination to another time, a gentler, simpler time when community and family were the core of life, and when faith was real and solid.   These two horses were drawing a buggy through the town where my husband's late parents had lived.  The owner was a very kind man who graciously allowed my husband to photograph his horses and buggy, and even chatted for a while.   It isn't often you see two horses with a buggy; usually it is a single horse. But the man said they had been working together for eleven years and seemed to prefer it that way.

Recently I read a book entitled Think No Evil, by Jonas Belier, who had been raised Amish and was still close to the community. The author tells the story of the Amish schoolhouse shootings from the point of view of the Amish themselves, but goes beyond that by giving us a glimpse into their community and way of life.  He explains how generations of Bible teaching had enabled the Amish to forgive the person who so violently attacked their precious little ones.  He describes their concern for the shooter's family and their refusal to seek any sort of vengeance or retribution. The more I learn about the people who are a part of the Amish and similar communities, the more I admire them.

This pastel was done on Wallis Pastel Paper, and will be available through EBay, Art Helping Animals and Daily Painters on Tuesday. 20% of the sale will be donated to True Blue Animal Rescue.

For more information at this time, please email me.

Email Della

Animal Art Cats White Cat with Teddy Bear by Della Burgus

"That's What Friends Are For"

Animals often develop strong emotional attachments, just like we do. Sometimes it is with other animals, either one of their own species or someone entirely different. A few weeks ago, I wrote about a friendship between and elephant and a dog. You can find all sorts of stories like that in the bookstore or on TV or the Internet. But sometimes a favorite toy becomes a best friend. Our little poodle had a toy lamb when he was a pup. We called it "Buddy." He knew it by name. It played with him, slept with him, was his constant companion until he loved it to death. We replaced it, of course - twice - with another just like it. Now he has a somewhat sturdier toy, a long blue dog, which seems to be able to endure the kind of "tough love" that Button gives it. Cats, being more independent, seldom become attached to inanimate objects, but this one does like her Teddy Bear. Actually, I believe the Teddy Bear belonged to one of the children in her family before he became her special friend. She can and does spend a lot of time away from him, but enjoys having him around, especially for her afternoon naps. She gets a little cranky when he does not occupy his regular spot on the couch.

We all need friends. To find one who is loyal, caring, loving and accepting, visit your local animal rescue or shelter. They give a lot and don't ask much in return, just your heart.

20% of this sale will be donated to
Tabby's Place - A Cat Sanctuary

Friends
Pastel by Della Burgus
12 x 19 image size
Matted and ready to frame

For more information, email the artist.
Email Della

Best in America Pastel Artists

It's not the Magic Bunny...

Recently I shared the news that two of my paintings have been selected for Volume 2 of Best in America Pastel Artists, and left it up to you to figure out which paintings were selected. Well, here is a hint for you - it isn't the Magic Bunny...

I heard from my publisher today, (I have always wanted to say something like that!!!) and was informed that there has been a delay in printing so the books will not be delivered until mid-December. This is somewhat disappointing because I was getting really excited about seeing it this month, but I will just have to wait. Several weeks ago they sent me the "proofs" of my two page spread, so I do know what is coming. The printing and layout are beautiful. I also saw a "flip version" of the book online and I am really impressed with the other artists and their work. I am in very good company. It is a great honor and very humbling to be included.

I have to tell you that this is a dream come true for me - winning a spot in a book with such talented artists! Don't ever give up on your dreams - if it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone.

