Donna Dickson Artist

Plein Air Workshop San Miguel Feb 25th 2012

2012-02-27T18:25:00.001-08:00

Day 2 painting up at Cruz del Pueblo. A great day! A great group!
Front Row Sherry, Donna, Elena.
2nd row; Tom L, Laura,Sandra,Carol,Yvonne,Elaine back row Tom, Isaiah,and Les.
Day 4 coming up tomorrow Atotonilco. More later. Donna

A picture from last week the San Antonio Church in SMA

2012-02-19T18:02:00.000-08:00


Sandra painting last Monday at the San Antonio Church. We had wild weather but 9 enthusiastic painters took on the challenge! Tomorrow- mon. Feb 20th plein air is in front of the Oratorio Church and hopefully we'll have weather fit for painting! Just bring what you need for one morning of painting. Pick brushes suitable to the size you are painting and leave the rest at home. Keep your equipment light and simple. You'll have more energy for your painting . See you there, 9:30 am Donna

This Monday Plein Air session will be around Plaza Civica. We'll meet in front of the Oratorio Church at 9:30

2012-02-17T09:52:00.000-08:00

"MARGARITAS" 15x11 ins. watercolor


"AFTERNOON IN THE CAMPO" 11x15 ins. watercolor

"LATE AFTERNOON, CALLE TECOLOTE" 15x11 ins. watercolor

Map for Plein Air Monday Feb.13th. -San Antonio Church Location

2012-02-10T06:29:00.000-08:00


See you 9:30 at the church. Note: we will not be meeting at the Gallery this time.

Also Note: The February San Miguel Workshop (Feb. 24 - Mar. 2nd.) is now Full.

Contact me to reserve a place on the next

Note: the Feb 24th. to Mar 2nd. Workshop Is Full

2012-02-07T10:05:00.000-08:00

"Luz y Sombra" Guanajuato

12x10.5 ins. watercolor

Below are a pair of paintings I did of the same subject as demo's for my watercolor and oil classes.

Same silla, same geranio but I think it's kind of interesting to compare the two. The first is the watercolor.

"Geranios" 15x11 ins. watercolor

"La Silla" Cafe Buen Dia 12x9 in. oil on panel


"Colorful Walkway in Guanajuato" 12x 9 in. oil on panel

"Summer Day" 11x10.5 in. watercolor

I'm very busy at the moment with classes - all of which are full with waiting lists and the February/March Workshop is full as well. We will be having another in San Miguel but I haven't had time to focus on the details yet. Things invariably slow down in April and May here, so I'll have time to concentrate. Also, the Plein Air Meetup group has really taken off. We had a great day in Comonfort on Saturday with a lot of members showing up. We painted in the morning around the town center and some of us stayed for the afternoon and did another - tiring but very enjoyable. We didn't see a single other gringo all day and the town people are wonderful - friendly and polite. We were a great source of entertainment for them!

Plein air this Monday morning in the Jardin Jan. 23rd 2012

2012-01-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

Morning Shadows.From last week looking towards the Monjas from edge of the Jardin.

Painting in front of the Jardin L. to R. Bob , Tom's ptg on easel ,Carolyn, Blue hat Donna and Yvonne with her hat on backwards!

Here's our group painting last Monday. The street was blocked off in front of the Presidencia so we took advantage of the location. We painted the scene looking towards the Monjas down Canal. It proved to be pretty difficult and a challenging subject . We enjoyed the morning and Bob tried out his new plein air rig he bought from Tom.
NOTE :Time change for Monday afternoon watercolors: 2 til 5 pm. Begins in 1 week.This will give me a little more time between the morning plein air group and the wc. class in the afternoon. Hope this will be all right with everyone.It will make a big difference for me. Thanks Donna

Plein air Monday morning In the Jardin area. Jan.16, 2012

2012-01-14T18:35:00.000-08:00

Painting in Rodriguez, Eric painting on the right and Tom's easel and painting on the left. He must be close by!

Here's some of our group in Rodriguez taking a break.Karen, Tom, Pat and Yvonne

Old church Rodriguez, Here's where we painted with the Meet Up plein air painters on Wed. There were 7 of us in all. It was fun.We also had a reporter from the Rodriguez paper take our photo! So we are now famous! Or is that infamous! The local people were very friendly and everyone enjoyed the day. next meet up is scheduled for Feb. 4th , Sat. destination Comonfort.

Monday morning plein air, we'll meet at the gallery at 9:30 am .We'll be painting in the Jardin. There are some great trees and lots of light and shade to tackle. Don't forget your camera for reference photos later. See you Monday morning. And for the watercolor class it's at 1:30 in the studio. Donna

Updating class schedules. Everyones arriving at once!

2012-01-08T17:49:00.000-08:00


"Frutas y Verduras" in the market, oil 9" x 12" Just finished this colorful market scene in time to add to this update. Many returning students have arrived back to San Miguel this week and many new faces too! What fun ,we're definitely going to have a busy winter.Even with these additional classes they are filling fast ! Happy painting everyone, see you in the Jardin tomorrow morning. Donna		The new schedule as of this week is : Monday am 9:30 to 12:30 plein air any medium. Monday afternoon 1:30 to 4:30 pm watercolors. Tues. afternoon 1:30 to 4:30 pm a second watercolor class. Wed.afternoon 1:30 to 4:30 oils or acrylics. Thurs. afternoon 1:30 to 4:30pm oils or acrylics. ( a 2nd class) Fri. afternoon 1:30 to 3:30pm ( 2 hr) drawing just for fun !				,

New Paintings from San Miguel and Guanajuato December 18 2011

2011-12-18T18:38:00.000-08:00

'Passing Through the Plaza' Guanajuato oil 9 x 12 in. I had fun using a palette knife on this one over a thin under painting. It kept it simplified and not fussy. I was happy with the results.

'Colorful Book Store' Guanajuto sold 8 x 10 in oil .This was a plein air that I painted with our San Miguel Meet up Group. That was really a great day. Eric , Marylou and Tom and I painted together although we were all spread out.

Calle Aldama Early Morning watercolor 11 x 15" One of the most painted streets in San Miguel! Plein air Monday DEC the 26th ,we will be in the Jardin at 2pm til 4:30 or 5pm. That is if we have enough around that are interested in going out.A lot of the plein painters are away. We'll see how it goes. Meanwhile Happy Painting! and all the best for the New Year.. Thanks for viewing my blog.Donna

No Plein air this week and a new studio Class Nov 27 2011

2011-11-27T13:56:00.000-08:00

"Baskets and Flowers for Sale "15 x 11" watercolor This was another of the old vendors on the streets that I love to paint so much. She was just down the street from the last one on Aldama. Starting next week a new class will be added on Friday afternoon. 'DRAWING JUST FOR FUN' It will be 1:30 til 3:30pm to start with. In this class we can explore different techniques in drawing, pencil, pen and ink charcoal, adding w.c. to pen and ink etc. We'll work from still life, sometimes drawing in the jardin and also in the courtyard , tackling nature , birds and animals. From exploring composition and line and texture we'll have lots of opportunities to play. There won't be a plein air Monday afternoon class as everyone is away this week.

A Rooster for Thanksgiving? and a few new colorful pieces. Nov.19th 2011

2011-11-19T17:42:00.000-08:00

'Rooster in the Barn' watercolor 15 "x 11" SOLD This guy is pretty happy with his domain, so far he's the top banana!

"Flowers on Aldama" watercolor 11" x 15" Who couldn't stop to admire all that beautiful color? The flower sellers are usually here on this street or just around the corner when it gets too sunny in the afternoon.

"Morning Tasks" oil on panel 8" x 10" SOLD It's amazing how often the people going by wear perfect colors for the scene they are passing through! This lady in Neutla blew me away! Happy painting this week end Donna

Art classes; new hours in the afternoon and new paintings Nov. 19 2011

2011-11-19T17:03:00.000-08:00

For the cool months I've switched the watercolor classes and the oils to the afternoon. So for the next couple of months it will be- Tues. and Thurs. 1:30 to 4:30pm in studio.

Here's Carolyn out in the countryside 2 weeks ago.A beautiful panorama in front of her.

The studio is much warmer in the afternoon and so more comfortable for painting!
Plein air has been in the afternoon for awhile now. We still meet at the Gallery at 2:15 pm to go out on location from there.
This week Nov 21st, we will revisit the site of 2 weeks ago near San Miguel Viejo and paint 'the old hacienda' this time. They usually have laundry hung up to dry on Mondays......should be quite colorful. I don't know how old the hacienda is but looks to be quite old and still a working ranch.

'Evening Rio Laja' oil on panel 8 x 10" By the time we finished painting last time, evening had fallen . A perfect ending to a perfect afternoon of plein air painting. No wonder it's so popular!


'Sunlit Interior' oil on panel 8" x 10" Instead of going out on location last Monday we painted in the courtyard at the gallery, watching the changing patterns of light and shade which the transparent rooftop created.A challenge to keep to the original shapes of the darks and lights that you saw to begin with.That's where the value of a black and white thumbnail sketch comes in handy. Donna

Next Plein Air Monday Nov.7th 2011 2:15 pm San Miguel Viejo Area

2011-11-04T18:45:00.000-07:00


Yvonne caught this picture of a friendly local guy coming by to check us out. Tom was trying to concentrate on his painting. Meet at the gallery upstairs 2:15 pm Monday ,Nov 7th 2011. Leaving by car at 2:30 sharp. We'll be going back to the area of San Miguel Viejo just out of town, but to a new area we haven't painted yet.We'll get those greens right with lots of practice! Last week there was sooo much yellow in those greens.

