annie wildey - Blog Feed

The Art of the Crawl

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 16:19:46 GMT

Yep, Westerly has a First Friday Art Crawl!

Join us for First Friday Westerly Art Crawl. EIGHT art spots to visit. Galleries, artist studios even a museum!.

The Artists Cooperative Gallery - ACGOW will be opening their 28th Regional Art Exhibition and the Westerly High School seniors show is on view at The United Theater.

AiR Studio Gallery will be showing work by Providence Artist Sumo Bunni, paintings by Dan Welden renowned artist and master printmaker along with a selection of photographs and paintings by AiR co-owners Annie Wildey and Michael Fanelli.

Westerly Camera & Darkroom will have a cool exhibition by local photographer Steven Morse.

The Space has a pop-up of local creative vendors.

Artists Alicia Piccolo, Heather Doherty, Kevin Gilmore, Antonio Forte and Red Couch Studio offer a rare peek into their studios and...

...the Living Shark Museum offer an opportunity to get up close and learn more about these intriguing ocean dwellers.

Keep your eyes peeled for this art stop sign in windows.

But we will also have pocket size maps available at each venue so you wont miss a stop!

Hope to see you Friday!

Spring Back - A Fairytale

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 23:18:42 GMT

Art is a Fairytale

Fairytale by Shari Weschler.

Fairytale by Shari Weschler is one of the paintings on view this month at AiR studio Gallery.

Autobiographical, Shari taps into her dreams for messengers and guides to be the protagonists in her work. Helping her to process emotional energy. Rabbits and hares appear often.

Unselfconscious and unapologetic. In Fairytale, Shari let’s rip on the canvas like a whirling dervish using both hands, working with paint as a vehicle to purge emotion as her imagery reveals itself. Emerging from the distance, breaking through the layers and veils of paint.

We can see just enough to offer a hint at a narrative. But can’t be sure.

Could it be a nod to Empress Catherina who was known for her passion for birds of prey and a famous Women falconer. Or the goddess Circe who was associated with hawks. An old world vulture, and believed to be descended from the griffin, the guardian of the mysteries of life & death.

It isn’t clear who Shari might have conjured up from mythology and our collective unconscious, or what the message is. But we are invited to speculate and perhaps craft a contemporary fairytale of our own - what do you see?

Fairytale
48x48in
Acrylic MM on canvas
$6200

Buy Fairytale

Fairytale by Shari is on view in the show Spring Back at AiR Studio Gallery this month - pop in and see it - Thurs-Sun 1-6pm and by appointment.

Good Morning from Vermont

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 19:46:29 GMT

Hope you are enjoying a relaxing Sunday morning.

I took a quick trip up to Stowe, Vermont for the weekend. There was the Milky Way to see in the crisp clear night sky, and a blanket of frost on the ground, with a beautiful glowing mountain at sunrise.

Seasons 2023 Calendars are here

Pre-order your calendar by Tuesday Nov 1st
Calendars will ship Dec 1st - free shipping within the US
Order 3 or more and receive a pack of wave cards

Gift a loved one an ocean view throughout the year!

Hold on to Summer
Seeing the first blanket of frost on the ground makes summer seem so far away. Paintings can help us hold on to our summer memories until it comes around again next year.

New Day After the Storm captures the energy of the ocean after a storm, when the waves are still high and the sun shines in the blue sky.

Wake up to a reminder of that exhilarating and refreshing feeling at the shore!.

Exhibition Tour

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 22:52:28 GMT

Making Waves at The United Theatre

Thanks to all of you that were able to come see the exhibition at the United theatre. It was lovely to connect with you! For those of you that couldn't make it Join me on a virtual tour below.
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View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Annie Wildey she/her (@anniewildey)

Size matters...

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 18:06:28 GMT

...When it comes to art!

As an artist when I finally get to see my paintings hung in a gallery it signifies the culmination of a creative journey. It really is a treat. But ideally it's not the end of the road for a painting. The final destination is when it connects with a special collector, and finds it's forever home ;-).

Sometimes it can be difficult to envision what a painting might look like at home.

In a gallery with lots of space, high ceilings and no furniture the size of a painting can be very deceptive.

That's where I can help,
by removing all the guess work for you!

Did you know? if you send me a photo of your room, with the wall dimensions, I can provide you with a mock up. You'll get to see what a painting looks like in your home, and decide if it's too big, too small or just right.

Shown here on the left A Kind of Fog at Weekapaug, 24x24in, works quite well hung off center, anchored by the bedside table and lamp. If it were placed dead center if would feel a little lost.

On the right Morning Mist at Weekapaug, 56x64in, might at first seem too big, but it can give the illusion of looking out of a big picture window at the morning fog, and who wouldn't like to wake up to that.

When it comes down to it though, It's really a matter of personal preference. After all it's your home ;-)

If you've seen a painting you like, but can't imagine it in your home, reach out I'll be happy to help.

Did you know? I do commissions which are a wonderful way to get exactly what you want. Rising Tide I & II above are examples of very similar paintings that differ in scale. If you have a painting of mine that you like but the scale or orientation needed for your space. drop me an email and let's chat. All the details for a commission painting can also be found here.

