Brenda Stichter, artist

Abstract 026b This morning, I enjoyed some great 'conversation' (digitally speaking) with my adult kids. We were looking at an essay my son is writing as he applies to grad school, and here are parts of the conversation: Son (written as part of his essay): As an example: what if, instead of having all the artwork in a church facility being images of the cross, an empty tomb, or Jesus with the little children (paintings I’m sure we’ve all seen thousands of times), our buildings were filled with a medley of different techniques, subjects, palettes, and focuses that still bring beauty and draw our metaphorical eyes to our Heavenly Father, but which could also be a point of drawing in people from outside our faith? What if our music on Sunday mornings didn’t simply have a technical focus of being easy to sing and arranged in an inoffensive manner (though these are noble and often necessary targets), but we put forth a desire for beauty and diversity in the music, and aspire

Abstract 026a "You can study for renewing your flight instructor certificate, and I will work on my blog, my newsletter, updating my website, uploading paintings... " My Beloved Husband and I were on a weekend get-away that was (supposed to be) work oriented. We stayed on a harbor on Lake Michigan where we had huge windows with a view of a marina and a little outdoor seating area. Oh, it was so satisfying to sit and look at the water, and to listen to the rain. I got a lot done, if you count soaking in beauty and spending precious time with my Beloved. Not so much if you are checking up on my computer work! Sold 22"  x 22", part two of a diptych  painted with the finest quality acrylic heavy-body paint  on acid-free watercolor paper Framed in simple frame Click here to view or purchase via my website. This painting is the first part of a diptych, with the second being posted tomorrow. (At least, I think it will be!) When I first started abstract painting, I t

Breakthrough When I asked Google to define 'breakthrough', here is what it said.  break·through /ˈbrākˌTHro͞o/ noun -a sudden, dramatic, and important discovery or development. -an instance of achieving success in a particular sphere or activity. I can think of at least three areas in my life where I would welcome a boost these days. One of them is in my painting. It is not so much that I want a leap in ability or technique as I want a deeper dedication and commitment to practice and learning. Don't get me wrong - I would welcome a magical leap in skill and especially in marketing. Wouldn't everyone? But that breakthrough in focus... 20  x 20"  painted with the finest quality acrylic heavy-body paint  on acid-free, heavy weight Fabriano watercolor paper Ready to frame   While I was reading my Bible this morning, I was asking my Heavenly Father for a breakthrough of a different kind. I was asking for a renewed passion for Him and His path for my walk

Singin' the Blues "Who is your favorite blues singer?" I asked my son over messenger. He is a luthier and works in a music store. He and I often compare notes on art and music. I find it especially interesting to learn about genres of music that are newer to me. I love to find music where the tune, instrumentation and style "say the same thing" as the lyrics.  I feel the same way about visual art. To me, great art is art where the composition, style, and colors express the concept that may or may not be given in a title. There is just something so amazing about art - any of the arts, really - and the way they seem to open new communication or understanding.  SOLD 6" x 6"  painted with the finest quality acrylic heavy-body paint  on acid-free, heavy weight Fabriano watercolor paper Ready to frame   This painting has dark values, texture and edges, sharp contrast, and some glam in some parts. Of course, there is reference to a guitar, too. Dept