Rachel Smith Maher ~ Artist and Poet

This scripture says it all...so my words will be few:  "Fear not!" the angel of the Lord said unto the shepards.  So easy in concept...yet at times so difficult in action when following the path God has chosen in faithful obedience.  Love casts out all fear...if we love enough, if we allow God's love to be enough, the fear will abate.  The fruits will be recognized as joy and peace.  Merry Christmas my friends!   ~~~This painting is in a private collection in Maine.

This time of year, when the skies are mackerel-striped gray, I tend to reflect back on the past 11 months...what I've done, what worked and what didn't, fun times, hard times, and sunny days.  Last June, some artist friends and I travelled to Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens to paint en plein aire.  When we were about to leave, I snapped this shot of the sun glowing behind the petals of the water lily.  Couldn't help but be inspired to paint it! In 2012 I spent more time painting and teaching watercolor painting than ever...had more shows and exhibits than ever, and was able to reach out to more people than ever with my message of Light and Hope.  Being able to paint is so special to me...not necessarily the talent, but the opportunity:  spending time and creative energy to put brush to paper...to be able to impact the viewer...in my case, I hope to bring peace to the heart of the beholder.  As I put my trust in Christ, my Creator...I hope to continue t...

Early September morning in Vermont...fishing on a little river up North.  It was one of those magical mornings where the sun hit the edge of the leaves to make them glow and glitter...with the water glistening as it rippled along.  A gift from God just for me.  I painted this scene while sitting on a rock...my foray into Plein Aire painting is producing decent fruit.  In the middle of it all, I was overcome  with pure joy...I felt so happy...like I was resting peacefully right in the palm of His hand.  The safest place for me to be.  Right where I'm supposed to be.   ~~~This painting is in a private collection in Maine~~Giclee prints available: Image size 10"x8" $60 unmatted/unframed.