august giveaway no. 4 – a commissioned portrait by David Terry

by Sharon Santoni
[blank]Here is another very very special giveaway, the fourth in my August series.
  A huge thank you to each of the generous readers who sponsored these giveaways
 – you are wonderful!
Today I am thrilled to offer you the chance to win a commissioned portrait … of a pet or of a person dear to you.[blank]
[blank]This amazing prize is offered by the über talented artist David Terry.
 David’s name may be familiar to you as he often leaves generous and amusing comments on MFCH.  He is an established artist, selling his art through galleries and on line at his website davidterryart.com[blank]

 

[blank]Getting to know him via the blog and the occasional phone call has been a joy, and I was delighted when he offered to take part in my giveaway season.

When you visit his website, you’ll notice many French landscapes; this is because his partner Hervé is French, and they visit most summers.[blank]

[blank]He has many achievements he could boast about, just one of which is his talent as an artist.  His favoured medium  is pastels, combined with pen and ink.
Recognise these mutts?!  Yup; Gibson and Ghetto have been immortalised by David, I just love this picture ….[blank]
[blank]and Gibson got special treatment with an individual portrait![blank]
[blank]David sells his paintings at the “The Dog and Horse Fine Art Gallery” in Charleston, South Carolina, and in October he’ll be staging a show of his work at his own home, The Webb House,  in Hillsborough, North Carolina .
 This lovely portrait is of Ben and Kipling, the two beautiful hounds belonging to Heather at Lost in Arles[blank]
[blank]So to the giveaway:
 David is offering to paint a portrait of a pet or a person, the format will be approximately 10″ by 12″ .   

David is also happy to paint a ‘portrait’ of your own home or garden, or a favourite scene from your travels.  This is, after all, a commission, and the subject should be of your choosing.

 The medium will be a mixture of oil pencils, pastel pencils, and watercolour….or , upon request,  pen and ink (black and white).  The winner will receive the original painting by post.

 Just so you know, David’s portraits normally retail at up to $800, yes, this is a very generous giveaway![blank]
[blank]To enter the giveaway just take a tour of David’s website and come back here to say which piece you like the best, and who you would like David to portray?
For a second entry, spread the news of the giveaway on Twitter or Facebook, then come back here to tell us.
This giveaway is open to everyone, all that is needed is your comment as an entry.  And if any of you are still having problems leaving comments here, just send me your entry by email and I shall add your entry manually.[blank]
[blank]Finally, as is the giveaway custom, I am happy to announce the winner of last week’s amazing prize: the professional photo shoot by Rebecca Sehn.
The lucky winner is Mei Bel who was hoping for a family photo with her two children and their cocker spaniel – congratulations Mei, please get in touch as soon as you can![blank]

171 comments

Anonymous August 24, 2013 - 12:14 pm

Amazing and very talented – his artwork is just so wonderful to look at – How I would love him to paint my Labrador as he has captured your two boys perfectly….Julia in NZ

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david terry August 24, 2013 - 12:36 pm

Hey Sharon (and readers),

Just for the record, as as stated on the website?…my paintings & drawings (they're all pretty small) "go" for anywhere between 300 and around 4000 dollars. It just depends on the agent or gallery owner, the client, and God knows what other unpredictable factors.

As I wrote on the website "When inquiring about a piece, do recall that I'm always a complete sucker for a good sob story. Just make sure that it's a GOOD one….".

And thank you, Sharon. For you other readers?….Sharon's is one of the only-three blogs I visit daily. It's absolutely refreshing in its complete lack of pretension/"Attitude"…and it's always graphically lovely (trust me…I'm never necessarily a pretty sight each morning when I click on "My French Country Home", so I find the site encouraging).

Most importantly?…it's got one of the best (and most accurate) subtitles this editor has seen in years: "The Way We Like to Live".

In any case, it's a genuine pleasure to offer this to Sharon, whose own work has given me such(and so much) pleasure over the past three or so years(has it really been that long? I bet Sharon wonders the same thing).

P.S. who gets to "do" the final drawing? I'm hoping it's Sharon's invisible husband…..that would lend an air of extra- mystery to the proceedings, I think.

