Kathy Karas

And ...back to the studio

2012-01-31T22:32:00.000+11:00

Hi everyone ,
Well I have had a lovely holiday mainly just staying home in our new house this year . We had a great family Christmas, a quiet New Year's eve spent having drinks with the neighbours but best of all we welcomed our new baby grandson into the world . It was so nice to take the month off just to enjoy family and friends , recharge the batteries and think about projects for the year ahead ..
Also it is good to take a break because now my painting hand is itching to get those thoughts and ideas into action in the studio ..There are several exhibitions that I am working towards ... Over the break I managed to get some great photos of my granddaughter Ruby Rose now 19 months old playing at the beach that will make a great subject for paintings . I have just completed an interesting dog portrait that is a commissioned piece .
I am pleased to report that my small paintings have been selling well at The Kiama Gallery. I am excited to be involved with this lovely little gallery .

On the teddy bear front I have some new ideas too which will unfold in the months ahead ..I have just completed a teddy item pictured above that is listed on Ebay . I am very happy to discuss any special orders for any type of painting .

THE PLEIN AIR GIRLS

2012-01-17T19:50:00.000+11:00

here we are at the opening night of our exhibition ' Emotion ..and the journey continues by the Plein Air Girls'

Plein Air Girls exhibition

2012-01-15T15:29:00.000+11:00

We had a fantastic opening to our exhibition last Friday night at the Shoalhaven Gallery , Nowra . The gallery was packed with people and a couple of paintings were sold . I was excited to sell my painting ' Reflecting the Past ' that I am holding in this photo and newspaper feature of us all at the Gallery . The exhibition continues until 8th February .

New website

2012-01-08T14:35:00.000+11:00

Hello everyone,
Happy New Year to you all . I have a new website www.kathy-karas.artistwebsites.com
Why not have a look ..You can order quality prints and cards from this site

INVITATION

2011-12-22T20:09:00.000+11:00

AFFORDABLE ART SALE

2011-12-09T08:14:00.000+11:00

Hello Art lovers ,
I will be selling paintings at the Redpoint "AFFORDABLE ART SALE" this weekend . You can find me in the courtyard at the Redpoint Arts Association complex 101 Wentworth Street , Port Kembla NSW . Lots of paintings on sale at a reduced price .Come and grab some bargains . Hope to see you there .

Tullimbar Community Market Day

2011-11-23T17:19:00.000+11:00

A market day will be held this Sunday 27th November at the Tullimbar community garden , Callala Street , Tullimbar from 8am .Weather permitting.
Items available for sale are:
fresh produce
cakes ,
jewelry
art /craft
baby clothes ,
cards
body shop
and much more

hope to see you there !

TEDDY TOOL BOX

2011-11-07T22:00:00.001+11:00

I just love this cute antique toolbox ..It looks great painted with old bears , hobby horses and a little rabbit .. available for sale on ebay

ANTIQUE CASE

2011-11-07T21:38:00.001+11:00

This lovely antique timber case is my latest artwork . I was very pleased with how it came up with beautiful olde world bears painted across the front . I used my treasured tea set as inspiration for the painting . The case is a great size 24 inches long ..perfect for displaying with a bear collection ..sorry sold

check out this great blog

2011-10-29T19:34:00.000+11:00

Hi everyone , check out this great blog http://www.theoldpaintedcottage.blogspot.com/

Antique cedar box

2011-10-26T15:59:00.002+11:00

I love this little antique box that I found recently. It is made from cedar and very cute . Looks very cute with old bears and toys painted around the sides . Perfect for siting little bears inside . Size 18cm x 13cm x 19cm (7 inches x 5 inches x 7 3/4 inches ) Available in my ebay store sorry sold

Teddy Shelf

2011-10-26T12:14:00.002+11:00

This lovely shabby chic book shelf is available for sale . I have painted sweet teddies on either side with old postcards decorated with rosebuds on the botton shelf . The size is 43cm wide by 40cm high ( 17inches x 16 inches ) available in my ebay store sorry sold

Latest Teddy artwork

2011-10-25T13:32:00.001+11:00

I have just finished painting this nice Bollinger box . It has come up a treat with vintage bears painted on 3 sides and the top . Perfect for sitting old bears inside makes a lovely display ...price $120 +post ..interested before it goes to ebay at a higher price due to exhorbitant fees ? please contact me kathykaras@bigpond.com SORRY SOLD

WAITING FOR RAIN AT SOFALA

2011-10-10T18:59:00.000+11:00

WAITING FOR RAIN AT SOFALA

I have just finished this painting from a photo that I took of the owner of the farmstay homestead that I stayed at a couple of years ago . There was a severe drought at the time but it has broken since with flooding in many parts of the country ...A land of extreme conditions making life so difficult for those working on the land

please join me on www.facebook.com/kathy.karas.art

KIAMA ART GALLERY EXHIBITION

2011-09-28T16:05:00.000+10:00

You are invitet to the opening of the 'Australian Landscape 2011' exhibition at the Kiama Art Gallery . I am exhibiting 3 small landscapes .