Did you know? It's quite common for artists to allow collectors to pay over time. I offer clients the convenience to pay over 2-4 installments, don't hesitate to ask.

Did you know? September is my favorite month. The beaches are empty, the humidity drops, there's a chill in the night air, but the days are still sunny and crisp. I hope to do some plein air painting at the shore this month.

View paintings from the Exhibition Making Waves

It's Almost a Wrap

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 18:37:51 GMT

Making Waves Exhibition

There are a few more days to see the show, which closes 4pm Sunday, Sept 4th. I'll be painting right up until then ;-).

Many of you attended the reception which has been the highlight of the residency and I so appreciate the support. Enjoy the photo gallery below.

Making Waves Reception Photo Gallery

What can I say I've had a blast and I'm so grateful to so many, especially the team at the United Theatre…

Thanks to Tony Nunes for saying yes to an exhibition and residency, trusting me to splash paint around in this beautiful new gallery space.

Thanks to Bess Gaby for facilitating and getting the word out about the show. Thanks to Greg Moran and the rest of the United team for being super helpful and friendly ….What a crew!

Artists usually do residencies that are further away from home, but the United couldn’t be any closer for me. Infact, you might have spotted me walking a very large unfinished painting down the high street, in the midday sun. Call me crazy!

And although I could walk home for lunch, I have to admit to indulging in one or two medium sized popcorns instead!

The paintings are also close to home, inspired by the Weekapaug shoreline. The coastal landscape never gets old for me, it’s always changing with the weather, from sunshine to storm clouds, which is reflected in the paintings that can be viewed online

I’ve enjoyed interacting with visitors, seeing their response to the work, hearing about their connection to the area or love of the sea, and chatting about my process, and life in general.

.
Thanks also to Chris Ligouri of Yogastha Living for leading a special yoga class in the gallery surrounded by my coastal paintings. It was beach yoga without getting sand in your toes! Chris very kindly donated proceeds to The United

Thanks to Michael Fanelli for his creative eye, and patience helping me document the experience. Thanks to the Cafe for featuring my paintings in the restaurant. and to dear friends for their support, you know who you are ;-).

I've made new friends and collectors, stretched myself creatively, and have some very special memories, highlights of which are captured in this short video.

My Heart is full!

View the exhibition online

Making Waves Exhibition Closes
Sunday Sept 4th at 4pm.

The United Theatre, 7 Canal Street Westerly, RI

Making Waves Exhibition & Residency

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 22:19:51 GMT

A snap shot of a wonderful few weeks

A huge thank you to the United Theater for the opportunity to exhibit my paintings and share my creative process with the communtiy. It's been a fun adventure!

View the exhibition online here

It's Showtime!

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 16:56:35 GMT

Getting ready for Friday's reception where I'll be showcasing new work painted during the residency and exhibition.

Light refreshments will be served, a perfect to start to a pre-dinner or pre-movie Friday night!

Hope you can join me?
Friday, August 26, 6-8pm
at The United Theatre Gallery,
5 Canal Street , Westerly, RI 02891

It has been really enjoyable painting in the gallery, interacting with visitors, sharing my process, and answering lots of questions.

The exhibition itself has been evolving as I add new work, building it as I go along, I've had a lot of fun creating new pieces in response to what is already hung, available wall space, and following my intuition, which has led to this latest piece Retreating Tide (shown below) which is looser and more gestural than others in the exhibition.

You can view paintings in the evolving exhibition online, but there is nothing like seeing the work in person ;-)

View exhibition online

A United Exclusive

As an exhibition exclusive I'll be painting some 'United Mini Waves' available at a special price, framed and ready to hang. So if you fancy one don't hesitate ;-).

View Minis

Have a great Summer!

A tasty pop up

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 15:18:45 GMT

What a fun night popping up in the 'Boro' to celebrate the opening of Cove Ledge in it's new location on Water Street. So many of you stopped by to taste new wines, listen to some live music and browse a selection of my paintings and prints.

Here are some photos by Michael Fanelli, that capture a little of the evening. Maybe you will spot yourself having some fun!

And the winner of the print giveaway is Lisa Nicholas. Congratulations!

A selection of work can be be viewed by appointment at the Studio in Westerly.
Please drop me an email to arrange, or view available paintings here

Click me if you are Curious

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 20:12:14 GMT

Hello there

I hope 2022 has eased it's way in for you. January usually starts off slow as I reflect on the past year and start to plan ahead. Winter walks at the beach are good for day dreaming and we have had a couple of cold days bringing with it snow and ice.

Creativity hasn't completely been sacrificed this month to planning, I did finish and ship this wave painting off to its new owners in Wisconsin. It arrived safely and they are so excited to hang it. Happy collectors put a big smile on my face for sure! Winslow seem to approve too!

Have you thoughts about a commission? You can read about the process here.

Want to see how I'm starting mornings in the studio?

Hope you get to enjoy a winter walk - wrap up warm!

