The sun rose with a golden glow through fog-encased trees this morning, and in that quiet light, I stood in my studio with my newest painting in progress: Dawn of the Japanese Fire Horse. Both the painting and the studio/gallery around me are evolving at the same time, and there’s something deeply gratifying about pausing to see what has been accomplished while imagining the next steps still to come. The Japanese Fire Horse is a rare and powerful zodiac sign, appearing only o

Hello art lovers, February, the month of love, inspires us all to cherish life's most beautiful connections. As a plein air artist, I love to capture these fleeting moments in their natural settings, and what better place to explore than the charming landscapes and intimate nooks of Moore County, North Carolina? Coffee and Connection at Brim in Pinehurst, NC Nestled in The Outpost building , Brim is a popular new cafe in Pinehurst, NC, renowned for its artisan coffee, scratc

It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of Richard "Dick" McGowen , who passed away on January 7, 2026, at the age of 90. A beloved figure in our Pinehurst community, Dick was truly the man, the myth, the legend , and a cherished Pinehurst legend . He embodied the essence of Pinehurst with his ever-present smile and signature mustache. For over 18 years, he and his late wife, Kay McGowen, devoted themselves to running the Limeport Hotel in Coopersburg , Pennsylvania, w

As we embrace the magic of the holidays, I invite you to celebrate the joy of art and the love of our pets.

Thanksgiving morning in Southern Pines is pure magic — misty fields, elegant riders, and eager hounds. As a plein air artist, I love capturing the Blessing of the Hounds each year. I grew up around horses, and combining that lifelong love with this timeless tradition is my favorite way to kick off the holiday.

A Magical Afternoon with Pat McBride at Gulley’s Fall Open House As an artist, there’s nothing quite as enchanting as the moment when...

Merritt’s Grill isn’t just a restaurant—it's a journey through time, a community pillar, and for many, a home away from home. Situated...

Despite the recent heavy rains, I refused to let the storm clouds dampen my creative spirit. Instead, I found joy and inspiration right...

As an artist, I find my greatest inspiration right in our community’s streets and landmarks. Through my plein air painting, I aim to...

an intimate reflection of who I am—done in pencil