Pastel, Maine Coon Cat, "Tiger"

Tiger
by Della Burgus
Pastel on Wallis Pastel Paper

Sold

It is funny how the smallest things have tremendous impact on our lives. One day a tiny kitten showed up at the home of my husband's parents, Jesse and Zella. Jesse told Zella not to feed it, or "we'll never get rid of it," which, of course meant, "if you feed it we will have ourselves a nice cat." My mother-in-law would never dream of sending anyone away hungry, not even a kitten, so it seems that Jesse's prophecy came true. The kitten moved in and eventually had the run of the house. Zella continued to feed him and he grew into a very large cat. They called him Tiger. He loved to play in boxes and paper bags, to hide behind things and jump out at anyone passing by. He was a great cat, very friendly and fun, with just a little bit of an attitude. After my father-in-law passed away, he became Zella's close companion and caretaker. He took care of her by giving her someone to take care of. He was with her through her own final illness. He has a new home now, with someone who had known and admired him, and asked the family if Tiger could come live with him. It seems God still has a plan for his life.

Albert Einstein once said, "There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle." To me, Tiger is one of God's special little miracles, a gift given at just the right time. He had a job to do and he did it well. I don't know what sort of job he has now, but whatever it is, I am sure he is doing it equally as well.

This painting is a pastel on Wallis Pastel Paper, the image size is 13.5 x 17.5, matted to size 18 x 22. It is mounted on foam core board and comes ready to frame. Frame is not included.

It will be available through the Daily Painters and the Art Helping Animals blog, and also through eBay. 20% of the sale will be donated to Tabby's Place - A Cat Sanctuary.

International Artist Day

You probably aren't aware of this, but Sunday, October 25 is International Artist Day. We have a DAY! Isn't that great? It is wonderful to be recognized for our contributions. Everyone needs a little appreciation now and then.


Marilyn Hurst says it so well in her article on this website:

October 25th is International Artists Day and it's gaining support worldwide. This grassroots movement is not mainstream as yet but artists and galleries in communities everywhere are jumping on the bandwagon. Perhaps an overview is needed to explain the concept.

Artists are a much ignored group although almost anything you use day to day has an artistic design at its root. Throughout history art has been the most important defining characterization of a culture or people. Art survives personalities, dynasties, movements and civilizations. Artists are pioneers and are usually at the forefront of changing times and events. We might well ask why.

True art is timeless and universal and recognizable to all. Where does the inspiration for art come from? What makes some art priceless and other art mediocre? The artist themselves are the lynch pins. Art that is inspired comes from the “unexplainable” and is translated by the artist. If the artist is “tuned into” this area of consciousness, masterpiece works in painting, sculpture, music or prose can manifest. There are thousands in the arts over the centuries of this magnitude, they are natural conduits and are household names because of the recognition of their contribution to culture and humanity.

In another article, she suggest ways to observe this great day:

1.Visit a gallery and explain why you're there.

2.Purchase a piece of art to support an artist. This is a good one!

3.Visit an artist studio.

4.Take an artist to lunch and explore their world. I like this one, too!

5.Come up with your own ideas to participate.

This Blog brought to you only partially tongue-in-cheek by an artist who is tired of her relatives asking, "What do you do all day?"

P.S. I didn't make up any of this - both the website and image are legitimate, and so are the articles.

2 U Missed

Chicago Lighthouse

No longer available

Two paintings that missed the blog because they left the house before I had the chance to talk about them. The above painting of a lighthouse in Chicago went to a missions auction at my church. It was an acrylic painting, 8 x 10, well, actually it still is an 8 x 10 acrylic but it is no longer in my studio. It was painted from a photo taken by our friend Steve, who is also a pastor there. Thanks, Steve.

The second painting, the cute little donkey below, was listed on Daily Painters, Art Helping Animals and sold through eBay before I wrote about it here. A 9 x 12 Acrylic painted from a photo I took at the children's area of the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines. I loved his demeanor, his big brown eyes and his soft furry coat....

Cute Little Donkey
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Before anybody asks, this is not a political statement of any kind. Whatever opinions I may or may not have in that regard are my own, and I will not inflict them upon you. This is a blog about art, exploring the wonder and joy of nature and reflections on the artistic life. If I ever get to the point that I need to let off a little steam, I will find another venue - and try to keep this a happy, peaceful place.

By the way, I did an elephant a few weeks ago. It is still available....



Click on the image above to see the blog,