Let me introduce myself

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 20:00:04 GMT

Hi there, wanted to take a moment to say hello. I'm Annie: a painter, printmaker and a Brit who lives in the US. For many years I lived in New York City and worked in Economic Development for the British Government, despite having studied art and design 🤣. But I took the plunge to pursue art full time when I turned 40. The next few years i freelanced and studied an MFA in painting, at the New York Academy of Art, a post graduate fellowship and a 2 year artist residency on the east end of long Island. It was here where my interest in painting water really blossomed. My next move took me across the sound to Mystic CT and eventually to the Ocean State of Rhode Island where I live with Winslow my studio cat!

As an artist I enjoy working in many mediums, and a wide range of subjects which include urban, rural and coastal landscapes along with the figure. Right now I spend most of my time working in oils, I love the buttery quality of paint, pushing and pulling it around a canvas. As a printmaker I also love the spontaneity and directness of monotype. I find both mediums provide an opportunity to explore and expand my technical vocabulary. Switching between disciplines keeps things fresh. I think the magic happens in the space between control and freedom, so I’m always open to finding new ways to make marks, but I do love a nice palette knife to work with.

I was recently asked what art has taught me, I replied:
To be an observer of my inner and outer world, be still, look, listen, feel.
Embrace the process, enjoy and welcome little accidents.
Let go of expectations, and go with the flow.
And of course to enjoy my own company ;-)

When I’m not in the studio you’ll probably find me whipping up something creative in the kitchen for dinners with friends. I’m pretty handy around the house so will tackle light woodworking projects and DIY! I can easily get consumed in digital creative play with the Adobe Creative Suite!.

This pandemic year also got me exploring the art of book making, poetry and knitting! Otherwise I can be found exploring new shoreline walks, or enjoying galleries, movies and live music.

Bold and Colorful Big Little Skies

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 19:28:36 GMT

Bold and Colorful

Bigger Big Little Skies
Prints are all custom made to order and are available in 5 sizes
from 11x14in up to 30x36in

Four images to choose from that look great in a clean crisp white frame,
but you could have fun and choose a complimentary color!

Size Matters

Several size for you to choose from depending on the space you have in mind or your budget. There's hopefully something for everyone ;-)

Shop the Collection Here

Bask in the glow of a glorious sunset every night from the comfort of your sofa!

Something Big is Coming

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 19:11:57 GMT

Big Little Skies have gotten bigger!

Intimate paintings that pack a big punch of color
and drama are now BIG PRINTS!

I'm also offering a special treat for you, while supplies last.
so be sure to check your inbox

Shop the Collection here

Mark Your Calendars

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 19:07:16 GMT

Last Chance to Ring in a New Year

with my SEASONS 2022 calendar
I'd hate for you to miss out.

last day to Pre-order today Sunday, November 21st.
Calendars will shipped December 1st.

I'm printing a limited supply of calendars based on orders received. So please don't hesitate to order yours.

Ordering multiple calendars?
Great! I'll include a complimentary pack of wave notecards. with orders of 3 or more calendars .

I'm also offering free shipping within the Continental US for the holidays.
A shipping fee for overseas orders will be added at checkout.

These make perfect gifts for friends and neighbors, teachers and colleagues, clients and family members. Just about anyone who loves the sea...
...and who doesn't love the sea?

Lets Celebrate

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 18:46:43 GMT

Hi There, I'm sitting in the studio as our first Nor'easter of the season rolls in. I actually love this season of sweaters, hearty soups, earlier sunsets and cozy nights at home.

I'm busy working on the final design for my 2022 SEASONS calendar which will be available for pre-order beginning of November, so keep an eye on your inbox for details coming soon. In the meantime...

...I'm excited to share that my Coastal Portfolio of etchings was featured on theEmily Henderson blog. For those of you that don't know her, she is a well known international stylist and writer.

I'm chuffed (as we brits say) for the shout out and exposure ;-) so I'm sharing a special offer with you guys, be sure to scroll down!

Low Tide Etching, by Annie Wildey

EH Stylist, Eric Staalberg's article is packed with design and styling tips. Eric knows the power of Art in a home, which he describes as the third layer that gives a place soul. You can read the article here and be sure to check out the listing of featured artists. Two of my favs are also friends - Atwater Designs and Christina Flowers,

Now through the end of October I'm offering 20% off
The Coastal Etchings Portfolio.

Use promo code EMILYLOVE

View The Collection

Nostalgia - Big Little Skies

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 22:34:36 GMT

New Big Little Skies - Nostalgia
NEW Intimate paintings that pack a big punch of color and drama
at Coastal Contemporary Gallery Newport RI

Candy Floss Clouds III

Candy Floss Clouds III Is a favorite of mine from this new work. It has really been fun to paint so freely with thick juicy oil paint. This series have all been painted in one short session, wet on wet, no going back into it later or fussing. just let it be what it was in the moment I painted it.

luscious, juicy, and buttery textured paintings that feel fresh and alive!

Twilight Storm, 8x10in

Twilight Storm is a composition in shades of blue. Painted from my reference photos taken during an evening beach walk early July. A dramatic sky makes painting such a joyful and exciting process, as I interpret the clouds to express the mood and the memory of that moment. Whilst also bringing something new, accidental, intuitive to the work.

Going Live

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 19:17:31 GMT

Painting Live at Coastal Contemporary Gallery

This past weekend, I brought my studio on the road and painted live at Coastal Contemporary Gallery demonstrating my process with the Big Little Skies series.