CUTE ANTIQUE DOLL'S BED

2011-09-27T07:47:00.002+10:00

I was so pleased to find this gorgeous little antique recently . It is totally original and made from cedar . I have painted bears in PJ's on the bedhead ..just right for a teddy nap! the size is 52cm or 21 inches long.

Available in my ebay store .
SOLD
Have a beary beautiful day !

SPRING HAS SPRUNG !

2011-09-12T15:04:00.000+10:00

Hello everyone ,
Sorry I have been absent from blogging for a little while but I have been madly catching up with painting some new works after selling so many at the ' Coastal Inspirations' exhibition . A great thing about having an exhibition is getting the chance to show my work to new customers and catch up with those who have followed my progress over the years . It's not too late to see the exhibition as it's on until 16th October . Another exhibition worth checking out is the exhibition of small Australian landscapes at the Kiama Gallery , Terralong street which opens 29th September 2011 at 5.30 pm . I was pleased to be asked by the owner Andrea Hope to exhibit a few paintings .
Well spring has sprung here in the Southern Hemisphere and I am pleased to see the cold weather fading away and the start of this lovely time of year . The trees have sprouted their new leaves , blossoms are blooming , chickens are laying , birds are chirping ..I am just about ready to pack the fire away till next year ..It certainly is nice to go for my daily walk with sunshine on my face !
To mark the start of spring I have painted this cute as a button leather bag with teddies and flowers . I couldn't resist buying it last weekend ..and couldn't wait to paint it up in the design that was in my head ..it is an original old leather bag ..about the 1920's ..a lovely small version of the gladstone bag , perhaps for the ladies due to its size and the fact that it has a money purse inside ...simply divine ..can be seen in my ebay store..

Exhibitions

2011-08-29T22:36:00.000+10:00

THE PIE MAKER

Hello everyone !

Can this life get any busier !! We got off to a great start with our exhibition ' COASTAL INSPIRATIONS' opening at the Minnamurra cafe last Friday night selling lots of paintings and had a happy friendly evening with those who came to see our works and have a chat ...I've been busy in my studio the past couple of days painting a very nice work to replace ' Sea Change' that sold at the opening ...

I enjoyed the opening of the Meroogal Women's Art prize on Saturday . The standard of artworks is so high this year and I was very proud to see my painting ' The Pie Maker' exhibited in such good company. The theme this year is Made By Hand and celebrates the women of this lovely old historic home that was owned by several generations of women and now owned by the historic houses trust.

It was important to me to make this painting for the exhibition . I was compelled to do so as I have a connection to this place . My grandmother lived in the same street and I remember Meroogal from an early age , even though I didn't know the inhabitants at the time I always wondered who lived in this grand old home ..It fascinated me..In 1974 my grandmother's sister Aunt Dorothy went to live at Meroogal as a housekeeper . I was invited to visit the house and was shown into the loungeroom . I vividly remember being introduced to an elderly lady who was sitting at the table peeling apples . She was Elgin Macgregor the last women to own and live in the house . When Elgin passed away in 1977 The house was given to the historic houses trust . It is from my memory of meeting Elgin all those years ago that inspired me to paint this picture and enter it in the art prize .

HOUSE PHOTOS

2011-08-20T22:10:00.000+10:00

My studio door looks lovely at night

Minnamurra Exhibition

2011-08-15T12:11:00.000+10:00

TEDDY TEA PARTY BOX..Listed by artist Kathy Karas

2011-08-11T22:05:00.001+10:00

This lovely antique cutlery box is available in my ebay store

SORRY SOLD

NEWS

2011-08-10T07:36:00.000+10:00

I was notified yesterday that my painting ' The Piemaker ' has been selected for the Meroogal Women's Art prize . How exciting ! Winners will be announced at the Shoalhaven City Arts Centre ,Nowra on the 27th August ...Will post the photo of my painting on the blog after that ...google Meroogal Women's Art Prize to read about this bi annual competition .

Have a lovely day !

SEA CHANGE

2011-07-27T09:03:00.000+10:00

We have settled well into our lovely new home and I have been painting almost every day in my studio getting ready for my next exhibition . " COASTAL INSPIRATIONS" at the Minnamurra Cafe Gallery which will start on the 22nd August running for 2 months . The opening night is 26th August between 5.30 and 7.30 pm . If you are in the area do drop in it would be lovely to see you there. As this is a long exhibition I will continue to paint so that I can replace with new paintings as they sell . I was quite pleased with this painting 'SEA CHANGE' that I am saving for the exhibition . Another painting completed recently was my entry for the Meroogal Women's Art Prize . I am hoping that it will be accepted and will post a photo later to let you know how I went in the competition .