From last week's plein air group - Les , Tom, Yvonne and Karen. In the distance you can just make out the cows on their way.

And here come the cows !

Upcoming Plein air Monday afternoon Oct 31st 2011

2011-10-29T16:45:00.000-07:00


Some pro's painting at San Miguel Viejo last Monday. It was a bit breezy but fun.

Gail up on the higher slope, Karen, Donna and Yvonne.
We'll meet at the Gallery at 2:15pm Monday to go out to the same area, near San Miguel Viejo. This time we'll be painting the view through the trees. The corn fields are turning a beautiful golden color.Hope you can make it, Donna

Some New Plein Air Paintings from the Countryside OCT 26 2011

2011-10-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

'Casa en El Campo' Watercolor 11 X 15 "

We met the folks that live in this place while we were painting one day in Potrero. A very friendly family that invited us to a corn roast on their Milpas.What fun!

'Path near the Church', San Miguel Viejo oil 8 x 10"

'Off to another Pasture' watercolor 11 x 15''
It was fun painting the sun and shade in this one. We're finding all kinds of interesting people tending horses, cows, sheep and goats .They pass through a little amazed to find someone painting in their midst. Cows definitely have the right of way on the back roads.You have to keep your camera handy at all times.

Plein air Monday at 2:30 pm Oct. 24th 2011

2011-10-19T17:57:00.000-07:00

Our Monday plein air class will now be in the afternoon as the mornings are chillier altho' not bad, the afternoons are definitely warmer and pleasant for painting. Monday we'll be going back to San Miguel Viejo but not to the church site this time. There is another location out there that will be fun to paint along the edge of the presa.When the water levels are higher it is a lake,but at the moment it is now fields of corn with a fringe of trees for shade.It's a beautiful pastoral setting. Time to work on those subtle shades of green.
Remember to bring a hat, drinking water, perhaps a snack, an apple or trail bar to keep up your energy.
White is not a color that you should wear plein air painting. First of all you get reflections of light bouncing onto your painting from your shirt. Secondly too hard to keep clean! Just wear something semi neutral and bring a smock or apron. Paper nappies are handy and a grocery bag for your garbage.Only bring what you'll need for the afternoon of painting and leave the kitchen sink at home! :-)
Meet at the gallery about 2:15pm We'll be sharing a ride. Please let me know if you're coming. Donna


The presa is very low at this time. What would be lake is now fields of corn and other crops. In the photo below you can see the higher water levels.					.

Looking across from San Miguel Viejo towards Los Frailes

Painting plein air in the countryside .Oct 4th 2011

2011-10-06T19:17:00.000-07:00

Tom painting in a sleepy little place called Neutla.

It's been awhile since I've written. We've been putting together a couple of upcoming workshops. The first one in February 2012 here in San Miguel . And the 2nd one in the Burgundy area of France June 2012.
The information about both of these are on my website. If you wish to see more information about either workshop. go to the workshops link at the top of the home page.

This is an interesting pale pastel pink Church, perhaps a bit lumpy, but fun to paint .It's in a place just outside of Comonfort. The cloud shadows showed up the mountain slopes well.

The cows moved in as we started painting the pink church.Later on a woman from one of the nearest homes came out to us with freshly roasted corn on the cob to feed us! Wow!

The field workers deciding if Tom got it right!

It's been a lot of fun finding some new places to paint in and around San Miguel. From the use of magical Google Earth, Tom has become expert at finding interesting roads with potentially good painting locals .The weather has been perfect for plein air painting. Sunny days with just enough clouds to make nice shadows on the hillsides.The people are really not used to having painters show up painting their corn fields and little towns. It's really quiet too! The country folk have been inviting us to share food and full scale corn picnics.The locals are saying the corn has not grown as well this year due to scant rainfall, but it's been great eating all the same. They have so little but are so happy and hospitable.One fellow in Nuetla came to talk to us for awhile then went home and talked to his mom about us. He returned with an invitation from his mother to bring us home for comida! They are unbelievably kind. Everywhere we've been painting we're finding new friends.
I'll post some finished plein airs soon. saludos Donna

Plein Air Painting Workshop in San Miguel with Donna Dickson Feb.24 - Mar.2nd 2012

2011-09-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

SAN MIGUEL, PLEIN AIR WORKSHOP 2012 WITH DONNA DICKSON

   FEBRUARY 24th. to MARCH 2nd. 2012.
                                    Contact Donna: donnaleeartist@yahoo.ca

After attending Donna's classes it is not unusual to hear her students express their satisfaction with something like; "I've taken lots of workshops and classes in the past but this is the first time I've felt like I really learned a lot that will push my work forward!" Beginner or advanced, Donna gently coaxes the best out of her students and with over 25 years of teaching experience, she knows just where and when that coaxing should be applied...........(see student testimonials at bottom of this page) This will be a fun filled week of painting the colorful historic streets, churches, sights and sounds of beautiful, Colonial, San Miguel de Allende. As well, we are planning an excursion or two, out to the nearby countryside to paint the rural ranches and local scenery. The country or "campo" is only minutes outside of San Miguel but provides a quiet counterpoint to ones lively in-town experience. There is a rich agricultural base in this area which relates back thousands of years to the first indigenous peoples, such as the Otomi and Chichimeca Indians, - one of their ruins, a 1200 year old pyramid is located but a short distance from town and definitely worth a visit! Best of all, the end of February is a perfect time of the year here, with predictably warm, sunny days, just right for plein air painting. This is a very safe, friendly town with a large arts community. The Mexican people are very kind and helpful, even if you can't speak Spanish. Even a few words of Spanish go a long way in communicating. It's impossible to become bored in San Miguel de Allende, there are too many things to do and enjoy.

All smiles after a morning of painting in the town's central plaza, the "Jardin".
Our studio, Galeria Dickson overlooks this park.

In this workshop we will concentrate on all the basics but especially color - we'll further develop our color seeing skills, observing those saturated hues in the darks and less saturated colors in the sunlight. We'll be looking for warm and cool colors and how they relate to our overall composition. If your drawing skills are good that's great but getting the overall colors right and values correct will make the difference between a so/so painting and one with expression and drama.
We'll be looking for the big shapes and main elements in your picture. Holding those minute details 'til the last and including them only if they are necessary to complete the expression of your picture, not just because the details are there. We'll learn to simplify quickly, as the light changes in a flash - "time flies when you pick up a brush ."
While this workshop is open to all levels of painters, it would help to have some on-location experience, just so you will have more fun when you get here. It 's best to get familiar with painting outdoors and also get used to working with your equipment. If you have a new easel, make sure you know how to set it up and take it down. Oils, watercolors or acrylics are welcome. I will be doing demos primarily in oil but will be happy to accommodate the watercolorists in the group as well.

YOUR ACCOMMODATIONS

Morning in the Posada Carmina Patio - It's always a delight to view this patio

....................A COUPLE OF OPTIONS

One is the Posada Carmina Hotel ( pictured above ) on Cuna De Allende, - long established and popular, literally only steps away from my studio and "the Jardin," the very center of San Miguel. It's a beautifully restored, large18th century Colonial home, with a restaurant in the plant filled interior courtyard and double or single options. From the rooftop there are superb views of the whole town, including most of the principal churches. Rooms are clean and charming, opening onto the upper plant filled balcony in the Antiguo (colonial) area of the Hotel. TV, and WIFI are available. Staff are friendly and the receptionist speaks very good English and smiles a lot. .www.posadacarmina.com

Suites Casa Mia on Calle Correo, This option is a little bit of an up-hill hike but only about 2 blocks from the Jardin, - a 5 minute walk. It's an easy down-hill walk of course and taxis are very inexpensive (approx. $2.00) for taking your gear or heavy things back to your room. It features pretty, self -contained suites with kitchen, sitting area, bedroom and bath which opens onto a lovely interior courtyard. This is a little more economical for those who would prefer to spend less money on lodging and it does allow more room for painting gear etc. Only 2 available for this week but if these are taken and you want other affordable options I'm sure I will be able to find them for you.
www.casamia-sanmiguel.com

Interior Patio, Casa Mia

These are both good choices and some English is spoken at the desk.

Daily Painting Plan
We will meet every morning after breakfast at around 9:30, to get an early start. (A list of some of my favorite cafes for breakfast will be provided.)
On location I'll start with a demo to show how I begin the painting and where I will be going with it. I like to keep the demo short as you'll need to get started painting when the light is at it's best, but I will detail my methods of starting and working into the painting. As time permits I'll work a little more on mine and have you see it at various stages of completion. You'll be welcome to watch that process and of course I will be offering experienced guidance while you're in the midst of developing your own work. My husband, artist Tom Dickson will be accompanying us on our painting days too, unless he is busy with studio work or commissions at that time. Hopefully you'll will be able to see his works in progress too.
We'll paint until about 1:30, then gather together for a friendly discussion and critique of the mornings work.

