New England with Christopher Gurshin

Halloween Folk Art Houses

2011-10-10T15:51:00.006-05:00

October is a time I enjoy creating paintings and houses to capture Halloween. Here are a few of my latest collection which I'll be showing soon at the Country Folk Art Festival of New England which is in Marlborough, Massachusetts at the Royal Trade Plaza. The show opens Friday night October 28th then Saturday and Sunday. This is a painted copper cut out with a muslin Halloween flag and also a small branch for a "tree". .............. # 154/11 ..... 4l x 3h

This is a pine house with a painted copper scene mounted in back with a painted muslin flag. .........#155/11 ......... 3w x 4h x 1.25w When I had the studio/gallery post and beam barn built a few years ago,there were some timbers left of which I made this saltbox house painted with Halloween scenes on both front and back. It also has copper cut outs, muslin banners, laundry "drying", ghosts, a flag, old apple branches for cord wood and a an old "tree". ............#133/11 ...... 3.5w x 6.5h x 8 This house has Halloween showing but on the other side it is an Americana design. Notice the ghost coming out from the bird house. There are also copper cut outs, painted muslin banners and flags. ...... #167/11 ..... 2.5w x 6.5h x 8

These are but a small sampling of the work I'll have at the show but if you can't make the show you can always email or call for additional information.

Glastonbury Town Clock

2011-07-27T19:28:00.004-05:00

Glastonbury is a wonderful town east of Hartford on the Connecticut River that I moved to in 2002. One of my first paintings of the area was to capture some of the points of interest that I thought made up the town. The composition shows the South Glastonbury tobacco fields along the river in the distance and where the Glastonbury/Rocky Hill Ferry is, the oldest continually working ferry in the country. The town is also well known for their apple orchards, the Apple Festival in October that attracts 30,000 people each year and the Old Cider Mill. My studio/gallery is next door to it. What I didn't show is the town clock in front of the Welles/Shipman house (yellow) on the corner because it didn't exist at the time. Prints, postcards and decorated boxes with this scene are available at Emmy Lou's, LTD.

Well, here is the Howard Post clock that our town is raising funds for that will complete the center of town at the corner where everyone will be aware of the time. It's town spirit will be for all to see and to be a part of history, and an opportunity for everyone that loves Glastonbury to be a part of it.

Simulated photo above by Peter Billard Photographer 860-633-6300

Donations are welcome by writing a check to the Town of Glastonbury, c/o Information Center, P.O. Box 6523, Glastonbury, CT 06033

Under check memo write: TOWN CLOCK

Or if convenient when down town contributions are being collected at Emmy Lou's, LTD, 17 Hebron Ave.

Marblehead, Crocker Park and a visit

2011-07-06T08:40:00.012-05:00

I made a trip June 30th to Marblehead bringing some work for the gift shops at the Art Association and also the Historical Commission. This is always a pleasant trip to see my home town again and friends...... after leaving there 46 years ago, it still seems like yesterday despite the many changes.

I sat at the wharf having my lunch where the lobster boats still come in to unload their catch. The traps though are all metal now and not the wooden ones a lobsterman might have made in the winter months. In 1981 I wrote a small illustrated book call A Lobster Tale, which is still available, and in it my friend Arthur, made his lobster traps in the winter. That was my one day of ever lobstering and I made drawings of it for a calendar back then.

A short distance from the wharf is Crocker Park and looking inland you'll see the famous landmark in town, Abbot Hall, where the Historical Commission gift shop is. Most well know too is the original painting of the Spirit of "76, which is very inspiring to see. I think it measures about five by eight feet.

The stage was getting set up for the entertainment coming with thousands of people to watch the harbor illumination and fireworks. The harbor views are always spectacular but even more special on the Fourth. Some things never change, the rocks, views, and days of summer with swimmers on the float to the lower right.

I did this painting depicting Crocker Park when I heard the 1812 Overture being played before the fireworks began. Here is the Boston Pops, on a Victrola, conducted by Arthur Fiedler, firing of the cannon, and the pig, Pops, wagging his tail to ring the bell. I had a surprise call on the Fourth of July from an old classmate, MHS'63. He came by after leaving Marblehead returning to his home in New York. It was Charlie and his wife Machiko and I found out they won the bid for the buoy I did for the Art Association's silent auction. Never thought I'd see the lobster buoy again.

This was a Fourth to remember and I hope yours was as well.

Antique Autos visit

2011-06-18T13:09:00.008-05:00

Last January I was asked if I would be interested in hosting the first stop of the antique auto tour called the "Autoneers Tour" on June 11th. It was 80 miles of a set course around Glastonbury an area of which my studio was the first stop. As it turned out there was five feet of snow when it was first planned at that time but unfortunately it did rain that morning.
So because of the rain, many didn't show and only those that had top covers did because all the autos were made before 1915. I prepared a welcome notice on the black board by the barn door complete with my early iron toy car displayed on the shelf. My father found two of them in the attic floor boards of a Marblehead house our family lived in on Pleasant Street. I never knew what happened to the larger one but that was about 60 years ago.
The hum sound of the first car came and it was that of the Stanley Steamer. Having to top off the water it then maneuvered closer to get to the hose. Very exciting to see and hear. This auto parked near the Hemlock Trees, looked the same as it would have a century ago. When it was time for the Stanley Steamer to leave, you knew it as the clouds of steam filled the air

One by one they were gone only to leave a memory and these images. I wonder if they will ever be back? Maybe on a nice sunny day?

The Stanley Steamer sure did leave a cloud of steam vapors in the air for others to experience and a big blast of it's horn sounding like a steamship leaving port.

Changes at the Wayside Inn

2011-06-18T06:55:00.014-05:00

It was late last winter that I heard there were going to be some changes to the Inn ...... outside dining in the front! There were a lot more changes to see when I visited recently and wanted to share them with you. The long narrow walk on the board planks with hedges on either side are no more. There is now a brick walkway edged with granite, wonderful stonework and new plantings that will mature in the years to come.
In this "old" photo shows the corner door where it will be open for you to step into a different dining experience at the Inn. Roberta, from the gift shop, celebrated her birthday with the Innkeeper and others for a few minutes which was also her first time on this new patio. One can still have a pleasant relaxing time just sitting in front of the Inn. Let your mind wonder about the many visitors that walked up to the front door and know their enjoyment would probably be the same I'm sure.
Maybe there would have been a few more verses to the poem written in Longfellow's Tales of the Wayside Inn?

Flowers for the Studio/Gallery guests

2011-06-12T13:23:00.009-05:00

After the winter, it's exciting once again to see the blooms of many flowers in the yard and the days ahead of shopping for more annuals. A favorite flower to see is our beautiful yellow rhododendron bush and I enjoy seeing the buds develop in the spring with a tint orange.

The witches broom flowering shrub took a real beating last winter and I wondered if the many yellow flowers would bloom again. I had to tape up many branches and propped them up from the weight of the snow, but they made it again. The cat's eyes against the stone wall bloom every morning and then close up in the heat of the day. The familiar purple rhododendrons seem to grow more each year. There's always the trip to the local nursery to get annuals needed to complete all of the spring accents needed. This particular place we found was called Flower Power and it reminded me of when I did paintings in 1970 and called that brief period of time the same name. I outlined in black bold bright colors of not only flowers but other compositions.

A short time ago we hosted a Chamber event for the Creatives Group where several members explained what type of work each did. It was a goal to get the flowers planted to make the place look it's spring best for all. Everyone enjoyed the talks including some instructions from the Fred Astaire Dance Studios. If planning a visit this summer there will be plenty of flowers still to see along with many works of art in the gallery.

Amish Countryside in Pensylvania

2011-05-19T14:00:00.013-05:00

I was asked several months ago to teach my style of painting and I agreed to do another class in Pennsylvania at a place called Steph's Folk Art Studio where primarily they teach decorative painting. I taught a few classes back in the 90's and it was nice to return to Amish Country when first coming off the Pennsylvania Turn Pike heading towards Strasburg. I look forward to having a collection of Amish paintings maybe sometime this summer.

Some of the class students hadn't ever stenciled before but did fine work and they are looking forward to more classes. Perhaps some will even travel to the Wayside Inn for a class but that's way off right now.

Janice and I knew for sure we were in a different part of the country when we saw our first Amish sighting along the road. I caught the young Amish boy right before he waved. I wonder what he was thinking?

At the stop sign in the road, clip-clopping at a quick pace I took this classic photo of an Amish horse and wagon taking a left turn. We never got tired of hearing seeing this sight. On the way back, I missed the Garden State Parkway and had to cross the George Washington Bridge. It took one hour to drive a mile before reaching the toll booth! We thought of the spring greens of the Amish countryside and horse drawn wagons we just left as we drove back to Connecticut. Well....there was a little green out the car window but not quite the same.

Marblehead Lobster Buoy

2011-05-19T12:40:00.010-05:00

July 4th has always been a very special time in my old home town of Marblehead. The buoy I did for the Marblehead Arts Association's silent auction is one of many in a collection of other artists that will be unveiled at the gallery at the King Hooper Mansion, 8 Hooper Street in town on June 3rd. This very special celebration of America, Town of Marblehead, The Spirit of '76, the harbor illumination of flares surrounding thousands of boats, the skyline of Abbot Hall, Fort Sewall, memories of the USS Constitution visiting 1n 1996, the 1812 Overture and of course the fireworks are all things that I enjoyed capturing in my lobster buoy. Lobster buoys are scattered around the waters of Marblehead with the hopes of capturing lobsters at the end of the line.
I wrote a small book back in 1981, with twelve illustrations of my one and only time lobstering with my friend Arthur. I think of that time when I have decorated the different buoys over the years............... Marblehead Forever!

Signed copies of "A Lobster Tale" are available at $10.00 each postage paid.
CT residents at sales tax.

Good Morning View

2011-05-19T11:54:00.011-05:00

This is the "good morning view" each spring day from the kitchen window........ when of course the sun shines. I didn't waste anytime to capture this image as it doesn't last too long. On May 1st, I also noticed that there was a very striking blue bird amongst the sparrows in the feeder so I got my camera right away.

I first thought it was a blue bird only because my neighbor Becky has them nesting in her yard. I took many photos and gave her a few which she knew right away and excitingly told me it was an "indigo bunting". She never had seen one and later would try to capture a view as it came back for three days early morning or late afternoon. But she had no luck.

The indigo bunting is a most beautiful blue with a darker blue on the top of it's head and I hope everyone has the opportunity one day to experience seeing one.

I still look out with hopes for a sighting again but it would be nice just to see a blue sky.

Country Travels in Kensington,NH

2011-04-16T07:39:00.011-05:00

I recently stayed overnight with my son and his family in Exeter, New Hampshire. Taking the Amesbury Road(Rte.150) back to Newburyport I thought it wasn't every day to have the opportunity for the ride early in the morning and a chance to take photos for future subjects to paint. The road was clear of traffic and as soon as I started I saw a tree that was particularly interesting. A car was close behind so I couldn't safely stop. Everything has a reason because shortly a little further was the old school house I've seen many times but not in the early morning light. I stopped to "freeze" the moment and soon saw a lot more.

Right beside me at the corner from the school house was a peaceful reflection of spring in this little pond and a lot more. I could have stayed there for a while just absorbing nature realizing the changes from all the snow this scene went through last winter.

There was a sign FRESH EGGS and behind it was an old hand watering pump I'm sure in years past much appreciated.

Across this little intersection was a house I remember when it was for sale a long time ago and dreamed of buying it. There are beautiful barns that also went with the property.

Right across from the egg sign was the Kensington Esquarian Center with horses enjoying their morning eating which I was thinking about too. Well, right down the road was the Country Brooke Cafe and I thought that I would go in. I was warmly greeted and offered with a choice of seating at the counter or the several booths. This is not your usual kind of place but a real "country" place with a pleasant atmosphere "where you come in as strangers and leave as friends" as it says on their business cards. I had noticed the muffin sign and one was interesting ........ Coconut Lime ! Never heard of that but they are home made and my waitress Heather said the cook is always offering different flavors such as peanut butter and jelly, or even a snickers one. I wanted more than a muffin, so I ordered a scrambled egg with home fries and raisin toast. Best raisin toast I ever had! I would be sure though to take home a couple of muffins. I mentioned the place to several friends in Newburyport and they too will be making a visit there some day.

A very short distance from having breakfast is this familiar scene and made famous by Samuel Chamberlain in his New England photo books from years ago. I did yard work for him as he sat watching me pull up weeds when I was twelve living in my home town of Marblehead.

Here is the Coconut-Lime muffin and also a Blueberry muffin where Janice and I are looking forward to eating them. I've done many works using the blueberry muffin theme and have a few prints left which you can see on the "print" page of my site. I can't offer a muffin to you but I'm glad to share the trip along the road of Kensington, New Hampshire.

Tobacco Barns & Boxes

2011-04-10T13:25:00.008-05:00

It was a hard winter on many Connecticut barns....and a few houses with all the never ending snow that caused over three hundred to collapse. These wonderful tobacco barns on the way to the Rocky Hill Ferry, I'm happy to say are still standing for yet another season. I remember seeing them for the first time on a beautiful fall day in 2002. It was so different to experience them from my moving from the North Shore of Boston where I lived many years enjoying the coastal views.

In the spring there was yet another view of the tobacco fields and I wondered how this all was harvested. I was told that this tobacco was used in making cigars where the harvest is dried in the barns scattered around the fields.

The sides of the barns have hinges that fold out so that the air can circulate through.

I wondered, when I had a request to refinish a cigar box that was brought to me last fall, if any of the tobacco crop was once in the box? A funny thing happened with this box. After painting it back in March I was surprised when my customer came to pick it up and said it wasn't hers! I thought I painted the right one but it was another box that family had given me. I couldn't remember where my customer's box was realizing I had misplaced it! I even wondered if I painted it and sold it around Christmas! Well, we were both surprised and relieved when I called to tell her the good news! Janice and I searched all month but I found it under some stored away papers in a cupboard! It was needed in May to be given as a present so I still had plenty of time to work on it and finished it with time to spare!

The box had a lot of paint to remove and then quite a bit of sanding ........but it worked out in the end. If you have a special box you would like to have painted please let me know. I also have many many boxes of all kinds, sizes, shapes and subjects here at my studio barn in Glastonbury. I'll be having an open house Saturdays in June and will be posting this event and others soon on my web site.

Spring Signs

2011-03-20T11:06:00.008-05:00

It seems like a short time ago that I was snow raking the roofs, shoveling and plowing where all the signs of winter were everywhere. I still have it in mind how nice it is when the sun shines on what winter snows hides. Just like the sunless, dark setting above is much different when the spring angle of the sun shines and casts shadows on the same setting below.

Where there once was six plus feet of snow each day brings more and more of changes to come. I am still reminded of winter but appreciate nature's kind turn to spring yet I feel very aware of the challenges of so many other's battles this spring in other parts of the word. I like to sit out in front of the barn and feel the gentle warmth of the sun as I have a cup of coffee and see the ants march out of their winter time. I didn't think they would come out until later when it got really warm. I do take an interest in their being.

The first flowering crocus is a good sign after being covered with tons of snow.

The leaves are never completely raked especially when they are oak leaves that fall after the first snow. Raking and clean up time is a chance to renew and appreciate the season.

One sure sign of spring is the changing of the lobby painting at the Wayside Inn from the winter one to the summer one. There are signed and framed 8 x 10 prints available at the Inn's gift shop.

The summer will be here sure enough and there will be a book out from Judy Condon entitled "Joy of Country" which will be available in July. Janice and I will have our house and barn featured in a chapter of the book. She has written many "country" books and it will be available at gift shops or on Amazon.

Spoons and Walk In scenes

2011-03-06T08:14:00.009-05:00

Janice and I were cooking a spaghetti sauce and stirring as you do , when the spoon broke. I looked at it and realized what I could do with it. Many years ago I helped paint a mural in a museum diorama that had a slight curve overhead and thought the spoon had the same feeling.... if a scene were painted on it. I thought it would be particularly nice as a background for the "Dime House Collection" that I make, each no larger than a dime.

These spoon tops are really ideal with a thin wood base and will give a little accent to the right place. It's certainly a different feel from a mural painting but it does look just fine for the little houses.

I also thought it would different to create a "backdrop" to some of the other houses that I make. After first making them as a stand up scene alone, I thought yet another way by including the houses with them. I wanted to create a feeling of taking your mind into the scene's setting, to let your mind wander for a few seconds back in time.

This particular one with the ship tied up at the pier reminded me of when I lived in Newburyport. I imagined it in the 1800's with the activity on the wharf, Rings Island across the Merrimac River and the river boat Sabino steaming along. The Sabino is now a part of the Mystic Seaport in Connecticut. If you are interested in this collection just email me or visit this spring at my Studio/Gallery where I'll have them on display as well as several others.

The Roof Rake

2011-02-06T17:42:00.009-05:00

There has been plenty of snow this year but the image as I look at our 1770 cape, is that of classic old New England and I want to enjoy it as it is. I was talking to my brother Timothy who lives in New Hampshire and he told me I should get a roof rake, something I never thought of or wanted as I liked the look of it not wanting to spoil it. After another recent snow storm it began to pile up and now there was the fear of weight on the roof and I got to thinking I better get a roof rake. Well, many others thought the same thing..... there were none around anywhere here in Glastonbury. There was another snow about to come and along with it freezing rain making everything heavier. I had to place a special order as did many hundreds of others on a Sunday for a delivery Tuesday morning. I must say at Katz Hardware store in town the ordering system was very well organized with two people taking orders all day when I went there in person . Sure enough Tuesday morning they had a couple of pallets that arrived from Canada and were only for those that had placed a paid order in advance.

I did try shoveling a little above the back entry and the snow kept piling up. I later knocked away some of the icicles which is another concern when a soaking rain may come.

It was a lot of work but I felt I accomplished getting most of the snow as I could off the house and barn.

I did manage to make a house cut out of pine and wondered if back in the "old days" there were roof rakes?

Painting Class at the Wayside Inn

2011-01-28T13:33:00.010-05:00

On January 22nd and the 23rd, the snow finally ended allowing for easy traveling to the Wayside Inn and spending the day creating "Summer Wagon Rides" for 36 students. Before the class began, I sat in the window seat in the Ford room gazing out toward the gardens with a cup of coffee and a pumpkin muffin thinking about the enjoyment of the rest of the day to come.

After all the preparation of the pine board we finally start to paint and to use the different patterns. I give everyone attention but I want the finished piece to be their own.

We break for lunch in the old kitchen of the Inn but at the tables everyone has gotten to the same point to later continue.

Twenty-one people enjoy the wonderful experience of having lunch and relaxation before getting back to painting......it's sometimes hard to get the energy though.

Everyone did finish this pine board, "Summer Wagon Rides" with their own individual touches. I am amazed that out of 16 in the class on Sunday, seven never painted before and all did very well, as did Saturday's class too. It will not be until next year most likely that I'll give another weekend of classes. I know some are thinking already of what the project will be, but I don't know yet. If you want to suggest an idea, write and tell me.

I hope that you will have the opportunity to visit the Inn and enjoy this historic landmark of New England where even George Washington stopped by on his way to Cambridge. You can even visit for breakfast which is open to the public from 7:30 am to 10:30am and then go to the gift shop and take home some famous muffins and pastry.

Secret Drawer Society of the Wayside Inn

2011-01-27T20:56:00.006-05:00

Longfellow's Wayside Inn is such a beautiful place to visit. If you are ever able to spend the night in one of the inn's ten rooms it will be a wonderful memory forever. Janice and I have stayed at the Inn many times since 1995 when I hold my classes in January. It's always a special time ....getting lost from the everyday goings of life and stepping back in time. There is no television but there are plenty of letters to read with the Secret Drawer Society where you'll find yourself reading hours away.

I woke up early after a late night setting up for the Saturday class and noticed smoke coming from the chimney nearby. The fireplace was on in the Ford room where we'd soon be.

I couldn't resist reading a few of the letters and even left something myself....in room number 3. There are letters of happiness, reunions, wedding nights, anniversaries, travelers from far and nearby experiencing this special place in New England. Janice and I enjoyed reading to each other some of the letters we found. In one drawer I even found a long silk glove with the bride's poem written on it, but there are many other "finds" as well. Try to spend a night at the Inn and you too can write a letter and become a part of the Inn's history as a member of the Secret Drawer Society.

Winter Christmas Tree

2011-01-21T16:58:00.007-05:00

I wondered at Christmas if there would be enough snow depths later to put the tree outside for the rest of the winter. Well, on January 12th here in Connecticut there was quite the storm with over 25 inches. The weather vane by the barn that was repaired after the tree fell on it last summer, now looks like it was walking on snow! Now there is plenty of snow to plant the tree where many birds can enjoy the shelter and natural feeling for all the daily seeds I sprinkle around. This way the Christmas tree can have an extended enjoyment well after Christmas by our feathered friends as well.

This change from the snowfall of winter and the Christmas tree will finally disappear to a memory. All the birds will still be fed and a delightful summer begins again. Some of my collectors have already mentioned their desire to visit the gallery when it warms up from this January winter experience and I look forward to seeing you as well.