Have a lovely day ..

'ROSES FOR TEDDY '' ..

2011-07-20T18:43:00.001+10:00

I have just fiished this painting ' ROSES FOR TEDDY' . It was a delight to paint this lovely scene of pretty china and bears from my collection. Now available at my ebay store ..SORRY SOLD

ROCKPOOL

2011-07-10T22:53:00.000+10:00

It certainly has been a busy time in the Karas household with five family birthdays in July . We had an extra birthday to celebrate this year with our Ruby Rose turning one . I can't believe how fast she has grown and becoming such a lovely little girl.
This painting is one that I have completed for the Minnamurra exhibition called ' Rockpool' . It is a painting looking towards Kiama harbour with a grandfather and grandchild exploring the rockpools in the foregound. I am really getting into the painting now with the deadline looming and such a lot more to be done ..weeks flying by too fast ..I still like to keep up with the plein air group and get out into the sunshine and paint . Also working on another painting for an art prize . I have an interesting story to tell about that one but will save that for later .

DUSK

2011-07-05T18:34:00.000+10:00

I completed this painting of Kiama harbour at dusk . I am fascinated by how strong the light can be just before the sun drops behind the mountains . I almost passed on visiting the harbour thinking that it was too late in the day but it was simply delightful and I was so glad to be there.
Apologies to all of my 70 wonderful followers . There seems to have been a malfunction and you can't be seen on my blog . Please know that I appreciate you all for following and your interest in my artworks . In the meantime I will try to work out what the problem is .

The Top Shelf ...cont.

2011-07-01T21:50:00.001+10:00

'The Top Shelf ' has now been listed in my ebay store . click the image to enlarge ..SORRY SOLD

Plein Air

2011-07-01T21:38:00.000+10:00

I went out painting with the art group during the week and did this quick plein air painting of the little brook that winds through this tranquil spot

SNEAK PREVIEW !

2011-06-30T19:52:00.001+10:00

My latest painting ' The Top Shelf' ' isn't quite finished but I just had to show you a sneak preview . It is a large painting , soooo much detail and many hours of work . It will be framed in a lovely antique shabby chic antique white frame...watch this space ..well now I can eat and off to bed !! SORRY NOW SOLD

CAFE CULTURE

2011-06-29T22:50:00.000+10:00

A new painting of the cafe at Minnamurra. I had fun with this painting .

New Paintings

2011-06-28T08:17:00.000+10:00

I have been spending most days in my studio painting works for my exhibition at Minnamurra in August . This painting is titled ' One Perfect Day'

NEWS TEDDY BEARS

2011-06-28T08:11:00.000+10:00

Please visit Rosarita's beautiful bear blog

New Paintings

2011-06-24T21:01:00.000+10:00

I finished these two little 5 x 7 inch paintings and they are in my ebay store . Looking for me on ebay ? just put my name Kathy Karas into the ebay search and you will be able to see my items.
It has been a busy week . I have been working on paintings for my next exhibition in August at the Minnamurra Cafe gallery .I exhibit here at least once a year ..a great little spot. These are mainly paintings of the Minnamurra and Kiama areas and I am about to start an interior that I have been planning in my head for a couple of weeks now .. have a lovely weekend .

CUTE BOXES

2011-06-16T23:02:00.001+10:00

I have just finished painting these 2 cute cedar boxes . They can be found in my ebay store . SORRY SOLD

COUNTRY ROSES

2011-06-08T17:05:00.001+10:00

A freezing cold day here today sent me indoors rather than off to plein air at Kiama Harbour . Never mind I wasn't idle and enjoyed painting this picture of teddy and friends Annie and Andy here with a beautiful cup and plate set . This painting is available on ebay. SORRY SOLD

ROSEBUD

2011-06-06T20:55:00.001+10:00

I have just listed this new painting "ROSEBUD" on ebay . SORrY SOLD

VINTAGE TRAVEL CASE . listed by Kathy Karas Art

2011-06-01T15:04:00.001+10:00

I have just completed this lovely old travel case painted with old teddies across the front . Will be listed on ebay tonight ..SORRY SOLD

2011-05-27T22:36:00.000+10:00

Hi Everyone,
I don't know what's going on with blogger but for some unknown reason it won't allow me to post comments so just wanted to thank Marie and Robyn for your comments this week . Marie your painting is on its way . I can't wait for you to get it so please let me know when it arrives . I hope that you will be happy with it .
It was lovely to hear from you Robyn, thanks so much for your kind words about my blog . I hope to sort the problem of not being able to leave comments soon .

