pARTicipation started last week. On Friday. The Maitland Art Center was beautiful as usual, Friday night was a meet and greet with artists painting and working.

I met lots of nice, and very talented artists. Here’s some photos from the evening:

Here, Steve Pi, (sitting) a very talented and generous artist. You can see his work at his website: Steve Pi: http://www.stevepi.net

Above, Bruce Charlan, a talented sculptor, and all around great guy. Here’s his website: Butch Charlan: http://www.butchcharlan.com

I had fun meeting Edson, here, the back of his head. He did a beautiful sketch at the event. Here’s his site: Edson Campos: http://www.edsoncampos.com

This is Kathleen. She’s working on a rich, buttery still life. Her website: Kathleen Brodeur: http://www.kathleebrodeurfineart.com

The artists closest to me were Que and Cicero. I was immediately taken with each of them, for their personal style and charisma.

Que, shown here on the right, is an elegant, charming artist, who does lovely abstract art and delightful, chunky jewelry. Her site: Querentia (Que) Throm: http://quethrom.com

Here, Cicero caught mid walk,

See what I mean about personal style? Here’s his site: Cicero Greathouse: http://www.cicerogreathouse.com

There are many other artists involved in this wonderful event, but I didn’t meet all that night, as it was a work opportunity, and some were unable to attend.

Here is a shot of the art center:

There was beautiful food:

Encore Catering of Central Florida provided the food. There was more than I’ve posted here, and it was all beautiful and delicious.

Here’s photos of me, taken by the intern photographer, Victor Rollins:

I’m working on a portrait of Jules André Smith, founder of the Research Studio, now the Maitland Art Center.This piece, along with many others, will be in my show at the Maitland History Museum. “Maitland History Illustrated: works by Dawn Schreiner”. That’s the name they’ve given the show. Nice?

I was painting in front of Mr.Smith’s library/dining area. His residence sits behind me. Wonderful setting for his portrait.

I will be painting at Bloomingdales at the Millenia Mall, Saturday, April 2. I’ll be there from 11am to 3ish. I say “3ish” because I will also attend a dinner for pARTicipation that will wrap up the online auction.

Here’s information on the event, that will be a Lily Pulitzer affair:

http://www.orlandoslice.com/profiles/blogs/the-downtown-arts-district

I’ll be on the “Lilly Pad”.

Here, some new Bird Chandelier paintings: