Winter's Calm pastel by Niki Gulley

"Winter's Calm" ©2010 Niki Gulley

pastel • 16" x 20"

This pastel is inspired by one of our rare snowfalls in Dallas. Growing up in Chicago I always loved how pretty and magical the snow was after it first fell, but I really don't miss shoveling since moving to Texas! So in "Winter's Calm," I combined the best of both worlds, capturing the beautiful white powder dusting across the ground and along the lacy intertwining branches above while knowing that the next day it would all be gone, making the moment even more fleeting and special.

If you'd like more information on Winter's Calm, e-mail Niki Gulley.

Or to see more of my pastels and oil paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

Daybreak pastel by Niki Gulley

"Daybreak" ©2010 Niki Gulley

pastel • 16" x 40"

Whenever I can actually wake up by dawn, I am always inspired by the magical light that casts its glow across the horizon and am rewarded by the peacefulness before humanity starts stirring. In Daybreak, I wanted to capture that magical morning light and the quiet mysterious mood created from the sun's rays peeking through the trees, casting their long dramatic shadows and softening the distant landscape.

To see more of my pastels, visit nikigulley.com

Or, e-mail me at Niki Gulley with any questions.

12" x 12" Autumn Birch Tree paintings by Niki Gulley

"Transitional Tones" Series - Fall Birches & Aspen Tree oil paintings

by Niki Gulley • 12" x 12"

I painted these birch trees with extremely thick oil paint and palette knife. With the painting continuing around the edges of the canvas, they almost look 3-dimensional and are filled with color, texture and energy adding to their joyful feel. My birch and aspen paintings can be hung as is or they look great in a series, too. To see more of my "chunky" oil paintings, check out nikigulley.com/?page_id=229.

Or, e-mail Niki Gulley with any questions.

NikiGulley.com

Transitional Tones oil painting by Niki Gulley

Transitional Tones - Fall Birches oil painting

by Niki Gulley • 12" x 12"

I painted these birch trees with extremely thick oil paint and palette knife. With the painting continuing around the edges of the canvas, they almost look 3-dimensional and are filled with color, texture and energy adding to their joyful feel. My birch and aspen paintings can be hung as is or they look great in a series, too. To see more of my "chunky" oil paintings, check out nikigulley.com/?page_id=229.

Or, e-mail Niki Gulley with any questions.

NikiGulley.com

Recently Sold "Skyward Bound" oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Skyward Bound" ©2010 Niki Gulley

SOLD • oil on canvas • 30" x 40"

Recently sold to new collectors in Dallas! In "Skyward Bound," I wanted you to feel like a little kid again looking up into the treetops, enjoying the beautiful sky and colors above. We forget to do that as adults - we're so focused on straight ahead! Choosing vivid reds, yellows, blues and greens in addition to the perspective from below adds to that playful mood.

To see more of my paintings, visit nikigulley.com.

Or, e-mail Niki Gulley with any questions.

Miniature Birch Tree oil paintings by Niki Gulley

7" x 5" Birch Trees - New oil paintings by Niki Gulley

I painted these miniature birches with palette knife and extremely thick oil paint so that the resulting paintings are filled with color, texture and movement. These miniature oils look great in pairs and threes, and the wide black frame really draws your eye into the artwork and sets each one apart. If you'd like additional information or would like to purchase any combination of my birch tree paintings above, e-mail Niki Gulley.

To see more of my paintings, visit nikigulley.com.

New Aspen Tree oil paintings by Niki Gulley

5" x 7" Aspen oil paintings by Niki Gulley

I painted these miniature aspen trees with palette knife and extremely thick oil paint so that the resulting paintings are filled with color, texture and movement. These oils look great in pairs and threes, and the wide black frame really draws your eye into the artwork and sets each one apart. If you'd like additional information or would like to purchase my aspen tree paintings, e-mail Niki Gulley.

To see more of my paintings, visit nikigulley.com.

Mountain Hideaway oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Mountain Hideaway" ©2010 Niki Gulley

SOLD • 18" x 48" oil on canvas

I just sold this painting to a collector in Chicago and it's one of my favorites. A few years back, I visited Colorado to be inspired by the aspens turning color and to see the gorgeous mountains and scenery. I love it there! My husband and I ventured off the main roads and were exploring back in ranch land where there were hardly any signs of city life. At a couple of points, we even had to wait for the ranchers to round up their cattle herds out of the middle of the roads in order for us to drive in deeper – not something we witness in Dallas!