These intimate paintings have been so much fun to paint. Using an alla prima approach, I work quickly letting go of accurately rendering the view in favor of capturing the energy and essence of the scene. Laying down paint with speed and confidence, honoring the integrity of the mark. Creating a seductive surface of luscious, juicy, and buttery textures that feel fresh and alive.

Thanks to all the lovely folks that dropped by. You might just see your cameo appearance in the video below!

Katherine and her daughter stopped by to say hi with some fresh strawberries, They were sailing from Sandwich back to Darien and stopped in Newport!

Many of you may know this but get me within 2 feet of paint and I'm a magnet!. No sooner had I laid out my oils, than I got a big clump of Cadmium Yellow in my hair,!, I decided to work it!

I made three paintings in total over the two days, The first was a colorful rainbow sky. It was Pride weekend after all ;-)

Newport Live I - Rainbow Pride Sky, 8x8in Oil on Canvas SOLD

On Sunday I was able to make two paintings and captured my process for both in this timelapse video. I hope you enjoy watching!

You can see the textures and gestures of the two Sunday paintings up close below.
These are available for sale.

Newport Live II - Telegraph Sky, 8x8in Oil on Panel $550 - email me to purchase

Newport Live III - Setting Sun, 8x8in Oil on Panel $550 - email me to purchase

Thanks to Shari at Coastal Contemporary Gallery for hosting the event

You can view other paintings from this series here

Big Little Skies

Tue, 11 May 2021 17:40:14 GMT

Big Little Skies

Intimate paintings that pack a big punch of color and drama

These intimate paintings represent a little of the beauty experienced and captured on my i-phone this past year. Glowing skies seen from my window or walks along the beach. These moments of awe were welcome daily highlights during a time of uncertainty and isolation. A reminder that as each day passes there is an abundance of beauty to be found.

As I was scrolling through my camera roll, I noticed some resistance to look back on this past year. It has flown by whilst simultaneously feeling like slo-mo. I began 2020 in transition. Newly separated, I consolidated my home and studio in Westerly, a neighboring coastal town, in a new state, Rhode Island. After a successful studio moving sale I spent February unpacking boxes and settling in. Then the pandemic hit! and everything became unsettled again.

I rescueded a stray cat that had been roaming around my building and 'Winslow' became a much loved companion. I'm not sure who rescued who!

Much of 2020 felt like a blur and the only real documentation of that time is my cameral roll, looking back I was reminded me of what a beautiful place I live in. The pandemic also provided an opportunity and permission to withdraw, regroup and rebuild.

Fast forward to spring of 2021. I was in a bit of a creative funk. So I decided to get back to basics working with the three primary colors. I took some small panels I had lying around and began to make a few paintings from my cameral roll with the intention of creative play. These panels happened to be the same aspect ratio as my I-phone. Hmmmm? I thought, that's interesting perhaps this could be a whole series. I needed more panels this size and they were hard to come by due to supply issues, so I let go of that restriction and worked in other sizes.

I’ve had so much fun painting them whilst also stepping out of my comfort zone, simplifying my palette, but expanding the range of colors mixed. Using an Alla Prima approach, I worked quickly letting go of accurately rendering the view in favor of capturing the energy and movement of the scene. Laying down paint with speed and confidence, honoring the integrity of the mark. This creates a seductive surface of luscious, juicy, and buttery textures that feel fresh and alive. They almost look edible!

Take a Closer Look at Through the Trees

Set in a silver wood float frame, they feel like precious jewels, heirlooms to collect and treasure. I hope you enjoy them.

"In this new series of miniature explorations, Annie employs heaps of energy and buttery oil paint. She uses a palette knife as the vehicle—driving color and texture—whipping an intimate moment into what would appear to have been executed on a massive scale. No easy feat." - Shari Weschler, Coastal Contemporary Gallery

color and drama with luscious painted surfaces

You can view the collection here

February love

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 22:48:32 GMT

How do you keep the winter blues away ?

How have you been keeping the winter blues away?
I'm sure I'm not the only one binging online shows, this winter! Two of my faves have been The Repair Shop and Blown Away. Two little gems where creativity and craftsmanship shine. check them out ;-).

Talking of being blown away, Amanda Gorman's inaugural poem The Hill We Climb, did just that. What a talented young poet. The poem is now available as a collectible gift edition, from Penguin Random House. Here you can also watch her read her poem Earth Rise about Climate Change written in 2018.

and...

We were hit with a big Nor'easter the first two days of February. So I got busy in the kitchen and made a big pot of Indian Mulligatawny Soup and watched the snow storm. I've never made this soup before but it was super easy and I loved it! Here's the recipe, I added chicken and spinach.

Indian Mulligatawny Soup

Indian Mulligatawny SoupThis fragrant Indian Mulligatawny Soup is spiced with curry and made from creamy red lentils, carrots, apples, and coconut milk. Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers!

