Monthly Muse
October 2026
A Little Chaos,
a Lot of Gratitude, and
Two First-Place Wins!
You know the old saying, “Family comes first”? After the past couple of years, we’re beginning to think there ought to be a few exceptions to that rule!
On a more serious note, life is finally settling down. Family responsibilities required us to surrender our home studios for an extended period, but that chapter is coming to a close. Stephanie reclaimed her studio early this summer, and with Mike’s sister moving into assisted living near her daughter this week, his studio will soon be available again.
Now comes the challenge of moving furniture, equipment, and a recently acquired 300-pound, 44-inch printer back upstairs—all as our busiest season begins! With a little luck, we'll both be back to creating and marketing our artwork in earnest by January.
Meanwhile, we have some wonderful news to share!
The Lakes Region Art Gallery recently announced the winners of its 2026 People’s Choice Awards, held in conjunction with the Annual Members Exhibit. While independent judges evaluate the artwork for artistic merit and technical excellence, the People’s Choice Awards give gallery visitors the opportunity to select their favorites across ten categories.
We are delighted to share that Stephanie received First Place in Pastels for Wild Hearts, her painting of wild horses galloping along the shoreline at sunset. Mike received First Place in Color Photography for Fire in the Sky #1.
These awards are particularly meaningful because they reflect the appreciation of the viewing public. We are both genuinely honored and grateful.
To everyone who visited the exhibit, cast a ballot, or continues to support our creative journey—thank you! Your encouragement inspires us to keep learning, creating, and striving to make our next work even better than the last.
First Place in the People’s Choice Award competition, Pastels Division at the Lakes Region Art Gallery.
First Place in the People’s Choice Award competition, Color Photography division at the Lakes Region Art Gallery.
Small Town, Big Hearts, and a Wonderful Cause!
2026 Gladys B. Brown Memorial Art Show — Paintings for Preservation
Who says a small town can't draw a big crowd?
This past September, Stephanie was honored to be among the artists invited to participate in the annual Gladys B. Brown Memorial Art Show, a fundraiser benefiting the Effingham Preservation Society in Effingham, New Hampshire.
When we first delivered Stephanie's artwork, Mike couldn't help wondering, "Where are they going to find enough people to fill this place?" After all, Effingham isn't exactly a bustling metropolis, nor is it particularly close to one!
Well, opening night certainly answered that question!
The reception was exceptionally well attended, proving once again that the show's dedicated organizers know how to bring together a community that values art, history, and preservation. The enthusiasm and generosity of those attending were evident throughout the event.
Numerous paintings found new homes during the exhibition, including Stephanie's original painting, Tangle of Color. Her greeting cards also proved popular with visitors. Continuing a wonderful tradition associated with this event, we were pleased to return a meaningful portion of Stephanie's proceeds as a donation to the Effingham Preservation Society.
And that's what makes this show so special. It's more than an opportunity to appreciate and purchase original art. It's a community coming together to help preserve the history and character of a special corner of New Hampshire.
Now, where exactly is Effingham? If you're unfamiliar with the area, you'll find this charming little town along Route 153 near the Maine border, southeast of Conway and not far from Ossipee Lake. Blink and you might miss it!
Fortunately, the people who support this wonderful event know exactly where they're going.
Our sincere thanks to the organizers, volunteers, participating artists, and generous patrons who make the Gladys B. Brown Memorial Art Show such a success. Their dedication demonstrates that a town doesn't have to be big to have an enormous sense of community.
We were delighted to be part of the 2026 show and encourage anyone who appreciates fine art and local history to keep this annual event on their calendar! And yes, Stephanie was invited back in 2027! Mark it on your calendar. We'll send you a map.
Stephanie's Art Classes —
Looking Ahead to 2027!
Stephanie's final art classes of 2026 began October 6th. Following a well-deserved break in November and December, she'll be back in early 2027 with more opportunities to explore your creativity, develop your skills, and enjoy the rewarding experience of making art.
Interested in joining the fun? Click the button below to visit Stephanie's Art Classes page. At the top, you'll find two options: one to explore her class offerings and another to join the notification list so you'll be among the first to know when her 2027 class schedule is announced.
Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or looking to refine your technique, Stephanie looks forward to welcoming you to a class in the new year!
Two Great Shows to Wrap Up 2026!
Holiday Shopping, Original Art, and a Chance to Say Hello!
Our art show schedule has been unusually quiet in 2026, but we're making up for lost time by finishing the year with two of our favorite annual events!
Both shows offer wonderful opportunities to discover unique, handcrafted gifts, support talented local artists and artisans, and get a head start on your holiday shopping. And, of course, we'd love to see you!
November 7 & 8 — Goffstown Lions Club Annual Fall Craft Fair
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Both Days
Mountain View Middle School
41 Lauren Lane, Goffstown, NH
This outstanding annual event is one of the area's popular craft fairs, featuring an impressive variety of artists, artisans, and handcrafted treasures. Best of all, the fair supports the Goffstown Lions Club and its valuable community service efforts.
A nominal admission fee gets you into a terrific show that's well worth the visit. If you're looking for distinctive holiday gifts you won't find in the big-box stores, this is a wonderful place to start!
December 6 — Gilford High School
Annual Arts & Crafts Fair
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Gilford High School & Middle School
Gilford, NH
If you enjoy a great craft fair, this one is a holiday shopping adventure!
Featuring more than 100 exhibitors, this enormous annual event transforms the Gilford school complex into a shopper's paradise. Displays fill the high school gymnasium, hallways, and cafeteria, then continue into the middle school gymnasium and cafeteria. We will be in the back corner of the Middle School gymnasium. Don't tucker out before stopping by to see us!
Wear comfortable shoes, bring your holiday shopping list, and prepare to get your steps in! With so many talented exhibitors gathered under one roof (well, technically two!), there's something for nearly everyone on your gift list.
Come See Us!
We'll be bringing a selection of our photography, original artwork, fine art prints, and greeting cards. Whether you're shopping for someone special, treating yourself, or simply enjoying the creativity on display, we hope you'll stop by our booth and say hello.
Great art, thoughtful gifts, and a chance to support local creativity. What better way to celebrate the season?
We look forward to seeing you in Goffstown or Gilford!