I wanted to capture that feeling of nostalgia in "Mountain Hideaway." I particularly liked this one ranch – their barn and wood post fence had so much character. I liked how the mountains surrounded the property and created such a beautiful backdrop. The panorama format really worked well to give you a sense of scale and the sprawling landscape. I liked how the road zigged and zagged next to the property, too, leading you back to the house. Also, it was just slightly overcast and the sun would peak out once in a while, creating this beautiful dramatic lighting that I had to capture.

If you'd like to see more of my oil paintings, visit NikiGulley.com

or e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com with any questions.

Painting in Santorini, Greece with Niki Gulley

"Rooftop View," Santorini, Greece ©2010 Niki Gulley

10" x 20" oil painting

I painted this scene of Santorini right next to where we will be staying for our upcoming Plein Air Painting / Photography Workshop that my husband and I will be teaching this May in Greece. Besides this being a gorgeous location, I chose the panorama format to show both the unique stacked white-washed houses and their amazing views of the sea. I like how the one or two colored buildings add a pop of contrast amongst all of the blue and white.

If you would like to paint with us in Greece this May, visit nikigulley.com/?page_id=13

for more details. Register by Dec. 15th and save $400 on the cost of the trip!

If you'd like more information, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

New Bluebonnet & Indian Paintbrush oil painting by Niki Gulley

New Bluebonnet and Indian Paintbrush Oil Painting

by Niki Gulley • 7" x 5"

These Texas Bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrush are created with extremely thick oil paint and palette knives so that the final painting is loaded with texture and color.

If you'd like additional information on my bluebonnet paintings, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Or to see more of my work, visit NikiGulley.com.

Plein Air Painting & Photo Workshop in Santorini / Athen, Greece

"Santorini Sunset" ©2010 Niki Gulley

12" x 24" pastel • Santorini, Greece

Get inspired from the ancient beauty of Greece as you join us for this amazing opportunity to sharpen your skills while enjoying one of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. Learning has never been as much fun as it is with this unique workshop that takes both painters and photographers on a tour through the cradle of civilization. The best part is that you get to choose which aspects of the workshop interest you – whether it is learning how to paint quickly to achieve the mood and changing light of the scene or deriving the most out of your camera as you capture one of the most beautiful places in the world, Greece. We hope you can join us this May!

Plein Air Painting & Photography Workshop

Athens & Santorini, Greece

May 11 – 19, 2011

Taught by Niki Gulley & Scott Williams

Early Signup Deadline 12/15/10 for a $400 savings!!!

For more information, visit nikigulley.com/?page_id=13 or

e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Texas Bluebonnet painting by Niki Gulley

Texas Bluebonnet oil painting by Niki Gulley • 7" x 5"

I painted this Texas bluebonnet with extremely thick oil paint and palette knives, so that the resulting artwork is filled with color and texture.

If you'd like more information on my bluebonnet paintings and Texas landscapes, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Or to see more of my artwork, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

Touched by Gold aspen painting by Niki Gulley

"Touched by Gold" ©2010 Niki Gulley

30" x 30" oil on canvas

Aspen trees are one of my favorite subjects to paint. I love their peeling bark and the color of the trunks in addition to the beautiful tinkling sounds the leaves make blowing in the wind. In this painting, I wanted to try something different and rather than show a whole grove of trees in the landscape, I wanted to focus in and concentrate on the wonderful texture in the trunks and the uniqueness of each knot, so you really notice the beauty of each aspen.

If you'd like more information on "Touched by Gold," e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Or to see more of my paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

Barely a Breeze oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Barely a Breeze" ©2010 Niki Gulley • SOLD

oil on canvas • 18" x 48"

Just sold to a collector in Chicago!

To see more of my pastels and oil paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

E-mail - Niki@NikiGulley.com.

New Bluebonnet oil painting by Niki Gulley

New Bluebonnet Oil Painting by Niki Gulley • 7" x 5"

These Texas Bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrush are created with extremely thick oil paint and palette knives.