This recipe is from the Wanderlustkitchen

Ingredients

1/4 cup butter (or olive oil for vegan)
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 carrot, peeled and diced
1 red jalapeno, seeded and diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons peeled and minced ginger root
2 small firm apples, peeled, cored and diced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup red lentils (uncooked)
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2/3 cup canned unsweetened coconut milk
Salt and black pepper to taste
Roasted cashews for garnish
Chopped cilantro and/or scallions for garnish

PREP TIME15 minutes
COOK TIME40 minutes

Instructions

Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrot, and jalapeno, then saute for 4 to 5 minutes or until the onions have softened.
Add the garlic, ginger, apples, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Saute for another 3 minutes, then add in all of the spices and toss to coat. Add in the lentils and broth and let the contents come to a boil. Turn the heat down to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
Puree about 75% of the ingredients using either an immersion blender or by transferring a portion of the contents to the bowl of a standard blender. Leave some of the chunks whole, as it adds a nice texture and consistency to the soup. Return the soup to the pot if needed, then stir in the coconut milk. Taste, and adjust salt and black pepper as needed.
Serve topped with cashew and scallions along with naan bread for dipping.

And as It's February...

Two ways to say I love you for Valentines Day

I thought I'd make some print pairings, as a perfect valentine gift for the art lover.

Many of my seascape and landscape prints work well together, but it can often be hard to chose. So I’ve created a gallery of parings showing a few of my favorite matches. Here's one pairing that features a wave and rocky coastline from Acadia National Park, Maine.

View More print parings

All Prints Great & Small

Sat, 21 Nov 2020 13:47:35 GMT

All Prints Great & Small

We'll be spending so much time indoors this season, some of us may be climbing the walls! So I’m thinking why not brighten up those walls and bring fresh air and a sea breeze home for the Holidays? Treat yourself or a loved one, to one or two of my new prints.

So many to choose from! If you get yourself on my list you can save some $$ with an exclusive offer for my email subscribers. Sign up before Monday to benefit from the offer.

In the meantime here's a cute cat video

Winslow wants to show you a few of his fav prints coming tomorrow. These are just a couple in the smallest size. Don’t worry these are proofs, I won’t be shipping out any paw prints lol.

O-o-h Child

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 17:31:03 GMT

Things are gonna get easier

I was invited to participate in a show at the Velvet Mill, where I used to have a studio. The exhibition features work from local artists and reflects on the current crisis/pandemic, and is sponsored by ARC.

I wasn't sure I hav anything suitable, but one piece came to mind, from a few years back that was originally titled Loves Me, Loves Me Not, and was created to evoke the vulnerability and fragility of a child.

Loves Me, Loves Me Not, 8x10in etching

Ooh Child - Detail of embellishment

I decided to embellish the print by adding a mask. After all we all have to adapt. This will also be available as an edition of giclee prints. All profits will be donated to Feeding America. But I felt I needed a different title and started to mull it over.

In the early hours of the morning, a time that I consistently wake these days with anxiety, I woke with the melody and words ‘O-o-h Child, things are gonna get easier’, in my head. A wonderful uplifting soulful song. I thought that’s it! it’s perfect for the piece and for the times. Later that morning while drinking my coffee, I listened to the song by the Five Stairs Steps on YouTube, and searched for the lyrics to print out, and came across The New Yorker article by Amanda Petrusich.

Written November 7, 2016, days before the election, Amanda declared 'O-o-h Child' as the best song for soothing your election anxiety, and here we are 4 years later in darker and more treacherous times. Reading the article further I learned that the song was released in the spring of 1970. A tumultuous and desperate time in America, that feels in such parallel with were we are today.

The Five Stairsteps Photograph by Gilles Petard/Redferns/Getty

“Nixon had recently ordered American forces in Vietnam to push into Cambodia, threatening to widen a war that already seemed uncontainable. Four unarmed Kent State students were murdered and another nine injured by Ohio National Guardsmen while peacefully protesting the directive; additional demonstrations soon followed. The Beatles had broken up. Postal workers, on strike over low wages and treacherous conditions, had stopped delivering the U.S. mail. I imagine the ground felt tenuous, unsteady, strange”
Please do read Amanda’s piece in full here. You'll learn a little about this wonderful family of singers .

It’s a reminder that in some of the darkest times we crave a salve and that salve often comes from the Arts – music, poetry, literature, film, art, and nature. Starting my mornings with music is one way I can dissolve the anxiety of the night and start my day a little lighter. I’m pleased to be reunited with this 70’s classic.

You can listen to the Five Stair Steps sing O-o-h Child here

I'm also waking up to this tune
A lovely Day by Bill Withers, give it a listen, it'll put a skip in your step!

O-o-h Child
is an embellished giclee fine art print
she is available in 4 sizes 11x14 up to 28x36in
starting at $50 - $500

20% of the profits from print sales will go to Feeding America.
1 in 7 kids in America struggle with hunger.

Each one will be hand embellished with gold petal leaves on the flower and a gold mask. But you can get creative too and customize the mask with polka dots, stripes, flowers, words like vote, peace, whatever you like have fun - let me know!

