The fact of the matter is, I have not missed painting....at all, during the 18 months I have been on sabbatical. (Trying to figure out if this is a good thing?? ...) So when the company , who retains me to handle the company's marketing (Mid-Coast Energy Systems) approached me with the idea of painting a 17 ft x 10 ft. mural of a waving American Flag on their new showroom wall....I was less than enthusiastic and in fact, felt a wave of major dread. But I have a personal and professional interest in this company and it's people... I wanted to accomodate and add my signature to this wonderful project- an interactive showroom promoting energy efficient systems. (Grand Opening June 11th 2012)
Not having painted a flag before - not to mention anything of this size for a few years (pre-Lyme Disease) I had forgotten how physically challenging this sort of work can be. I have to admit that I had great distain for the process until I could step back and be satisfied with its completion. It made me remember why I no longer do this type of work.
Haining's historically based style is infused with a blend of abstract impressionism.
Haining's “Lost Oar” Series, whimsical paintings of mermaids, satirical themes and commissions of historic sailing vessels are particularly well known. Her work is in collections nationwide.
Her accomplishments include book cover art for Penguin Press, affiliation with the American Folk Art Museum in New York City and being invited as a featured artist for several maritime institutions of note, including the Maine Maritime Museum and the Nantucket Whaling Museum.
Haining is currently on sabbatical and concentrating on her marketing career, which she has always enjoyed along with her art career.
"When the spirit moves me, I'll go back to art...I was feeling stagnant and bored with my artwork and finally gave myself permission to stop in order to clear my head. It was feeling way too "serious!" It became obvious I needed to walk away. I need to approach it from a completely new direction....perhaps even a new medium...when-what that might be...I'm not sure...we'll see."
Everything changes. Holly
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