If you'd like information on my bluebonnet paintings, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Or to see more of my work, visit NikiGulley.com.

Ruby Woods pastel by Niki Gulley

"Ruby Woods" ©2010 Niki Gulley

pastel • 25" X 19"

In "Ruby Woods," I wanted you to be transported to a beautiful autumn day, completely surrounded by nature. Hiking through the forest, hearing the leaves crunching under foot and the canopy rustling above, you can be totally carefree and lost in the peaceful moment. Making short energetic strokes with my pastels and including vivid warm colors add to that joyful feeling of being immersed in nature.

If you'd like information, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Or to see more of my pastels and oil paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

Crimson Sky pastel by Niki Gulley

"Crimson Sky," Dallas ©2010 Niki Gulley

SOLD • pastel • 25" x 19"

Just sold to a new collector in Dallas!

NikiGulley.com

Niki@NikiGulley.com

White Rock Lake oil painting by Niki Gulley

Dallas Skyline, White Rock Lake ©2010 Niki Gulley

oil on board • 5" x 7"

Just off the easel! This miniature oil painting captures the light shimmering on White Rock Lake as the sun is just starting to set behind the Dallas skyline. Created with extremely thick paint and palette knife, the resulting image is loaded with color and texture.

If you'd like more information on this painting, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

I will also have several pieces on display and available for sale at my Last Art Show of 2010 this weekend at the Bath House Cultural Center in Dallas. See bathhousecultural.com for details.

Or to see more of my paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

Dallas Skyline oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Golden Moment, White Rock Lake" ©2010 Niki Gulley

oil on canvas • 12" x 24"

Just off the easel! On a peaceful autumn day last fall, I went out with my camera to White Rock Lake and captured this beautiful sunset behind the Dallas skyline. I liked how the pampas grass and various plants in the foreground were back lit by the setting sun and how the water's surface was shimmering from the low light, adding to a sense of mystery and tranquility in that golden moment.

If you'd like information on "Golden Moment," e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

I will also have several pieces on display and available for sale at my Last Art Show of 2010 this weekend at the Bath House Cultural Center in Dallas. See bathhousecultural.com for details.

Or to see more of my paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

Last Art Show of 2010

"Skyward Bound II" ©2010 Niki Gulley • SOLD

oil on canvas • 40" x 30"

Sold to a collector in Dallas this month – I painted these aspen trees with extremely thick paint and palette knife so that the artwork is loaded with texture and almost three-dimensional. I love the playfulness of looking up into the treetops, as did the collectors!

If you'd like information on more of my aspen tree paintings or commissioning a unique piece, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Also, I will have several pieces on display and available for sale at my Last Art Show of 2010 this weekend at the Bath House Cultural Center in Dallas. See bathhousecultural.com for details.

Or to see more of my paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

Skyward Bound oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Skyward Bound" ©2010 Niki Gulley

oil on canvas • 30" x 40"

In "Skyward Bound," I wanted you to feel like a little kid again looking up into the treetops, enjoying the beautiful sky and colors above. We forget to do that as adults - we're so focused on straight ahead! Choosing vivid reds, yellows, blues and greens in addition to the perspective from below adds to that playful mood.

If you'd like more information on Skyward Bound, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

To see more of my paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

New Textured Aspen Painting by Niki Gulley

"Jeweled Forest" ©2010 Niki Gulley

oil on canvas • 30" x 30"

In "Jeweled Forest," I wanted you to feel like you were deep in the middle of the woods surrounding by nature in all of its beautiful autumn glory. I painted these aspen trees with extremely thick oil paint so that the texture and colors leap off the canvas.

To see more of my paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com

Or, for more information on "Jeweled Forest," e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Emergence oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Emergence" by Niki Gulley

oil on canvas • 48" x 60"

SOLD

I painted these birch trees with extremely thick oil paint and palette knife, resulting in a painting that is filled with texture and explodes with color!