TEACUP TEDDIES

2011-05-25T16:22:00.001+10:00

Fresh off the easel ! 3 little teacup teddy paintings ....
size 6" x 8" on canvas board ...very very cute ..SORRY ALL 3 NOW SOLD

TEA WITH TEDDY

2011-05-23T21:36:00.000+10:00

I have had an enjoyable time setting up props in my kitchen to paint this pretty picture . It is a painting of my bears and doll having tea ..Teddy has bought out her best rose tea set and they are having a lovely time chatting away while I painted ! The white shabby chic frame is a beautiful antique ..will be listed on ebay soon ..

Cook Off continued

2011-05-22T22:15:00.000+10:00

Missy had a great afternoon

Lorraine's pumpkin fruit cake

The Judging

2011-05-22T22:11:00.000+10:00

AND THE WINNER IS .....drum roll please !

2011-05-22T21:57:00.000+10:00

What a lovely afternoon . The weather behaved , neighbours arrived with their scrumptious pumpkin entries and we set up tables in the garden .Kids and dogs played hide and seek around the chook pen and made the most of the afternoon sunshine . The judges ,Graham and Manny had the difficult task of deciding on the winning dish . It was all very formal of course (LOL) with each dish numbered so that the judges didn't know who cooked what . We all waited patiently as the judges sampled each dish before deciding on a beautiful pumpkin fruitcake made by Lorraine . Then we all had a feast !! There were several pumpkin soups, roast pumpkin salads, fritters, samosas, desserts, and yummy spring rolls.
Now for the winner of the recipe sent to me for my entry ...what a hard decision! . I had a variety of pumpkin soups, cakes, breads and a recipe for samosas but the one that I loved handsdown for its taste and simplicity (even I could make this one ) was the pumpkin fritter recipe from Marie all the way from South Africa . They were delicious with their dusting of cinnamon sugar ..YUUUMMMM.
Thanks to everyone who sent their family recipes to me . I will keep them all as a momento to remind me of how lovely and thoughtful you all are to me and I will never be short of a pumpkin recipe ever again !

Getting my entries ready

' BOY'S OWN ' ANTIQUE HATBOX

2011-05-21T17:00:00.001+10:00

I have just completed this antique hatbox and listed it on ebay . The design has been wandering around in my head for a while now just waiting for the right piece to come along ..The painting is called ' Boy's Own ' as it reminds me of the annual books of years ago . As I remember there were Boy's Own annuals and Girl's Own annuals that were eagerly awaited and mostly given at Christmas time . They were packed with stories of adventure , games and puzzles and were read from cover to cover until another one arrived under the tree the following year ...am I showing my age yet ??
The Pumpkin cook-off is tomorrow and being judged in the garden . Our instructions are to bring plate , bowl and spoon as well as a chair ....and our entries of course ! I have had some yummy recipes sent in . I didn't realise that pumpkin could be cooked in such a variety of ways ..well I have had pumpkin all over the kitchen ...almost slipped head over heel on a pumpkin seed and I am sure will be finding bits for months to come but it certainly has been fun ....
Watch this space for the results of a fun afternoon tomorrow !
SORRY THE HATBOX IS NOW SOLD

THANKYOU

2011-05-19T19:33:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone who sent me great pumpkin recipes for the cook-off. I will be testing them between now and Sunday and will choose a winner by Monday . This lovely painting ' The veggie Patch' will soon be on its way to the sender of the best recipe....huggggs

NO PAINTING TODAY

2011-05-18T21:20:00.000+10:00

I didn't paint today . Miss Ruby came to visit ...

TEDDY CARDS

2011-05-16T08:11:00.001+10:00

These are a set of 6 teddy cards . I had them printed from lovely little watercolours that I have painted . They are printed onto good quality textured cream card, blank inside with matching envelopes. Great for gifts and all occasions and look lovely framed . I sell the set of 6 cards for $24AUD + post to your area worldwide . Please contact me if interested in buying kathykaras@bigpond.com/ I accept paypal *****

Thanks to everyone who is sending pumpkin recipes . I look forward to trying them this week . It's not too late to enter in the competition , must be in by the 18th so that I can try them before the cook-off that will be judged in the garden 3pm next Sunday.
***Have a beary lovely day ***

