Canaveral Seashore Paint Out Day 5

Weinaug Mangroves

Landscape Paintings

Mary Sue

Bill

River from the Weinaug's Dock

Patio Party Location

Notes From My Artist Residency Journal

Yesterday I was hosted for the afternoon by Bill and Mary Sue Weinaug, old friends. They own Wekiva Island in Apopka, FL and are the major sponsors for the Wekiva Paint Out. I painted the afternoon away on their covered dock. I was very excited to have two Manatee visitors, close enough for me to touch, but they quickly moved away before I could get a photo of them. Bill leaves a hose running for them to get a drink, as the river is brackish water.

 The scenery from their dock is very beautiful. It has a second story platform for viewing too. The house is incredible, full of art from their collection. I was proud to see one of my large paintings over the bed in one of the rooms. By the time I finished painting, it was too late to leave and come back for the party, so I enjoyed sitting on the patio, watching the birds and fish jump out of the river.

The party started at 6:30 and it was posh indeed. There was live music on the patio with lots of beautiful lights. The catering staff strolled around with shrimp cocktail shots, clams casino, and bacon wrapped sea scallops, an endless supply. The buffet offered an array of fresh fruits and cheeses, melt in your mouth prime rib chunks with wild rice, and jumbo shrimp in a sauce, along with a mixed green salad. Dessert was tiered on turntables, tiny delicious and beautifully decorated petitfors. ( I don't know how to spell that.)

Of course there was a full bar and bartender. This was a gesture of kindness from the Weinaugs, to give the artists and their friends a lovely evening after long days or work. There were about a hundred people there and I saw many old friends from New Smyrna Beach. I've never enjoyed an event party more and the Weinaugs have set the pleasure bar very high indeed. 

This morning I set out after breakfast at the Beacon for Flagler Avenue to paint. There is an abandoned building there that faces a lovely scene of palms. I've always wanted to paint it, so I decided today was the day. I enjoyed painting it but the sun was fierce and there was no shade to be had. The glare was so bad that I'm surprised that I got anything painted at all, but I kept at it until I finished. This afternoon, I will paint a wave painting.

Tonight we are off to the Arts on Douglas reception with Chef Sue's lovely catering, so I know I will enjoy seeing lots of people there. More to come.....