Visit my website at NikiGulley.com to see more of my textured oil paintings or

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

Rhapsody in Blue oil painting by Niki Gulley

“Rhapsody in Blue” ©2010 Niki Gulley

Oil on canvas • 30” x 40”

When I was a teenager my grandparents and the majority of my dad’s family moved to Texas and I loved coming down from Chicago to visit them. I remember the first time I saw a massive field of bluebonnets and I was awestruck by the expanse of color. It was amazing that such tiny flowers when planted in mass could form a solid sea of blue. I wanted to relive those fond memories of spending time with my grandma and grandpa, while also recreating the exciting wildflower displays I remember seeing for the first time as a kid in Rhapsody in Blue. Using this interesting weathered farm house in Marble Falls and painting it engulfed in one of our best bluebonnet and Indian Paintbrush displays perfectly captures those memories.

To see more of my Texas wildflower paintings, stop by the Dutch Art Gallery in Dallas this Saturday for the "Artists of Texas" reception from 1-5. Myself and many of the other talented artists will be there to answer any questions and talk with you more about our work.

Where Texas Finds Its Color

The Artists of Texas - Second Annual State Show

Artist Reception November 6th, 1:00-5:00 pm

November 2 - December 31, 2010

The Dutch Art Gallery

10233 East Northwest Highway Suite 420

Dallas, Texas 75238

dutchartusa.com

To see more of my paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com or e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com with any questions.

Autumn Aspens oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Autumn Aspens" ©2010 Niki Gulley

12" x 12" oil on canvas

I painted these autumn aspen trees with palette knife and extremely thick paint. I love how the chunky paint adds to the texture of the bark and the movement in the leaves, and how the painting continues around the edges of the wrap around canvas for a sculptural-like frameless piece of art.

To see "Autumn Aspens" and more of my aspen series, stop by the Dutch Art Gallery in Dallas this Saturday for the "Artists of Texas" reception from 1-5. Myself and many of the other talented artists will be there to answer any questions and tell you about our work.

Where Texas Finds Its Color

The Artists of Texas - Second Annual State Show

Artist Reception November 6th, 1:00-5:00 pm

November 2 - December 31, 2010

The Dutch Art Gallery

10233 East Northwest Highway Suite 420

Dallas, Texas 75238

http://www.dutchartusa.com

To see more of my paintings, visit my website at NikiGulley.com or e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com with any questions.

Summer Aspens oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Summer Aspens" ©2010 Niki Gulley

12" x 12" oil on canvas

I painted these summer aspen trees with palette knife and extremely thick paint. I love how the chunky paint adds to the texture of the bark and the movement in the leaves, and how the painting continues around the edges of the wrap around canvas for a sculptural-like frameless piece of art.

Visit my website at NikiGulley.com to see more or

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Texas Bluebonnets oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Rhapsody in Bloom V" ©2010 Niki Gulley

12" x 12" oil painting

These Texas bluebonnets and Indian Blanket are painted with extremely thick oil paint applied with palette knife on wrap around canvas with the painting continuing around the edges. I love how the extreme texture causes the paint and colors to jump off the canvas and come to life.

Visit my website at NikiGulley.com to see more or

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

Sunflower oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Rhapsody in Bloom" ©2010 Niki Gulley
Oil painting • 12” x 12”

These sunflowers were painted from a gorgeous bouquet in my studio with extremely thick oil paint and palette knife. I love the contrast in the colors and how the texture of the paint causes them to leap off the canvas and come to life.

Visit my website at NikiGulley.com to see more paintings or

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

Texas Bluebonnets oil painting by Niki Gulley

Texas Bluebonnets oil painting by Niki Gulley

7" x 5"

I created this bluebonnet painting with palette knife and extremely thick oil paint,

up to 1/4" in thickness. I love the texture and how these wildflowers leap off the canvas and really come to life.

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

Visit my website at NikiGulley.com

Bluebonnet oil painting by Niki Gulley

Texas Bluebonnets & Indian Paintbrush oil painting by Niki Gulley

7" x 5"

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

My Website - NikiGulley.com

Sunflower oil painting by Niki Gulley

Sunflower study by Niki Gulley

5" x 7" oil painting

Created with palette knife and extremely thick paint.

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

Or, visit my website at - NikiGulley.com

Idyllic Village oil painting by Niki Gulley

“Idyllic Village,” Austria ©2010 Niki Gulley

8” x 10” oil painting

After teaching our plein air painting / photography workshop in Venice, my husband and I ventured north into Austria and Bavaria, the land of castles and fairytale villages. We found this sleepy little town south of Salzburg and I fell in love with its beauty and charm, and I just had to paint it!