THE GREAT PUMPKIN COOK-OFF

2011-05-14T07:21:00.000+10:00

I have recently moved to a lovely little town surrounded by peaceful farmland and gorgeous mountain views . Now I have moved house quite a lot over the years but this place is different ..I feel an inner peace and a distinct feeling that this spot on the map is where I was intended to be living .I can't quite put my finger on the reason why apart from the beauty of the place ...perhaps it is because I can see the two mountains from my kitchen window each morning ..the same ones that I saw as I was growing up and have an ancestral connection with . More than that are the great neighbours who have made us feel so welcome.. This is a purpose built town , forward thinking in its design concerning conservation and reducing carbon imprint . It has a way to go for this to be fully achieved but I am totally confident that it is heading along the right track .
The town also takes a lot of ideas from old towns ..you know the way it used to be before high rise came along and people started living in square boxes with no consideration for aspect or design to suit an area. Although the houses are of similar design there actually isn't two the same as each is designed for that particular block of land . High ceilings , rectangular windows and lovely old fashioned verandas just right for sitting and having a yarn with neighbours make them very livable .
The town has a community vegetable garden complete with 2 chooks, Josephine and Isabella. Local dog Missy checks on them everyday . Actually there are quite a few local dogs which is lovely since we lost our Cavvy Monty last year . They all call in to say hi while on their walks with their mums and dads . So far we have met Tiny , Trevor and Audi as well as daily visits from Missy .
As a result of a good harvest of pumpkins this year we are having a cook off competition ...AND this is where you all become involved ...a cry for H_E_L_P on my part as I am surely a better artist than a cook and I need your help to come up with a good recipe..one that a not so good cook like me can whip up and look impressive LOL.. At Kathy's blogspot I have decided to have our very own competition , a competition within a competition that involves you all . The winning recipe for a great pumpkin dish (that will make me look like a fabulous cook!) will win this original 12" x 16" oil painting called "The veggie Patch" signed by myself the artist . So please join in the fun and send me your best tried and true pumpkin recipe by the 18th May...Competition is open to all ..I will send the painting to the winner anywhere WW free post.
Please just post your recipe on this blog ..Or if you aren't a follower just email it to me ( why not take this oportunity to become a follower , It cost nothing to follow this blog and you can see what I have painted most days and sometimes before it goes onto ebay ) ,
looking forward to reading your comments ...this could be fun !!

BEARY CHIC' BEAR PAINTING. listed by Kathy Karas

2011-05-11T21:51:00.001+10:00

This pretty painting is listed on ebay ... SORRY SOLD

GRANNY'S SEWING BOX

2011-05-10T13:43:00.001+10:00

I have just listed this beautiful antique hatbox on ebay . After quite a search I finally found one (actually two at the same time) and painted it up in a design that had been on my mind for a few weeks ..just sitting there ..beconning to be painted so I was very pleased to find this piece. I have named it ' Granny's Sewing Box' in honour of my dear grandmother who was always creating , sewing and stitching beautiful things .
SORRY SOLD

PAIR MINIATURE BEAR PAINTINGS . listed by Kathy Karas

2011-05-06T22:49:00.000+10:00

Hello everyone ,
I had an interesting day at the Wollongong gallery attending a seminar " work n women" . It explored many aspects of how creative women past, present and future achieve in their chosen artforms from visual to performing , writing and spiritual . An absolute treat was to listen to author Wendy Richardson recite part of her book about the lives of four women between 1800's and 1930 who lived through a coal mine disaster, two world wars and the great depression in the village of Mt Kembla. An inspiration to us all who attended .
The miniature paintings are this weeks special (a little early but I wanted something sweet on ebay for mother's day!)
Happy Mother's Day to all of the inspirational and creative mum's out there..my mum included , the greatest roll model in my life who has taught me the meaning of sharing , giving of myself unconditionally and for showing by example that nothing is impossible as long as you are willing to work hard and don't give up on what you believe in . thanks mum.

PORT KEMBLA EXHIBITION

2011-05-03T22:46:00.000+10:00

CUTE ANTIQUE TEDDY TABLE

2011-04-30T16:59:00.001+10:00

Another lovely antique recently painted with my original design " My Little Angel" ..available on ebay at the moment .. SORRY SOLD

1930's DOLL'S WARDROBE ..listed by artist Kathy Karas

2011-04-28T14:01:00.001+10:00

Here is a preview of my latest piece of artwork that will be listed on ebay tonight. A lovely little doll's wardrobe made from kauri pine ..cute as a button ! .....SORRY SOLD

PICKET FENCES

2011-04-28T11:46:00.000+10:00

Looking like a dollhouse now with its picket fence finished

I woke to a beautiful rainbow to greet the morning

The lovely view of the mountains out of my bedroom window

NEW HOUSE

2011-04-26T14:31:00.000+10:00

Our little house is taking shape..we started on the fences last weekend ..looking soo cute !

BEARS FOR SALE

2011-04-25T18:57:00.003+10:00

I have these lovely bears for sale on ebay at the moment ....PS little Sarah above is a bit sad ..all the other bears have bids ...does nobody want to adopt her ? ps..Ahhhh that is much better ! Sarah says thankyou with a big hug !!...SORRY ALL SOLD

VIEW FROM MY FRONT DOOR

2011-04-20T21:37:00.000+10:00

This is the stunning view of the mountains from my front door ..