Icicle Accents

2011-01-16T07:53:00.011-05:00

What a change to Main Street and everywhere here in Glastonbury after an old New England blizzard visited January 12th,'11. The snow cleans and simplifies the familiarity we all see in everyday living. In many ways there is a special beauty in it's cozy image ...... but then a transformation after a cleanup with all the shoveling and plowing. The icicles magically grow one drip at a time to greet you in the morning. I stepped out the back door yesterday but I forgot to take my camera when I later went down town but came hurrying back to get it so I could capture some "icicle accents" for me and you to enjoy. .....Spring is coming!

I seldom have painted snow scenes with icicles but maybe next time I will.

Field of Flags

2010-10-16T21:49:00.009-05:00

I read in the our local paper, the Glastonbury Citizen, that the "Field of Flags" was going to be displayed on the front lawn of the Church of Christ on Main Street. I wondered what this might be like and thought I'd share this story with you. Saturday morning October 9th a group of parishioners were going to place the thousands of flags on the lawn and because of so many there was a need to use the parsonage area as well. Each flag represented a fallen U.S. service member killed in Iraq or Afghanistan ........ all 5710 as of that date! The most recent at the time was a young man from Glastonbury.

It was going to take 80 people working in shifts and about four hours to place all the flags. This idea was first generated at the Somers, Connecticut Congregational Church in October 2005 and Glastonbury is the 42nd community to display the flags. Churches in other states including Florida and Virginia have also displayed the flags.

The front lawn wasn't large enough so the parsonage next door also had to be used.

As the sun set, I paused thinking what this represents and to think that unfortunately there will be more flags added in time. The "Field of Flags" will be on display until October 30th.

Saturday morning walk

2010-08-21T10:17:00.010-05:00

The old apple tree limb that came down in June, is going to be firewood once I split some of the logs later in the fall. I was pleased to be able to restore the pig enough so I could put it back. I missed not seeing it in the early morning amber rays of the sun each day. I still have some soldering that needs to be done but that's some other time. I hadn't taken a walk down back for a while so thought I would Saturday morning.

After walking through the forest of white pine trees I came to the overgrown vines along the road. Later this fall, there are the sheep, horses and cattle that will have a lot to graze upon.

I like the gnarly old willow trees that still survive each year. The public is welcome to hike around the farm roads next door to the studio/gallery and enjoy the scenery. The trails even lead over to the bird sanctuary not too far away.

The peppers are just about ripe and will be harvested for the local markets along with many other vegetables. Janice and I enjoy taking a break sitting on the other side overlooking rows of beautiful peppers. So if you are in the area, you too can sit down and soon can have some cider while relaxing for a minute or two.

Looking up

2010-08-21T05:27:00.007-05:00

I recently was stopped in traffic coming out of the tunnel in Boston and looked up to my left side to see South Station. I thought how many changes in development were all around and yet this landmark is still there to be admired. There are of course many buildings and spires that stand quietly over time but it is nice just to take time to appreciate the beauty of construction.

The Customs House has been through changes and once was the tallest building.

I also was in New Hampshire and saw the the Phillips Exeter Academy building and stopped to take this sun setting photo.

The Congregational Church was also striking as the sun was setting being a part of the past with more history to come.

Here is a church I recently made which may bring about thoughts of other old churches of the past.

I plan to create more of these as well as additional houses for my Old Town Collection and look forward to showing them soon.

Marblehead Day

2010-07-29T21:32:00.009-05:00

As July ended so did the show at the Marblehead Arts Association which meant I had to pick up my paintings that were part of the summer exhibition. I also had some business to take care of at the Marblehead Historical Commission, a store that sells some of my work located in Abbot Hall. This is also where the famous painting of the Spirit of '76 is displayed where everyone can experience this very meaningful image of our country's heritage. Right there at Washington Square in the shadows of Abbot Hall I took this photo of the house I remember working in as a young fourteen year old. I used to do odd jobs from yard work to cleaning walls.... even in the cellar of this home.

The landmark of town, Abbot Hall, is nestled among many old homes and this photo is Tucker Street a few short steps from the Art Association. On the right side is the home of Samuel Chamberlain, a very well known artist and writer, who I also did work for. He did fine etchings of not only Marblehead but also places in Europe. Many also might be familiar with his photography and writings of New England books. I remember him well sitting there as I weeded his backyard gardens.

From Abbot Hall there is a shortcut down the steps of the public alleyway to Lee Street from Lookout Court..... a must to see when visiting in town.

I went down to the wharf from Lookout Court and I happened to see my old friend Kip, whose back patio is shown above. We sat and talked briefly of the "old" days when I used to live there. It almost felt like it was yesterday ......almost.

On the way to the wharf is this view at the corner of Darling Street and Front. I like this view and have done several paintings and drawings of it. There are a lot of changes but basically it is still the same.

This is a watercolor tinted print of my interpretation of the above photo that I did once for the Savings Bank's calendar several years ago. I have this print and eleven more Marblehead scenes of 8x10 prints available, if anyone is interested, colored or black&white.

This painting is also available and shows the antique shop and the Sea Horse tea room on the right side. I remember too the Keepsake shop on the left side across the street going up to Crocker Park.

Hope you enjoy this little walking tour of old Marblehead where I was influenced in the work that I do today.

California Trip

2010-07-29T18:19:00.012-05:00

Janice & I recently went to California for a few days to see our new twelve week old grandson. We left the hot humid East Coast and shortly after arriving I noticed how cool the air was getting in the early evening. So, of all things I had to buy was a sweater! But Janice did prepare and remembered to bring a sweater for herself. I was looking forward to writing about the great trees with their fascinating trunks and roots that were in the neighborhood. It was nice to see so many well kept front yards although they were very close together. Unfortunately I accidentally deleted my camera card losing all the "Culver City" photos. Fortunately though, we made CD's of all the baby photos and that was the important part. Trees will always be around, but little Hayden at 12 weeks is only once.
On the flight out I did not have my camera to take photos from the plane's window of the beautiful cloud formations. They were the most fantastic conditions of light and dark cumulus rising clouds making it very three dimensional with lightening bolts at the same time. We were about five miles high and I could even see other jets below zooming along in and out of the clouds. I did have my camera returning to Connecticut and I was able to take images along the way back and wanted to share a few with you.

Our flight began from LAX, took us over Del Ray beach where we visited the day before. It was cloudy and overcast but hoped for clear skies as we ascended.

After the flight leveled off 36,000 feet we were above the scattered clouds.

I've heard of crop circles but never saw them for real. I don't understand why this is but I saw them from New Mexico to at least Oklahoma. Sometimes these were in the middle of desert .......not surrounded by other green. I'd like to learn more about why and how these are so perfect everywhere.

As I looked out I thought of the song "IZ" sings "Somewhere Over the Rainbow".......way up high. The rendition that IZ sings is wonderful if you haven't heard him sing it before.

Our halfway stop was Minnesota and I noticed how green everything was.........but no crop circles here.

The sun was setting as we got closer to Connecticut but I noticed Venus further away. It was nice to get back home and now everything is just a memory. I'm now back to work and working on a collection of more pine wood houses for the Halloween and Christmas season. I'm looking forward to showing you lots more in different sizes and details.

The Old Apple Tree

2010-07-23T09:48:00.008-05:00

It was about 9:00pm when Janice and I heard a mysterious cracking sound I thought was against the house. I looked out and saw nothing but Janice noticed the large branch that fell from the old apple tree near the barn. It wasn't windy but I guess there was maybe just one too many apples on the weakened limb that couldn't take it any longer. I was glad it didn't happen a few weeks ago when we had 108 guests for the historical society house tour and dinner.

The tree was to have been trimmed in early June but now it was time to take care of it and in a couple of hours everything was cleaned up. The only damage was to the bristle back boar pig weather vane I have used for over thirty-five years to accent various places in gardens. It will need some repairs but hopefully I will have it back sometime this summer.

You're welcome to visit the studio/gallery as there are more paintings and "country accents" that I have made. Just call ahead to be sure I'm in and I'll write your name too on the blackboard.

Wayside Inn birthday present

2010-07-11T08:07:00.008-05:00

Longfellow's Wayside Inn, in Sudbury, Massachusetts, is a favorite place and an icon of New England for many over the centuries, and it will always be. I recently was asked by a collector's daughter Stephanie, if I might have something relating to the Inn for her mother's birthday coming within days. I thought right away about it and sent her an image of the inn made of wood and with a quick response she thought it was perfect. So I mailed out the package thinking everything would be fine and on time. I was told it should arrive within two days but a week later Sarah, my collector, only had received the two photos that Stephanie sent her saying a package would be coming. What a mystery to me it was and so I immediately started making another to replace it. Lo and behold, just when I finished, the package was found!

For some reason I transposed the wrong house number of the address. I learned that the number of the address I wrote was a vacant store but fortunately there were apartments next to it. One kind person living there traced the name it was addressed to, and Stephanie was able to walk over to retrieve her mother's present.

Moral of the story: Be very sure of the address you're writing on a package! On the other hand, it also shows a thoughtfulness of others in doing the right thing. Thank you to whoever it was that did the right thing and making three people very happy!

The inn is painted with the two different seasons to enjoy. If you are in New England I encourage you to visit the inn for a wonderful breakfast, luncheon, evening meals, overnight stays and other special occasions. http://www.wayside.org/

Popsicle Date

2010-07-07T07:36:00.009-05:00

July 4th weekend is now a memory of a relaxing time around the house and barn. We had collectors visit enjoying the barn full of paintings and country accents while serving iced tea with watermelon to keep us all a little cooler. Monday evening, the last day before the work week began again, Janice and I got Chinese take out to bring home. Afterwards we packed some Popsicles for a "date" down to the ferry landing. The ferry wasn't running but it was nice just to sit, not like Marblehead harbor with many boats ,but pleasant just the same.

We were surprised to see on the way to our "date", the classic Connecticut tobacco farms were growing more corn than tobacco it seemed. I guess it's the sign of changing times. I remember seeing the tobacco fields and barns for the first time particularly Horton's farm here in South Glastonbury and thought it was the "Motif #1" as in Rockport.

The Spirit of America lives throughout the year and before you know it, there will be another Independence Day to celebrate.

I painted this life size sculpture I called "The Private" for a benefit auction for the Pathways for Children in Gloucester in 2009. There are post cards available of The Private by emailing me for more information.

