What's Your Perfect Fit This New Year's Eve?

Whether you are heading out to party...

Fashionista with a Cause
acrylic on canvas
10" x 10"
©NanciHersh
$250. (free shipping!)

or venturing outside for some festivities (We'll be checking out Kennett Square's First New Year's Eve Mushroom Drop.)

Winter Warm
acrylic on canvas
10" x 10"
©NanciHersh
$250. (free shipping!)

or cozying up with a loved one, furry friend, or a good book...

Well Worn White
acrylic on canvas
10" x 10"
©NanciHersh
$250. (free shipping!)

“This is my wish for you: peace of mind, prosperity through the year, happiness that multiplies, health for you and yours, fun around every corner, energy to chase your dreams, joy to fill your holidays!”

D.M. Dellinger -

Happy and Healthy New Year!

With gratitude,
Nanci

Journey is the Destination

Glued to the telly this am watching Wimbledon as Andy Murray becoming the first Brit in 77 years to win the Cup. After his heartbreaking defeat at Wimbledon last year to Roger Federer, this hard won victory was especially sweet. To his biggest fan as well- his Mum.

When it was all over, relieved and overjoyed, there she was hugging her son with deep emotion after he remembered to come back and kiss her after first going up to the box to thank his coach Ivan Lendl, girlfriend and friends.

Journey is the Destination, 2013
Acrylic on canvas
10" x 10"

This painting was a recent commission from a proud Mom to her graduating son. She told me that he has worn these shoes all over the world and that he cherished the shoes as much as the memories.

LOVE IT!!!!! Absolutely stunning and he was so surprised and I think, touched that I regarded his shoes in that way. 

Lisa Palmer

Who are you cheering for?

Racing Shoes- Shoe Portrait Commission

Last week I sent out both of the two Shoe Portrait Commissions that I had been working on, but held off posting pictures of them until they were received. Only fair that the collectors get to see them first.

Each of the two paintings were to be a graduation gift from a mother to her son. It was easy to put myself in their shoes (!) Shoes hold memories that we cherish, want to remember, share and celebrate.

Racing Shoes, 2013
acrylic on canvas
10" x 10"
©2013NanciHersh

I was thrilled to read the email from Nancy Greene who commissioned the pair of track shoes for her son:

The painting is beautiful. Adam was very happy and is going to bring it to his new dorm room in August.  He also said that it turns out that those were his first pair of racing shoes.  We are very excited!! I found myself going into his room this morning to look at it over and over.

Thank you so much,

Nancy 

Every picture not only tells a story, but has the capacity to keep these stories alive.

Is there a pair of shoes in your child's closet that holds special memories you want to keep?

Find Your Cozy

Crazy weather everywhere... tornadoes, droughts, and here on the east coast, rain, rain and more rain.  Perfect time to get cozy... dig out your comfiest coziest slippers and relax.  

Well Worn White
from the Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits Series
acrylic on canvas
10" x 10"
$200.00
©NanciHersh

These fuzzy friends have long since retired (with some help from a larger furry friend!) but this painting is a reminder that if you do need an excuse or a reason to just chill out- this painting does the job!

A Gift as Unique as Your Grad

Maggie and I are making the most of these hot sunny days hanging on the lanai while I work on my latest Shoe Portrait commission- a graduation present for a son who is a world traveler and has the kicks to prove it.

Sketch for painting
Graphite on paper
5" x 5"
©2013NanciHersh

The sneakers are a work of art themselves and the painting is looking really good.
Can't show you yet- the client gets to see it first!

I work from the shoes directly- not photos.
Took these outside to take advantage of the beautiful weather and the clear bright light.

Turned the top of this side table into my palette- works perfectly!

Looking for a one of a kind gift for your one of a kind grad? Commission your own Shoe Portrait, here's how.

For the Man in Your Life

Gift Ideas for the Man in Your Life:

a. tie (been there done that)

b. tools (more of the same)

c. car wash (ok, but how long does that last?)

