These were paintings that I was commissioned to do for Christmas gifts. It was fun working with Lora on these two paintings; going through her wonderful beach pictures of her Grandchildren. I went through several pictures and came up with a painting of the three children and with Lora's help, we came up with an acceptable composition.

5 x 7

Rhonda Hartis Smith © 2009

I'm afraid once again my photography of the painting does not do justice to this adorable little girl. Lora has another Granddaughter that has the most beautiful white blond hair.

5 x 5
Rhonda Hartis Smith © 2009

10×20

Rhonda Hartis Smith © 2008

This little girl was filling up a bucket that was almost the as big as she was. Her mom is patiently watching over her–taking in the rays, enjoying the sound of the ocean. . . well you get the picture.

10×20

Rhonda Hartis Smith © 2008

I no longer relax on the beach because I’m always looking for potential paintings. What attracted me to this scene was the little boy with his snorkling gear on. He wore it all day long but I don’t think he actually saw any underwater creatures–he was definately ready though. I can see myself sitting in that chair right now talking to my friend Sandy. . .

5×5

This boy is full of energy (wish I had some)! The ball was originally blue but I wanted a contrast so I painted it red. Notice how the sun is hitting his chest. I’m very close to finishing my 24×36 ballerina–Heather, I just need to get a decent picture then I’ll post it.

5×5
Rhonda Hartis Smith © 2008

I love the floppy hat that this boy is wearing–does anyone know what they’re called? He’s found something in the water, perhaps a nice big shell. I’m always afraid a jelly fish will find me! There is a beach that Sandy and I go to on the Gulf side of Florida where you can find shark’s teeth. It’s so much fun to find them but, you have to be quick to pick them up before they disappear into the ocean.

5×5
Rhonda Hartis Smith © 2008

She’s having a great time playing in the water! I was visiting my good friend Sandy in Florida (don’t remember the beach–somewhere around Ft. Myers) when we saw her. All these beach paintings are making me want to go to the beach again!

5×5

Griffin looking so thoughtful–unusual for one so little. I wanted this painting to be loose with just a few edges. Notice the warm sunshine on his back–I really wish I was there right now!

5×7

Rhonda Hartis Smith © 2008

This is my Great Niece Kara walking on the beach in Hilton Head, SC. She was really having a good time, enjoying the sand and the breeze from the ocean in the late afternoon sun.