Level Best as Ever,

David Terry
http://www.davidterryart.com

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KellyFoth August 24, 2013 - 12:42 pm

So hard to choose a favorite (love the landscapes around our area of North Carolina), but I finally selected Sirenes because I just retired from teaching high school freshman English where every semester (three times per day) we read The Odyssey, a reminder that I survived,too. I would love a portrait of my only grandchild, Andrew Sutton Lineberger (age 4)and his pitbull nursemaid, Lucy.

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Brittany Ruth August 24, 2013 - 12:53 pm

I actually really like the lavender dreams. I would want my French Bulldog to be in the piece. He's be fun to draw!

-Brittany Ruth

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cardinalkay August 24, 2013 - 1:43 pm

I'm a fan!

I love Gamine, the all-white portrait of a bulldog. The color is very striking, + so is the composition, highlighting a lot of negative space. Unusual!

I would like a portrait of my Dachshund, Chloe, + me, if possible.

K A Y
redbirdv.wordpress.com

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Castles Crowns and Cottages August 24, 2013 - 2:14 pm

My favorites are of the animals, especially the horse. But they are all lovely and I congratulate the winner! Anita

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Nantucket Daffodil August 24, 2013 - 2:20 pm

I love all of the dog portraits. I do especially enjoy Gibson's due to the dreamy snowy background (and he is so darned cute).

I would love to get a portrait of our pug Stormy. She has recently been diagnosed with Inflammatory Brain Disease. She is just shy of her second birthday. We just don't know what the future holds. She is our heart, and we would love a portrait! I often say she is my third child. I never had a dog before Stormy (born by candlelight during Hurricane Irene). She has been a missing piece to my life. She is loving and trusting, and now I can add brave to that list.

About to facebook it now. (princesnowfarm) thanks.

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Judith Ross August 24, 2013 - 2:29 pm

It is so hard to pick a favorite, since I love them all. But recently I was taken with David's rendering of his own dog, Kate in "Sermon on Ignernce." Why? Well her attire does remind me of a recent trip to Morocco and knowing David just a little bit, I can tell she is a character.

I would like a portrait of our catlike, hound/shepard mix, Karina.

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Kennedy August 24, 2013 - 2:30 pm

I can't put into words how the portrait of Felton Nease made me feel. I would love to have something special like his portrait.

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La Table De Nana August 24, 2013 - 2:30 pm

I perused David Terry's site when I read a comment I found interesting and was in awe of his work.

I had never seen such true to life paintings with an element of grace in each and every one.
I actually love all of them..
So I will pick one..Day and Pip.
It is funny how you think of things differently..when you are not 20 anymore..My fisrt choice would have been to have my mother's portrait done..she was an artist ..I lost her at 19..But it got me thinking what would be done with it.. when I am no longer here…
So I would say my darling grandsons.
Surely their moms would want that.

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Anne August 24, 2013 - 2:36 pm

Your East TN pictures make my heart happy. Love them!

We would love a picture of our house, in an unusual, hundred-year old planned community. Or of a special scene we saw in the Netherlands last year.

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Karen Albert August 24, 2013 - 2:39 pm

Amazing to look through David's works of art.
Love Fire on the Bayou!

xoxo
Karena

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david terry August 24, 2013 - 3:43 pm

Hey "KellyFoth"….I'd completely forgotten about "sirenes" (which I did in 1990 or so…WAY-back). It was commissioned, amusingly enough, by the first openly/all-gay-male chorus at Duke. I thought their choice of name was funny.

Incidentally, I, also, used to be a high school English teacher (at boys' boarding schools)during my twenties and a bit into my thirties. I KNOW all too well the oppressive feeling that results from teaching the same damn book ("To Kill a Mockingbird", "A Separate Peace","The Old Man & the Sea", etcetera) three times per day, one l-o-n-g semester per year, for years in a row. I got out after ten years. I still have vast sections of each novel unwillingly memorized.

The students and I would all BEG, each year to read something different, but the adminstration's answer was always NO(!), back in those days.

—–david terry
http://www.davidterryart.com

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Anonymous August 24, 2013 - 3:53 pm

Wow, he is so talented. Especially love "This Old Heart of Mine", his dogs waiting at the door. I can relate! Would love for him to do a portrait of my 15 year old cairn terrier.
-LeAnn Nabors

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Jennifer August 24, 2013 - 3:58 pm

Beautiful work! I love Potting Bench and Cabin Window. I think I would choose to have something along those lines. But, Gibson in the snow is also wonderful.