"Abandoned Chapel" 9x12in. oil on panel Tom Dickson

West side of the Jardin with the Parrochia Church and The Allende Museum in background
............ a very typical morning in San Miguel

After our morning's work, I'm sure everyone will want to go for a hearty lunch. I'll have lots of suggestions to give you, as there's such a wide range of options. There's great traditional Mexican food you'll want to try, or Italian, Asian, Thai, Argentinian, Lebanese, American, Vegetarian and Vegan.You won't go hungry! For the late afternoon, you're on your own to go shopping, exploring, touring, painting or just taking a siesta!

NOTE: if we're painting out of town on a ranch or other location, we will have an earlier catered lunch. In that case, we'll probably paint another scene in the afternoon, before returning to San Miguel.

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THIS WORKSHOP ? Daily painting instruction and short demos. Lodging, and Transportation to any painting sites out of town. An evening welcome party on arrival day. There will be a group Farewell party with food and drink on your final night. Lunches will be provided at ranch or country painting sites.The use of my large studio to finish your paintings or just to store your wet ones is an included option after we are finished on location for the day.. A suggested materials list will be provided. I will have odorless turps available. A limited number of light-weight easels and plein air kits will be available for rental or purchase. There will be lots of encouragement and one on one help to aid you in improving your skills.


Some of my students at a nearby horse ranch

The cost of 5 days tuition plus 7 nights lodging, plus some ground transportation and the extras mentioned above, as well as use of my studio, all taxes included is:

At the Posada Carmina : $1225 US per single person room with king sized bed.
                                                               single person with 2 double beds $1325 US.
                                              with shared rooms this would be $1085 per person

At the Suites Casa Mia:    $1230 US. per single person with king sized bed.
                                              if 2 students share a suite it will be $923 per person.

Not included is your airfare to and from San Miguel. The nearest airport is Leon BJX, about an hour and half drive from San Miguel. There is an excellent, affordable Shuttle service that I can recommend for pick up and return to Leon. If you fly into Mexico city, ( about 3 hours driving from San Miguel ) there are flights or buses to nearby Queretero.( About 1 hour away ) You can continue on a comfortable bus to San Miguel or have a driver meet you in Queretero for the final leg to SMA.
A deposit of $400.US is required to hold a space for you. Room selection will be filled on a first come first serve basis. You can send a cheque or pay with Pay Pal. I'll send you the address or invoice for Pay Pal as soon as I receive your email. There is a standard additional 3% transaction fee for using Pay Pal.
The remaining payment must be received 45 days before the class begins.

A limited number of spaces will be available for students not requiring lodging. $625 for 5 days tuition, including instruction, attendance at the group arrival and farewell parties, use of studio, transportation to painting sites and provided lunches.

Contact Information

                   email: donnaleeartist@yahoo.ca ......... phone 011-52-415-152 8216 ( Day)
                                                                         011-52-415-154 4291 ( Eve.)

HASTA LUEGO - Looking forward to hearing from you soon, Donna Dickson

....... SOME COMMENTS FROM FORMER AND CURRENT STUDENTS .........

"Donna is an excellent teacher. Her demonstrations in oil and watercolors are awesome and her critiques of your work helpful and encouraging. Painting plein air with Donna in San Miguel? - you will love it!" Yvonne Hayes (student)

"Donna is a highly gifted teacher and painter. She makes each class inspiring, challenging and rewarding, and we always manage to add quite a bit of laughter to the mix. Her demos and patient observation and suggestions provide tremendous insight and knowledge, - there is always something new to learn about color, composition, shadow, light and "loosening up".
Painting in such a unique and beautiful setting such as San MIguel is a privilege and a delight, Donna enriches that experience even more."               Karen Lee (student)

"Donna is a fabulous teacher - I always learn so much under her tutelage" June Sturrock
                                                                                                                  (student)

I feel fortunate to have had Donna inspire me in painting with watercolors. I painted with Donna twice a week for three months. I came to her studio as a beginning painter and gained a foundation of technique and confidence that I will carry throughout my creative life.
Both Donna and Tom have an amazing intimate knowledge of San Miquel. Plein air painting always seemed to be at the perfect location in the ultimate light to bring out the best in each painter. Donna provided great guided demonstrations. She gave clear, individual evaluations that always included solutions. I especially appreciated her insight and instruction in tone, shadows and perspective.
Donna's excitement for my progress as a new painter made me feel like I was painting with a friend. Steve Stockman (student)

I took some classes with Donna in San Miguel de Allende last winter and can't speak highly enough of her skills. The sessions were very informative and relaxed, and the encouragement was always there. As well as the in-class instruction, there were great opportunities to join her on some fabulous plein air excursions.
Jecka Meertens

.

End of August Street Scene and Still Life , San Miguel

2011-09-06T18:15:00.000-07:00

'Green pepper with eggplant friends' oil 9 x 12 in. After a trip to the Saturday organic market last week, I came home with these beautiful purple mini eggplants to paint. The green pepper looks large beside them.

Steve was just here visiting for one week but enjoyed getting into the detail of this still life. Well done.

Still life with Limes and Apple oil 9.5 x 8 .25 in. I liked playing with the yellows, greens and blues in this one.Of course I like to get Mexican pottery into it too.

Callejon Blanco 14 x 18 in oil One of my favorite streets in San Miguel. There's always something to paint here, either looking up or down towards San Juan de Dios Church. It's very short only 1 block long ,but packed full of painting opportunities. Saludos Donna

A San Miguel Market Scene and vendors on the Street Aug 17 2011

2011-08-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

"En el Mercado'' 9 x 12 oil. This the market scene we did in one of my classes at the end of July. This is the one everyone was complaining about it being too complicated! I liked getting into the Degas pastel colors.

"Platicando en la Calle" 9 x 9 oil on panel.( Sold) The doll seller and and old lady chatting on the street . I loved doing their clothes and shadows. The doll sellers here in San Miguel wear really beautiful dresses and skirts.Just like the dolls they make. They are a lot of fun to paint.Donna

Paintings for the Daily Paint Works weekly Challenge

2011-08-12T18:23:00.000-07:00

This was in response to the birthday wishes for artist Carol Marine this week., on the painting challenge. I thought this looked cheery enough for a birthday wish or 2. Tequila and limas ! I love the blown glass that they make here in San Miguel. Especially the blue! Donna

This is a small oil study ( 6" x 6") of 2 guitar players at a corner store in San Miguel. (Calle Refugio at Orizaba) .I had planned to enter it in the "challenge " about music, but didn't get around to it. Always carry your camera with you on the streets of San Miguel .You never know what's around the next corner, happy painting!. Donna

New plein air class this week at "the Monjas " Aug 15 2011, Mon. 9:00 am

2011-08-12T17:33:00.000-07:00

From last Monday morning at El Charco, Botanical Gardens. The mist in the early morning was beautiful over the lake . 2 students from New York, Marina and Raisa doing watercolors from the dam. This week we will be painting from the grounds of the very old Monjas church at the corner of Canal and Hernandez Macias, next to the Bellas Artes. Remember hats and water, altho' there is some shade from some huge,old Laurel trees in the courtyard.See you there Donna

PLEIN AIR Monday El Charco Botanical Gardens. AUG. 8th /11 8:00 am

2011-08-05T07:56:00.000-07:00


I entered this in the Daily Paintworks Challenge last week. You could only use Red ,Yellow ,and Blue plus white. Only 3 brushes and it had to be done on location . Time limit was one hour! A challenge in deed but it was fun.


One can paint the lake as well , it's now filling up with water after a very dry season.	.Plein Air this week will be at El Charco . We'll meet at the entrance at 8 am to get the best light.Remember to bring a Sun hat , water and snacks. We'll probably be finished about 10:30am. It's very beautiful early in the morning! See you there Donna.

The Nopal Cactus are full of red "tunas" at this time of year.


One of the paths to wander in the park, this one leading to the canyon.

Monday Plein Air in the manana. Meet at location. 9:00 am Aug. 1st 2011

2011-07-29T18:02:00.000-07:00

The market scene we painted in the studio week. This has a lot going on but you have to simplify simplify!!c Try to see the big areas. Don't get caught up in too many little details. Sometimes hard to avoid.Learn to generalize and see how little you can put in and still have the feeling of a lot of details.

On the far end Ann and Sheila and Dee and Joan, just beginning the market scene.

In the studio, from the left, Joan, Delores,Magdalena,Leslie and Joan B.. Hard at work. We worked on this one in 2 sessions.

Plein Air: August 1st.This week we will switch back to the morning, as there's a very interesting corner at Recreo at Terraplen that is best to paint in the morning.We will meet at 9:00m there at that corner instead of going to the gallery first. Many of my plein air enthusiasts have left San Miguel, so I'm thinking we will have a small group on Monday.
In the studio we have been working on various projects, a market scene and a still life with a copper vase.

Plein Air from Relox photos July 23 2011

2011-07-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

This is the colorful corner we were painting . The sun and shadow were a bit weak just as I took this picture. The values were actually stronger then this. The location of the gallery is upstairs in this yellow building the other side of this upper window, facing the Jardin or plaza. If you're not in San Miguel right now you might like to try this scene at home.

The doll sellers in their colorful dresses and skirts like to hang out in this area.

I'm calling this the challenge of painting outdoors.Or what can go wrong! We just got started when this bus parked in front of us!! Luckily they moved after some suggestions from Liz.