I LOVE MY TEDDY BEAR .beautiful photo in antique frame

2011-04-20T21:33:00.001+10:00

Well I have just unpacked the last box and am feeling a bit tired but happy to have my studio all set up and ready to start painting again after Easter . A few things just didn't fit in with the new house . They are lovely and I have treasured them for years but I would rather someone else enjoy them rather than store them away in a cupboard . This photograph is beautiful and nicely framed in an antique frame with original curved glass, Available on ebay . SORRY NOW SOLD

NEW ADDRESS

2011-04-13T09:40:00.000+10:00

Hello everyone !! after a long wait and much planning we have moved into our new home. It is just lovely to be settled again although we are totally exhausted from the move. We have unpacked a mountain of boxes over the past couple of days , reaquainted ourselves with much loved furniture and bits and pieces that have moved with us to various places over the past 35 years and are now too looking splendid in their new home. I am so pleased with how our old and newer stuff is looking ..it has been so much fun decorating this smaller but well designed home . We are looking forward to starting on the garden which will be from scratch ,so much to do in the coming months.
Please note that I have a new email address kathykaras@bigpond.com I have been 'off the air' for a few days and now can't access emails from my other address so please forgive me for not replying to emails . I would be grateful if you could resend using my new e-address ..
cheers for now....

Antique English oak table

2011-03-31T18:08:00.001+11:00

I was so pleased to find this gorgeous little antique table recently . I had such fun painting the design of bears, bunnies, kittens and easter chicks on either side .. The table is an apprentice piece and as such is a small version of a large table . It is beauifully made from English oak ..the drop sides spin around and lock into place to be supported by the legs..available on ebay SORRY SOLD

ANTIQUE KEEPSAKE BOX

2011-03-24T20:55:00.002+11:00

Hello all...
I have just finished the artwork on this beautiful antique box. I was very pleased to find it last week while out and about doing the rounds of the antique shops. The box has a lovely original pink satin lining ...a very special piece that could be used for keepsakes ,makeup or jewelry...for sale on ebay at the moment ..SORRY SOLD within 1 hour of listing ..gotta be quick !

*****************************************************************************
The last few months have been mega busy around here ..trust us to decide to build a new house the year that the drought broke ! The moving date has been delayed several times now ..very frustrating but it looks like we will be moving in to our new place in about 2 weeks ...YAAAY ! I am so looking forward to unpacking and setting up my new studio so that I can be back painting full time again.. The house is coming together nicely . Not a large house by any means but it has everything that we need to make it a comfortable, cosy home . I think that the bears will enjoy living at the new 'Kathy's Cottage' .. I am also gathering my thoughts ( and imagination) for some paintings that I would like to do ..I am going for a classic French country inspired decor . Just hoping that it will all come together ok as I am combining some of my old pieces of furniture with some other pieces that I have been collecting over the past months.
I spent a couple of hours plein air painting with the Kiama group yesterday high up on a hilltop at Jamberoo yesterday ..It was a blissful escape for a little while and good for the soul to get out into this beautiful area.. :-)

BABY BEAR

2011-02-28T17:15:00.000+11:00

My customer Angela uses my teddy artwork pieces for her photography . I don't know how she got this baby to sleep so soundly for the photos . What a cute baby !

ANTIQUE LEATHER CASE..listed by artist Kathy Karas

2011-02-10T21:13:00.001+11:00

Hello everyone ,
How lovely to be back painting ! we are still waiting for our new house to be finished but it is coming along nicely so I hope to soon be unpacking my poor bears who have had to go into hibernation at the storage unit . In the meantime our beautiful baby granddaughter has helped me out by sitting in on my latest artwork , a very nice old leather bag ..Thanks Ruby Rose ..what a pretty picture ..
If you would like to see more of this bag it is available on ebay at the moment ..SORRY SOLD

A LITTLE BIRD TOLD ME

2011-01-29T21:46:00.000+11:00

This latest painting was done on a grey overcast day by the lake . None the less I liked the colour of the water enough to be inspired to paint it . The seagulls were gathered on the jetty no doubt scavenging leftover bait that the fishermen had left behind.

THIS IS THE LIFE

2011-01-29T21:39:00.000+11:00

I painted 'This Is The Life' while my hubby was doing some fishing from the bank of the lake . It was such a pretty spot and one that we have just discovered up the lake from our holiday place . The minute I saw the people sitting under this orange umbrella with their deck chairs all set up on a private jetty I though " what a great life " and was compelled to paint the scene . It was one of those picture perfect days ..what a joy to be able to loose myself in the moment .

SUNRISE ON THE BAY

2011-01-29T21:27:00.000+11:00

I painted this scene after an early morning visit to Jervis bay . It is called 'Sunrise On The Bay' . I loved the way that the early morning light danced across the water with Point Perpendicular silhoueted in purple in the background .

NEW PAINTINGS

2011-01-29T21:20:00.000+11:00

Hello everyone,

This is my first blog entry for 2011. I hope that you all had a lovely Christmas and are enjoying the start of the new year . We have been staying at our holiday place on the South Coast of NSW and while here have been inspired to do some painting . This area is so beautiful and we have lovely views of the lake and ust a short distance from a stunning beach . This first painting is of a kiosk and boat hire on the jetty .