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SuzyMcQ August 24, 2013 - 4:29 pm

A portrait by DAVID TERRY, the David Terry….be still my beating heart. This would be the dream of a lifetime, to be sure! When you mentioned David some weeks ago I spent an hour looking at his pieces at his website and online and even commented on your blog, his work is breathtaking and his approach to portraiture novel and thoughtful.

If I were fortunate enough to be the winner I would ask for a painting of my beloved Havanese, Daisy, Teddy and Joe. Then, because I volunteer for Havanese Rescue, I would, with David's permission, have notecards printed of the piece to sell in our online store and the profits used to save even more Havanese.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment and the chance to win.

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Anonymous August 24, 2013 - 4:36 pm

I always love reading David's comments…insightful and charming! He has so many beautiful pieces on his website. I especially like "The Nightengale" a painting of Bramasole in Italy. Takes my breath away. Thanks for the chance to win one of his beautiful masterpieces. Maureen (mb99999@yahoo dot com)

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Anonymous August 24, 2013 - 4:39 pm

Oh, forgot to say that I would really like a portrait of my husband Paul or the place we got engaged in Ireland…Adare Manor…since David does such lovely landscapes. Thank you! Maureen (mb99999@yahoo dot com)

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SuzyMcQ August 24, 2013 - 4:52 pm

I posted the link to this page on my Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/suzy.mcquown

I hope that the winner, whomever he/she is and David will share their portrait with all of us.

And, since, in my excitement I didn't add which of David's pieces was my favorite, my choice would be Lavender Dreams, the piece of your beloved Ghetto and Gibson. I enjoy the subtlety of it's monochrome palette and the overall gentleness of the treatment. A piece that is simple at first glance, but expertly crafted.

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lilysgrannie August 24, 2013 - 4:54 pm

I love "Sermon on Ignernce" (Portrait of Kate). I would like a portrait of Potter dog an old 13 year old mixed lab that I dearly love.
Thanks
Ann

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Emm August 24, 2013 - 5:10 pm

Reading the commentary with each section is almost as good as looking at the pictures — "We regret to say that chocolates, contraband nylons, and "Don't Blame Me…I voted for McCain" buttons are no longer accepted as alternative payments."
I'm struck by the deep humanity of the portraits, both animal and human. These are people, and critters, that you want to know and to spend time with.
My choice for a portrait would be of my old, dear dog, who is now blind and probably has only a year or two left.
And I agree with David's assessment, above, that this blog is one of the treasures to read.

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Anonymous August 24, 2013 - 5:26 pm

What a fantastic artist. It is really hard to pick just one that I loved but I tended to really love the animal ones. The first one that captured my heart was the one of Kate called Sermon on Ignernce; and of course it is pretty hard to not love the one of your boys sleeping on the couch, Lavendar Dreams. I also loved the Pecan Tree. Reading David's description of moving and having to leave behind his "friends" I can totally relate to. We left behind a beautiful old dark leaved plum tree at our old house to only have the new owners of our old home take it down. It broke my heart. I am not sure if I won what I would ask David to paint. Most likely my boys, two tom cats who are brothers and are now 15. They came to us after my 20 year old cat passed away. It took two to fill her shoes and they have done it tenfold; or perhaps my favorite scene when we are in France the gorgeous allee of London Plane trees on the approach into St. Remy that I swear goes on for 6km or more. Thanks!
Rose (roseblamey@shaw.ca)

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La Contessa August 24, 2013 - 6:01 pm

OH good grief!I better hurry up with those photos or I will be waiting even longer!David, will understand this!His work looks like photographs to me……..I of course love the portraits of your dogs SHARON as I recognized them instantly and Heather's too!GORGEOUS creatures!I think this man is one TALENTED soul…………..wish I could zip over to his "OPEN HOUSE",but I will be in your neck of the woods that month!

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Michele @ The Nest at Finch Rest August 24, 2013 - 6:11 pm

OH. MY. Gosh.

Those above pictures are PAINTINGS?!!????

He is beyond good, that is shocking. WOW. Isn't that increidble? My grandfather, uncle, sister and daughter are painters. My mother's father was a Lithographer for the Toledo Blade Newspaper – his fine art is immortalized in several special paintings we have scattered about through our or my mother's side of the family.