Shop - O-o-h Child Print

Here are the Song Lyrics

O-o-h Child
Five Stairsteps

Ooh child
Things are gonna get easier
Ooh child
Things'll get brighter

Ooh child
Things are gonna get easier
Ooh child
Things'll get brighter

Some day, yeah
We'll put it together and we'll get it undone
Some day
When your head is much lighter

Some day, yeah
We'll walk in the rays of a beautiful sun
Some day
When the world is much brighter

Ooh child
Things are gonna be easier
Ooh child
Things'll be brighter

Ooh child
Things are gonna be easier
Ooh child
Things'll be brighter

Some day, yeah
We'll put it together and we'll get it undone
Some day
When your head is much lighter

Some day, yeah
We'll walk in the rays of a beautiful sun
Some day
When the world is much brighter

Some day, some day, some day, some day yeah
We'll put…

New Show in Newport

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 18:36:11 GMT

FLUID

Michelle Poirier Mozzone, Will Kurtz & Annie Wildey
Coastal Contemporary Gallery, 491 Thames Street, Newport, RI

When work leaves the studio, there is an emotional as well as a the physical separation that happens. As a result I’m always a little surprised to see it again hanging in the gallery. Especially when a gallery does such a wonderful job of hanging a show. Shari @coastalcontemporarygallery pays such attention to detail that every sightline is considered.

Can;'t get to Newport?
You can have a virtual tour of the show in this video.

I love this sightline shown below, capturing a view of several smaller works in the show.
Shop small work and other seascapes

Sunlit Seas 48x60" below is a painting that captures the fluidity of the sea, as the waves begin to form and rise. Beads of sunlight glisten on the surface and the surf begins to form as it get closer to shore.

if you can't get to Newport in person, you can also shop the seascapes in the show online

Shop Seascapes

Cooking in the time of Corona

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 15:46:12 GMT

One silver lining with this whole coronavirus pandemic and quarantine is that it has renewed my love of cooking. Which in turn has been a wonderful way to destress. What started as stress cooking, has transitioned to comfort cooking to feed the soul.

I haven't been able to focus much or concentrate on painting so cooking has been a welcome distraction from the anxiety of life right now. I've found that chopping vegetables, stir the pot, revisiting old familiar recipes and trying new ones has become a soothing and calming experience. Not to mention enjoying a delicious and nutritious home cooked meal.

Many of the meals I've made are pretty basic, and standard, but they still pack a punch in terms of taste and comfort. But as I now live alone, I've had the opportunity to experiment a little bit and explore more vegetarian/vegan recipes (that is after using up all the animal protein in the freezer).

Here are some of the recipes that have been a comfort during this time of corona! I hope you enjoy them.

Pasta Pesto with Roasted Vegetables

See Pesto recipe nd roasted vegetables recipe

Cauliflower, and spinach masala

Recipe to follow

English Sausage Rolls

a packed of sheet puff pastry and breakfast sausages or organic ground turkey.

Recipe to follow

Vegetarian Kale Soup

This is a simple hearty soup recipe good for lunch of a light dinner. It is delicious served with some crusty bread. with a glass of wine on the side. Perfect to curl up on the sofa and binge watch netflix!

leftover portions can be frozen.

https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a25647805/vegetarian-kale-soup/

Moroccan Berber eggs

Tonight’s recipe is served with parsley garnish and spelt toast - thanks Claire Copersino next time with homemade bread!

Sauté sliced onions & red bell peppers slowly in copious amount of XVOO to get nice and limp, carmelised and sweet, stir in some diced tomatoes (I didn’t coz I don’t have any) and then toss in some whisked eggs. Season with sea salt, paprika, harissa- to your taste. Carefully stir a little bit to distribute ingredients but don’t stir really. Let simmer until cooked. Use a generous amount of olive oil ... mop it up with a great sourdough or if you’re in the Atlas Mountains freshly made Moroccan bread. Food directly from heaven.

Basil, kale, cilantro or parsley Pesto Sauce

Love to make pesto with Basil or Kale and pine nuts or walnuts.

2 cup fresh basil leaves or kale or cilantro, or parsley
6 cloves garlic, peeled
6 tablespoons pine nuts or chopped walnits
2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup olive oil or more as needed

Basil or kale is mixed with the nuts in a food processor, then I mix in the garlic and parmesan cheese, and slowly add the olive oil then salt and pepper to taste.

This makes a lot so I can freeze some. I usualy like to keep 1/2 of the recipe fresh in the fridge and then freeze generous tablespoon portions on a sheet of parchment paper, covered and placed in a ziplock bag. I can use this to add to recipes. Ice cube trays are also could storage containers for small amounts.

Avocado Toast

This is great healthy lunch. It's more like guacomole but I love it. I put one ripe avocado in a bowl with 1/2 squeezed lemon, 1 crushed clove of garlic, 2-4 diced grape tomatoes, salt and pepper a pinch of cayenne pepper then roughly mash and mix. With a dollop on top of toasted sourdough bread it is delicious.

There would be enough for two, if I din't enjoy it so much!

Lemon garlic grilled shrimp and an array of roasted vegetables

No particular recipe tonight. I defrosted a 1lb of frozen wild jumbo shrimp and marinated them for 1/2hr in olive oil crushed garlic, lemon and salt and pepper. Then sauted in a hot cast iron with EVO and a sprinkling of cayenne pepper and or paprika, and cook on a medium to high heat for about 6 or so mins turning once.