A perfect afternoon painting on Calle Relox . Liz and I among the throngs. "We" were definitely the entertainment on the street today We had crowds around us at times. Funny though when you're involved in you're painting one barely notices. saludos Donna

Plein air class in San Miguel Monday 2pm July 25 2011

2011-07-24T18:23:00.000-07:00

I was hoping to post a few more pictures but alas ...no time . Soon though. Plein air Monday I'm hoping to paint from calle Relox as it's been closed while they have been hammering and chipping, pulling up the cobbles and putting them back in again. Who knows why they are doing it? But it's always a great opportunity when a street is closed off as the sidewalks are so narrow to paint from.The street scene is great looking either direction on Relox. I'll keep my fingers crossed they haven't completed the street.

This week in the studio the oil/acrylic class will be finishing our market scene from last week in the studio.Everyone was complaining it was too complicated !! I wonder why?? Tuesday morning the watercolor class will give it a try too. The challenge is in simplifying the subject. happy painting Donna

Monday's Plein Air July 18 AFTERNOON ! .. 2 to 5pm

2011-07-17T16:51:00.000-07:00

Note the new time slot .We'll meet at the studio at 1:45pm and go out from there. It'll be exciting to paint the afternoon shadows. See you soon Donna

'Reflections' New oil painting. July 15 2011

2011-07-15T14:34:00.000-07:00


"Reflections on glass Pitcher" oil on canvas 6 x 8"	This was this weeks daily paintworks challenge Reflections! Fun to do. Donna

More Students Work for the painting challenge Jul 15 2011

2011-07-15T12:18:00.000-07:00

From Delores, a great study in warm and cool. Lovely reflections.

Joan's, entry in the paint what you paint with still life. Good design Love the brushes bursting out of the can.

Karen's still life with her palette and paints.It's hard to paint the pallette you're trying to use, but she did it! Well done.

Donna's students enter the Painting challenge! July 2011

2011-07-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

Steve's watercolor 11 x 15" You can almost pick up that brush!


Leslie's entry in the Painting challenge 6 x 8" oil	wow! I love that price sticker on the tube of paint!

Yvonne's entry watercolor 11 x 15" on hot press paper. Great reflections!

Entry for The Daily Paintworks Challenge. July 7th 2011

2011-07-07T17:57:00.000-07:00

"Pitcher with Paints " 9 x 12 oil on panel

I was checking out Carol Marine's daily painting blog when I noticed this week's painting challenge was paint your painting materials. This had some appeal so I challenged my watercolor students and the oil class to take it up as well. The results were very good and I hope they will all post their work to the Daily painters site too.I'd like to post them here as well . We'll see if they can get them photographed and sent to me. I was really pleased they did so well and it was fun to see what everyone chose to do. Donna

Plein air Monday, July 4th 2011 meet at studio

2011-07-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Watercolors in the Jardin

Hi all, we'll meet just before 9am at the studio and weather permitting head out around the area. Possibly the little plaza in front of the San Francisco Church, if it looks interesting. It would be nice to have some sunshine too.
A great re-opening party last night here in the gallery and spilling out into the hallway .Canada Day as well! A shared open house with the Spanish school Centro Bilingue (director Sara Murillo) who has moved to this upper floor too!We had a ribbon cutting ceremony with the minister of tourism fellow Cesar Rios cutting the yellow ribbon and words of congratulations. Very nice touch. So lots of students of Spanish, teachers , Donna's students family and friends and collectors.Artist Dan Rueffert stopped by, he's just opened a studio/ gallery on Sollano #28. A place we looked at before finding this place.Artist Suzy Taylor also came by. It was a great mix of all ages and backgrounds.Plenty of food and refreshments for everyone's pleasure. Despite the rain that broke out just before opening time, a great turn out! We even sold some paintings.!! This is good.


From the Jardin last Monday! Steve, Leslie and the 'girls' with backwards caps! Yvonne and I.	A Plein air fashion statement or.....actually the sun caught us and we tried to protect our necks! Thanks for viewing Donna

Plein Air Monday morning June 27th 2011 Near the Jardin

2011-06-25T13:08:00.000-07:00

View of the Parrochia from the Gallery

Hi all, this week we'll continue haunting the Jardin for more interesting scenes. We'll meet at the studio at just before 9 am and proceed from there The weather has been unstable lately ,so if we get rain we'll paint in the interior patio upstairs..I should have cafe brewing ,bring your favorite thermal cup. See you soon. Donna

Some recent Watercolors , from the Streets of San Miguel June 2011

2011-06-25T12:59:00.000-07:00

El Burro 11 x 15" w.c. I found this guy hanging out in the shade after hauling "tierra' around all day from door to door. Usually you find 2 or 3 or more together, but this one was alone and enjoying the shade.What is a BURRO?? actually the Spanish term for a small donkey or ass......not to be confused with the "Mule" which is the cross between a male donkey and female horse! Now if I can just remember that for next time!

Calle Tecolote 'owl street' watercolor 10" x 12"- a great winding cobblestone street. I loved the shadows in this one.

From Blancas patio this wonderful scene.watercolor 12 x 14" sold

Students painting ''en plein air " photos from last Monday 20th June 2011

2011-06-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

In the early light of the Jardin. I'll post some results of our work next post.

For some of us this colorful scene beckoned us.this is a bit later after the vendors set up their fruit stands.

Teresa braved the sun to finish up her Jardin picture, And from left to right, Yvonne and Steve doing watercolors, me, Gail and Leslie behind his easel painting in oils.We were mostly in the shade of the clock tower the "relox".

Plein air on Monday JUNE 20th - the Jardin - Meet at gallery 8:45am

2011-06-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

A photo at the start of Monday's class June 13th 2011 Steve got some great pics of us painting I'll ask him to send me a couple to add here.

Sun and shade in the jardin.There's always something new to paint here, so we'll continue exporing in and around the trees and plaza. We'll meet in the studio and go from there. please come before 9:00 about 8:45 would be best then we can get any early start. I saw a couple of scenes as I passed through the park today that I think will be fun to do. everyone did well on Cuna de Allende last Monday.

A bright sunny corner of the Jardin

Catching up with some new pictures of the gallery/studio June 2011

2011-06-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

From the teaching area looking through. It's a very cool space. Both sides have skylights so the natural light is great for showing the hung paintings and wonderful for painting too.It's much better in person but for those of you that aren't here right now you'll get a bit of a glimpse.

From the Gallery side looking toward the teaching space. The opening is looking over the Jardin.

Plein air on Monday June 13 /11 9:00 am and new class Schedule

2011-06-10T13:46:00.000-07:00

Tom, Steve and Gary , plein air on Cuadrante above 10 10 pie.

This Monday morning we will meet at the GALLERY at 9 :00 AM before walking to our location to paint in the JARDIN .Why go elsewhere when there's so much at hand......we'll do the Parrochia. Just kidding! That's a nightmare to paint. No we'll leave that to Tom who does it so well! Better to concentrate on a smaller target.
.
The latest ART CLASS SCHEDULE:
MONDAY am. 9:00 am- PLEIN AIR We will either meet at the studio or on location it will be announced on my blog each week
TUESDAY am. 9:30 am til 12:30pm- in studio WATERCOLORS
THURSDAY am. 9:30 til 12:30 pm - in studio OILS or ACRYLIC
Tried to post some pictures but the blog demons are not cooperating....next time Donna

New Location ,Dicksons Studio Gallery at San Francisco # 1

2011-05-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

Finally we are moved in and just putting a few last touches on the gallery. The new location at #1 San Francisco / Relox corner of the Jardin. You can't get more central then that. We are up above the Restaurant Rincon de Don Tomas (the restaurant is under the arches) and we are overlooking the Jardin.The same place as Andres Hair Salon if you are familiar with his local. Or kitty corner from Dolphy's Ice cream. The entrance is on San Francisco across from Inter Cam. The entrance way has many hats, baubles, sparkles and sunglasses but if you wade past that there is a set of stairs to the right, - follow them and watch for our signs. It's a beautiful 450 year old Spanish Colonial building that has been in the Sanchez family for the whole time and still is. Wow if these walls could talk. The walls were a nightmare to paint as they are far from being flat. (more like a mtn. range) and Tom says there is not one 90 degree corner in the place, but... fantastic atmosphere and of course the view is superb. As we were working yesterday we found we had a first class view of the parade marching it's way into the Jardin! I'm not sure what the event was, it seemed like a prelude to the Dia De Los Locos parade which is coming up.
Thanks everyone that has written wondering why my blog's been off the air for weeks.

Can't wait to get back to real painting again! and of course seeing the returning smiling faces of those students coming back in June. It's been soooo hot, but the rains are coming back soon too! There are in fact a few still here, slowly getting to know the new studio as it has been evolving. We started out painting in the inner patio so I'll post a few of those. Tomorrow I'll get some interior views, and the view from the Jardin. Adios for now amigos, Donna

Time Off and A trip to the Sierra Gordas!

