These are a few of my favorite arts-related websites. They are useful for keeping updated on the latest in the art world and for learning about different artists and art movements.

Artdaily.org - Sign up to receive their comprehensive daily email with beautiful photos and location-based articles.

ARTINFO.com - Sign up for their daily newsletter which includes breaking news, artists' profiles, resources for collectors, gallery information and art market trends.

Black Artist News Blog - Follow this blog for the latest happenings, exhibitions, information and events concerning Black artists.

Google Art Projects - Explore famous museums and create and share your collections online.

MutalArt.com - An online art information service where you can create alerts to track articles, exhibitions and auctions associated with your favorite artists.

Smarthistory.org - Great art history resource with useful information about individual works of art.

TheArtStory.org - Want to learn about modern art? This is the place to start. It includes information about individual artists and art movements.

A few recent sketches...

This past Saturday, I hosted my first open studio of the year. It was a delightful opportunity to share my latest creations and works-in-progress. One of my favorite parts of an open studio is having the chance to discuss art and hear everyone's impressions. Although everyone had their personal favorites, the universal favorites were the works included in what I'm now calling the Heartlight series. Many thanks to my Aunt Nia who gave me the idea for the series name based on Neil Diamond's Heartlight song. Before she gave me the idea, I was calling it the LED light series. I like Heartlight much better. The Heartlight paintings are particularly different because they have lighted hearts powered by battery-operated LED lights. To see these paintings and others included in Saturday's Open Studio, check out the slide show below.

The next open studio event is scheduled for Friday, June 8, 2012, 4-8pm. I hope to see you there!