Timeless #1
acrylic on canvas
6" x 6"
$125.00

d. ART- now you're talking!

Timeless #1
acrylic on canvas
6" x 6"
$125.00 

These paintings are titled Timeless because they are classic and classy. A bit of style for the man in your life- be it dad, husband, bff or significant other. Hey, if the shoe fits...

Maybe It is the Flux

Funny how we can find the threads that connect our work over the years.

Sifting through Life Drawing #09/11
11.25" x 17"
Stabilo aquarelle on paper with gesso
©2012NanciHersh

Looking through my Ranch Camp Series from 20 years ago of Waialua, Hawaii to the Sifting through Life Nets I am working on, I see that it may be the shadows, fluidity, movement - or just trying to capture what really is only a fleeting moment in time.

Maybe it's the flux that I find so interesting.

Note to my blog buddies and anyone else for that matter:  After our Skype talk yesterday about how we lable or talk about our work and the context it frames for others, I am trying on different titles for the nets that I have been making. Sifting through Life Nets- whaddya think? A little long? 


I feel like the search for Cinderella and the perfect fit.  HEY that brings me to find another thread and a not so different title for a series that I have.  Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits

It's all about the journey... and finding the grace along the way.

On Edge this Season

On Edge, 2011
From Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits
Acrylic on canvas
10" x 10"

The title of this painting refers to the blades on these skates, but it could easily be my state of mind.

The holidays tend to put me in overwhelm.

I WANT to send out cards to family and friends near and far, find the perfect gift for everyone on my list, remember all the people who provide services for us through out the year, and be the perfect hostess.

This year in particular, however, finds me still reeling and recovering from the past months of treatments, and our sons' injuries.  I will reflect on how blessed we are to be celebrating this holiday together. We have so many wonderful people in our lives.  If you are reading this, please know that I am truly grateful that you are a part of my life and wish you and yours a Happy Chanukah, a Merry Christmas, or whatever tradition you partake in- may it be peaceful and joyous.   Sending blessings of love, light and healing to all beings. May there be Peace on Earth.

The newest addition to my closet, and to my Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits Series- my first pair of Dansko shoes.

 Dansko Slip Ons, 2011
Acrylic on canvas
10" x 10"
©2011NanciHersh

These were recently purchased from the Dansko Outlet, in nearby Jennersville, PA.  Don't let the word outlet mislead you- (though the prices are great). There were so many styles to choose from, all displayed in a friendly, serene environment, both inside and out. Natural wood, clean Scandinavian design, and with a lovely outdoor sculpture garden.  

These new kicks are a hybrid of shimmery slippers and comfy clogs.  Already put to the test with two full days of NYC gallery hopping last month, my feet came home as happy as my muse was fed. 

I don't love to shop (except for art supplies or books) but this was easy, and, I already have my eye on a pair of boots. 

Santa are you listening?

This Week's Art Happenings

Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits
©2011NanciHersh

Selections from
Inherently Found Series

In addition, my work is up through the New Year at Willow on State, Kennett Square.
Another First Friday Art Stroll in Kennett this week.  - Hard to be two places at once but I am happy to meet you at either of my shows at your convenience- we can grab a cup of tea or coffee afterwards!

Art & Soul on Purple

Dropped off my Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits off at the Tideline Gallery, Hockessin, DE earlier in the week.

I love how owner, Patty Daniels hung the show. Fun & Organized- boots in one column, dress shoes in etc....  I  need her in my closets at home! 


Plus, I love how the purple is the new black here- goes with them all!

Sole Sister

Adventures and inspiration are never far away, especially if you are on foot and take the time to explore.

Helen, my friend visiting from Australia and I spent an afternoon in Old City, Philadelphia.  It was there at Three Sirens that we found some far out shoes and and met Aubrie Costello- a "Sole Sister."