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2010-12-22T16:38:00.000+11:00

THE TEDDY BEAR'S CHRISTMAS TREE

2010-12-03T20:47:00.001+11:00

I have just completed this beautiful Christmas painting ..each year I like to do a couple Christmas paintings for my collectos . This will be the last one for 2010 . It features the bears of Kathy's Cottage all gathering to trim the tree , wrap presents and spend some time together getting into the spirit of the festive season...The Bears would like to " Bear a hearty Greeting to all who follow this blog and thankyou to everyone who has taken the time to leave a comment and to those who now have another piece of Kathy's art in their homes ...a big hug to you all ....
This painting is available on ebay at the moment ...SORRY SOLD

TEDDY PHOTO ALBUM

2010-12-01T19:24:00.000+11:00

A lovely photo album that I painted as a special order last week .

' SAMMY '

2010-12-01T19:20:00.000+11:00

I was delighted to be asked to do a painting of my friend's lovely horse recently. Sammy holds a special place in her heart as she raised him from a baby . I would have to say that he has the kindest eyes that I have seen on a horse and I was pleased to be able to capture that in the painting.

LITTLE TED'S CHRISTMAS TREE

2010-11-26T16:16:00.002+11:00

Hello everyone ,
I have just finished painting this teddy painting . Each year I like to do at least one special painting for my collectors. This one is very sweet . It features two bears ..Mama bear is wearing her best white Christmas dress and has purple hydrangea in her hair ..she is holding little Lila who is wearing her lilac dress and white bloomers . They are sitting in front of ' Bear Cottage' with two Christmas trees adorned with bright stars on each. I have painted the original antique frame in antique white to complete the Christmas theme.
The size is 19 inches x 24 inches ..the painting is available for auction or purchase on ebay . SORRY SOLD

SALWA WOODROFFE

2010-11-19T08:53:00.000+11:00

My friend Salwa has just begun her new blog http://www.salwawoodroffe.blogspot.com/ please call by her blog to see some stunning paintings and learn more about this beautiful artist .

MORRELLIS WINES EXHIBITION

2010-11-14T15:56:00.001+11:00

My current exhibition ' FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA ' is now on at Morrellis Wines ,Berry , NSW.

Morrellis Wines is nestled in one of the many peaceful and untouched valleys that can be found on the NSW South Coast . Great wine, amazing views and the sounds of nature are just some of the delights .

The art gallery is situated within the wine tasting room . My paintings along with paintings by fellow artist Salwa Woodroffe will be displayed from now until 18th December .

http://www.morrellis.com.au/

PRINTS AND CARDS

2010-10-22T12:14:00.000+11:00

Hi everyone,
You can now order prints and greeting cards of my paintings from www.fineartamerica.com/profiles/kathy-karas.html

EXHIBITION

2010-10-20T21:57:00.000+11:00

My friend Marijke has a fabulous exhibition at THE PALM HOUSE , Royal Botanical Gardens Sydney from 9-22 November .

Monty

2010-10-12T16:29:00.000+11:00

Our dear little dog Monty ( on right) went to doggy heaven last week..we are all upset but he had a good 11 1/2 years wih us and had the best life a dog could have ..RIP Monty..now chasing butterflies in heaven

BANKSIA

2010-09-29T21:27:00.000+10:00

I received a highly commended award for my painting ' BANKSIA' at the Berry Landcare exhibition recently

NEW HOUSE

2010-09-26T22:41:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone ,
Well at last our new house has been started .After much planning and red tape the excavations were done last week and with fingers crossed the concrete slab should be laid this week ...only about 5 months to wait for my new studio . I feel a bit lost without my paints and easel set up and have been slacking off while all the house organising is happening but yaye I am off to do some plein air painting on Tuesday with some painting buddies ..sooo looking forward to it . I hope to finish off a couple of pieces for my ebay store by the end of the week..cheers to all

THE ' PLEIN AIR GIRLS' EXHIBITION

2010-09-23T22:40:00.000+10:00

My painting group ' The Plein Air Girls' are are having our first group exhibition in October . We are quite a unique group of ladies who enjoy a few days away several times a year so that we can just concentrate on our painting , catching up with each other and generally have lot of fun. Each of us have our own style of painting..some paint in watercolour, some oils and acrylic and others in pastel . If you can come and have a look at our exhibition you will be pleasantly surprised by the works created from our travels

2010-09-18T15:37:00.002+10:00

2010-09-18T15:36:00.000+10:00

LITTLE BEAR BOXES

2010-09-18T15:33:00.000+10:00

I have just painted 3 cute little teddy trinket boxes and have them listed on ebay at the moment ...