While the shrimp are marinating, I'll chop a selection of roasted vegetable including some garlic and lemon, toss generously with EVO salt and pepper then line a roasting pan and cook at 400, for approx 40 mins.

I serve the shrimp on the bed of roasted veggies with a god sprinkle of chopped parsley.

As I'm only cooking for one, this yields lots of leftovers that could be made into a shrimp and vegetable curry or with someother sides. Hope you have a healthy and delicious meal for yourselves

Suggested vegetables for roasting:
Potatoes
broccoli,carrots
cauliflower
onions
butternut squash
sweet potatoes
beets
garlic and lemon for added flavor

Homemade vegan mushroom soup with spelt croutons and roasted Brussels sprouts, potatoes and mushrooms on the side -

Such a quick dinner, 45 mins max.
https://jessicainthekitchen.com/creamy-mushroom-soup-vegan…/

For the croutons I cube whatever bread I have on hand toss it with a generous drizzle of EVO with crushed garlic salt and pepper then roast in a cast iron griddle (not essential) just my preference) in the oven on 400, for about 15 minutes.

Spinach and Kale Saag Paneer with brown rice and naan bread.

This was the first time I made homenade paneer. Who knew it was so easy. I had to make some modifications ad I dont yet have a colander, or cheesecloth.

I used the Saveur as the main but also referred to the authentic recipe, as i like onions in my saag paneer. I also used 3/4 of spinach and 1/4 kale.

It didn't yield a lot of paneer, but a little goes a long way I guess. I served it up with organic naan bread.

I had a couple servings for leftovers for the freezer which I later serverd with brown rice and naan bread.

https://www.saveur.com/…/Recipes/Spinach-with-Fresh-Indian…/

https://www.allrecipes.com/re…/228957/authentic-saag-paneer/

shrimp potato and spinach balti curry with naan bread.

Made yesterday. Eaten tonight with a batch for the freezer!

recipe to follow

chick pea pasta with bolognese and kale sauce.
1hr min preferably simmer for a few hours

I don't use a specific recipe. But I start by dicing an onion, carrot and a couple of stalks of celery, I'll add a few cloves garlic (4-6) crushed and saute in EVO in a large pot until translucent. I then add 1lb of organic ground beef and brown. Next I'll add one 28oz can of diced tomatoes and simmer on low for 45-1 hr mins or longer. I may also add a few dried herbs. I had a little kale left over so I chopped it and popped it in the sauce to cook for a few minutes. Just before serving I stir in about 1/2 a cup of romano or parmesan cheese and a splash of EVO. I serve over organic chick pea pasta with more grated romano!

It's yum and any left over sauce in the pot can go in the fridge or the freeze.

Roasted Vegetables
40 mins at 400 temp

A great dish as a meal in itself, or as side dish. I use what ever veggies I have in the fridge. Everything tastes better roasted!

De stressing through cooking - a few veggies can be a tasty meal for a few $. I'll use any combination of broccoli, caulifIower, onion, potates, beets, carrots, squash, take your pick. I usually also include garlic, and lemon. this is all then tossed ina generous coating of olive oil, salt and pepper, and occassionally some dried or fresh herbs. often have this as a meal served up with a knob of homemade Kale pesto, and a sprinkling of grated parmesan with a sprinkling of ground flax seed.

Sourdough Bread and Homemade Starter

This is three days in to making a sour dough starter ;-)

here's the recipe I am using for the starter and bread. Im excited to also make use of the discarded sourdough.

https://www.theclevercarrot.com/2014/01/sourdough-bread-a-beginners-guide/?fbclid=IwAR0O2C9_3k4JPS1e7pUNMpoymR6Ydy9kL3nbUBYmkRGxDmCrPwGA-4wYWck

Sourdough Starter pizza

Tonight’s effort made with young sourdough starter. not bad w/o a pizza stone - a little uneven cooking but tasty- sourdough pizza/flatbread with pesto, spinach, mushroom, grape tomatoes goat cheese and shaved Romano garnish

Linda's Nettle Soup

Lee, it's really easy - just handle the nettles with care to avoid stinging, but after cooking, they are fine. Sauté leeks, a shallot and celery, add peeled & cubed russet potatoes, add a bit of water/broth, s&p, cook til tender, add nettle leaves, cook maybe 4 minutes, then turn off heat and let sit, covered. Cool down a bit and then add to food processor in batches. A sure sign of spring!

I LOVE NY

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 20:19:39 GMT

Prints for a Cause

Help me nourish those on the frontline during this pandemic. New York has been hit hard in this crisis. I’d love for you to join me if you can, and bring a little of what I love about New York into your home and heart with this series of prints.

Please enjoy 20% savings on my ILOVENY prints
and in turn I'll donate an additional 20% Frontlinefoods.org

Frontline Foods supports healthcare workers with healthy meals from local kitchens. This network of grassroots volunteers, work with restaurants, hospitals and other medical facilities to feed those working on the frontline.

ILOVENY

Each of these prints capture a fleeting moment, and reveal a fond memory of my time living in the city.

Read about the stories and inspirations behind the other prints.
Perhaps you'll fall in love with the city as I did.