To see “Idyllic Village” and my other recent paintings stop by my studio in Dallas as part of the White Rock Lake Artists’ Studio Tour - Saturday and Sunday. For more information on the Studio Tour, see WhiteRockArtists.com.

Or, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

My Website - NikiGulley.com

White Rock Lake Artists' Studio Tour - Oct. 16 & 17

"Long Shadows," Tuscany ©2010 Niki Gulley

8" x 10" pastel

After a delicious lunch of prosciutto and pecorinos on day three of our painting / photography workshop in Tuscany, we decided to venture into the countryside and paint this lone clump of cypress trees. With the simpler subject (and maybe a little Chianti at lunch!), everyone could relax and play, having fun pushing their colors and experimenting with their strokes. I liked how the late afternoon sun was casting such long dramatic shadows on the ground and I decide to accentuate the cool blues and violets I saw in the darks to contrast with the gold rolling hills.

If you’ve dreamt about painting in Tuscany, join us for our next Plein Air Painting Workshop in Sept. 2011. Visit nikigulley.com/?page_id=13 for more information or e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

To see my paintings, my husband’s (Scott Williams’) photographs, and our students’ creations from this year’s Venice & Tuscany painting and photography classes, stop by our “From Pasta to Schnitzel” art party Friday night at our studio in Dallas or the check out the White Rock Lake Artists’ Studio Tour Saturday and Sunday. For more information on the Studio Tour, see WhiteRockArtists.com.

My Website - NikiGulley.com

Tuscany Plein Air Painting Workshop with Niki Gulley

“Chasing the Light” ©2010 Niki Gulley
8” x 10” oil painting

We just got back from teaching our plein air painting / photography workshop in Tuscany, and everyone had a fabulous time! Of course it would be hard not to when immersed in such beautiful scenery – gorgeous rolling hills that stretch for miles and mysteriously change shapes from the Tuscan sun light. I painted this piece right outside the front door of our villa, which was surrounded by amazing 360 degree views of the valleys and distant hill towns. Truly beautiful! With the constantly moving clouds causing the light to change minute to minute, our challenge was to paint the scene quickly and yet capture the mood created by the soft dramatic morning light.

If you’d like to see my recent Italian inspired landscapes, along with my students’ work, stop by my studio as part of the White Rock Artists’ Studio Tour this weekend in Dallas. WhiteRockArtists.com

If you’d like more information on our next painting / photography workshop in Greece this May or Tuscany September 2011, visit my website at

nikigulley.com/?page_id=13 for more information

or e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

www.NikiGulley.com

Moment of Reflection pastel by Niki Gulley

“Moment of Reflection” ©2010 Niki Gulley

Pastel • 24” x 36”

When we visited London, it rained pretty much all day every day but somehow that added to the experience and was actually quite beautiful at night when the city lights reflected off the wet cobbled streets. A few raindrops never slow the English down, so in “Moment of Reflection,” I wanted to capture that energy of the moving masses and I liked how that contrasted against the one non-mobile person on the corner. What are they waiting for or thinking about? I their contemplative state adds to the mystery and magic of the moment.

To see “Moment of Reflection” in person, stop by the Bayou City Art Festival in Houston this weekend. I’ll be displaying my latest paintings and night scenes at booth #480 – on Walker St. between Bagby & Smith Streets facing City Hall. See BayouCityArtFestival.com for more information.

Or, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

NikiGulley.com

Table for Two pastel by Niki Gulley

“Table for Two” by Niki Gulley

Pastel • 24” x 36”

My husband and I honeymooned in Greece and fell in love with the island of Santorini. It has to be one of the most romantic spots we’ve ever seen. The views from the top of the caldera were absolutely stunning with the blue Aegean below, and the white-washed stacked architecture is truly unique. We easily segued into the the relaxed laissez faire Greek pace after a day or two and thoroughly enjoyed the beauty of the moment, dining seaside on delicious Mediterranean food and watching the sun set on the distant horizon.