2011-05-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

Bernal and the Monolith in the background. this the view as you are leaving Bernal and climbing up into the mountains


A town near Jalpa in the Sierra Gordas We'll be off for a few days visiting the fascinating Sierra Gordas and Huasteca region to the east of San Miguel. As you climb the mountains beyond Bernal the landscape keeps changing from dry sierras to pines and more tropical the further you go east.We saw a lot of rain the last time we went , it poured steadily in Xilitla , so hope to get a drier view this time.The place we had planned to move to in centro has fallen through so we're going to take a bit of a break and see some new scenery and get refreshed. Next week on the 11th of May - WED. 9:30 til 12:30pm.WATERCOLORS and Pen and Ink; -Thursday oils/acrylics as usual.9:30 til 12:30pm. No Tuesday class. Adios amigos Donna		Next week Watercolors changed from Tues to Wed on the 11th of May 9:30 til 12:30pm.

New Plein air site Monday May 2nd 2011 9:00 am

2011-04-25T15:07:00.000-07:00

Quebrada Bridge Monday plein air 9:00 am

The Quebrada Bridge is very interesting as it crosses Calle Canal.This is looking south.Tom did a great painting of this scene. I took this photo a few years ago and would like to revisit the scene. As our plein air group is fairly small right now, it's feasible to paint here.One can paint looking up or down Canal or north or south on Quebrada. Should be pretty easy to find ,just go down Canal from the "Starbucks' corner of the Jardin . Cross H. Macias and Zacateros with the bridge in sight. Go up the stairs on the left to get up on top of the bridge. See you there Monday 9 am til roughly 12pm.Just bring essential equipment for painting as we won't have a lot of space to set up. Sun hats, water and a snack to keep going.Now that Easter celebrations are mostly over it shouldn't be as busy with people and cars on the streets. adios Donna

New Work and Happy Easter

2011-04-25T14:19:00.000-07:00

Morning San Juan de Dios Church, 11 x 15 w.c. This is one of the few plein airs I completed almost totally on location.There were only 3 of us painting that morning so I was able to spend more time painting.With so many students leaving ,the classes have been getting smaller. I've spent this week finishing up paintings that have been accumulating over the last couple of months. It's been fun catching up so I will be posting more soon.

Flores y Macetas 11 x 11in.watercolor. SOLD I like the combination of Mexican pots with flowers. This came out quite loose.I have an oil version of this almost done.

This is an oil I did of a neighborhood grocery store. 9 x 12 in oil. I love those long afternoon shadows. The watercolor of this same scene follows.

Espinos Tienda a popular grocery store and corner for tacos under the palm tree. 11 x15 in.wc. This is the watercolor version.And the winner is ???? oils or watercolors? You can leave a comment and let me know.

'Se Vende Tortillas' watercolor 11x 15in. A late afternoon scene from Oaxaca. I happened to see this scene from a bus window and luckily had my camera.


At the 'Corner of Mesones and Relox' or (clock street) 12 x 12 oil (Sold) I really enjoy peopling my paintings theses days. In the above pieces I've featured a seller of tortillas.I'm working on a new one with a couple of Mexican guys talking. The hats are killlers.I'm still teaching a watercolor class and oils/acrylic, and 1 Plein air . You can e- mail me for details. Meanwhile keep painting amigos Donna

Monday Morning Plein Air "the Jardin" April 18 2011

2011-04-15T10:35:00.000-07:00

Calle Aparicio with Bouganvillias. This was a project we painted in the studio this week. This house always reminds me of the Crayola crayon boxes our crayons came in! Orange and blue....not the best color scheme but memorable all the same.

Monday morning in the Jardin. 9:30 am. We'll meet on the benches on the shady side of the Jardin across from the Flowers Sellers.We'll have to see how busy it is this Monday, as things are gearing up for Easter locally known as Semana Santa. It should be okay early in the morning. We'll spell around for suitable quarrie! Should be fun.The art classes are shrinking as so many have left and others are making travel plans to Canada and the US in May.
There will be no drawing classes for a couple of weeks but the Tues.& Thursday classes will continue in the morning for now.
It's been hot! In the 90's during the day and cooling off to the mid 70's by morning!Still no rain so the countryside is parched. The beautiful Jacarandas are turning into not so interesting green trees. Oh well there are still some late blooming ones in flower. Saludos Donna

Plein Air Monday April 11 2011 at San Juan de Dios Church 9:30 am

2011-04-07T06:45:00.000-07:00

San Juan de Dios Church this is a great place to paint and people watch. At noon you are inundated with school kids but mornings are nice. Remember sun hat , camera, water,and your paints of course! There are snack stores and vendors near by. Meet on location at 9:30 and pick your spot. Lots of shade there as well. Donna

From San Miguel Viejo and New Plein Air Map for Monday April 4 2011

2011-03-30T15:19:00.000-07:00

Small Plaza in Balcones for plein air April 4th 2011, 9:30 am. Meet on location. Calle Revueltos off Cuesta de San Jose. Big Jaracanda tree and Bouganvillias can't miss! Coming up from the market at foot of Calle Homobono, it then changes to Cuesta de San Jose.Go straight up. About 5 blocks up from the market , there is a shrine at the Montitlan corner and also the Condos Cruz de San Jose, big red building, keep going past that and at the next left -turn onto Revueltos. Go 1 and 1/2 blocks and you will see the small plaza on your left with the beautiful purple tree! It's just coming out in bloom and getting better each day.Bring hats drinking water, snacks and don't forget your camera! Any questions?? send me an e-mail or call my cell 044 415 115 7752 See you there! Donna Dickson painting in paradise!

Th shadows look good moving across the front of this 17th century church.With statue of Padre San Miguel in foreground

Tom Dickson painting in the churchyard as Jim looks on

A tranquil setting , light breeze and inspiring subject matter! Lois, Carmela and Roberta at work.


Heather chose a pastoral scene, fields and farmland against a mountain backdrop! We had a great morning painting and it went by way too fast!

MONDAY Plein Air this coming week

2011-03-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

The Ancient Church and beautiful setting beyond.

San Miguel Viejo this coming Monday. We'll be meeting at 10 am. sharp at the Pila Seca Studio and leaving by car soon after for the old church. Bring along sun hat, drinking water, snack, a stool or chair if you like to work sitting (let me know if you don't have one) and of course your painting kit. Notice the day will be Monday from now on. See you soon, Donna.

Photos from Sunday mar 20 2011

2011-03-21T07:32:00.000-07:00

A challenging roof top scene. Fitting for the first day of spring, even though it has pretty much been summer here for months! 3 of the group working in watercolors plus myself this time, with Les doing oils. Needless to say the paint dried rapidly, even the oils.

Roberta and Les trying to keep in the shade!


A sunny morning from the Terrace ,Yvonne beside me and Lois and Roberta to the right. Les is hidden behind the cuppola.a terrific morning painting followed by Mariu's pizza and salad,on the terrace below. Yumm.... posting soon for next week. i think we'll go over near San Miguel Viejo or the presa.

Sunday Plein Air and Pizza Special! March 20, 2011

2011-03-15T19:13:00.000-07:00

A large jacaranda in bloom

From our rooftop we see several Jacarandas blooming.One very big one towards the Monjas. So Sunday we'll meet on the Terrace above the studio at Pila Seca #1 at 9 am . Pila Seca at the corner of Hernandez Macias. We 'll paint the morning and finish up with some of Mariu's sabrosa PIZZA. Special price 350 pesos for all! If you've already paid for your next class the 50 pesos more buys your delicious lunch. Please let me know if you're planning to come so I can see how many to plan for. I'll include some pics from the roof to wet your appetite so to speak!

Another Jacaranda behind the palms!

Don't forget sunhats and various tubes of Magenta and Violet Paint, We'll have to experiment to get that shade of purple. Just Alizarin red and Ultramarine won't do it! We've noticed the Jacaranda tend to be redder purple in the early light and blue'er violet during the day. saludos Donna

Meet at the Studio, painting 9:00 til 12pm ,then lunch !

Sunday Plein Air From Plaza Civica March 13 2011

2011-03-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

Painting plein air; Lois ,doing watercolors in the foreground and Tom being watched closely,perhaps a little to closely! Bob to the right also doing watercolors today.

A colorful Mexican lady passing through with flowers

Can you pick out Richard doing watercolors in this scene?

Here's a closer look.

Balloons people kids and vendors makes for a wonderful mix!

POZOS too Photos from in TOWN

2011-03-13T15:38:00.001-07:00

At lunch, Hotel Posada de Las Minas a restored residence in Pozos

In town a view of the main church in Pozos

Off to our new site to paint in town

This was the setting of our second Painting. An unfinished Church shell provided shady coolness at mid-day. It was a really fun day trip and we hope to do another plein air trip soon. Hope you enjoyed the pictures. Saludos Donna

From Pozos - the Abandoned Mines March 2nd Plein air

2011-03-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

Long Morning Shadows in the field when we first set up.

The caretaker and herdsmen on the property. Cactus and mesquite in the dry season.

An old mine shaft hidden in the grass near here, was very deep . We counted 7 seconds after a stone was dropped!

Abandoned structure, Pozos.

Mine Managers former residence

Working hard at the mornings scene are from foreground.; Jecka, Karen ,Elaine,Tom Dickson and Tom L.

Helen found shade, and others along the stone wall. After painting we headed for town.