Marblehead & The 4th of July

2010-06-30T21:46:00.014-05:00

Tuesday, June 29th, was a hot humid day for a drive but I hadn't been to the Marblehead Art Association for a while and wanted to enter two paintings into the next show. I was lucky getting a parking space near-by the King Hooper Mansion, home of the Art Association, but next week with the Arts Festival, parking will be hard to fine. It was nice to be back in town and thought I would also take advantage of the trip going down to the beautiful harbor. I thought you might like this little "tour".
Going to Crocker park is a must when visiting.......and a great place to see the harbor illumination and fireworks. I did a painting a few years ago of a whimsical interpretation of Arthur Fiedler "conducting " the 1812 Overture I once had the pleasure of hearing at the park on the 4th.
Another great place is Fort Sewall a short distance away on Front street where in 1812 it gave protection to the USS Constitution. Janice and I in 1997 waited several hours in the hot sun, to see the sailing into the mouth of the harbor and mooring between the fort and the lighthouse. It was a very special occasion to be a part of history that we'll always remember. There are plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the wonderful view making memories forever.
I did a painting of a character selling fireworks at the fort .... something completely made up but in my imagination could have been.

Every 4th of July I fly the American flag night and day at the end of the driveway and it once was featured in the late nightly news.
"Happy 4th of July"

House Tour & Dinner

2010-06-18T21:19:00.007-05:00

In January we had a request from the Glastonbury Historical Society about having a house tour/dinner in June. Janice and I agreed and knew that there would be a lot of preparing to do. June 13th came and we managed to take a few photos to share with you. Every one of the 108 guests were very happy to tour our 1770 Cape house and my barn full of paintings. The tour is over but you are welcome to visit the studio/gallery where there are many paintings and country accents for your decorating.

May Exhibit

2010-05-01T20:38:00.008-05:00

In May of 2009, I was asked by a collector from Wallingford, Connecticut, that I've known for over twenty years, if I would like to exhibit at the library in town. May 1st came and this was the day to set up the small exhibit of twelve works. It will continue through the end of the month. I thought I'd show both paintings on wood as well as a few canvases. Wallingford Public Library is a beautiful building of modern design and perched on a slight hill with plenty of accessible parking. The exhibit was easy to put together using nails to hang and I arranged the work in no time at all. Having Janice with me made it that much easier. We then headed along scenic Rte. 157 back to Glastonbury.

Mural Paintings

2010-04-18T10:07:00.005-05:00

The front entry of 1313 Main Street in the morning sun.

This is the front entry of our home where after seven years living here I decided to finally paint a mural. It is typical of scenery along the Connecticut River with it's accents of houses, fields and barns. I also painted the chair rail molding and my wife Janice did the stenciling at the top. It all began by changing a lighting fixture and also getting the house ready for two occasions in May and June which I'll be writing more about it later.

If ever there might be a desire to have a traditional, decorative or an Old New England style mural, just inquire.

This is a painting that I did a few months ago and recently the wainscotting that was installed finished off the rear entry to Longfellow's Wayside Inn. This is one of my favorite places and for many others over the years to experience a beautiful place of early New England. The area is about 6x8 feet and encompasses all of the grounds for you to see. There's the Inn itself, the chapel, school house and the Grist Milll to name a few of the images.

The Inn is now open to the public for breakfast and I highly reccomend the experience or just stop by the gift & bake shop and have coffee and a treat.

"The Private"

2009-03-07T09:02:00.008-05:00

A few weeks ago I started to sketch in a few charcoal lines on the bulldog keeping in mind the elements of patriotism, the Marines and Gloucester to be represented in a dignified yet whimsical presentation. The first part for me was to then identify the dog right away so I did the face but gradually refined it as I went along. In a way this became real "company" in a sense to me as I painted.

I added the the little drool but wondered if a Marine would get away with it at attention, but then thought ......this isn't real. I did place it on the kitchen floor one night after doing the face and it startled my wife when she came in the door.

I then figured out the stripes and dress blue coat with the banners on either side. It was tricky for the stripes to line up correctly but with a few adjustments it worked out. I looked in several photos, the details of dress blues from stripes to buttons and badges. It worked out that there was room for one stripe, private first class, and so it became known as "The Private" to me.

"The Private" from Gloucester is ready to join the many other painted dogs of "Pathways Unleashed" that will be displayed around Gloucester this summer. This side shows the Iwo Jima statue and the other is the Fisherman's Monument in Gloucester, Massachusetts. I encourage you to visit there and see both sides of the dog. The gala auction will be September 12th and to learn more information, please visit http://www.pathwaysforchildren.org/.

Pathways Unleashed

2009-01-23T10:58:00.004-05:00

Pathways for Children, is a North Shore organization providing more than 400 children and families with early education and child care programs. Later this year they will be holding their third fundraising event called "Pathways Unleashed". In 2004 and 2006, Pathways for Children held events called "Lobster Landings" and "Adirondack chairs" which were decorated into unique objects of art by many different artists, displayed throughout Gloucester and ultimately sold at a high profile auction in September. I participated in each event and now in this year's event.

If you ever want to see the lobster, stop in at the landmark restaurant, Woodman's of Essex, Massachusetts, home of the original fried clams, where it is on display.

I made the trip the other day to pick up my life sized dog to work on and to return it finished in May. I was given an English Bulldog and had some ideas right away. All I could think of was when I was in the Marines, the bulldog was a "mascot." and thought it was appropriate that I ended up with it.

The bulldog is made of fiberglass and looks real but I will "dress it up" in the weeks to come. I placed it by the stove in the gallery and I will show the progress as I go along. I plan on incorperating at least three subjects relating to the U.S. Marines, Patriotism & Gloucester and bringing it all together somehow.

Pennsylvania Studio Visitors

2009-01-22T17:02:00.007-05:00

The Christmas decorations were being taken down Sunday, the day after the class but with added snow it made for a real memorable and enjoyable time for all. Throughout the Inn , each room was decorated with the Christmas spirit. There was concern for the snow coming later in the day but all the twenty students from near and far completed painting the raised pine panel. There were three mother/daughters and a mother/son with several being their first time painting. Rebecca and Jennifer traveled a long way and stayed two wonderful nights at the Inn before going back but first stopping in Glastonbury for a studio visit.

The chalk board to the right of the door, welcomes Rebecca and her daughter Jennifer from Pennsylvania after their stay in Sturbridge Saturday night. Rebecca is a long time collector that has visited me when I was in Newburyport and Rowley.

Jennifer found the "Dime House Collection" and is trying to decide which one's she would like.

Rebecca enjoyed the Studio & Gallery filled with all of my work and purchased a few for her collection back home in New Jersey.

I plan it will be a year before I give another class at the Inn and hope that perhaps you too can have a learning experience at the wonderful Longfellow's Wayside Inn. I encourage you to read more about this wonderful Inn at Wayside.org.

Painting Workshop at the Wayside Inn

2008-10-06T21:02:00.007-05:00

Saturday, January 10th .......... 9:30am to 4:00pm

Sunday, January 11th ............ 9:30am to 4:00pm

Experience creating a winter scene and wood graining on a 10 x 18" raised pine panel in the Christopher Gurshin distinctive style of Old New England painting in the memorable atmosphere of Longfellow's Wayside Inn. Begin with morning coffee or tea and fresh baked muffins served in the Inn's Ford room while you prepare for the day.In the historical setting of the old kitchen, a delicious candlight five course luncheon is served at noon. At the end of the day you will finished your painting of the raised pine panel.

The cost is $195.00 and call the Wayside Inn
at 978-443-1776 for your reservation.

LIMITED SEATING

Longfellows Wayside Inn

Wayside Inn Road Off of Rte.20, the Boston Post Road

Sudbury, Massachusetts 01776

Rocky Hill Ferry

2008-10-06T16:40:00.015-05:00

It just worked out on a recent weekend, that Janice and I would take time going over to Rocky Hill from South Glastonbury on the ferry. We had worked around the yard on Saturday and thought of just relaxing. It would be nice to see the other side of the river and a place we had learned about to have something to eat.

We parked the van and walked onto the oldest continuing running ferry in the country since 1650. There of course have been all kinds of ferry boats but now it is a little tug boat to guide the ferry back and forth.

The tugboat, Rocky Hill, turns around ready to go to the other side and it will only take about four minutes to get there.

We were hungry for our long awaited breakfast on this beautiful weekend Sunday morning at a place we read about called Mitchell's on the River. It's a small place just with seating on the out side deck. Even though it was mid morning we wondered why we had our choice of seats on the porch. We ordered and were surprised when we were told there was a gas leak problem that was just discovered. It seems that the gas was used up earlier and that there wasn't any to cook with when we ordered. How disappointed we were! Well, at least they offered us coffee at no charge!

Afterwards we went for a little walk to an interesting gift shop nearby called Tapestry Rose, located in what was the old train station. Later we went back to wait for the ferry and just enjoyed what seemed like a far away experience. Maybe it's because we were walking around in a different area, but we could have been miles away instead of just three.

Janice and I still had a nice time feeling like we were on a vacation, just peacefully looking up and down the river.

It's a lot easier to get across the river than the earlier days, but the experience is still the same today as it must have been years ago.

Horse & Carriage ride on Main Street

2008-07-06T20:02:00.010-05:00

I was finishing a painting of the Web-Deane-Stevens museum in Old Wethersfield, Connecticut, settled in 1634, where George Washington met with Count de Rochambeau in preparation for the Battle of Yorktown in 1781.
The final element in the painting happened to be a horse and carriage traveling by the museum and so it was very exciting and timely to see it in real life as we were on our way to the shop, Antiques on Main. My wife Janice and I wanted to see if there were any more small bottles for her collection and also to drop off a few Country Registers. The horse and carriage ride, offered by The Allegra Farm of East Haddam, Connecticut, was right across the street from the museum. There was no waiting line for the carriage ride so after dropping off the Country Registers at the antique shop, we decided to go for a ride.

At the start of our ride, the coachman in colonial attire greeted us and the door was opened for us into another world. Our particular coach was called a "Brougham" named after Lord Brougham, (1778-1868) , an English statesman, and the restored interior was authentic with a beige velvet material, tufted and pleated as it had been originally. We were excited and happy to come upon this unexpected pleasure to get a traveling experience of looking out as others might have done two centuries ago at the beautiful old homes still standing today.

The Allegra Farm of East Haddam, an authentic "livery stable" for over two decades, provides carriage rides, sleighing party rides and even the experience of a western chuck wagon dinner ride. They travel all over New England and the Tr-State area for weddings, city and town events festivals, parades parties and film parts. Private carriage rides and hay rides may be enjoyed from the farm any season or at your favorite location.

The elegant team of horses were happy and relaxed plodding along at a slow pace, a far cry from their previous life as racing horses. The ride lasted about fifteen minutes but brought to one's mind and imagination another slower pace in time. The ride was pleasant and cozy hearing the carriage creaking and the clip clopping of our two former old race horses going down Main Street.