If you’d like to join us next May on our Painting / Photography workshop in Greece, visit nikigulley.com/?page_id=13 for more information. Or, closer to home I also teach in Dallas, with the next set of classes starting in January 2011. If you’d like more details, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

If you’re in Houston, TX this weekend, please stop by the Bayou City Art Festival to and my pastels in person. I’ll be displaying my work at booth #480 - on Walker St. between Bagby & Smith Streets facing City Hall. See BayouCityArtFestival.com for more information.

NikiGulley.com

Bayou City Art Festival - Houston, TX - Oct. 9 & 10

“Bon Appetito” ©2010 Niki Gulley Pastel 24” x 36”

On my second trip to Europe, my husband wanted to take me to Venice since it was one of his favorite cities, and I fell in love with almost everything about it. The timeless quality created by living on canals free of cars, the history in the architecture and even the cobbled walkways, the beauty of the scenery and the magical quality created by the light to name just a few of my favorite things. I love how food and meals play such an important role in Italian culture – a time to slow down and enjoy friendships while savoring the local grown cuisine and wines over the course of the evening. In this pastel I wanted to communicate all of those joyful feelings in addition to capturing the energy and romance of the city at night. Bon Appetito!

If you’re in Houston, TX this weekend, please stop by the Bayou City Art Festival to see Bon Appetito and my other recent pastels. I’ll be displaying my work at booth #480C - on Walker St. between Bagby & Smith Streets facing City Hall. See BayouCityArtFestival.com for more information.

Or, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

NikiGulley.com

Moment of Reflection oil painting by Niki Gulley

"Moment of Reflection" ©2010 Niki Gulley

24" x 18" oil on canvas

This is another one of my favorite spots in Dallas. Once you climb down the creek’s banks, you’re treated to the peaceful trickling sounds of the gently moving water and you’re surrounded by a canopy of trees, completely eliminating all signs of traffic and city life above. This location reminds me so much of the woods I’d hike through with my parents as a kid on a beautiful, crisp autumn day and all of those happy memories come flowing back. In “Moment of Reflection,” I wanted to share that joy and calm I feel being surrounded by nature.

To see this painting and my latest work in person, visit my booth at the Cottonwood Art Festival in Richardson, TX this weekend, CottonwoodArtFestival.com.

Or, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

Visit my website at - NikiGulley.com

Reflections in Time oil painting by Niki Gulley

“Reflections in Time” ©2010 Niki Gulley

Oil on canvas • 24” x 36”

This painting is inspired by one of my favorite spots just ten minutes from our home in Dallas. It was a perfect autumn day – about 70° with a slight breeze and the peaking autumn colors were more vibrant than usual. With such a gentle wind, the vivid foliage and gorgeous fluffy clouds were reflected fairly clearly in the water and yet at the same time, I chose to create fluid moving strokes to suggest the peaceful energy in that moment.

To see this painting in person, visit my booth at the Cottonwood Art Festival in Richardson, TX this weekend, CottonwoodArtFestival.com.

Or, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

My website - NikiGulley.com

Dallas skyline pastel by Niki Gulley

“Crimson Sky” ©2010 Niki Gulley

Pastel 25” x 19”

At long last our summer journeys are coming to an end and we are headed back to Dallas. While I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the mid-west, the east coast and Europe, there’s nothing quite like home. I look forward to riding my bike again around White Rock Lake, enjoying the peacefulness of the water and greenery while watching families reveling in the early days of fall. Then, after watching a beautiful sunset over the lake with the Dallas skyline silhouetted, turning back and heading home.

If interested in purchasing “Crimson Sky,” e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

NikiGulley.com

Plein Air Painting the Greek Isles with Niki Gulley

“Walking on Water” © 2010 Niki Gulley

Oil painting • 12” x 9”

The crystal-clear turquoise and cobalt waters in Greece are an endless source of inspiration. I felt liked we’d stepped right into the set of Mama Mia and Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants! It’s hard to believe someplace so beautiful actually exists. We can’t wait to take painters and photographers with us on next year’s workshop to share in the beauty and serenity of the Greek Isles.

Plein Air Painting & Photography Workshop

Tuscany, Italy – September 2010 & 2011

Athens & Santorini, Greece – May 2011

Led by Niki Gulley & Scott Williams

Our trip to Tuscany for this year is full, but please join us next September in Tuscany or May 2011 in Greece.

Visit nikigulley.com/ng2/?page_id=13 for more details.

