A "Day Trip" to Paris

For the 'armchair traveler' these new pieces reflect the dream of visiting Paris, for others, it may recall memories of a past holiday. A daily glimpse of Paris will let your imagination transport you to one of the world's most memorable cities. For more information about these pieces, contact Stephanie directly at stephanietoral@comcast.net.

"Postcard from Paris II"
8" x 8" Watercolor on Parchment
13" x 13" Greenwich Black Frame with Onyx Double Mat
Available at Motif in Downtown Libertyville

"Autumn in Paris"
8" x 10" Watercolor on Paper
11" x 14" Seville Bronze Frame
$300

"Postcard from Paris IV"
9" x 6" Watercolor on Paper
13" x 10" Seville Bronze Frame
SOLD

New Works

I am back in the studio creating new pieces after the success of my "A Painting a Day" project. Many of the popular themes and subjects produced during the project are now becoming the focus of more detailed study and exploration.

The new works featured below echo the "Vintage" style that has evolved from my love of antique botanical and naturalist illustration. I have reinterpeted these traditional subjects in a more modern way, combining graphic elements, pattern and text.

"Vintage Butterfly I"
8" x 8" Watercolor on Parchment
12' x 12" Greenwich Deluxe Frame
$240.00

"Vintage Butterfly II"
7" x 5" Watercolor on Parchment
11" x 14" Roman Bronze Frame
$200.00

Created Especially for You

A Special Offer for "A Painting a Day" Enthusiasts

My "A Painting a Day" Project has officially ended. An amazing 25 of 30 paintings have sold, many amid some lively bidding! I am so touched by the support my work has received and the generosity of collectors who joined me in this charitable challenge to benefit The Lake County Haven.

After many of the pieces had sold, some viewers asked if I would be doing more pieces of a particular subject. To keep things fresh and interesting, I varied my themes and subjects from day to day, purposely trying not to be repetitive.

Many of the subjects were very popular, so today, I present the opportunity to have you commission a piece based on any of the paintings offered for auction this month. OR you may even request something completely different! I also invite you to take a second look at the pieces still available or visit my website to view many of my other works.

The pieces I create are one-of-a-kind, no two will ever be exactly alike and any new commission will be unique.

Simply click on the listings to the right to view any piece and you may contact me directly with any questions or inquiries. A portion of the proceeds from all new commissions from this offer will be donated to The Lake County Haven.

So...it's not too late. I hope you will honor me with the opportunity to create something "especially for you."

"Postcard from Paris"

"A Painting a Day" to Benefit the Lake County Haven

7" x 5" Pen & Ink with Watercolor on Parchment SOLD

This painting is sold with the frame shown above when bid meets or exceeds the "Buy It Now" price listed. 10" x 8" Seville frame.

Today's creation is the final piece in my "A Painting a Day" Project.

"Postcard from Paris" is intended to bring a bit of 'armchair travel' into your day. Whether you have visited Paris or dream of traveling there someday, I wanted this piece to evoke the grandeur and elegance of one of the world's great cities.

A stylized pen and ink drawing of the Eiffel Tower has been overpainted with bright washes of watercolor to resemble an antique photograph. Hand-lettered text adds the finishing touches to complete this 'day-trip' to Par-ee. Bon voyage!

Each 24 hours of this project has been a 'day-trip' for me. A creative journey, an artistic adventure! I have enjoyed (and at times, stuggled) bringing these paintings to you each day.

But my creative struggles are nothing compared to the dire circumstances facing the hundreds of homeless here in Lake County.

Thank you for allowing me to share my work with you and bring awareness to women in need. The great work of The Lake County Haven staff and volunteers and the clients they empower is an inspiration. I am so pleased to be able to use my time and talent to help this worthy cause.

A very special THANK YOU! to those who have purchased the paintings offered each day. Your support is greatly appreciated and I am honored that you chose to join me in this charitable challenge!

"Chamomile"

"A Painting a Day" to Benefit The Lake County Haven

5" x 7" Watercolor on Paper SOLD

A bumble bee looks to alight on the fragrant Chamomile flowers. Chamomile is the common name for several daisy-like plants. These plants are best known for their ability to be made into an infusion which is commonly used to help with sleep and is often served with either honey or lemon. Chamomile is also known to reduce stress.

This painting is sold framed as shown when bid meets the "Buy It Now" price listed. 8" x 10" Versailles Frame with white mats.

"Teacups"

"A Painting a Day" to Benefit The Lake County Haven

5" x 7" Watercolor on Paper SOLD

Today's subject is a stack of delicate china teacups. Purchasing this painting will, in part, help The Lake County Haven fulfill its mission to empower homeless women and their children to achieve permanent, independent living.

As this project comes to a close (only 2 more days!), be sure to take a second look at the pieces that are still available. Simply click on the post listings to the right.

Art is the ultimate home accessory...the final finishing stroke on the canvas you call home. Art can play an important role in making your home special and unique. Collecting and decorating with art will allow you to more fully define and express your personal style. Surrounding yourself with art that you love will inspire you and elevate your mood.

These small pieces will easily add beauty and interest to any small wall. They can also be part of a larger grouping, nestled on a shelf, or placed on a vanity or tabletop to delight you and your guests.

This painting is sold framed as shown when bid  meets the "Buy It Now" price listed.  9" x 11" Pewter frame with white mats.

"Lady's Slipper Orchid"

"A Painting a Day" to Benefit The Lake County Haven

5" x 7" Watercolor on Parchment SOLD

Orchids are known for their delicate beauty and exotic character. There are over 25,000 species of orchid, more than any other flower. Evolving through an intricate and interesting history, the meanings of orchids include love, beauty, luxury, and strength. In Europe, orchids were used as a main ingredient in love potions.

Purchasing this painting will, in part, help The Lake County Haven fulfill its mission to empower homeless women and their children to achieve permanent, independent living.

Founded in 1992, the Haven fulfills its mission by providing shelter, housing, and professional services in support of its residents and graduates.

This painting is sold framed as shown when bid meets the "Buy It Now" price listed. 9" x 11" Versailles frame with palm white mats.