Photos from Sundays Cruz del Pueblo plein air

2011-03-11T05:24:00.000-08:00

Roberta and Lois are doing watercolors, while Donna is working on her demo from Cruz del Pueblo

The vista from Cruz del Pueblo, middle ground lit up, foreground still in shadow

From higher up the view is great, at every level it is interesting We had a wonderful session with Bob, Elaine,Roberta ,Lois and Tom my famoso artist husband. We'll post our paintings from this site next week.

Sunday Plein Air 9:00 am Mar. 13 2011

2011-03-10T05:10:00.000-08:00

Plein Air Site In front of Nuestra Senora de Salud Church 9:00 am

We are meeting at the Plaza Civica this Sunday morning 9:00 am near the Church with the clam shell front. Nuestra Senora de Salud. We will check out spots from there. A possibility will be painting around the corner from there in front of the Market. But we will see. Haven't had time to post but will update with pictures from Pozos and Cruz Del Pueblo.Hope to see you there. Donna

This Sunday Mar. 6th Plein Air Location

2011-03-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

POZOS TRIP March 2nd 2011

2011-02-28T17:30:00.000-08:00

Out in the mining area.

In town, view of Pozos

The plein air trip to Pozos on Wednesday is full. We'll have a busy morning painting out in the mines and ruins area, doing on location sketches. Lunch will be at 2 at the Hotel Posada de las Minas in the downtown area of Pozos.A restored former residence from the end of the 18th century.
We will be eaving from #79 Sollano near Juarez Park at 8am. Should be a memorable experience.Donna

No Plein air this Sunday Feb 27th

2011-02-21T17:46:00.000-08:00

Due to the mid- week trip planned for next week ,we will not be meeting on Sunday this week only. I need to get organized for this trip .Looking forward to our all day of painting! Donna

Sun painters at work

With a little help from friends.

Here are some pics from Sunday in front of he Oratorio. A great warm afternoon!

Plein air at Pozos Wednesday, March 2nd 2011

2011-02-21T17:30:00.000-08:00

Pozos was declared a National Historic Treasure in 1982

ALL DAY PLEIN AIR PAINTING EXCURSION TO POZOS Mines
Wed. March 2, 2011
Leaving San Miguel 8AM (Sharp!) about 1 hour drive north of San Miguel.Returning mid to late afternoon.
$85 U.S. or 1000 pesos 1) INCLUDES TRANSPORTATION to and from POZOS. Leaving from the home of Tom Lips on Sollano #79 near Juarez Park.AT 8 AM . We have a driver Francisco Correa,who knows the area and has a Suburban which will take 7 people. i can take 3 in our car.
**PLEASE BE ON TIME as we want to get to the location as early as possible
2)PLEIN AIR PAINTING INSTRUCTION BY professional artist DONNA DICKSON ,Open to Watercolors, Oils, Acrylics, or Pastels.
3) Morning SNACKS and refreshments are included.
Bring your outdoor Painting equipment,including camera ,folding stool,hat, sunscreen,and water.
FOR THOSE NEW TO PLEIN AIR PAINTING. KEEP IT SIMPLE AND LIGHT. Don't bring every tube of color and brush you own. Just bring what you'll need for the day. be prepared to do a least 1 or 2 paintings.
4)After painting we will have LUNCH(included) at the Hotel de Minas in Pozos before returning to San Miguel.

If you need any further information or advice please call 154 4291 or e mail Donna at donnaleeartist@yahoo.ca or see donnadickson.blogspot.com
Register now as it will fill up fast. Minimum 6.
You must register and drop off deposit by Feb 26th 2011. You can reserve your name by email but drop off payment at Pila Seca #1 at Hernandez Macias, in the inner courtyard, "Dicksons Studio". Open 11 am to 5pm daily or, on teaching days 9:30 to 5pm.

At it's height in the 19th C., Pozos had 70,000 to 80,000 residents!

Hope you can join us ! Donna Dickson

PLEIN AIR Location Sunday, Feb 20th 2011 2pm.

2011-02-16T16:25:00.000-08:00

We'll be meeting in front of the Oratorio Church at 2pm.That's the brightly painted church by the plaza civica. Bring sun hats and a stool if you're sitting to paint. If you need to borrow one come by the studio Saturday. We'll be choosing our scene when get there, walking around , observing and looking at potential secnes. We'll see how busy it is in the plaza. Should be lots to choose from. See you there. Donna

Pics from Sun.'s plein air Next one Feb 20 2011 in front of the Oratorio Church

2011-02-14T17:50:00.000-08:00

A big group today , with lots of room to spread out.


Here is one view from our painting site on Calle Montitlan. a perfect afternoon and a great challenge to paint. Everyone did well ,inspired by the vista.! Next week we'll meet if front of the Oratorio church Sunday afternoon at 2pm.I'll post a map later but it is the red and orange and yellow church just off the Plaza Civica on Calle Insurgente. It's a good location for a variety of scenes. Watch for my next post about a field trip plein air excursion to Pozos, March 2nd. Intersted?? more later Donna

New Plein Air Location Sunday Feb 13th 2011 2 pm to 5pm

2011-02-07T16:32:00.000-08:00

Sundays location for plein air this week will be in Colonia Balcones, on Calle Montitlan above centro, just off Calle Cuesta de San Jose. Turn left on to Montitlan, at the religious alter and Condominiums San Jose de La Cruz at the corner of Cuesta and Montitlan. Go up Montitlan 1 block to the first street and we will meet at that corner. It's a bit of an uphill walk but vale la pena! Once you turn around and look at the view you will see why. If you have any problems finding this location just call me at 154 4291 for more instructions. See you at 2pm Donna

From Sunday 's plein air, Flowers, People and a Brass Band!

2011-02-07T15:33:00.000-08:00

With everyone concentrating maybe we'll get it right! The kids are great.

Deborah's posted these on her blog ,as well as some great photos of San Miguel. You can check her photos here at her blog' Near and Far.' Deborah Ehrens...... http//debehrens.tumblr.com/

A visitor to the Calendaria on Sunday, Deborah Ehrens kindly sent these photos along . I am consulting with Lynn a student ,with a little help from our friends.

Just one of hundreds of flowers on display.

Some of the local people seeking the shade.

The Brass Band struck up and we were bombarded by sound. Unfortunately a little too close for comfort! Melinda's in the foreground trying to ignore the sound. We soon moved off to El Chorro to a peaceful spot by the washstands. Donna

Painting around and in San Miguel this week.

2011-02-07T14:36:00.000-08:00

From San Luis Rey a Saturday market scene. The light really struck me when I first spotted this scene. The goal was to keep it simplified with the big shadow shapes and basic colors before adding the complicated details of the clothing and sale items. I've been very busy this week with new students and friends from last winter returning . Classes are full , but ebb and flow as visitors and students to San Miguel end their stay while new folks are just arriving.


In my oils and acrylics class this week we worked on this colorful storefront ,a stationery store 'El Iris" meaning " the Rainbow' Indeed a rainbow of color with those lilac pink awnings and yellow walls. Donna	.

Pictures and students from last Sundays plein air on Recreo

2011-01-31T14:38:00.000-08:00

Yvonne working in watercolors went for the complete street scene and Sara sketched in pencil.

Tom H. working in watercolors opted for the less complicated but interesting storefront across the street.

Elaine working in oils, loves plein air painting !


Photo of 'The Scene' on Recreo with the San Francisco Church in the background	. a challenge to simplify!

Plein air at Juarez Park Sunday Feb. 6th 2011 2 pm

2011-01-31T14:17:00.000-08:00

Candelaria at Juarez Park... New location for this Sunday's plein air is set in the beautiful spring flower sale at Juarez Park. We will meet at the bandstand and from there find a spot to paint. There's so much color and wonderful displays of flowers it should be a lot of fun.
See you at the bandstand at 2pm.We will be be roaming from there to select our spot so don't be late. Donna

2011-01-26T10:59:00.000-08:00

Location of this Sunday's (Jan 30th) Plein Air Class. - Hope to see you there, 2 o'clock sharp.

I thought you might like to see Tom's work from the last 2 Sunday Plein Air outings.Yes, as you can see, he's one of my more "experienced students." He's been practicing for over 50 years now!


"Barranca Fountain" 12x9in. oil on panel Artist Tom Dickson

"Sunday Afternoon at the Jardin" 9x12in. oil on panel Artist Tom Dickson

Paintings from colorful Colonia Guadalupe of San Miguel

2011-01-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

'Blue Delivery Cart' watercolor 3.5 " x 6.5"

Colorful Street in San Miguel ," Julian Carrillo', Oil 9" x 12"

Morning Light ,Guadalupe watercolor 11" x 15"

We had fun in my art classes this week painting from pictures of a neighborhood of San Miguel called Col. Guadalupe. This is one of my favorite parts of town, as it is home to a wonderful organic fruit and veggie store with attached cafe called .'Via Organica', There's also a great Bakery across the street ,'Panaderia Casanova' and down this same street, (with the hard to pronounce name of Calle Margarita Ledesma), is 'El Pato' ( the Duck), the best art supply store in town. After doing my shopping and starting to walk home, I ran into these wonderful scenes on the adjoining street Julian Carrillo. Immediately it called out to me as "a must paint street!
saludos Donna

Painting on Location Map -Next Sunday plein air Jan 23rd -2 pm

2011-01-17T11:02:00.000-08:00

In the Jardin,, Ice Cream Sunday

Next Painting Location : At the Fountain, corner of Hospicio and Barranca. See you there Jan 23rd 2 pm.