Aubrie, it turns out, is not only a super friendly sales clerk, but a wonderful artist. She also, paints shoes and incorporates them in installations.  I shared with her my Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits Series, and she in turn, showed me her work.

One of her pieces, Ladies in Waiting is right behind the register.

Ladies in Waiting, detail
©2011Aubrie Costello

New finds, new friends and new muses .... what's your favorite recent discovery?

Red Hot Red #3
Acrylic on canvas
6" x 6"
©2011NanciHersh
from Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits
$150.00

Retail Therapy

Retail Therapy
from the Walks thru Life:Shoe Portraits Series
Acrylic on Canvas
10" x 10"
©2011NanciHersh

Shopping often overwhelms me - unless of course it is an art supply or hardware store.
Then I LOVE the choices, the materials, the possibilities- lurking in each item.

Worn sandals took me outside my comfort zone the other day.   While my Italian green and gold cork sandals were at the shoe maker for repair and my deliciously comfortable Naots (and yet to be painted) sandals are showing their wear, I took myself to a DSW for some retail therapy.

Short on time and so many choices, I decided to try on only what "shouted out my name."  Fortunately, the call quickly from a festive European flowery slip on sandal with a sleek & sexy heel.

My new muse  inspired me to pick up the brush again and  promises to take me out for a very fun adventure...

any ideas?

Combat Ready

This card recently came in the mail.   A fairy godmother with combat boots.

That's what I need - a pair of combat boots to paint for my Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits Series!

But where, or from whom?  

This guy was behind me at the store.  I asked if I could take a picture of his boots.  

They weren't quite right, not gritty enough.  I wanted a pair that "walked the walk."

Marc's Boots, 2011
Acrylic on Canvas
10" x 10"
©2011NanciHersh

Then ... poof! A perfect pair came in the mail (along with a petite pair of ballet slippers) commissioned by Shari Epstein.  This is the painting for Shari.  I am holding onto the boots a little longer- I want a painting of them for myself.  To remind me that I am strong and that I am going to kick this cancer....

Maren's Slippers, 2011
Acrylic on Canvas
6" x 6"
©2011NanciHersh

On that note...  I pushed back my surgery date to Wed., April 6.  This way I can be at The Garage for the Kennett Square Art Stroll and our YoungMoms printmaking exhibition.

And besides, would you want to have major surgery on April Fool's Day?!

Prints & their Stories

It was a wrap...  and the 1st birthday of Uribeth.

Happy Birthday Uribeth
with proud mama Maria.

Here is a small sampling of the work and the stories they tell.

Collograph, monoprint with  colored pencil
by Miriam Diaz

My name is Miriam Diaz my daughter’s name is Melany Diaz, she was born in September. I hope to continue to work towards my GED. This program gave me the freedom to be able to create what I wanted, I really liked working with the baby clothes as well.

Collograph with Monoprint by
Bridget Phillips
21" x 15", 2011

"My name is Bridget. First and foremost, I am the proud mother of my 16 month old daughter, 

Allison Grace.  I am a freshman nursing major at West Chester University.  I work part time at the 

Kennett Square Giant and Creative Play Day School in Toughkenamon.  Through this art program, I discovered a creative side that I never knew existed.  I am really thankful for the opportunity to learn about printmaking. "  Bridget Phillips

Collograph with Monoprint by
Ibeth Leon
21" x 15", 2011

My name is Ibeth and I am 20 years old. I am the mother of my 2 year old son Jonathan. I am a student at the Kennett High School night program. I hope to graduate from Kennett High School and I would like to get a degree in nursing or social work. Even though I have other responsibilities, I still found time to attend this art program, which helped me discover my more creative side. I would like to thank everyone at the Garage, the teen mom program, and my family for supporting me with everything.  