But David, wow – I can't even stick drawl or doodle well – I got the music side of art as a gift but truly appreciate his talents and heading over there right now to see his site. Thank you, Sharon for bringing his art to my attention.

Have a wonderful weekend.

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Michele @ The Nest at Finch Rest August 24, 2013 - 6:26 pm

OK. I just came back in fast to say there is no possible way to pick a favorite and I am going back to spend the next hour reading every single thing he wrote about his works.

What a darling – I feel as if I am getting to know him, and that is such a neat feeling in one's soul. I like him already.

But, did we ever solve the problem of "Soleil et l'Ombre"? So, is it yours, Sharon? Just wondering if you ever saw that.

If I were lucky enough to win something by David it would probably be an old pic of house growing up, or the Cliffs where I grew up, or of our house, or possibly of the grand piano with my flute sitting on top.

I hope I didn't break the rules by writing twice, just had a lot to say.

Thanks, you two. Going back for more reading there now.

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Abigail August 24, 2013 - 6:47 pm

All David's work is beautiful! amazing talent. Loved all the landscapes and the old houses he painted, but I especially love "When We Were Very Young" with the child and her dog. The relationship between a child and a pet can be very special, especially if they grow up together. Very beautiful.

If I were lucky enough to have a portrait done I would love one of my two young girls together. My oldest adores her little sister and to have a portrait that captures that would be beautiful to have and treasure.

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Anonymous August 24, 2013 - 6:55 pm

Oh how to chose from such a fabulous collection of warmth and love. I adore all of them however the animals capture my heart. After much deliberation it is 'Lets Go' that is my favourite painting.

The artist has captured a moment shared between dog and dog lover so very perfectly. I love it….. and have the perfect subject if I am fortunate to win. My working cocker spaniel (orange roan) Monty.

Fingers crossed anita.appleton@gmail.com

I will keep my fingers crossed as the style of painting is just so very special. What a talented artist David is!

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Khammany @ Sweet Inspired Home August 24, 2013 - 6:56 pm

This comment has been removed by the author.

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melanie snyder August 24, 2013 - 7:01 pm

I love all his work, especially the Welsh ponies. I would love him to do a portrait of my horse, Sierra and if he could paint her with my autistic grandson who loves riding her, that would be
amazing. I wonder if he would come to Santa Barbara to do It though? I have a hard time posting comments. Don't know what I'm doing wrong, but hope this reaches you.

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Anonymous August 24, 2013 - 7:05 pm

I have shared on Facebook as I know my friends will agree that David has a truly special talent in capturing 'love' in all of his paintings.

Thank you for introducing him to me. SPELLBOUND.

Anita

anita.appleton@gmail.com

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Jones August 24, 2013 - 7:34 pm

hard to pick just one favorite from the site but the Trois Fontaines is very beautiful, if I won I would have portrait done of my Mom's beloved doggie that passed away last week….

~nicole j

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Mable August 24, 2013 - 8:21 pm

I fell in Love with "First Loves Greene county Tennessee 1954" Greene County is very near my birthplace and I was very moved by the emotion in this lovely piece of art. I was 4 years old in 1954.
I would love a wonderful work of art from this very talented artist.

Mablemccrary@mac.com

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ForgedBlog August 24, 2013 - 8:36 pm

WOW, his paintings look like photos! So realistic! I loved all his portraits, especially the one of his friend Little Miss that lives in Raliegh, NC. Who wouldn't want a portrait from David? becker.celia@gmail.com

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david terry August 24, 2013 - 8:55 pm

Hey "Mable"…..my parents (and pretty much everyone in my entire family, for YEARS and years) are from Greene County. I was raised in the county above it (Washington County), where my family still lives.

Where were you born?…Knoxville?….

—-david terry

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Joanne August 24, 2013 - 9:02 pm

Oh my! David's work is absolutely beautiful. What a job to pick just one favourite, but I would have to pick "Time after Time". As I have the honour of living with greyhounds, this would be a lovely addition to our home. Thank you for offering such a wonderful gift.