Yesterday we painted in the Jardin ,just to one side of the Parroquia, next to the Ice Cream cart. Being a very busy Sunday, it was hard to paint while being jostled by curious onlookers and crowds of kids and balloons! A great afternoon but we decided that next Sunday we'd paint a little farther from the Jardin in a quieter location on Hospicio, near the fountain at Barranca. I'll post our plein air paintings from the jardin later . They were 90% completed on location but need the odd little touch to finish them up. adios Donna

The times they are a 'changing January new schedule

2011-01-13T17:51:00.000-08:00

We worked on sunset skies this week in watercolors, a challenge to get just the right flow of intense color. the trick is to get your color mixes all worked out first. All your "puddles" pre- mixed and strong enough, more pigment less water in your super saturated colors. Lightly wet the paper and start laying it on with a big brush! No time to be timid, just get it on the page, going from your lightest colors to the darkest, then leave it! This is the important part,don't go back in and mess with it.!! just see what the effect is when it dries and you'll see whether you got your mixes strong enough or not. If it dries light you can correct it accordingly on the next one. It takes some trial and error before you can get the washes just right. Practice makes perfect. This sunset is one from my rooftop terrace.

With so many students returning and new ones joining, my classes are swelling! I've added some extra classes and changed the day for plein air painting to* Sunday afternoon. You can look up on the Art Student link to see the new schedule.
Briefly 2 classes of watercolors on Tuesdays...9:30 to 12:30 and 2:00 to 5:00pm
Thursday am 9:30 to 12:30 oils /acrylics,
Friday am 9:30 to 12:30 oils/acrylics ... and Friday 2 to 4pm.- A new Drawing class. 2 hours. Learning about 3 D form , correct proportions....perspective , line and tonal values.
*Sunday afternoon plein air 1:30 to 4:30pm

PLEIN AIR Sunday JAN 16th, 1:30 to 4:30pm. We will be meeting in front of the Parroquia in the Jardin this week and choosing our scene from there. All are welcome, you can use watercolors, oils or acrylics. See you there! Donna.

Re: From San Miguel the last of this years paintings Dec. 30th 2010

2010-12-30T09:03:00.000-08:00

Afternoon on Codo 9 "x 12" oil . What fun when I discovered Lucia painting me in her scene from further back!

Here I've captured Lucia on film talking with my students.

Lucia working on the watercolor of me on Codo


'Morning on Relox' oil /canvas 20" x 24"

As promised a week or so ago . I'll include some of the pictures and paintings from plein air on Codo. It's been busy around here and lots of arrivals from the great white north. Unfortunately a nasty cold is making it's rounds too. I've just caught the "bug" so had to cancel my full class of oil painting this morning! I've been taking Bee propolis and Vit C and assorted old fashioned remedies so hopefully by next week I should be 'Buzzing' around again and in the pink! I've had a little time over Christmas to finish up some paintings I've been working on, and have them ready to post. I was especially pleased to finish up a larger one done on Relox. Next week back to some watercolors as they've been selling well lately from Galeria Izamal. I'll also post a picture of one of Tom's new paintings from near San Juan de Dios Market along with our sketches from there.
Happy New Year, Feliz Ano Nuevo for 2011! Thanks for viewing my work. saludos Donna

Sunny pre- Christmas week in San Miguel

2010-12-20T12:56:00.000-08:00

It's been a very busy week here. This week- end Friday Dec 17th began with an Art walk for the Mesones area. We were represented at Galeria Izamal on Mesones,all decorated for Christmas,where Henry's known for his artwork but more importantly for his famous cream cheese and chutney at opening parties! Lots of good food and drink and of course great Art!
The next night, Sat. the 18th we kicked off the Pila Seca /Zacateros " Puertas Abiertas "Christmas walk. With the studio gallery on Pila Seca #1 we had a very lively fiesta in our courtyard , shared with 7th Heaven a clothing and jewelry boutique and 2 new cafe's. A young group of musicians kept everything hopping. Lots of good eats and a roving Santa and naughty elves! We raffled off one our new art prints, and every one wanted to win. The winner was Elenita Duelo and she can't wait to pick out her print.
Needless to say painting has taken a bit of a back seat while we've been preparing for all, but next week we should be back to work.
Tomorrow's watercolor class in the morning 9:30 til 12:30 will be fun and then we'll take a break for Christmas. No oil class on Thursday.
All classes are on for next week. I'll try to post some photos soon. Donna

Another week in sunny San Miguel

2010-12-13T14:57:00.000-08:00

Last week we painted on a very short street called Codo (''elbow'' in English). While Martha Stewart was visiting San Miguel taking pictures of our glorious town,we were out painting the color and light! Much more challenging. Luckily for us, the street was blocked off to traffic as the workman were working on the flagstones digging them up once again. Sounds of the streets; chip chip chip! While we were painting, another artist from Massachusetts joined us with her watercolors. Much to my amazement I found myself depicted in her painting! She has a very delicate touch with watercolors Lucia de Leiris.I'll post a couple of pics later.A great afternoon painting ,lots of warm colors and late afternoon sun. Next Tues. afternoon we'll paint from the shady side of the Bellas Artes and see what we can do there.

For the festive season Galeria Izamal, the gallery we are a part of is organizing a Christmas Art Walk in the Mesones are, Friday night Dec 17th 5 til 8pm. Lots of goodies, refreshments ,good cheer and of course wonderful art work on display! Hope you can make it.
Photos coming, Thanks for visiting my site. Donna

A Couple of Wide Angle Shots of my new Studio

2010-12-07T14:19:00.000-08:00

Tom took these two photos of the new studio this afternoon with his super Canon wide-angle camera. He should have been down here this morning when the class was on to add a little human interest but it does give a hint as to how this old Colonial era room looks in reality. The walls are over 2 feet thick and 350 years old! - as is the boveda ceiling and cupula above. It's like stepping way back in time.

Painting in the studio and Plein Air Dec. 2010

2010-12-06T15:01:00.000-08:00

Our newest member , a bright and attentive one called 'Charlie', was eager to join the fun! She had heard that oils and acrylics were easier then watercolors so she thought she would try it out!


Some students prefer the studio setting.	Pat ,Yvonne, Maureen and Beth are involved in watercolors this morning.


Eileen and John found some shade to paint from , near the Market working in oils én plein air.The kids and folks in the area were intrigued with our painting.A couple of young girls tried out their English shyly and told me their names.New students to outdoor painting usually feel a bit uneasy about being in the public eye. But here in Mexico there are always warm smiles, and positive comments from the viewers.They really seem to appreciate that you like their town o neighborhood enough to want to paint it. Que bonita! Donna

Donnas New Plein Air Paintings Dec 6th 2010

2010-12-06T14:32:00.000-08:00

Colors of Mexico 9''x 12''oil off the Jardin in San Miguel


Near the Market San Juan de Dios, 9"x 12"oil Sold These new paintings done in the last 2 weeks are taking advantage of the glorious, last of fall warm sunny days. Today it's just a bit cooler and not reaching the mid 70's and 80's of the last month. In this one near the market I kept the areas fairly simple going for the biggest shapes, but felt the people were necessary for this subject . It looked a bit forlorn and deserted without them. It was a quiet time of day during siesta so has that lazy afternoon look. In ''Colors of Mexico," it was a bright colorful morning and we worked from the relative comfort of the park benches in front of this scene.The trick was catching the shadows and that particular color of the shadows on yellow. Sort of greenish but warm yellow gray! It has to have a certain amount of intensity to work. saludos Donna

PLEIN AIR CLASS San Juan de Dios market ,Calle Guadalupe

2010-11-29T12:28:00.000-08:00


plein air class will be meeti		ng here,Tues. Nov 30th 2 pm.

El Tropico, Ice cream and fruit drinks at the market

Guy's stuff at the market

Herbal shop, natural remedies.
Only a very small sampling of the many interesting stands. Tom and I took some time Sunday to walk around the Market, finding some wonderful places and colorful shops to paint.
The plein air class will be meeting in front of these shops on Calle Guadalupe at the corner of Ignacio Allende....in front of the bright RED , white and yellow Pollo Feliz outlet. From there we'll walk around and pick out our painting spot. Nov 30th Tuesday afternoon. 2 til 5 . We'll probably be on the shady side of the street but you should bring a hat just in case you find that your spot is in the sun. Hope you can make it. I'll post some plein air paintings from this area next time. Until then happy painting, Donna

Great Students Work

2010-11-22T16:52:00.000-08:00

I thought it was time to showcase the wonderful students I am lucky enough to paint with. They are really doing well and this is a very small sampling of what they've been doing. Yvonne is a watercolor enthusiast who loves to paint, paint, paint! Leslie and Karen had adamantly given up on watercolors until we pulled this project out of the hat. So they're going to give it another chance .They and Gary are dedicated oil painters,and are really improving in all directions in their work. Each level has it's challenges, but keeping with it is the key. As Robert Genn says on his site "go to your room and put paint on canvas!" Check out thepainterskeys.com lots of interesting info. there and twice weekly newsletters all about art.

Thanks for now Donna


A Watercolor class that captured the interest of some of the oil painting students!

Yvonne on the left with Great Blue Heron ,Leslie and Karen with Egrets.

Gary's Manadarinas. You can almost taste the fruit. A challenging subject Gary did on his own.

Leslie's roof top vista. Good patterns leading to the church .


Karens colorful roof top view Great work . Good contrast.

Plein air oils in San Miguel November 15th 2010

2010-11-15T12:23:00.000-08:00

Bajando El Chorro 9 x 12 in. oil

Lately we've had great sunny weather and it's been fun to get some on the spot sketching in. This I sketched in pencil while waiting for my group to arrive. The actual oil was done in the studio with reference photos as a class project It was tricky to get the depth and distance, but by graying and cooling the background I finally got it to fall back.El Chorro is the area of San Miguel that was settled first, and leads down into Juarez Park.The El Chorro is now a cultural center for the arts.


Botanas in front of San Juan De Dios Church 9 x 12 in. Oil Now this one was truly a challenge to paint! As luck would have it, about 15 minutes into the painting 2 of the 3 carts pulled away!! Groan! Luckily my students and I had done a thumbnail sketch first.It reminds me of our painting on the east coast of Canada, in Nova Scotia. Tom and I would be painting boats in a harbour and happily into the painting when the fisherman would arrive and leave in their boats!Subject matter gone!There was no way to predict which ones would leave. Some of the fisherman actually felt sorry for us!. There are 3 schools in this area where morning and noon hundreds of kids and parents pour through the San Juan de Dios church yard. Thus the many vendors and their colorful carts full of snacks!(Botanas)

'' Distant View" 9 x 12 in. oil
This was done a couple of weeks ago, from my roof top terrace. I did it in watercolor first, but wanted to try it in oils too.See Plein air Oct 27th,for watercolor view. In this one I zoomed in on a small area of the vista, looking towards neighbouring Colonia San Antonio. The colorful patterns of the houses and the church in the morning light is what attracted me to this scene. Some of my students did well with this one too. I'll try to post some of their work as well.

Thanks for now, Adios Donna

plein air trip cancelled

2010-11-08T12:31:00.000-08:00

Our planned trip to Tierra Blanca has been postponed for now due to the cold temperatures in the morning. A week ago it would have been great but now with overnight temps just above 0; it's too cold to plan on a plein air painting session. Afternoons are okay but we'll stay around town for now. Day time temps are sunny and 75 or78 F.. but it cools down as soon as the sun sets.The good news is the studio with 2 foot thick walls stays warm retaining the heat from the sunny afternoons.
Our next plein air will be in front of the San Juan de Dios Market in the afternoon. We'll meet in front of the San Juan de Dios Church at 2 pm and go from there to the market. It's a colorful neighborhood and one we haven't painted much so far. I'll post some of our recent work in a few days and add some photos from the market. Bye for now. Donna

Celebrating 'The Day of the Dead ' in San Miguel, Mexico, Nov. 1st 2010

2010-11-01T15:59:00.000-07:00

People viewing the altars

In front of the Parrochia and the Clock tower

One of the Altars

Late Afternoon Sun

A big celebration this week end, for the ' Day of the Dead '. Many Foreigners and Mexican visitors. Colorfully decorated altars honoring loved ones. At Galeria Izamal where we are presently showcasing some of our paintings ,we had a well attended opening Friday night with the gallery decorated with bright orange marigolds , and colored cut out papers in the Day of the Dead theme.
Despite the title it is a very festive and happy family celebration.
I just passed by the Jardin where there are altar displays completely surrounding the park.I got some nice photos which I will add to this post.
The new studio is looking good with a new brass lantern hanging from the high boveda ceiling. For cloudy days (which we've seen very few of ) we'll have light!

NOV. 2nd Tuesday , In the studio,we'll focus on loosening up our watercolors. I'll be demonstrating some wet on wet techniques.

Nov.3rd NO PLEIN AIR ,class.
are planning on an out of town, painting session for next Wed. Nov.10th. 2010I
We will leave early as it is about 1 hours drive from San Miguel.( North East) at a place near San Luis de la Paz. If we want to catch the morning light we'll have to get there early.We will take snacks and plan to have a noon lunch at a wonderful look off view, a restaurant called El Salto. We will be painting very near by.If there is enough interest we could do an afternoon painting as well. The valley opens up below you and it's is almost like being in the air.Let me know if you would like to join us for this adventure. Incidently they have paragliding from this location so you could really be in the air! More about this shortly. meeting place ,exact location ,time and carpooling etc. Should be fun!

THURSDAY NOV 4th ..In the studio; we will continue with oils and how to get the effects of light and shade, really filling our paintings with light.
Adios from festive San Miguel, Donna

Plein air Wed.Oct 27th 2010

2010-10-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

Just a note to post next Wednesdays Plein air. Oct 27th. We'll be meeting in front of the Parrochia again. 9:30 am and we'll seek out spots from there.If you arrive a little late just circulate around a bit we won't be far from there. Feel free to work in oils or watercolors.The weather has been so fine these last few weeks and it's supposed to continue. It may be a bit cool at first but will warm up. Don't forget hats! and camera too, for reference photos. See you there, Donna

More paintings from new studio

2010-10-25T08:24:00.000-07:00

SHADOWS IN THE CALLE
watercolor 11 x 15 in.
I met this old woman on one of the amazing back streets in San Miguel.She was carrying heavy bags of a vegetable called Chayote that she had just picked.

BACK FROM THE MARKET
watercolor 11 x 15in.
This was a fun painting to do as I had actually returned from the organic market with my flowers and vegetables and saw the potential for this painting while unlocking the door.

New Studio

2010-10-25T08:01:00.000-07:00

SCHOOL BREAK ON SOLLANO
watercolor 15 x 20 in.
Oct plein air

ROOF TOP VISTA
watercolor 11 x 15 in.
Plein air from new studio

Haven't posted for awhile as we've been busy moving ,and moving from one studio to the next. At last we have found the "perfect" location encompassing all that we need in a historic San Miguel home in centro.A great studio space with very high boveda ceiling for teaching and painting for me , another studio with great views of the Parrochia for Tom. A great living space wrapped around an inner courtyard,and a fabulous terrace view where we spend much time watching sunsets and birds and all. Last night we saw an owl!
my students have been happy with the new studio as well and we've had a couple of plein air sessions from the terrace. I'll post some pictures of what we've been doing as well as some studio paintings. i'll try to get some oils on for next post. saludos Donna

PLEIN AIR CLASS Location for Oct. 13th. (in front of the Parroquia, 9:30 A.M.)

2010-10-08T14:32:00.000-07:00

Plein Air Class Wednesday October 6, 9:30 a.m. Sollano and Correo

2010-10-05T16:19:00.000-07:00

Wed. Sept. 22 location for PLEIN AIR CLASS 9:30 am. San Antonio Church. See you there, Donna.

2010-09-22T00:35:00.000-07:00

Watercolors vs .Oils new work.

2010-09-04T10:31:00.000-07:00

Yvonne showing her masterpiece plein air, Pat, Marina and Raisa Sept 1st 2010

'Early Morning Cuna de Allende 'oil on panel 8 x 8in Donna Dickson

'Morning Cuna de Allende '11 x 15 in w.c. Donna Dickson

'Along Ancha de San Antonio' 11 x 15 in w.c. Donna Dickson

'Afternoon Shadows on Canal '11 x 15in. w.c. Donna Dickson

I've had a busy week doing watercolors, and oils .So much to paint. My plein air group had a fantastic sunny morning on one of the oldest streets in San Miguel . The shadows were interesting but a challenge to capture quickly before they changed. I usually advise doing a quick black and white value sketch to pin down the lights and darks. My watercolor from that morning is called "Morning Cuna de Allende" featured here above. The next day we did the same scene in oils called "Early morning Cuna de Allende" . You can choose which one you prefer! adios for now Donna.

A new 18x24 in. oil

2010-08-21T12:15:00.001-07:00


Oh those greens!! Carla, Joan , Teresa, and Leslie almost hidden,plein air afternoon.

At the Ranch

Fleeting shadows!

'King of the Roost'.oil/canvas 18"x24"

I just finished this one and I like the composition a lot. It's nice to work a little larger,I enjoyed the process.This was a fun subject we encountered on our way to San Miguel Viejo for a mornings plein air session.Everyone was thrilled with the Rooster adding a surprise touch to the scene.Last Wed. we had a chance to paint plein air out at the Reicker horse ranch. It was particularly challenging trying to catch those fleeting effects of sun and shade on the distant mountains.I'll post a picture or 2 from that afternoon.

2010-08-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

Just learning about this process

2010-08-14T13:21:00.000-07:00

" Still Life with Hearts " oil on panel 6 x 8 ins. Donna Dickson

As this is all new to me , I'm going slowly. I couldn't seem to put a comment on my last post so I'm starting the process again. Now I know what it's like to be a beginner painter again! I'm sure my students will love to see this. So here's another image for today. I love doing these small still life pictures with found objects. Hope you enjoy them . Donna

Some of Donna Dickson's Recent Work

2010-08-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

Quiet Interlude 12x12 ins. oil on panel Donna Dickson

Morning Calle Recreo oil on panel 14x18ins. Donna Dickson


Callejon Blanco watercolor 15x11ins. Donna Dickson