New Mexico Hollyhocks

Here we are in March and Daylight Savings Time. One day we had up to 7 inches of snow and the very next day it was 62 degrees!  My summer painting was keeping me warm as the snow fell outside my sun-porch windows. I had a great time painting this one!  Flowers combined with adobe and earth tones always make for a delightful combination. Every detail in this one lends to the feel of the southwest charm.

  "New Mexico Hollyhocks", 16"x 20" unframed

Life is Precious

If anyone has noticed, I have had quite a sabbatical from posting on my blog.

My precious father was diagnosed with cancer over a year ago and it has taken it's toll on my family. He is now 84 years old and is a trooper! He completed a round of Chemo and Radiation treatments and two surgeries. Doctors wanted him to go through the treatments again but his body really was too weak to do it again, so the family agreed to opt out and he is home with Hospice Care. This has been a difficult season for us all and my painting life took a slight "slow down" to pretty much only once a week with the ladies pictured below. My time with them during this past year was like a soothing balm to my soul! Thank you Shirley and Merilee! I love and appreciate you both!

Priorities for me are first and foremost, my God and my family!
To be quite honest, as I submitted myself to God for wisdom regarding my painting business, I had peace leaving it in HIS hands. I truly believe that God blessed my talent during this past year. As I begin to post blogs and photos in the days ahead, I hope that you will see what I mean.
I am slowly adjusting to paint more, as I am making time to care for my father and supporting my mother. in this tough season in our lives. Life is precious!



Painting with friends is the best therapy other than the sheer joy of painting! I've been painting once a week with these lovely girlfriends for years. The smiles are genuine as we enjoy each others company.

3' x 3' Milagro Mountain

Since October of 2013 I was working on a 3' x 3' commissioned painting for a dear woman and friend of mine.  I would not allow her to have it until I was completely satisfied with the outcome.  Well, that time came in January as I presented joyfully to her "Milagro Mountain", an original oil painting.  I am so pleased to have it displayed in her lovely new home, in a very prominent place.  Thank you Dr. Donna Kelly for the opportunity and blessing to do this painting for you.

"Milagro Mountain"

Original Oil painting

Encantada! Painting Exhibition

Encantada! Painting Exhibition

The 11th Annual Juried Painting Exhibition

Sponsored by the Rio Grande Art Association

African American performing Arts Center 

& Exhibition Hall at EXPO NM

(310 San Pedro, near Gate 3 at Copper)

Nov 1 - 27, 2013

Tues - Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat & Sun 10 am - 4 pm

(closed Mondays)

Free Admission

Diana Monte's Original Oil Painting will be on Exhibition Titled  "A Fragrant Break"

"A Fragrant Break"
20" x 24"

Evening of the Arts

"Evening of the Arts"
@ The New Mexico State Fair
Preview & Sale of Art
Tuesday, September 10th, 2013
6pm-8pm
300 San Pedro NE
Albuquerque, NM


meet Me @ the fair
September 11-22, 2013
exponm.com

Original Oil Painting on exhibit @ New Mexico State Fair
 "Orange Blast" Dip-Tic 
36" x 48" framed

Heavy Rains

With the heavy rains we received last week, my studio had some damage. I had to move everything away from the North and East walls to allow the carpet to dry out.  This threw a wrench in my progress, however, I will get back on track!

On a good note, I am in the process of placing prints on this blogsite that you may purchase. Hopefully that will be completed within the next couple of weeks.  Be sure to check them out.  Until next time, have a WONDERFUL day!
Diana

Sold to Happy Buyers!

Here are a few photos of the wonderful people posing with their new paintings purchased at the Lavender Festival.  It is wonderful to know how pleased they are!