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Sarah August 24, 2013 - 9:19 pm

Sharon, how does one pick a favorite? David Terry's work is incredible. Every one is so realistic I feel as if I'm sitting across from the subject. I instantly fell in love with Portrait of Louanne Watley, but also the various pets. Like I said, it is impossible to single out a favorite. If I should by chance be the lucky one, I should like a portrait of our sweet Sadie Mercedes. She is a Lhasa Apso, a rescue dog, that came to live with us over a year ago. It had been more than 20 years since we've had a dog. Sadie has brought more joy to our lives than one could ever imagine. Yes, I'd want a portrait of Sadie. I'd surprise my husband! Thank you for introducing us to David Terry's work. ~ Sarah

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david terry August 24, 2013 - 9:41 pm

Hey folks….I'm not surprised to read that so many of the folks who follow Sharon's blog are also the sort of kind people who also foster rescue dogs.
thank you,

d.terry

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Bikegirl August 24, 2013 - 9:53 pm

David's work is amazing! as much as I love the pets and animals, the landscape works are amazing, I especially love "The Nightengale" of Frances Mayes Bramasole house (I loved the books of hers)If I was lucky enough to win I would love a portrait done as I hardly have any pictures of myself as I'm always behind the camera!

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Julie August 24, 2013 - 9:55 pm

David's work is truly incredible–I envy such talent! As to a favorite work? It would be "The Cattle, Moving through a Sycamore Grove." While some may think cattle an odd favorite, it reminds me of my late mother, who grew up on a ranch near Prescott, Arizona. Should I win, I would love a portrait of Atticus, my beloved cat. After 10 years together, he failed to return home on May 2, 2013, after an evening of chasing little creatures and running through the citrus groves next to my home. With a broken heart, I miss him every day. An incredibly life-like portrait by David would be a poignant reminder of my dearly missed Atticus.
julie_3489@yahoo.com

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Anonymous August 24, 2013 - 10:25 pm

What a very lovely paintings! At first I thought they were pictures. What a nice talented work. I do hope to win this give away to have a portrait of my two sons. So cross fingers till next saturday!
Lianne Ponten

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Anonymous August 24, 2013 - 10:53 pm

My favorite is 'love, actually', with Herve and Kate, love that Kate is on table, and she sits with back leg extended the exact same way as our Scottie dog!
My husband and I, (also a David Charles!) would love to have a portrait done of our 9 year old Scottish Terrier.
Thank you for offering this opportunity, enjoy David's art work and writings very much.
Donna

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Nantucket Daffodil August 24, 2013 - 11:09 pm

"Those" days haven't changed much David! After 22 years of 6th grade Math and Science, the answer is more NO now than ever. It is VERY scripted. Looking forward to an early retirement, and doing something creative such as writing.

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Emma August 24, 2013 - 11:25 pm

They are all amazing! I think that my favourite, though, would be Love, actually…

If I commissioned a portrait, it would probably be of our eldest dog, a goofy yet often regal looking Weimaraner.

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Kim with a K August 24, 2013 - 11:57 pm

Winter Light, Time After Time and Trouble Boy appeal to me!!!
I know, that is 3…Winter Light if I have to say just one is my fav!
I would treasure a portrait of my Jack Russell Breezy.
Thank you for the chance to win such an personal gift!

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 12:45 am

Beautiful beautiful work……how can one choose? I was drawn to Fat and Happy and a dozen more……but ????? Venita

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La Contessa August 25, 2013 - 1:00 am

GREENE County would that have been named after GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE by chance?

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Jan Meacham August 25, 2013 - 1:06 am

Love love love them all !

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Jan Meacham August 25, 2013 - 1:10 am

It stops me short when I have so much to say… Eva and Griffin would love to be painted… One is a Cairn other Norwich! Wish me luck

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Nib's End August 25, 2013 - 1:34 am

Okay, so I narrowed my favorites down to three: Virginia Creeper, Moulin a Eau, and Horn Quarter, Virginia. But don't hold me to it, I am already beginning to waver.

There is a photo taken of my mother a couple of years before she passed away that I would like as a portrait. She is pausing with her walker to look at something in the shrubbery. My mother taught me to look at things. Only, in this photo she is also wearing fairy wings. She was such a character!

There is also a photo of my granddaughter wearing a purple crown from a Christmas cracker that catches at my heart every time I look at it. I love Mr. Terry's landscapes, but his portraits are so wonderful, if I won, I wouldn't be able to pass up the opportunity of having someone I love immortalized.

Whether I win or not, I would like to thank Mr. Terry on behalf of us all. His artistry is undeniable, and now it is evident that his generosity is as well.

