Fall is officially here, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised to find my work included in another juried exhibition, this one is the Watercolor Society of Oregon’s 45th Annual Transparent Watercolor Exhibition in Salem, Oregon. The exhibit opens October 2 and runs through October 29 at the Elsinore Framing and Fine Art Gallery, 444 Ferry St. SE,  Salem, Oregon. 503-583-4642 for hours. The juror this year is Karen Vernon who works in a realistic manner on Ampersand’s Aquaboard. My accepted painting is not at all realistic, but she must have found something to like about it!

"Red Dog, Blue Dog" Copyright Ruth Armitage, Watercolor on Yupo 20"x28"

I’ve also been doing a little jurying of my own. I was flattered to be chosen to jury the Columbia Council of Camera Clubs Electronic Imaging Division Invitational. There were three jurors, and the works chosen will be displayed at the Florence Events Center during their convention September 24, 25 & 26. It was a very interesting process, trying to separate my personal preferences from my artistic assessments. Each juror was asked to rate each entry numerically, and the scores were then added together. Clubs from all over the Northwest were invited to join. It should be a wonderful exhibition… as many of the entries were stellar.

I’ve also just put together a fun treasury for fall on Etsy.com ‘Fresh Olives for Fall’ with one of my sister’s new paintings in it! I’ve been updating my shop with a few new originals too, so take a look 🙂

In October, I will also be jurying for the Southwest Washington Watercolor Society’s Fall Show which will be exhibited October 6-10 at the Westfield Vancouver Mall. I look forward to seeing some wonderful paintings 🙂

In other, more personal news, a large part of my time has been devoted lately to getting my daughter off to Rome for a term of study abroad. She has started a blog about her Experiences: Italian Do’s & Don’ts. So far, she is having a wonderful time and has signed up for all Art History classes! I’m missing her here at home, especially in caring for our orphaned kittens who are just about ready for their new homes. Anyone need a darling little friend?

Free Kittens!

I’ve also been devoting a lot of time to gardening now that the weather is cooler. I’ve visited some great gardens lately, including Laurel Hedge out in Estacada. They had a fabulous Art in the Garden event last month! Last chance to visit, though, as they close for the season on September 25. I’m off to the garden! Happy September!