May 19- Gina Black
Painter, Curator Van GoghGos

I met Gina when Jessie and I were participating in the Art Nouveau Events in West Palm Beach. The night that I met Gina Jess wasn't there so I was by myself and Teresa had positioned my table beside Gina's...and...well..the rest is history.  She has graciously invited me to participate in the events that she curates down in Fort Lauderdale area, events ranging from Star Wars, to Under the Sea to Dead Rock Stars...and several more. (I actually think my favorite event was the CATurday art show, that was so much fun!)  At the time I was living in Palm Beach Gardens so it was quite a haul to get down to Broward County to drop off work, but Gina often met me to make it easier...she's just good people.  

May 20- Angela Yungk
Co-Founder of Art Hive Magazine, Actress and Model
www.arthivemagazine.com

I already posted my fanART piece of Jessie, and I felt like it would only be fitting to also create a piece inspired by Angela, the other 'queen bee' of Art Hive Magazine.  Angela is not a visual artist, but she is an actress and model.  She is such a driving force behind the magazine, and an advocate for the arts not only in Palm Beach County, but also South Florida.  Angela writes articles, sells ads and does marketing for the magazine and also is the go-to person for interviews...those are just a few of the things that she does.  She is just a natural in front of the camera, not only because of her physical beauty, but her inner beauty and enthusiasm that shine through.  There would be no Art Hive without Angela.

...lastly...I am starting to deliver some of the portraits that I have been creating, starting with Angela (above)  After I left Jessie's (also delivered her portrait!) I was heading back to Hollywood when I got the call that Lea Vendetta was at the shop tattooing...so I turned my car around in Boca and headed back north.  Glad I did, it was worth it to see Amanda and Lea, and to hand deliver their artwork to them :)

May 18th
E.B. Fromkes
http://erinfromkes.com
Painter, Mixed Media Artist and Advocate for those suffering from invisible, chronic illnesses

This is another artist that I came to know through social media, and eventually had the chance to meet in real-life this year when we both participated in the Armory Art Center Fashion ARTillery Event in February.  Despite her everyday battle with chroinic fatigue and other health issues, despite the trials and tribulations of trying to find the right medications and going back and forth to doctors...but she manages to make her art...and it is awesome.  Erin's work is expressive and colorful and playful.  She paints on anything that doesn't move- even clothing.  I think my favorite thing is her various headdresses.  

May 13th
Jessie Prugh, Co-Founder of Art Hive Magazine...and one of my dearest friends
http://www.arthivemagazine.com/

I could write for DAYS about this girl...there literally is not enough time or space to express how much I adore  this gal.  I first met Jessie when we were both teaching at the Armory. I saw her bedazzled phone and...it was love at first sparkle.  Since that fateful day we have stayed up til the wee hours of the morning making art and attending art events, danced like crazy folks, laughed (mostly at eachother), cried...I am so happy that she has come into my life.  And she didn't come alone.  In she introduced me (and Johnny Nice) to her tight-knit group of friends, a beautiful group of people that I admire so much.  

But wait, there's more.  She is an AMAZING artist, her pen and ink pieces especially...and do not get me started on the way she creates eyes...swoon.  In addition to being an amazing friend and artistic inspiration she has also included me in this Art Hive Magazine adventure...and thanks to her I have a way to share my artistic journey with others...and meet so many people along the way.  All it takes is one person, one ripple in the calm waters, to set off a fantastic set of events.  Jessie is that ripple.

I can't, I just can't.  There is too much to say.  Just know that I love me some Jessie Prugh, with her pink hair and crazy ways, she is one of the most inspirational people in my life.

May 15th
Teresa Korber, Painter and Founder of Art Nouveau Events

Teresa is defintiely responsible for bringing so many of the ladies that I am featuring this month into my life.  It was particpating in her monthly Art Nouveau events that not only introduced me to so many talented artists, but it really helped me to feel a part of the larger art community here in South Florida.  It was tough sometimes, staying out at the events until 2-3am and having to get up to drive to IMS to teach the next day...but it was worth it.  I sold work, I got my name out there, I got to hang out with my art friends....it was good times.  Teresa was always very organized in planning, promoting and facilitating the events, which she did with the help of her girlfirend Angie Tronic, a talented photographer in her own right.  These girls were, and are, truly a power couple. In addition to the ANE gatherings, Teresa is also a painter.  Her figurative pieces explore the female form and include her curviliner line patters, and also mixed media on occasion.  I like folks that produce and let me tell you- this chica WORKS.  

When I see Teresa's face, highlighted by her signature blonde pixie cut, I think of those ANE nights, of her commitment to her art, her beautiful relationship with Angie and always...always...I think of their pup Bailey, the official mascot for the events, who has since passed away.  

May 15th
Lea Vendetta, Tattoo Artist, Painter, Model and Singer
http://www.leaslounge.com/

Next up on my list of lady loves...the one and only Lea...and I do mean one and only.  I met Lea through my involvement with Art Hive Magazine, and every interaction with her has been nothing but pleasant.  When you first meet Lea, it is her physical beauty that captures your attention.  She is truly like a tattooed porcelain doll, just flawless.  But she ain't just a pretty face- she is also a fierce tattoo artist and painter.  Her paintings make me happy, remind me of Marc Chagall's flying and floating figures, whimsical and narrative.  But the best part...she is sweet.  I just love people that are talented and good people, what a great combination.  Lea is a calming, soft presence wrapped up in tattooed arms and limbs and I love that about her.

May 16th
Amanda Linton, co-owner of Ink and Pistons, Founder of Art Rock, Stitch Rock, Downtown Open Market, Retro Indie Market and maker of sparkly thangs
http://www.sugarcircus.com/
http://www.inkandpistons.com

Amanda Linton is another local mover and shaker, and also another artistic soul that I have gotten to know through Art Hive Magazine is Amanda Linton...co-owner of Ink and Pistons, craft and art fair queen and a glittery soul.  I really enjoy attending her events and always leave with some amazing handmade items...and it's easy to do since the events go on seamlessly so folks can just...shop!  I have had a chance to participate in a few of the shows at the Slushbox Gallery that she and J.R. put on and everything is always fun, a little funky and well-run.  She makes things happen, she is a go-to person and not only that, but in addition to being an artist in her own right with 

May 17th
Kazilla, Graffiti-Street Artist- May 16th
http://kazilla.biz

Kazilla is artist that I have only met one time, at Gallery 2014 earlier this year, but I have followed her posts on social media ever since.  Her images appeal to me because they usually feature woman, color and pattern- some of my favorite things.  And...she is EVERYWHERE.  Literally, I see her posts showing work in galleries and on inside and outside walls here in South Florida and in different cities across the USA and also has a presence on the international scene.  She is a prolific artist- always working, always posting new art...her images inspire me.