So if you are visiting Old Wethersfield and you have a few extra minutes on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon this summer, take some leisurely time for yourself and take an enjoyable horse drawn carriage ride for just $5.00 per adult. I wonder how many of our vehicles of today will give rides to those wanting the experience of the year 2008 in 250 years?

Christopher Gurshin

email. chris@christophergurshin.com

www.christophergurshin.com

Antiques, Bottles & Flowers

2008-05-08T09:01:00.008-05:00

Welcome to Antiques on Main of Old Wethersfield, Connecticut, voted the best antique shop now for the third year in the Hartford magazine's Best of Hartford 2008 May issue. It is located next to the firehouse on Main Street. I have a variety of my work available there from paintings, tinware, art signs of the town and my wonderful collectibile houses. Historic Old Wethersfield, founded in 1634, is a special place to experience a communtiy of authentic New England heritage, museums, old architecture, places of interest nestled along tree lined streets. Of noted interest also is the Webb House where Washington and Rochambeau planned the Campaign of Ending the Revolutionary War at Yorktown in 1781. The Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum is a must to visit and just a few steps from Antiques on Main. Across the street from the museum is the J MICHAELS TAVERN, located in the historic Standish House, where I also exhibit my work.

Janice and I wandered around the shop and she was happy to find some small bottles. One was a medicine appearing bottle, a decorated little vase and an old ink bottle. Then when we got home Janice picked some flowers from the carpet of Myrtle along the edge of the stone walls, which were perfect for the new collection of bottles.

This is a half Federal house with an ell addition I made and with a painted scene all around. I couldn't resist making the image of a flowering tree by placing the Myrtle flowers in the back.

Looking forward to seeing you here at the studio in Glastonbury just over the river from Old Wethersfield, where there are plenty more houses of different sizes and shapes that I've made to bring an accent to your home.

Marblehead Art Walk

2008-04-19T04:59:00.006-05:00

April 11th and the 12th was the first time for the Marblehead Art Walk, a partnership of the Art Association and the Chamber of Commerce where various artists were featured in participating small businesses throughout town highlighted with hanging ballons. Friday night was the preview opening and then all day Saturday. I was featured at the Marblehead Arts Association and set up in the front parlor where I demonstrated pencil drawings and gave them away to a fortunate few. Saturday was also the antique appraisal day up in the ballroom with Paul Royka from the Antiques Road Show where many brought in their "treasures".
For this showI did several new paintings, three are shown below, and at the end of the day I placed them in my gallery on the second floor where I hope you can visit someday. This was another successful event in the wonderful town of Marblehead and promises to be again next year in the Spring.

This is an 11x14 painting of Old Tucker's Wharf based on an old post card from my father's Marblehead collecton of many harbor scenes. This shows the wharf from the rocks of Crocker Park which is still there today except all the buildings have changed or are no longer there.

This is an 11x14 painting of Old Appleton's Wharf and is where the Boston Yacht Club is today.

This 11x14 painting is an image of the Fort Sewall lobster shacks where at one time many were there. In the background is Gerry Island and Peach's Point.

A Country Class

2008-03-31T08:01:00.009-05:00

On the last Saturday in March, I gave a small private class here at Early New England Homes built by Country Carpenters, the company that also built my barn a few years ago. This model home is open to the public for viewing and when it first opened I spoke to the invited guests about what a wonderful contribution to New England's harmony it was. Eric Sloane, a well known writer and artist of New England would have been so happy to have seen this as well I'm sure.
I did a painting of this complex used on the cover of their brochure. New England Homes is located in the Connecticut countryside of Bolton, a short distance from my Art Studio & Gallery in Glastonbury.
I did a similar class recently in January at the Wayside Inn in Massachusetts. Fred from Country Carpenters asked me about the possibilities of holding a class in Connecticut and then the day finally came. We started at 9:30 on a crisp beautiful morning and it wasn't too long before everyone was pounding away, finishing by 4:30. How fast the day went, but now on this Saturday March, 29th, time was forever frozen with the creation of the "little pine footstool"

Everyone is busy sanding after the roughed up and distressing steps were done previously. It gets noisy with all the pounding and filing! The idea though is to keep in mind not to over do it but give the piece a character of 200 years of use. In the barn there is a display of old tools helping to bring the feeling into the piece as well.

Everyone is concentrating with the final details before the last step of varnishing.

The class all with their finished projects and seven hadn't ever painted before. When the stools were lined up drying I picked one up thinking it was my own, but was surprised that it was Mike's (on the left ). Everyone went home with a smile and all had good reason to be happy!

Collecting Houses from the Barn

2008-03-02T08:13:00.006-05:00

I look forward to your visit here in Connecticut to my Studio & Gallery where the flowers soon will be blooming and the birds singing. Please call first to be sure I'm in at 860-633-7707. I will be happy to show you the many houses and barns I have made from large timbers to very small pieces of pine.

When Country Carpenters built the Studio & Gallery post and beam barn, there were some leftover timbers. This is a 4x8 that I used to make this "row" house with scenes and buntings and flags on both sides. I even used old copper from the chimney flashing to make cut out designs and nailed them on the houses. A story is told in the design of the celebration of America by the little band marching by on what I envisioned was a voting day.

This is a set of of three cut from one piece of 3/4" pine wood. There are a wide variety of different houses and barns here in the gallery, that can capture an Old New England accent in any season wherever you want to display them. Each and every one has a finishing patina of history.

I made this collection of small houses for my wife Janice and although very tiny, as the dime shows, they bring a nice accent when arranged on the kitchen counter.

Firescreens at the Tavern

2008-02-29T22:01:00.006-05:00

I recently painted two fireplace screens at JMICHAELS TAVERN with a red onion tile effect to simulate a fireplace that was once there. There actually were two removed many years ago to make a stairway that leads up from the kitchen to four dining rooms on the second floor. When visiting during renovations several months ago, I saw that they were painted just solid black and I suggested this to compliment the wonderul panel wood work. The red onion is a symbol of the town's heritage that was so famous years ago.

J MICHAELS TAVERN at 222 Main Street and the First Church of Christ built in 1761 and 1764.

There are wagon rides similar to what is shown at special times throughout the year.

The Webb, Deane, Stevens museum houses across the street from the J MICHAELS TAVERN in the center of the oldest town in Connecticut, Old Wethersfield established in 1639.

I also exhibit other folk art paintings at the tavern that are available for purchase. It's a special experience to sit near the screens and let your imagination wonder through the times while having a wonderful dining experience. Visit the museum across the street where George Washington had stayed in the Webb house in 1781 planning the battle of Yorktown.

Just a little further up the street visit Antiques on Main where I have various other original works of Old Wethersfield or call me to visit the studio just across the river in Glastonbury.

Making one of my Puzzles

2008-02-21T21:49:00.004-05:00

On cozy winter evenings at the end of a working day, my wife Janice likes at times to relax putting a puzzle together. I first wondered how that could be "relaxing" and thought it would be frustrating instead and impossible to fit a thousand pieces together. Well, after sitting down with her a couple of times I began to look forward to joining in and getting a little brian "excercise". It was fun to be together working on sorting the colors and shapes to fit and feeling the satisfaction of accomplishing something. It's a nice way not only to exercise the mind, but it was relaxing working on it a little at a time.

I hated to take apart the few puzzles that we did and instead just laid them down upstairs in my studio. However with this puzzle, "Marblehead Fish Company," I noticed that my signature was missing. So I have made this one very special by signing the box and the completed puzzle on the bottom right , noting that Janice and I finished it in February '08. This will be offered for sale on ebay someday but until then you're invited to come by my studio to see it.

"Better Connecticut"

2008-02-10T22:10:00.000-05:00

On Monday, February 4th I was at the J MICHAELS TAVERN in Old Wethersfield where I soon will be installing two large firescreen panels with paintings of the tavern and the Webb, Deane Stevens museum across the street. Scot Haney of WSFB channel 3 in Hartford, was filming a story of the recently opened restaurant for the program "Better Connecticut" and he met me therefor the first time. It was from this meeting that he came to my studio & gallery where there was also plenty to see for a story. The segment aired two times on Friday the 8th and once on Saturday morning the 9th. This brought in interested vistors to the gallery and a special story of one of my earlier paintings that surprised me. Everyone called ahead of time to let me know of their arrival and I invite also to visit when the time is right.

Flying Painting

2008-02-10T19:51:00.000-05:00

I have done many paintings for over 42 years and I sometiimes wonder where they go after being puchased. On Sunday afternoon I was told a story about one of my paintings that I never heard before.

Early Saturday morning was the third airing of the segment "Better Connecticut" with my interview with the host Scot Haney that was seen by Jack A. from Westbrook. It seems Jack was trying to find more about me for three years and when he heard my name it caught his attention right away. I got a call later Saturday regarding a very interesting story of how he aquired one of my early 18x24 framed canvas paintings. He first asked me if I were the same person describing a painting he had and sure enough , I was.

He told me about driving down Rte.1 a few years ago driving in back of a car that just pulled out of a flea market. All of a sudden a painting flew off of the cars roof and flew up in the air landing in the highway and he swirved immediately to avoid it. The car behind him though ran over it! As Jack came to a stop he was able to retrieve it. It seems that the painting must have been forgotten on the top of the car from New York as it drove down the road.

The only damage was tire tracks on the back side, and the beautiful gold frame had a distressed edge which was hardly noticible. The painting "Snow Shoes" is in excellent condition and was done I believe in 1985 as I didn't date work many times in the early years. It's interesting for me to see this era of primitive work having less details in my paintings of today. When he mentioned this find to a friend , he wondered if this painting could be his "retirement" and he hung it proudly in his house. That sounded good to me as I look around my gallery at all of my paintings. Jack was quite pleased to finally know more about his flying painting along Rte. 1 in Connecticut. I'd say that is quite a unique way to start a collection!

300 year old milestones to Boston

2008-01-24T10:20:00.000-05:00

Along an old stone wall in Newbury, is the first one of four milestone markers indicating it is 37 miles to Boston. On the sides there are references to Portsmouth and also Ipswich. These are beautifully carved designs made exactly three hundred years ago that we can still witness today almost as clear as then. Do you ever stop and think about how it was to travel the roads of many years ago? When I travel at times I'm thinking how easy and fast it is to get from one place to the next even if caught in a traffic jam. In some of my paintings I have used these milestone markers which were the "highway signs"of their day and a far cry from the "global positioning systems" known as GPS . These stone markers are passed by daily for all to see and I often wonder if they are ever really noticed now. I wonder too, how these were positioned, who carved them, the activity of the time putting it all together, what the travel conditions were like, how often a trip was made, the different characters, what taverns and Inns were along the road and wonder how long it took?

