Fern's - Painting of Motel Sign in Saugus, MA

Fern's

8 x 4.5 inches

acrylic on board

Yes, I am still having fun with this series! I think I could go on and on with the neon and old signs. These kind of places (and their signs!) are disappearing quickly - so I have soooo many to document! Most newer signs don't seem to have the same character. I'm sure I will continue to add to this series from time to time, even once the show at Sage Art Gallery in Haverhill is over.

Motor Hotel - Small painting of motel neon sign SOLD

Motor Hotel

4 x 8 inches

acrylic on board
SOLD

Did you know that "motel" was coined from the combination of "motor hotel" in the 1920's?
Motels sprung up along highways as car travel became more popular - having their heydays in the 60's. Their numbers declined in the 80's as interstate freeways replaced the older highways.

I love the old neon, and the fun shapes and colors of the unique old signs. I really would love to document all the motel signs I can - they are disappearing quickly. I hope to have a few more for the upcoming show in Haverhill.

Marty's - Small Cityscape Painting, Ipswich, MA SOLD

Marty's

8 x 4.5 inches

acrylic on board
SOLD

Another local haunt! Marty's Donut Land is in Ipswich, MA. I've never actually bought anything there, but I hear that the secret is to knock on the door just after midnight when the lights are only on the in kitchen, and the man there will let you buy the fresh, hot, just dipped donuts as he makes them.

This painting is available at MiXtMedia Gallery as part of the Ipswich-themed exhibition.

Hope everyone has had a lovely Labor Day weekend. It was nice to enjoy some family time - a little relaxing, a trip to an amusement park, lots of barbecuing. The kids are back to school later this week, and I will be back at the easel, working on more of these little paintings of local scenes for a featured artist exhibit at Sage Art Gallery. More details to come!

Cameron's - North Shore Cityscape, Gloucester Restaurant SOLD

Cameron's

8 x 4.5 inches

acrylic on board
SOLD

Another "Scene from the North Shore" for Pop Gallery. I found an old menu online that declares it "Where the Natives Dine". But no more - I think it went out of business last year. I liked the angles and the shadows, so I had to give it a shot.....I may try another one from a different angle.

Agawam - New Architectural Painting

Agawam

8 x 4.5 inches

acrylic on board

Another building in Ipswich, Massachusetts for the MiXtMedia show. I'm not sure why I find some of the simpler buildings more interesting. I think it was the sign that drew me to this one! I am working on another one from a different corner of the same building that I hope to post tomorrow.