Ibeth Leon

Embossing with Colored Pencil
and Rubber Stamp
by Erika Bedolla

"In Her Shoes"

an exhibition of mixed media prints

created by YoungMoms

in partnership with The Garage

Community & Youth Center

and Nanci Hersh

at

Kennett Square's First Friday Art Stroll

April 1, 2011

6-9 pm

115 South Union Str.

Kennett Square

Free and Open to the Public

This project is funded by

Leeway Foundation Art & Change Grant

Walks thru Life: Shoe Portraits
©2011nancihersh

Art, snacks, meet the moms and babies, meet the volunteers including Carolyn Viens. She will be signing  copies of her book Leave Your Footprints Along the Way a discussion workbook for 

Mothers and their Daughters.  I will also be exhibiting paintings from my Walks thru Life: Shoe Portrait Series.

Creating community through art... now why would anyone want to cut that out? 

Signs of Spring

Goose Egg, 2011
Acrylic on Canvas
6" x 6"

First day of spring... yeeha!  Nature and marketing collide as there are buds on the trees, daffodils sprouting up, and of course lots of candy eggs in the grocery store.

This is another verision of Unrequited Love with the half of goose egg (that never got eaten) and the pair of shoes that were never worn.

Coincidentally I also got my surgery date today.  It is Friday, April 1, up at Memorial Sloan Kettering in NYC. 

That also happens to be the date of the First Friday Art Stroll in Kennett Square with my Leeway Art and Change Grant Partner, Lisa MacMain and the YoungMoms Project.   We are meeting this week to prepare for the event but I will be up in NY for the exhibition.  There is a great team of women who will be there to share the wonderful collographs and prints the YoungMoms have created during this residency. Hope you can stop by The Garage and say hello to Lisa, Rosa, Carolyn and the YoungMoms  if you are in Kennett Square.

Here's to new beginnings.... Happy Spring!

Time to Kick off Them Shoes!

Everyone Needs a Break Sometimes
Art Print - 14" x 11"
©2011McVicker&Hersh,LLC

Off to the beach for a weekend of R & R with my hubby.  As the line in our Butterfly Kisses Book says... Everyone needs a break sometimes...

Keepers
10" x 10"
acrylic on canvas
©2011NanciHersh

I asked Sharon Tobia, the story behind her favorite pair of green sneaks.  

She told me that she bought a bunch of sneakers from a local clothing store that was closing.  She put them on ebay but decided to keep this pair for herself.... so they are KEEPERS!

Have you every bought somethng to give away or sell and decided that it was worth keeping?

How are you kicking back this almost spring weekend?

Quick Peek

My Favorite Kicks #3, 2011
5" x 5"
acrylic on canvas
©2011NanciHersh

Crazy Catwalk is 3 days away... busy with that as well as trying to keep my head on straight dealing with doctors and decisions. 

Remembering to breathe- oh, and painting does help. These shoes make me smile. 

But what I really need today is a BIG Belly laugh.

My Favorite Kicks #2 2011
5" x 5"
©2011NanciHersh

Do you have a pair of shoes that make you smile?

What movies make you ROAR!

These Aren't Your Neighbors Crocs

 Zipper Clogs, 2011
10" x 10"
acrylic on canvas
©2011NanciHersh

Greetings from Red Bank, NJ, my old stomping ground and former home town.

Also the home of a super groovy shoe store- If the Shoe Fits where these fabulous puppies were found.
They are also my first pair of clogs (at least as far back as I can remember)  More fashionable than the omnipresent Crocs, and comfy too!

These delectable clogs are so cool and attract attention where ever they go!  My only regret is that I did not buy another pair because they are starting to show their age (aren't we all?) and I can't find anything else like them.

Reminder:  Crazy Catwalk is 5 days away... you still have time to enter to win my Wedding Mules #1 while helping out Supporting Kidds, Center for Grieving Children and their Families.

Wedding Mules #1
5" round
acrylic on canvas
©2011NanciHersh

Do you own a pair of shoes that have others oogling?

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