This is along a curve on the Boston Road with 36 miles to Boston. I almost wonder if there was a mistake carving out 30 at first and then made into a six. Notice also the different carved designs at the bottom.

The stones are all different shapes and designs carved out. This reads 35 miles to Boston.

This might be the same view on the way to Boston traveling along the marshes often flooded in the spring.

The last stone shows on the left it is 3 miles to Newburyport and on the right it is 33 miles to Boston, carved in 1708. This stone is in front of the Governor Dummer Academy in Newbury where there is a tradition of students walking around it after graduating.

There have been other articles written in magazines and books, but this set of four milestones are unique to find and perhaps you can see them as well someday....... or maybe find them in a painting I have done.

Pennsylvania Visit

2008-01-14T19:33:00.000-05:00

Tom and JoAnn from Pennsylvania, visit the gallery on their way back from a weekend at the Wayside Inn. JoAnn has attended many classes over the years but this was the first time it was convienent to stop by.

JoAnn just didn't believe that the brick and "metal door" imitation, was painted on the chimney extention when the barn was built. This is on the second floor of the studio where I also paint during the spring and summer.

Before heading back to Pennsylvania, JoAnn and Tom take their Springer Spaniels, Raven and Cache down through the woods to the "Million Dollar View" of the rolling hills to the Connecticut River. I like to sit when I have a chance and just relax for a moment or two.

Saturday's class at the Inn

2008-01-14T15:39:00.000-05:00

I often have a class in painting at the Wayside Inn every January and this past Saturday the 12th was a wonderful memory for all. What a perfect day with the weather and health of all which is something I always wonder about. There is a lot of anticipation and excitement in the day that goes by so fast.

Janice and I settled at the Inn about 8:30 and went to dinner in the very room I would have the class. We had a nice seat right close to the fireplace to enjoy. After that we went up to one of the ten rooms of the Inn where we made out the class certificates that students would be receiving. The students are from everywhere including Jo Ann from Pennslyvania, Gary from New Hampshire, Grace from Connecticut and others from all different parts of the state.

Have you ever heard of the Secret Drawer Society at the Inn? These are letters found in different drawers and places hidden in the rooms written by the many visitors. The letters describe personal insights, of joy, happiness, hopes and loves of those that are fortunate to experience the Wayside Inn. There are no televisions in the rooms but reading the letters, then writing your own, creates a special place to be part of history.

We set up the class early so when the students arrive they can enjoy the coffee and muffins before class.

The luncheon was relaxing in the old kichen with the crackling fireplace making for a classic time. We all then got down to business painting the scene on the little bench. There were at least three students that never painted before and did quite well. It's nice to see and now they too have created something frozen in time, everthing else is a memory.

If interested in classes just email me and I'll let you know of other up and coming classes.

Wayside Inn to the North Shore

2008-01-10T11:55:00.000-05:00

January thaw came at a nice time Tuesday the 8th when I went to the North Shore after first going to the Wayside Inn. No matter how many times I walk the pathway to the Inn, it is so wonderful to experience. I wanted to check on the last minute details of the class I'll be giving Saturday.

After that I went through Swampscott about an hour away and took a moment just to reflect the beautiful day again. My daughter Vanessa took Janice and I to Anthony's Pier Four Cafe that overlooks Lynn Shore beach for dinner one evening after my special 40th Anniversary exhibit I had in Marblehead two years ago.

I then continued to Marblehead to the King Hooper Mansion where my gallery is on the second floor and brought in some new paintings. The historic mansion is the home of the Marblehead Arts Association where there are many events and activities throughout the year. There are many views of the old town from the windows toward the harbor each day and I use it as the wallpaper screen on my computer. When you visit the mansion , be sure to tour all the the different galleries in the three floors and the wine cellar which was the old kitchen. I not only have paintings there but also original art signs, decorated old tin pieces, drawings, prints, post cards and unique painted pieces such as the very collectible pine wood houses and barns in all sizes that is "Old New England". I met a couple there Tuesday that didn't know the gallery was my work and asked if everything he saw was the "founders" gallery because he had seen the work in the summer and it had that old look. I hadn't heard that before but that is the feeling of what my work can bring ........... as if it did exist back in time.

Christmas Visiting Falcon

2007-12-26T13:23:00.000-05:00

It was quite a surprise to look out the kitchen window to see a falcon looking around maybe wondering what might be inside. Janice did set a fine table with a wonderful dinner but, that was for all our children visiting this Christmas.
Janice especially has a great receipe for an egg plant casserole among other dishes served which was enjoyed by all.
The falcon then settled on one of the many pine trees that are in the back of the studio. It seemed quite content to watch everything around with no fears from being photographed.
When you too visit, you may experience seeing a falcon at the Gallery / Studio, full of houses and paintings where I'm looking forward in '08 to creating a much more. So far in '07 I have done 457 different works. Just give a call first to be sure I am in. I'll be taking trips on occassion to my gallery at the King Hooper Mansion in historic old down town Marblehead, Massachusetts.
Happy New Year!

Workshop at the Wayside Inn

2007-10-29T20:11:00.000-05:00

October 26th through the28th was the Country Folk Art Festival in Marlborough where I introduced the next class to be at the Wayside Inn. On Saturday January 12th, the small decorative pine stool will be the project. Sunday, January 13th, will be the receipt box. I noticed that most were interested in the pine stool, so as a result there may be two days for the pine stool and I will schedule the receipt box later.
This is a wonderful opportunity to learn the painting and finishing of working in wood.
The class starts at 9:30 am until 4:30pm spending a memorable day at the Wayside Inn enjoying this very special time in painting. There are muffins and coffee served by the fireplace in the morning with a five course luncheon served in the old kitchen at noon.
The cost is $185.00 and seating is limited so please call the Inn for more information and your reservation at 1-978-443-1776. Some also make it a weekend by staying in one of ten rooms at the Inn which is an even more enjoyable experience.

See you before you know it...........

Upcoming shows

2007-10-10T19:52:00.000-05:00

I've been busy creating paintings for the upcoming three shows this season, two of which are the first time for me. This will be my 18th year at the Country Folk Art Festival at the Royal Plaza Trade Center, Route 20 one mile west of I-495, Marlborough, Massachusetts. The opening is Friday evening, October 26th from 6 p.m. - 10.p.m., Saturday, the 27th from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Sunday the 28th 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. I'm looking forward to exhibiting my new work including Halloween paintings,tinware, art signs, boxes of different kinds... even an old shoe shine box. I'll also be showing for the first time the project for the next class at the Wayside Inn in Sudbury,January 12th and 13th. of '08.
November17th is a new show in Marblehead, Massachusetts and it's at the St. Andrew's Church, 135 Lafayette St., (Rte. 114) from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. I'll have some works of my old home town as well as for the season.
Saturday,December 1st I will be at a small quality show, New England Artisans Showcase, at the Glastonbury Abbey Confrence Center, 16 Hull St. Rte 3A, a short distance from the major intersection of Rte 228, Hingham, Massachusetts.
I also will have work at my gallery at the Marblehead Arts Association, 8 Hooper Street, Marblehead and of course at my Studio & Gallery in Glastonbury, Connecticut.

Lucky Chances with Sevens

2007-07-07T20:30:00.000-05:00

July 7,2007 is a one of a kind day in history and I wanted to commemorate the time with this special painting. I painted this based on pure imagination and created the forerunner of the gambling casinos of today with the character I named "Lucky Chances". The pig "Lucky" pulls the cart of chances through New England countryside towns providing a one armed bandit along with extra special dice and other games of chance. He is blasting the arrival with a horn and the sounds of the pig's bells jingling along excites the town folks running to the tavern where they will take their chances for a penny. I also made this painting a puzzle to figure out in counting all the representations of "seven" to honor this day. Can you find all the twenty-one sets of seven? I finished at 7:17 pm and it happens to have the catalog number 177/07. I plan to make these special paintings each year until 2012 with different stories and subjects. Lucky Chances is an 11 x 14 painting on streched canvas with an hand painted pine frame. This special piece of time frozen is available for the collector that would like to add to their collection this unique work. If this is still available, I will be showing the painting at the Country Folk Art Festival in Marlborough, Massachusetts October 26th,27th,and 28th or you can visit the gallery here in Glastonbury, Connecticut.

Decorative Country Murals

2007-07-07T08:07:00.000-05:00

There are many styles and subjects in creating mural paintings. I recently did some decorative mural painting using colors based on those in the home here in Glastonbury. I do however travel the New England area satisfying the needs of many. In this first design for a narrow hallway, the monochrome tones and colors worked out well. This scene has a sense of "opening up" the space. Hanging work on the wall even further reduced the hallway width, so Jennifer had me look at it when I suggested this design. She said that she liked animals so in the painting you'll find her dogs, some birds, ducks, horses, deer and even a moose to name a few. Now every time in the comings and goings of the day, one can have the feeling of walking along the peaceful country river.

The stairway seemed to need something as well, so a variation of the theme was created. This provided a relaxation view of the river while sitting in the living room.

When there is the right space, mural painting can be very satisfying and bring another dimension to an area in your home or business.

Collection of Art Signs

2007-06-20T16:50:00.000-05:00

I have been creating decorative signs ever since I first started business in 1966 preserving the memories of everything from "Wild Maine Blueberry Muffins", "Old Taverns and Inns" to sayings, street names and places in towns. A favorite place of mine on the North Shore of Boston is Marblehead and Newburyport. I encourage you to visit there this summer. Be sure to let me know when and I just might be able to meet you at the store or gallery where I exhibit. I will be exhibiting at my Gallery on the second floor of the King Hooper Mansion, 8 Hooper Street, home of the Marblehead Arts Association, a wonderful Art Sign collection, just in time for the great celebration of the Arts Festival in town. I also have a collection of Art Signs and other examples of Folk Art in Newburyport at My Country Store, 2 Market Square.

These sign boards have an unique old quality in each but were made from pine boards used in building my art studio and gallery in Glastonbury, Connecticut. On some of the Art Signs I have used copper designs of stars, hearts, figures and other symbols cut from old chimney flashing,which adds a little extra interest.

Custom order your own Art Signs by sending me an email at chris@christophergurshin.com or call 860-633-7707.

Open House at the Marblehead Arts Association

2007-05-22T18:31:00.000-05:00

Sunday, May 20th was the last of several rain soaked days but that didn't stop a great day at the Arts celebrating 85 years. The King Hooper Mansion is the home of the Marblehead Arts Association on Hooper Street in the historic town of Marblehead Massachusetts. The mansion was shining inside and out with a new coat of paint. All the vistors were greeted at the door and enjoyed the different shows on the three floors of galleries. The ballroom opened with the Glover Regiment singing Sea Chanteys and then there were other groups throughout the afternoon. On the second floor is my display of a variety of paintings and folk art. My two sisters Lianne and Pamela enjoyed seeing some of my latest work.