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com

NikiGulley.com

Painting Workshops in Greece with Niki Gulley

“Rooftop View” © 2010 Niki Gulley

Oil painting • 10” x 20”

Journeying on from Rome, we next flew to the gorgeous island of Santorini to complete the research for our next workshop we’re teaching in Greece, May 2011. The Aegean didn’t disappoint. It was just as we remembered from our honeymoon, with gorgeous blue waters contrasting with the brilliant white-washed Greek homes stacked along the Caldera. With the breath-taking views, all you can do is simply relax and soak in all that beauty.

Plein Air Painting & Photography Workshop

Tuscany, Italy – September 2010 & 2011

Athens & Santorini, Greece – May 2011

Led by Niki Gulley & Scott Williams

Our trip to Tuscany for this year is full, but please join us next September in Tuscany or May 2011 in Greece.

Visit nikigulley.com/ng2/?page_id=13 for more details.

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com

NikiGulley.com

Painting Florence, Italy with Niki Gulley

“Evening Stroll” © 2010 Niki Gulley

Pastel 25” x 19”

Sadly our Tuscany workshop has come to an end. Everyone had a wonderful time, and I thank you guys for making this such a memorable trip! From the amazing Tuscan vistas dotted with cypress, wildflowers and grape-vines, to the cobbled medieval hill towns, to the world-class museums & history-filled architecture, to the mouth-watering pastas, cheeses, meats & of course, wines, we will treasure the memories forever.

Plein Air Painting & Photography Workshop

Tuscany, Italy – September 2010 & 2011

Athens & Santorini, Greece – May 2011

Led by Niki Gulley & Scott Williams

Our trip to Tuscany for this year is full, but please join us next September in Tuscany or May 2011 in Greece.

Visit nikigulley.com/ng2/?page_id=13 for more details.

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com

NikiGulley.com

Painting Tuscany with Niki Gulley

“Crimson Waves” © 2010 Niki Gulley

Oil on canvas • 18” x 48”

Yesterday we painted the beautiful rolling hills that make Tuscany so picturesque, after a leisurely morning of hill town touring and wine sampling. Being in Tuscany right at harvest time makes the grapes taste even better! It was a perfect 78 degrees and so peaceful in this perfect spot where we set up our easels. I find the cypress trees really fascinating and unique, creating such a striking contrast to the otherwise flat surroundings. A very inspirational day!

Plein Air Painting & Photography Workshop

Tuscany, Italy – September 2010 & 2011

Athens & Santorini, Greece – May 2011

Led by Niki Gulley & Scott Williams

Our trip to Tuscany for this year is full, but please join us next September in Tuscany or May 2011 in Greece.

Visit nikigulley.com/ng2/?page_id=13 for more details.

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com

NikiGulley.com

Tuscan Hill Town Pastel by Niki Gulley

“Sienna Passageway” © 2010 Niki Gulley

Pastel 12” x 9”

Yesterday we visited the medieval walled city of Sienna in Italy. I love the cobbled streets and stone architecture of the buildings, and watching the world go by in the town square with a gelato just like the locals. Pastels are the perfect medium for capturing a quick sketch of the cobbled alleyway filled with dramatic light and unique shadows.

Plein Air Painting & Photography Workshop

Tuscany, Italy – September 2010 & 2011

Athens & Santorini, Greece – May 2011

Led by Niki Gulley & Scott Williams

Our trip to Tuscany for this year is full, but please join us next September in Tuscany or May 2011 in Greece.

Visit nikigulley.com/ng2/?page_id=13 for more details.

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com

NikiGulley.com

Tuscany Plein Air Painting Workshop with Niki Gulley

“Under the Tuscan Sun” ©2010 Niki Gulley

Pastel 24” x 36”

Italy here we come! Scott Williams and I are off to teach our photography & painting workshop in Tuscany. Our path will take our group to the medieval towns, cypress tree-lined roads and glorious sun drenched splendor of the rolling hills that are Tuscany. Whether you are a painter or photographer, this unique workshop has been designed to allow you to hone your skills and expand your creativity, all while furthering your artistic voice. Choosing which aspects interest you, we will help guide you to capture the architecture and breathtaking vistas flooded with their extraordinary quality of light, on either canvas or film.

