Art by Mary Rochelle Burnham

Michigan Couple , Oil, 18x24" Sold When I moved to Arizona in July, I brought this piece to finish for a couple back in Michigan. I have included photos of my progression from start to finish. I worked entirely from photos provided by the clients. I did a sketch that I had approved first. Then, I used Photoshop to make a photo composite that became my main reference. Photo composite created in Photoshop I made a 3" grid on my reference and transferred as a sketch to my canvas. I like to work freehand.  I had marked off an extremely light grid with soft vine charcoal. the brush removed the majority of it as I worked loosely and quickly. Light, loose wash with burnt sienna. Applied a warm ground to create unity and a middle value. Beginning to lay in local color and value. Starting to refine the faces. Made the decision to get rid of the shadow between the heads. Detailing the faces, adjusting the background and clothing. Added some c

Getting to Know You , Oil, 6x6", available Getting to know you,  Getting to feel free and easy When I am with you,  Getting to know what to say  Haven't you noticed Suddenly I'm bright and breezy?  Because of all the beautiful and new  Things I'm learning about you  Day by day. " Getting To Know You " Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein

Eve of The Raven , Oil, 7x5", SOLD "Native North American tribes saw the raven as the bringer of light. In fact, southwestern tribes (Hopi, Navajo, Zuni) felt the raven flew out from the dark womb of the cosmos, and with it brought the light of the sun (dawning of understanding). Consequently, the raven is considered a venerated bird of creation, for without the raven, humans would forever live in darkness."

Whip Cream Evening Clouds , Oil, 5x7" NFS I am having fun with painting skies and in particular clouds. I love the dramatic formations of clouds building before a storm. To be given away at Daily Paintworks.

October Nightscape , Oil, 5x7", SOLD My first night painting. My aim was to capture the mystery of the full moon rising on an October eve.

Summer Sky , Oil, 5x7" This scene is from our property in Manchester, MI. Last summer a storm was building as the sun was getting low in the sky. I must of taken a hundred photos. I love cloud formations and we had some beauties here in Arizona. Be watching for more from me!

A Cry for Freedom , Oil 7x5", available Inspired by the Daily Paintworks Challenge, "A Cry for Freedom" is my small painting, that reflects my deeply held personal conviction. I thank God every day that I am blessed to have been born in our great nation, with our multitude of freedoms. I am proud to be an American.