My daughter Vanessa (on the right) and her friend Amy playfully poised by the different palettes that will be auctioned off at the Marblehead Arts Festival, July 4th. There will be a silent auction on June 30th and July 1st when you can enter your bid. I entered a palette showing the spirit and excitement to the sights and sounds of the 4th of July celebration. Call the gallery for any additional information at 781-631-2608.

Conomo Point

2007-05-03T05:24:00.000-05:00

Every day there are many thousands of people that travel Rte 133 from Essex to Gloucester and Cape Ann never seeing the road that takes you to Conomo Point, named after the Indians that used to live around there in past history. It is a point of land where the Essex River flows into the ocean and you can see the backside of Crane's beach sandunes. Over three thousand boats at one time were built in Essex and this was the first experience of going to sea after first being outfitted in Gloucester for the fishing industry.

The island just over the chanel from the point is known as Emerson's Island to the local town folks. It was Mr. Emerson years ago that invented the iron lung making a fortune to have this place for a summer retreat and only accesible by boat. There are various cottages and houses along the rocks. One had a fire many years ago but the remains still stand. What a grand view that would be to experience every day with the first rays of dawn.

There is another classic view along Rte. 133 and that is the Burnham House. This has been a subject for many artists of Cape Ann and for me as well. They lady that used to live there always had sheets hanging on the clothes line blowing in the breeze to make it look like someone was always home. This is next door to Farnum's Clam Stand where you can sit and look out over the marsh to Hog Island.

May 1st in Essex

2007-05-02T21:42:00.000-05:00

I had planned a trip up to Essex since last week during the rains as I had business to take care of at Woodman's, the famous place where fried clams were invented in 1916 by Chubby and Bessie Woodman. I did the 24 x 30" painting entitled Woodman's Parade with the Clam Digger's Band in 1999 and it is used in their advertising and other promotions. I do have signed prints for $20.00 if you are ever interested. Woodman's is a must stop when visiting New England for many seafood dishes or to experience the clambakes and "eat in the rough" overlooking the marsh. It's a family tradition for many all over the world.

I first started business in Essex in 1966 and still continue creating artwork for Woodmans. When I am able , I like to stop by and see a friend of mine, Barb Carter,and we made plans to have lunch. She has lived in the same house with her husband Dana, right off the marsh as long as I can remember. Well, May 1st was the beautiful sunny day to enjoy the time we had planned. The day was so nice we just decided to eat on the porch with a million dollar view. We started with cold lemonade, clam chowder, and then she said to my surprise, "What would it be like not to have lobster rolls?". I wasn't in too much of a rush so we were able to enjoy the lobster rolls and an enjoyable time in this usually busy world. I told Barb about the painting I did for the Marblehead Arts Association auction that takes place this July 4th at the Marblehead Arts Festival and that I had to deliver it later in the day. Barb is holding the palette painting which is now on view at the Art Association.

This auction features various palettes painted by the memebership and the subject I chose is a favorite. I just thought of the spirit of America, harbor ilumination, fireworks, the harbor full of boats, the 1812 Overture, cannons, bells and the summer dazzle of it all. One of my favorite places to relax on a nice summer day is Crocker Park with it's commanding view of the harbor of two thousand boats and sometimes referred to as the yachting capital of the world. I have my gallery at the King Hooper Mansion, home of the Marblehead Arts Association, for the rest of the year where I may even see you there sometime. Just email me to find out the dates I'll be there and I will hope to meet you then. I mentioned earlier that the Art Association is celebrating their 85th year and there will be a grand party this May 20th, 12-4pm open house with cake, balloons, entertainment.... including Glover's Regiment, Noteworthies,High School A Cappella Groups, Jewel Tonees & Luminescence.
My wife Janice and I will be there as well on this special day not to be missed.

Harbor view

2007-04-22T20:08:00.000-05:00

I went to the wharf just to take a break after setting up the gallery. It was nice sitting in the sun thinking of the summer to come when Marblehead Harbor has many different boats and activities. Looking forward to the sights and sounds of the summer season and my favorites are July 4th and the Marblehead Arts Festival.

Gallery at Marblehead Arts Association

2007-04-22T07:02:00.000-05:00

Earlier this spring, I was busy along with Rob, my future son-in-law,preparing the Cushman gallery within the Marblehead Arts Association on the second floor in the historic King Hooper Mansion. The Association is celebrating 85 years and I am happy to be a part of it. For seven months I'll be showing a variety of work from paintings, unique folk art, decorated old tin pieces, to mural painting samples.
This May 20th, Sunday,12-5pm, there will be a celebration with other members showing work throughout the mansion along with different music performances and refreshments. The mansion has had extensive painting renovations not to be missed. Come celebrate the exciting changes! I will be there along with my wife Janice and we look forward to seeing you

Decorated Planter Box

2007-03-14T16:30:00.000-05:00

The Conntecticut Audubon Center in Glastonbury is having "Art for Natures Sake", two days of festivities May 19th and 20th, 2007, including special events, an art show, photographs and demonstrations. It's also a beautiful time to take a nice walk through the nearby woods and see the wild life from birds to maybe even beavers in the dam they have built.

I decorated a planter box for this event, with a winter and summer scene. This could be used for different arrangements year round whether it be on your dining room table or any special place in your country home. Bids are being accepted for what is called "A Tea Cup Auction" which is a little different. The value of the piece is $200.00 and can be purchased right away or you may place a bid and they will be sorted out at the end on May 20th to see who wins the bid. There will be other items to select from as well, but I have created the first and wanted you to know.

The Audubon is next door to me and is located at 1361 Main Street , near the Old Cider Mill in Glastonbury. If you wish come by my Studio and Gallery..... it's even possible to walk over from the beaver dam. Just give me a call or write to be sure I haven't stepped away.

Cogswell's Grant 1728

2007-03-14T08:16:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I started my business in the beautiful little town of Essex, Massachusetts in 1966 and I do go back there several times a year. A great place to visit is Cogswell's Grant which was the summer home of Bertram K. and Nina Fletcher Little, collectors and writers of early American decorative arts. She referred to "Folk Art" as Country Arts which I think is a nice definition. I had the occassion one summer day to privately meet with them and always remember their hospitality. Mrs. Little enjoyed showing me the many collectons throughout the house and the stories about them. She was aware of my work and suggested that I go to New York to the Museum of American Folk Art. After many years I finally did visit the museum....... two years ago. Time has a way of flying by fast before you know it. Creativity of artwork however is frozen in time and becomes the history of today for us to enjoy.

Cogswell's Grant is open June 1st thru October 15th and has a wonderful country setting with stone walls overlooking the marshes of Essex. Just call 978-768-3632 for more information or check it out on line.

Display Board & Shelf

2007-03-07T07:07:00.000-05:00

I have a lot of extra wood from the building of the barn studio & gallery and once in a while I like to make something with it. I had this tongue and groove pine stock that I used in making the various display boards. At first I was going to use them for something to paint a scene on, but decided to make these display board shelves.
There was a lot of woodworking and painting finishing to achieve the old look from these new boards. They have bread board ends and are all wired ready to hang. These can be used in so many places to bring a warm accent in decorating the country home.

As an added interest, the two nails under the shelf, are to be used as a place for hanging dried flowers or keys and are made of copper with a raised star on the nail head. These were used to hold down the slate roof of the famous High Street Lord Timothy Dexter House in Newburyport which the top floor was destroyed by fire in 1988. There is a book called Newburyport Stories from the Waterside by Liz Nelson that mentioned the fire and has illustrations of my ink drawings.

Shown on the different display boards are some of my paintings, houses and tins along with a collections old keys.

Sunset Sparkles

2007-03-02T19:53:00.000-05:00

Janice and I were at the kitchen window making supper when we saw this interesting sunset. The conditions were right with a combination of the sun setting, snow in the fields and a gentle fog drifting around. I was preparing chicken but said I have to go out and take a few photos. There is something about the sun setting that gives a dramatic accent to all kinds of subjects. The conditions don't last long as the sun sets before you know it. So I hurried to clean my hands and then went right out to take a few interesting images. There are a row of hemlock trees on the side of the driveway that leads through some underbrush of branches and weeds that had the drizzle of the days hard rain. It created these sparkles of light that showed even more after seeing these photos. It was the actual drops of water on some of the tips of branches illuminated from behind with sunlight, that gave it this effect of a twinkling sparkle.

I did get back shortly and continued making the honey glazed chicken cutlets with sizzled garlic. I'll be glad to send you the reciept if interested. I'll be going to Marblehead, Newburyport and New Hampshire soon and look forward to sharing more photos with you of my travels.

A Walk Down Back

2007-02-23T20:11:00.000-05:00

I look down back from the Studio/Gallery every day but I hadn't walked through the pines for a while to what some have called "the million dollar view". There was just a little snow that recently fell at night and in the morning the sky was a beautiful blue with little puffy clouds drifting in the brisk air. Walking the short distance through the pines I'm always aware I might see an owl which I had the surprise of experiencing twice before.

At the end there are two adirondack chairs that are so comfortable to sit in with the summer breeze and just relax. There is a beautiful view of the rolling farm hills to the river and next to the Connecticut Audobon which is celebrating it's 25th year. I painted a planter box for them which will be auctioned off in their May 1st celebration. I'll be writing more information about this in another article soon.

Visit the studio/gallery and maybe take a walk down back too but please call first to be sure I am in.

Marblehead Summer Day

2007-02-05T11:52:00.000-05:00

Summer days are a few months away but they will come and winter will just be a distant memory. All the little seconds of life add up to the future. Crocker Park overlooking the beautiful harbor, is just the thing to take your mind off the cold time of winter. It was Uriel Crocker, a 19th century book publisher, who in 1886, gave this land to the town to become Marblehead's first public park. Just imagine the experience of sitting on one of several benches each with a fanastic view or just on the rocks and relax taking in the sights, sounds and the refreshing salt air breeze. Another classic view is the original settlement area of town called Barnegat which overlooks Brown's Island and Little Harbor. This house is a favorite for so many to photograph and paint. Walk the history of a few old granite steps down to the beach and see this peaceful scene enjoyed over the years. It's still the same to me when I used to buy penny candy at Aunt Sadie's across the Street. Scroll down and read my story that was published in the newspaper, Country Register in '06.

