Small Works Show in Boulder

So happy that “Secluded Cove,” a 9x12 pastel, was accepted into the Pastel Society of Colorado Small Works Show. Thank you juror Jeanne Rosier Smith!! The show runs Nov. 7-21 at the beautiful Mary Williams Fine Arts gallery in Boulder.

Secluded Cove | 12 x 9 inches | Pastel

Art Installation in Estes Park

A selection of my pastel and watercolor paintings are now installed at U.S. Bank in Estes Park through mid-January. All are available for sale through the Art Center of Estes Park. It's always nice to get artwork in front of the public. Thanks U.S. Bank!

New Gallery Representation!

I'm excited to announce that my work will now be shown at Madison & Main Gallery in Greeley, CO. Please visit this beautiful gallery for the "Winter Lights" show, which opens tonight, Nov. 3, from 5-8 p.m. The show runs through Dec. 29. Madison & Main, 927 16th St., Greeley, CO

"Let It Snow" | 5x7 | Alcohol Inks

"Placid Winter Morning" | 12 x 9 | Watercolor  

"Snowy Road Home" 8.5 x 11 | Pastel

Celtic Festival!

I will have a few of my Scotland- and Ireland-inspired paintings at the First Annual Celtic Fest this Saturday from 11-7 in Frederick, CO. Some of the fun events scheduled include a bagpipe opening ceremony; Kirkin' o' the Tartans; traditional Celtic music and Celtic Rock; beer, whiskey, and food available for purpose and the art show! 110 Johnson St., Frederick, CO, St. Brigit Episcopal Church Grounds. 

Maroon Reflections

Since my first visit to the Maroon Bells 33 years ago, I have been captivated by this beautiful Colorado landmark. A gorgeous lake reflects the iconic bells, which change dramatically depending on the season and time of day. This view was after a late morning hike right before the aspens began to change.

Maroon Reflections | Pastel | 9 x 12 | $350

http://marybenke.com/pastel/

Glade of Orange

Ready for fall? Do you like orange? I'm continuing to have fun playing around with watercolor, ink, and Yupo paper. This is the 4th in my popular "Forest for the Trees" series. Enjoy!

Glade of Orange | Watercolor & Ink on Yupo | $350

"Skyward"

Yupo is an amazing surface for watercolor painting. It's a synthetic paper that actually repels the watercolor paint. As a watercolorist, I'm used to the paint working with the water to sink in and be absorbed by the paper. Yupo causes the paint to pool and run in unpredictable but fascinating ways. Alcohol can be sprayed on the paint to create even more effects. I've enjoyed experimenting with this aspen and ink on yupo series. Here's the latest!

"Skyward" | Watercolor on Yupo | 9 x 12 | $350