Tribeca Alley

Tribeca Alley is an ink drawing I made when I was in grad school at the New York Academy of Art. It was a wonderful time in my life, I had left a career of 18 years to pursue art full time. I would walk down this alley often at lunchtime on my way to buy supplies at Pearl Paint. As I entered the Alley and made my way down the cobble stone street, sandwiched between old rusty fire escapes, the noise of the city quietened. It felt like I had stepped back in time to experience a glimpse of what New York had been like a century earlier.

Shop Print

Soho Evening Stroll

There’s something so romantic and poetic about a nocturnal scene of New York, and late night walks home from the studio didn’t disappoint.

Evening Stroll in Soho, captures an elderly couple heading home after dinner, as they walk past a 24 hr parking garage. The light is the narrator, revealing only the essential elements of the composition and story. Leaving the viewer to imagine in the rest.

Shop Print

Morning Coffee on Broadway

This graphic composition captures the silhouette of a coffee cart and customers under a tunnel created by scaffolding. A familiar morning routine, and pitstop as commuters exit the subway or enter tall office buildings.

For years I would visit at the same cart, smile and greet the owner, as he handed me my coffee, just as I liked it. We’d usually engage in a little banter then I’d be on my way. If I was running late, and he was packing up, he would load me up with left over donuts that I’d share amongst co-workers. There was no point in refusing, he was insistent and persistent.

Shop Print

Rain on Canal Street

On a rainy evening walk home from the studio. This corner of Canal Street and Avenue of the Americas captures the rain in a backlit sky and the reflections on the wet road.

The staggered traffic lights, and lit billboards above the bodega makes for a moody abstract composition of the city.

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Crossing Canal Street

Crossing Canal Street captures the sparkle of night lights and reflections of the city as the rain falls.

In the evening on my way home the mood would be peaceful and quiet except for a chorus of raindrops and footsteps. Accompanied by the occasional sound of tires on the wet road as a taxi rode by.

Earlier in the day this corner of the city would have be bustling with New Yorkers and tourists The chatter of conversation punctuated by honking horns as the traffic lights changed.

Shop Print

ILOVENY
There are 5 images to choose from and each prints is available in 4 sizes
Small 11x14",
medium 16x20"
large 22x28"
extra larger 22x30"

Shop the Collection

Studio Moving Sale

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 10:54:18 GMT

New Year, New Decade, New Horizons.

After nine years at the Velvet Mill, I've decided it's time to move my studio. I've loved being part of the community of artists and entrepreneurs at the mill, but I'm ready for a change. So what better time than now for a studio moving sale.

The last time I had a big studio sale was 10 years ago when I moved from Orient, Long Island to Mystic, CT. So they don't come along that often!

All studio inventory will be on sale for the first time in 10 years!
many pieces will be available 20% and even up to 50% below estimated retail.

As I've been sorting through the flat files, portfolios and the studio closet, I realize I have quite a lot of work in the archives from various stages of my creative journey. The work brings back many fond memories of places I've been, ideas I've explored, and stages of life. I'd love to give you an opportunity to bring this work home with you.

I'll have large and small works, both studies and finished pieces in a wide range of subject matter, and medium. Including figurative work, landscapes and cityscapes, drawings, etchings, watercolors, mixed media, oil paintings, and plein air studies.

Please stop by, I'd love to see you, and you might just find the perfect piece of art that speaks to you.

Not Local? Not to worry...
For those of you that aren't local, I've got ya covered. I will be listing many pieces online. The online shop will be available (fingers crossed!) Thursday Jan 16.
So keep an eye on your inbox.

Cheers

Annie

annie wildey - Blog Feed

The Art of the Crawl

Yep, Westerly has a First Friday Art Crawl!

Hope to see you Friday!

Spring Back - A Fairytale

Art is a Fairytale

Good Morning from Vermont

Seasons 2023 Calendars are here

Exhibition Tour

Making Waves at The United Theatre

Size matters...

...When it comes to art!

It's Almost a Wrap

Making Waves Exhibition

Making Waves Reception Photo Gallery

View the exhibition online

Making Waves Exhibition & Residency

A snap shot of a wonderful few weeks

View the exhibition online here

It's Showtime!

A United Exclusive

A tasty pop up

Click me if you are Curious

Want to see how I'm starting mornings in the studio?

Let me introduce myself

Bold and Colorful Big Little Skies

Bold and Colorful

Size Matters

Shop the Collection Here

Something Big is Coming

Big Little Skies have gotten bigger!

Shop the Collection here

Mark Your Calendars

Last Chance to Ring in a New Year

Lets Celebrate

​View The Collection

Nostalgia - Big Little Skies

Going Live

Painting Live at Coastal Contemporary Gallery

Big Little Skies

Big Little Skies

Take a Closer Look at Through the Trees

color and drama with luscious painted surfaces

February love

How do you keep the winter blues away ?

​Indian Mulligatawny Soup

Two ways to say I love you for Valentines Day

All Prints Great & Small

All Prints Great & Small

In the meantime here's a cute cat video

O-o-h Child

Things are gonna get easier

Here are the Song Lyrics

New Show in Newport

FLUID

Cooking in the time of Corona

I LOVE NY

Studio Moving Sale

New Year, New Decade, New Horizons.

View The Collection

Indian Mulligatawny Soup