THE BIG MOVE

2010-08-20T23:04:00.000+10:00

Hello everyone ,
I must apologise to all who follow my blog for not blogging for a while . We have sold our house and have moved in with our daughter , son in law and beautiful baby granddaughter while we wait for our new house to be built. It is quite an exciting time for us but eventually it will be lovely to move into a new home. I am looking forward to a lovely studio space where I can paint with morning sun streaming in through the windows and beautiful views of spectacular surrounding mountain ranges ...what great inspiration for an artist ! ..will post picks soon for you all to see..

Kathy's Exhibition

2010-06-20T20:09:00.000+10:00

                                                      COASTING
                                   An exhibition of paintings by Kathy Karas
                       Inspired by people, places and pastimes living on the coast
                                                             At
                           THE MINNAMURRA GENERAL STORE CAFE
                                     1a Rangoon Street Minnamurra. NSW

                                           19th July - 17th August 2010

2010-06-19T19:23:00.000+10:00

CHILDHOOD DAYS

2010-06-17T14:39:00.000+10:00

I have just finished this lovely painting called ' Childhood Days' .The frame is antique measuring 97cm x 48cm (38" x 19" )...Available in my ebay store.. $450..Hugs to all...SORRY SOLD

TEDDY BEARS IN VENICE

2010-06-17T07:31:00.000+10:00

Please visit my friend Rosarita's blogs and website to see her beautiful bears . Her site is so lovely to read with lots of interesting articles and pictures . http://newsteddybears.blogspot.com/

TIME FOR A STORY

2010-06-12T22:47:00.000+10:00

I have just completed this painting of a girl reading to her little dog

HOME STRETCH

2010-06-08T11:54:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone ,
sorry I have been so busy painting for an exhibition next month and have neglected my blog . Bit by bit I am getting there , spending most days at the easel painting from photos that I have taken for reference material and am only now getting around to painting . I have to say that it has been fun although I have had to neglect my teddy customers to put in the hours into these artworks . I have just finished this one in oil and titled it ' Home Stretch ' ..it was almost going to be called ' Round the Bend ' as I did struggle with some of the angles . However I am quite pleased with the finished work and am happy with the impressionistic style that I am trying to achieve ..albiet my own brand of impressionism !

UNIQUE ANTIQUE

2010-05-31T17:12:00.000+10:00

This is my latest painting ..I have painted this lovely bear design onto the front of this beautiful antique trunk . it is listed on ebay at the moment where you can see a full description with more photos ..cheers, :-) SORRY SOLD

LIGHTHOUSE

2010-05-25T22:47:00.000+10:00

Another lighthouse painting done plein air while away at Norah Head lighthouse.

ALL TIED UP

2010-05-25T22:43:00.000+10:00

A painting that I finished recently of fishing boats in the harbour called ' All Tied Up' . I am spending a lot of time at the easel these days ..so much to be done in this half of the year getting ready for exhibitions later on . Looking forward to a trip to see the Archibald's at the gallery of NSW ..the year isn't quite complete if I miss out on seeing this fabulous portrait exhibition ..

BANKSIA

2010-05-21T22:51:00.000+10:00

I tried out a different technique painting these banksia that grow beautifuly near the lighthouse.

THE LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER'S COTTAGE

2010-05-21T22:47:00.000+10:00

A watercolour of the cottage looking up the hill from the lighthouse

THE LIGHTHOUSE

2010-05-21T22:44:00.000+10:00

This was a quick painting of the lighthouse before the light faded late afternoon on the day of arrival at Norah head

SOLDIER'S POINT ROCKS

2010-05-21T22:40:00.000+10:00

I did this painting 'plein air' while away at Norah Head . It was a wild afternoon. I just completed the painting as the rain started and then there was a frantic pack up of easel and paints . We all got soaked but it was satisfying to get my painting done.

PAINTING TRIP

2010-05-21T16:51:00.000+10:00

Hello everyone,

I have recently returned from a fabulous painting trip to Norah Head lighthouse on the NSW central coast . eight of us Plein Air Girls stayed in the historical lighthouse keeper's cottage. We go on these trips away 2 or 3 times a year and we always have a great time ..spending time in lovely locations with like minded friends. We all take turns at choosing and organizing the location..this time Anny did the honours and what a great choice !. Highlights of the holiday were scouting around the area for good painting spots with camera in hand, watching the sun setting on the lighthouse while sipping wine on the verandah of the cottage , enjoying great food and rolling about laughing as some of the characters of the group shared tales and stories in the evening. It was interesting to go on a tour of the lighthouse and climb to the very top ..what a view ! We all enjoyed painting various views and aspects of this lovely area and the 4 days went by way too quickly..Oh well now back to reality ..still painting for an exhibition in July and October ..never a dull moment !

BEAUTIFUL HAT BOX

2010-05-21T16:21:00.000+10:00

SORRY SOLD
This beautiful antique hatbox is available at the moment..