At the Marblehead Arts Association, 8 Hooper Street, I show paintings and other work of Marblehead in the gift shop. There is even a coffee mug that has an image of Crocker Park, Abbot Hall, the lighthouse and sailboats. The mug is also available at the museum shop at Abbot Hall where the famous painting of the Spirit of '76 is.

This is the 85th year of the founding of the Association with special coming events I look forward to letting you know about in the months ahead.

Another use of the Christmas Tree

2007-01-21T23:29:00.000-05:00

I know Christmas is over and the tree eventually drys up and looses a lot of needles on the way out of the house. Our tree looked very dry with the branches dropping down even though it was watered every day. I wanted to extend the use of our tree so I dug a hole near the back kitchen window. I then sprinkled it with seeds and peanuts to watch the different birds gather in and out of the branches. I was surprised to see that the tree liked this as well because all the hanging down branches perked right up again with the help of a few days of rain. All the birds seem to really enjoy searching around the tree for the many seeds.

We had the first snow of the winter here in Glastonbury but it all melted in a couple of hours. By not having to use the snow blower, I've been able to work on painting more. Last year I did about 350 different pieces of artwork and have already done 16 this year so far. Some have sold already but if you have a chance to visit nearby Old Wethersfield, Connecticut, I have work available at the shop "Antiques on Main". There are a few pieces of tin and several paintings displayed in the shop. It's right next to the firehouse. Of course there is also my gallery with many examples of different work. If you like country , then you'll enjoy the gallery full of my folk art.

Memorable Wayside Inn Class

2006-12-30T21:16:00.000-05:00

On Saturday,January 13th and Sunday,January 14th, I taught thirty students where we all had an enjoyable class painting "Yellow House Farm". We started the day with the Inn's muffins and pastry, tea and coffee by the fireplace. Then we all got ready around 9:30AM going over the packet of instructions and preparing the canvas. At noon luncheon was served and all eighteen students were then ready to sit by the fireplace in the old kitchen for a five course meal. We then returned to the class in the Ford Room of the Inn, where we eventually completed the painting about 4:00PM. There were seven out of eighteen that had never painted before and succeeded with their painting. The Sunday class was just twelve and a lot of fun as well with everyone completing their painting.
As one student wrote to me she said....."The Inn was beautiful, the food was fabulous and the instruction was the best." I hope that you too have this opportunity sometime to join the many that have taken a class and gone home with a painting and a memory of a special day.

December Fog & Snow

2006-12-29T23:10:00.000-05:00

There was quite a bit of fog December 21st until the sun tried so hard to come through late in the day. I couldn't even see the horses that I bring carrots to but there are two somewhere in the fog. Sometimes I pick a bagful of some nice sweet green grass that is still growing. I thought by now I could be cross country sking but there's still plenty of time for that. For now I'll just have to gaze at my last year's snow bound fields and dream.

December Sunset

2006-12-29T22:44:00.000-05:00

I saw the sun setting outside my studio and before I could get the camera, the sun had disappeared to this beautiful crimson/orange glow. I was fortunate to capture the hawk observing from the tree and it seemed very peaceful watching me.There are birds of all kinds here living next to the Connecticut Audubon with the rolling hills to the river . This is one of many beautiful views to enjoy here next to the Old Cider Mill.

Time of Change

2006-12-27T21:39:00.000-05:00

I rearranged the gallery here in Glastonbury where there is much to see. There are many examples of my work from paintings to tins and wood accents with many more being worked on. If you enjoy folk art and want to see original unique work I invite you to visit. Just call first to be sure I am in at 860-633-7707.

December 27th,06, was a day of change after twenty years at Salt Marsh Antiques in Rowley, on the North Shore of Boston,where I have exhibited my folk art paintings, decorated furniture, prints, cards, tin pieces, mural samples to name a few works of art. I had help from Mary, Rob and my wife Janice packing everything in just about two and a half hours. We then went for lunch in Newburyport. Janice then mentioned I had to get to Manchester for business at the printers which I entirely forgot. Manchester is such a nice little town with beautiful seaside vistas. I noticed a place to have hot chocolate when we were leaving town and thought it had a cozy warmth having candles on the tables. It seemed just the right touch to take a break before our trip back to Connecticut. Write to me if you would like to know just where this place is.
For now, please visit the Marblehead Arts Association, 8 Hooper Street in Marblehead where I continue to have different work in the gift shop. Marblehead is my hometown where there is a rich history and tradition that influenced my earlier days drawing harbor scenes and old buildings around town. I'm from M.H.S. class of '63 . .............Seems like yesterday.

I also have paintings exhibited at the 1640 Hart House restaurant on Linebrook Road in Ipswich.

Penny Candy, Fudge & Sugar Pennies

2006-12-25T17:55:00.000-05:00

I can’t remember the first time I ever bought penny candy as it was probably over fifty years ago. There were so many different kinds and how many I could get in that little brown bag will always be a nice memory of growing up. I think some of my favorites were the coconut creams, malted milk balls (they were two for a penny), red liquorish, orange slices, spearmint leaves, bacon slices, root beer barrels, pill stripes ( a lot for the money), squirrel bars and once in a while Double Bubble gum ……. never Bazooka. I know I tried each and every one over time and little did I know that I would sell it myself some day. I grew up in Marblehead, Massachusetts and went to Grace Oliver’s beach on occasion in the original part of town called Barnegat. People at the beach would talk about Aunt Sadie’s, as a place to get penny candy, but she was also very well known for her peanut butter fudge. It was the best I ever had and to this day and I can still taste it! It was almost a 2” square piece that she would cut right from the tray and would serve it on a piece of wax paper. Aunt Sadie’s store was an old salt box house around the corner from the beach, up the pathway where the outdoor Coca Cola cooler was always packed with different ice cold tonic. It was tempting to get a tonic but I never had enough pennies to get one, which was five cents for a glass bottle. No, I went into Aunt Sadie’s and got a few pieces of candy and that would last much longer than a drink. On special occasions I spent three cents and got a piece of fudge. That was always a tough decision but I am sure glad I experienced that memory.

When I first started in business forty years ago, I had a store among antique shops in a small little north shore town called South Essex and did tavern signs, paintings on wood, decorated furniture and local drawings. I came across an old fashioned display case similar to the ones I remembered long ago. It would fit very nicely on an old country store counter I recently was given so it seemed a natural progression to sell penny candy. One of my favorite places to get candy was from Charlie Strong over in Gloucester, a man in his mid eighties who ran the business out of his home. He told me he was the first dealer to sell candy in town sixty five years ago, which would have been at the turn of the century. He happened to give me three photos of himself, the horse and the elegant wagon, complete with all the fancy lettering, which he used to deliver the candy in. He seemed to be able to get many of the familiar varieties I remembered and a few extra special ones. There was one small orange chocolate bar wrapped in tin foil and a colorful paper that was made in Israel. It had a great taste and I couldn’t believe it was selling for only a penny! I told Mr. Strong about a new museum in Newfield, Maine that had a country store that felt as if you were stepping back in time and they wanted to sell penny candy. I gave him a contact person there where he later would fill his station wagon up to make the trip for a few more years past his mid eighties. Taking the trip there probably reminded him of visiting the country stores back in his earlier days.

I had an idea of increasing traffic to my new business so I painted a large one cent candy sign and placed it in front of my shop which drew in customers. It also soon became a favorite stop for the neighborhood children particularly when getting off the school bus. Twenty years later when I see my little customers all grown up they tell me how much they enjoyed the shop and thank me for it. Selling the candy was also a way for me to save the monthly rent money of $75.00. The penny candy days seem to be over, like the kind that I sold, and if you do find some, it won’t be the variety, quality, size or price it was back then. It just isn’t the same, which brings to mind that I don’t think pennies are valued that much anymore and just kicked aside. I had a neighbor a few short years ago who told me her story of pennies. When having tea with her mother, Marvis was always asked if she would like some sugar or have a penny. It was the WW II days when there was rationing of several commodities, sugar being one. Marvis chose never to take sugar in her tea and saved enough later to buy U.S. war bonds. She called them “sugar pennies” and occasionally I use that phrase in my work when I decorate old small boxes.

The other day I bought a sandwich and handed over $3.35 waiting for the three cents in change which never had the intention of being returned to me I realized when I heard the cash drawer slammed shut. The three cents wasn’t even thought of as my sandwich was cheerfully given to me with a “have a nice day”. I was at the local market recently and the clerk asked me if I wanted my penny change or receipt. I said “I’ll take them both”. I thought of Aunt Sadie’s fudge, sugar pennies and how times have changed. Pennies still add up to a dollar.

Old Nails and Spikes

2006-12-25T17:31:00.000-05:00

Early old nails and spikes can make for some unique finishing accents for building interesting items and decorating. Early wrought nails were first forged by tapering all four sides and then pounding the top to create the head of a nail. After 1800 cut nails were machine made having only one side tapered. I have collected several different kinds of nails using them in ways that I would like to share with you. The best and most original to find are the hand wrought nails of the 1700’s. In 1988, in Newburyport, Massachusetts, there was a fire that destroyed the roof of a famous three story federal house built in 1795. I had the occasion to sift through the remains, finding many hand wrought nails found in the burned out wood. It also happened that the demolition crew was also saving the nails, pulling them from the boards with great care. I appreciated it when I was given a coffee can full of the rare old nails knowing I was going make use of them in my work, which I still do today. Later I created memorable pieces of this historic house using the nails mounted on wood. These were used in a fund raising auction to rebuild and bring an uplifting spirit to the owners who had just recently completed restoring the house. With the money raised it helped to rebuild the roof and the destroyed cupola before winter. The Lord Timothy Dexter house was saved, standing tall on High Street minus those hand wrought nails that held on the roof planks.

I also happened to find copper nails from the house’s slate roof. There was a circle with a star embossed on each one. I cleaned these nail heads with copper cleaner bringing out the star’s raised pattern. I used these to nail on latches I carved for different boxes and furniture pieces I designed. Rusty nails should be cleaned by using a wire brush and then varnished if they are going to be used for show. They might be just the accent to use on an old beam to hang some herbs for instance.

One time I noticed piles of old railroad spikes along tracks that were going to be replaced. I gathered as many as I could. Some were very rusty with lots of pits but I liked them the best. Choosing some of them, I went to a local forge operating at the time and had the ends cut off. I then had a wood screw braised on so it could be screwed into a beam making for a unique kind of hook. I have a variety of nails all cleaned and ready to use or just to enjoy arranging them as accents around the studio.

Where would we be without nails and spikes? It’s nice to have a few arranged here and there for their historical memory and to make us wonder what they might have held together at one time.

You are invited to the Studio/ Gallery at 1313 Main Street, Glastonbury, Connecticut. Please call 860 -633 -7707 for more information or go to www.christophergurshin.com