May 22nd, 2008

The Big Easy

Visiting the Big Easy for the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience is one of my favorite ways to jump start the spring!

As soon as I get into town, I like to head over to the Napoleon House for a bloody mary and their signature muffaletta. It’s the perfect way to unwind and get acquainted with the city while I do a little sketching. They are also known for their Pim’s Cup so I just had to try one . . . definitely worth the trip!

While everyone enjoyed the Royal Street Stroll, I set up shop to paint at Angela King Gallery to visit with guests and share my latest work. Although the weather was a little damp, we drank some great wine by Robert Keenan Winery and I had a blast welcoming new people into the gallery.

All work and no play would not make for a very fun trip! To be sure I got a true taste of New Orleans, I had the pleasure of spending the day with new friend, Chef Steve of Mat and Naddie’s, to shop the local markets and wine shop in preparation for a casual dinner at his home. We stopped by the Shrimp Lot in Westwego for some fresh catch, visited the Hong Kong Market for Bok Choy, and made a quick stop in the The Wine Seller for a few great bottles to cap the night.

Chef Steve and his lovely wife, Denise, graciously hosted a magnificent evening: I even learned how to make Chef Steve’s spicy shrimp!

photography by Victoria Pisarello

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May 15th, 2008

Washington DC

Little did I know that I would be exhibiting with a new artist . . .

My son Jimmy decided that he would launch his career as an artist here, as well.

With a cute face like that, how can I compete?

Boy, did we drink some great wine that night! My friend Bob came out to the show and brought a bottle of Chateau Mouton Rothschild to share. It doesn’t get any better than that! Thanks for your generosity, Bob, and I look forward to sharing wine with you again.

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May 13th, 2008

Denver

It was a whirlwind two day trip to Denver, but I had a blast. Friday night, we stopped in Fleming’s for a Flora Springs dinner co-hosted with Fascination Street Gallery. We drank some Trilogy, 46 Diamonds, and the 25th Anniversary Flora Springs Rutherford Hillside Select Cab . . . now that’s what I call a great start to the weekend.

Everytime I come to town, I have to go by one of my favorite spots, Bistro Al Vino. Al is a great guy to hang out with and there is always something happening at Bistro Al’s. This time, Al brought out an old Stag’s Leap Cask 23 which was amazing. Al really knows how to get the party started.

Sandy and Aaron take a spin on the dance floor with Bistro Al.

Saturday begins with a little painting in the morning. There’s always room to paint, even if I have to set up on the bed. That’s what I like about my job – I can work anywhere!

Aaron and Sandy did a great job hanging the gallery – my art looked great! Thanks to everyone who came by Fascination Street Gallery on Saturday night to see me : I enjoyed sharing some wine with you.

Congratulations to the Hills on their purchase of one of my watercolors: I’m honored that you have chosen to add my work to your collection.

Thanks to Brad for bringing Rob and I Dallas Fire Department t-shirts. Brad and his wife came all the way from Dallas to see me in Denver. We had a great time drinking wine over the weekend at Bistro Al’s and the gallery . . . hope to catch you on the next round!

I couldn’t resist going back to Bistro Al Vino for a Pinot Noir break inbetween shows . . .

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May 5th, 2008

Reynolds Plantation

Thank you to all of my new friends at Reynolds Plantation who came out to join us Friday night for a great night of wine and art! I enjoyed sharing a glass of Quintessa with all of you and a special thanks to everyone who brought an extra bottle to pass around.My friend Mike and his wife Sherry were the first to introduce me to the group at Reynolds Plantation so it seemed only fitting that he introduced me. We each brought some excellent wines to pour that evening: T-Vine Cellar, Barbour Vineyards, Jarvis . . . can’t wait to see what we’ll pour at the next outing!

The ladies spent a good deal of time talking about this piece so I had to join in. Sherry and Gail are both artists so I fun talking shop with them.

Charles and Joann have developed my favorite new delivery system . . . shipping artwork in the Porsche. It sounds like a lot more fun than sending it by freight! I hope you enjoy “Something Worth Celebrating” for years to come.

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