"Heading for Home"

Happy to announce that this pastel painting was chosen to exhibit in the the 20th Annual Stars of Texas Competition in Brownwood, TX. February  4 to 17, 2018 Brownwood Civic Center, 215 Fisk Ave.  Info:  (325)-647-4002    From 350 entries, Juror artist Randy Bacon chose 97 artworks to be exhibited. Also, thrilled to report that my painting was chosen for an award which will be presented at the opening reception, February 4th, 7 to 9. Like many of my images, this one explores the dynamic tension between the approaching tornado and the vulnerable life and property in its path. Eerie, ominous color adds to the mood. For more about this show visit www.brownwoodart.com

Looking forward to Vintage Market Days here in Kerrville,TX   November 10-12, 2017 Friday, Saturday, Sunday at the Hill Country Exhibition Center, Hwy 27 East. I will be bringing a collection of favorite print reproductions on canvas and new original paintings in pastel. This is a fun event featuring upscale, unique vintage/antique/decor/clothing/art plus food and music. Bring your friends and enjoy the fun. A small admission fee. A great time to shop for Christmas giving. For more info contact me through my website: www.kathleencook.com

"Along the Fenceline"   Pastel Original and Print Reproduction  24" x 18"

"Above the Frio"   Pastel Original     15" x 15"

"Catching the Light"   Pastel Original     15" x 15"

More Pastels



"Prairie Glory"

There is nothing like the drama of Texas skies.

This one is over the prairie country of the Panhandle.

Late dusk. The final triumphant shout.

Pastel is particularly effective at capturing

these subtle nuances of light.

This painting has sold but sunsets are a continuing theme. 

Contact me to view more paintings like this in my studio.

"The Cartoonist"
28" x 28"
My great-nephew Kolby, working on his cartoon book,
Alien Invadors, on a rainy summer afternoon. I love the toe,
and the bright red reflection of his ear.
It's all about the light!
This painting is on view in my studio.

"Collected Things"
30" x 24"
Unusual items collected on a window ledge in my studio.
Each afternoon in winter I waited for the shadows. This
image came to life in bits and pieces, adding and taking away
elements, but always preserving the rhythm of the composition.
I had the most fun painting the cicada at the bottom, trying to
get its wings to look transparent. 
This painting is for sale in my studio.

Hi Friends,

I am just starting to build my Blog. I am a novice at this and since I am on "dial-up" it takes those hamsters inside my computer a very long time to make anything happen. Ha! I am hoping to have things going so I can post new ideas and events in my studio in a quicker way than on my website:  kathleencook.com.

Pictured is one of my latest pastel paintings,"BirdFlowers". An example of the rich beauty of the pastel medium. Pastel can be worked very large and very small. Famous for its rich, vibrant color, pastel has been my favorite medium for a long time. I love to paint complicated fabrics and textures, so these iridescent peacock feathers and the paisley drapery were wonderful subjects. I guess this love comes from those years spent as a fashion illustrator long ago.

This painting is available at my studio and you can also visit my art at martastaffordfineart.com. This lovely gallery is hosted by Marta Stafford. She is welcoming, informed and makes every visitor feel special. Worth the drive. About an hour from Austin, 1-1/2 hrs from Fredericksburg on Hwy 281.