Plein Air Painting & Photography Workshop

Tuscany, Italy – September 2010 & 2011

Athens & Santorini, Greece – May 2011

Led by Niki Gulley & Scott Williams

Our trip to Tuscany for this year is full, but please join us next September in Tuscany or May 2011 in Greece.

Visit nikigulley.com/ng2/?page_id=13 for more details.

E-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com

NikiGulley.com

Adult Art Classes with Niki Gulley

“Scenic Route” ©2010 Niki Gulley

Oil on canvas • 20” x 60”

My husband and I love exploring the back roads whenever we’re en route somewhere. We always discover such interesting places and the scenery is so much more picturesque than along the highway. It’s fun to slow down and enjoy the journey with no agenda, which is what I had in mind when I painted “Scenic Route,” a leisurely drive down memory lane.

If interested in purchasing this painting, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com

If you’d like to learn how to paint and draw, join me this fall in my adult art classes, “Playing with Color.” Most of the spaces are full, but I still have room for a couple more in the Wednesday 12:30-2:30 class starting Oct. 13th. Visit nikigulley.com/?page_id=13 for more information.

NikiGulley.com

Top Award Winners exhibit in Frisco, TX

“Deep in the Woods” ©2010 Niki Gulley

oil on canvas • 36" x 36"

I am absolutely crazy about aspen trees. I love their textured peeling bark, the sound of their tinkling leaves blowing in the breeze, the way the light illuminates their yellow leaves and makes them glow, and the repetition of the trunks packed so tightly together. The first time I saw them was on a trip with my family to Colorado and I fell in love with the beautiful scenery and peacefulness I found immersed in the forest and surrounded by mountains. I wanted to share my love of nature in “Deep in the Woods” so that you, too, could enjoy that calm and the beauty of the aspens.

“Deep in the Woods” and several of my other new paintings will be hanging at the Frisco Municipal Complex in Frisco, TX as part of a two man show featuring my paintings and Josh Trefehen’s photographs, in honor of us winning best in show and the top award at Frisco’s Art in the Square Festival in March. The exhibit will be on display through Oct. 1st at 6101 Frisco Square Blvd., Frisco, TX 75034. For more information, see the August article of Frisco Style Magazine, friscostyle.com/index.php/component/content/article/43/189-august-2010-issue,
.

Or, visit my website at NikiGulley.com.

E-mail - Niki@NikiGulley.com

Plein Air Painting & Photography Workshops with Niki Gulley

“Rolling Hills,” Tuscany ©2010 Niki Gulley

Pastel • 7” x 5”

With our upcoming Plein Air Painting / Photography Workshop that me and my husband, Scott Williams, are teaching in Tuscany, I started thinking about how much I love the region. The rolling countryside is breathtaking, the people are so warm & friendly, the food and wine are to die for, and the architecture and medieval walled cities are filled with history. In this little pastel, I hope you can take a moment to pause and soak in the beautiful Tuscan hillsides bathed in their mysterious soft light.

Our Tuscany workshop is full for this September, but if you would be interested in joining us next September in Tuscany or next May in the gorgeous Greek Isles, visit nikigulley.com/?page_id=13 or e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com for more information.

NikiGulley.com

Afternoon Shadows pastel by Niki Gulley

“Afternoon Shadows” Gilson Park, Chicago, IL ©2010 Niki Gulley

Pastel • 10” x 8”

I used to love going for a Sunday drive with my family when I was a kid. Sometimes we’d head to this park, which ran along Lake Michigan on a perfect autumn afternoon. We’d park and walk along the beach until we got to where the boats were docked, and then we’d wander onto the Bahaii Temple, with its amazing architecture and intricate carved ivory details, before we’d double back. In Afternoon Shadows, I wanted to depict a beautiful autumn day when the leaves are turning, there’s a slight chill in the air, the afternoon sun is casting mysterious long shadows and you can just make out the top of the temple in the distance, all while reminiscing about a simpler time and place.

To see “Afternoon Shadows” in person, stop by my booth at the Oakbrook Fine Art Invitational this weekend in Oakbrook, II. For more information on the show, go to oakbrookcenter.com/events/48th-annual-invitational-fine-art-exhibition.

Or, e-mail me at Niki@NikiGulley.com.

NikiGulley.com