Rachel Smith Maher ~ Artist and Poet

My mother in law, affectionately know as "Dinah", has a little saying when happening on something delightful: "That'll give you a lift!!" That's what I feel when I see sunflowers--and was immediately inspired by my friend's vase full of fresh sunflowers earlier this fall. Their blooms lean this way and that as they follow the sun. Do you ever find yourself stretching toward the Light? This painting was donated to a fund-raiser to help a special friend in his battle against cancer.  Sadly, he passed away in the summer of 2013.  His creative spirit and warm smile lives on in our hearts.  RIP E.H. 

Memories of a mountain stream. If you look closely, a flyfisherman is casting his fly off the left bank. There is a rhythmic beauty to casting. The sounds of the rushing waters, the smell of the Maine woods, back and forth, landing the tasty bait just so. With any luck, a brookie will be enticed by the meal at the end of your line. Regardless of the "catching", flyfishing to me is one of the best ways to relax while soaking in Nature at its best. God's magnificent creation. All is good at the edge of a mountain stream. 16"x14" $250 framed

The temperatures dropped last night. Morning frost is imminent! Our short summer growing season is fading fast. Here is one more tribute to my love of flowers and antique watering cans! The crisp air turns my thoughts to apple-picking, football and casseroles! It transports me into an action mode focused on harvest and preparation for winter winds. I love the autumn season...a time of transition, turning inward to a place of silence like a snow filled sky. I love the multitude of colors shown by the maples and birches and oaks. I hope to put on my jeans and fleece and be out there documenting God's wondrous colors with my paintbrush!   ~~~This original painting is in a private collection in Maine. Giclee prints are available...$60...image size 10"x8".

Ever been to an island where you feel big and small all at the same time? Perspective is a fleeting element of life. I see it, and just as fast lose sight of it. I'm always coming back to the Truth of the moment I'm in...gaining a foothold on perspective...hoping to keep it as I take the next step and live the next minute in time. God catches me as my foot slips into fear and worry, and sets me aright once again...giving me perspective...teaching me Truth.   ~~~This original painting is in a private collection in Maine.  Giclee prints are available for $80.  Image size is 10"x14". 

Summer in Maine...couldn't ask for anything more in life! The early morning sun dances off the hulls of these dories at the dock in Cape Porpoise. Waking with the sunrise in July is always a treat...soaking it all up before winter comes again! ~~~This painting is in a private collection in Maine.  Giclee prints are available...$40...image size 9"x6".

The beach roses have begun to bloom. The warm summer sun has arrived. Time to head to the water's edge and relax. I've been busy painting several new pieces, and hope to post many of them soon. It's been a while since my last post...further evidence of time spent in front of the easel instead of the computer. Suits me fine, as I'm much more comfortable handling a paint brush than a keyboard. Now it's time to enjoy our short summer...time in the hammock, time at the beach, time with special friends. "Down time" is essential in the balance of life...but how often do we find ourselves on the cusp of a moment's rest, only to be pulled back into the "doing" mode that beckons so temptingly. My advice is to fight against the tendency to "get things done" and for a few weeks this summer create a sense of sabbath rest to feed your soul. The hardest part will be for me to take my own advice!! How will you refresh your self this summer? ~~16...

I am so ready for summer. Can't wait to get out to the water's edge to hear the waves crashing and see the sea gulls soaring. The thermometer is pushing 70 today despite some clouds. The seasons come 'round, 'round again...long winters turn into decadent springs. I read in Newsweek today that our brains are overloaded with information...knowledge that doesn't necessarily help us to make better decisions. What better way to clear one's head than to head out to the ocean (or wherever you find peace). Our minds are sharper and we are more truly ourselves when we take time, the precious time, to just be.  ~~~This painting is in a private collection in Maine.