Many images are coming to mind as I explore this new medium.  I am working on many abstractions and a few realistic images.  I started with straight pen nibs and then moved to brushes.  Then the idea of using an oil pastel as a resist and effectively using a scratch-board technique has helped develop a fresh and free look.
Hope you enjoy them

Teaching has been very good this past year and has potential for a great year in 2013.
VAM is having an Instructor's Art Show from Jan 2nd until Jan 11 th..  This is during their activities throughout the holidays for the community.  I have 3 paintings there.  If you have time please check out the artists.  I plan on going.  My first class is January 11th - My Abstract class.  The following week I have a new class - Working from a photo that starts January 17th.
Islington Seniors' Centre is closed during the holiday but my class starts Jan 11th.
Klim restarts January 8th unless I am stuck in court - I have been called for Jury Duty Selection for the 7th.  This could impact all my classes.  Hopefully they will give me a break.

This year has been a good one for my art I think.. Since I revisited my portraits [I did portraits over 20 years ago, but not like these], I have been very happy with the challenges they offer..  I feel, my abstracts are getting more interesting too.  My teaching assignments are also improving as I continue to alter them and work on new ideas, while keeping the ones that have worked the best.  My student base is growing and it is wonderful to be part of other artists journeys.

3 portraits worked on this summer - one is finished [Jack 2012], one is still a work in progress as an experimental study [Jenn 2012], and one is being used as a demonstration piece in one of my classes [Prabha 2012].

Have ideas for 2 new paintings with a focus on composition, colour and realism.  One is started [Pigeon Drinking Rainwater].

Workshop at VAM was great this summer - 15 students and almost all showed each class, working quite hard. Classes are started/Starting and are continuing for the Fall.

Working so little this summer allowed me to focus on new projects of my own and I felt great.

Preparing for the Art Fair at Benares Historic House at 1507 Clarkson Rd. North on Friday, June 3rd - 10 to 4pm.

I am bringing about 20 small art boards to the fair.  I am sharing a booth with a student who may have large pieces.  I hope it goes well and we have enough room.