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david terry August 25, 2013 - 5:00 am

Hey Elizabeth ("La Contessa")…..yes, Greene county is named after General Nathaniel Greene….(hence, the "e" at the end of the name.) I was born in Greeneville, Tennessee and rasied twenty miles north of it. There are about a thousand and one American towns named "Greenville", but my hometown (and my parents, etcetera) is the only one with that weird spelling. Oddly enough, the very savvy and pleasant owner of The Dog & Horse Fine Art Gallery in Charleston is also from there (she;'s slightly older than me and younger than my parents, so we never crossed paths before I met her professionally a few years ago).

—-david

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 5:13 am

There are so many to choose from, but I am especially drawn to "La Bonne Bergere" (Portrait of Kate & Young Morgan). Dogs are so amazingly smart about certain things… instinct I suppose is a large part of it.

The portrait that I would choose for David to do would be of my little Maya Bella, a most amazingly smart and spirited Miniature Pincher that I lost in October of 2012, several years earlier than should have been. I have always had a dog in my life, but this one has left such an imprint…

Thank you for the opportunity to have a painting by David Charles Terry.

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Linda August 25, 2013 - 5:29 am

Preuilly was one of my favorites. There were so many beautiful choices that it is hard to chose! I would love to win a portrait of my late mother.

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debbie August 25, 2013 - 6:04 am

Goodbye to All That. Love. It. Such feeling.

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Audrey August 25, 2013 - 6:45 am

I love "step into this house" on David's website! I would love a portrait of our French bulldog Violet 🙂

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Rhonda August 25, 2013 - 7:07 am

"Time After Time" and "When We Were Very Young" are my favorites. However I'm also drawn to a number of others, including the portraits of your own dogs! I don't think I've ever seen such realistic work! I had to look closely, thinking some were photographs! Mr. Terry is an extremely talented (and generous) artist! I have five children, so there are plenty of subjects from which to choose to paint!

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 7:55 am

So enjoyed my time spent looking through David's art. His giraffe pieces are wonderful. I have a fondness for giraffe and living in Africa am fortunate to see them in the wild. The animals are so sensitively and perfectly portrayed. Impossible to choose a favourite. If I were fortunate to be chosen as a winner I would love to have my perfect place in Africa drawn for me. Thank you, Sharon, for introducing me to David and his wonderful art. Trisha

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 8:47 am

I loved "Max & Julie". But it is hard to choose as there are so many beautiful paintings that capture your heart. If I won I'd choose to have my four grandsons portrait done along with their two siamese cats. Thanks for sharing Mr. Terry's beautiful art and for the chance to win a portrait.

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 10:02 am

David really captured Gibson and Ghetto in Lavender Fields I choose this painting as my favorite because I so enjoy reading about their goings on and their personalities add so much charm to My French Country Home. The mischief that Ghetto gets into and Gibson who appears so calm but can be led astray they are the best of palls and I always look forward to a post about them.

I have a rescue dog who looks like a Westy want to be he came with issues but we are best friends and I'm so glad he came into my life.

Good luck to every one.

Margo from Vancouver Island

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Nana August 25, 2013 - 12:03 pm

Thrilled with Mr. Terry's talent capturing that perfect moment in "Norfolk Terriers". They are indeed difficult to pose. I'm in love with all his dog pictures. My Norfolk needs a portrait done by someone who understands!

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david terry August 25, 2013 - 12:59 pm

Back again….on Sunday morning (24 hours after Sharon hit "Send/publish" on her blog.

It's really lovely & heartening to read through these comments and see that Sharon has readers ranging from New Zealand to Africa (I enjoyed the giraffe comment) to Europe, etcetera.

One of Sharon's readers wrote privately to me yesterday….the second reader who's told me (and I'm paraphrasing) "My husband doesn't GET this blog interest of mine". In both cases, I've told them that mine (an epidemiologist) doesn't, either; this was, in fact, a point of bitchy contention in one of those drearily predictable "arguments" (is it really an "argument" when neither party is quite sure what they're sniping at each other about?) most couples have, even briefly, at least once per month.

In any case….I think blogs are a wonderful and productive thing (for readers and the writers). I'm sure there are silly ones…but I don't happen to read them.

I should say/admit that reading over these comments has bee very gratifying for me. As I wrote to Sharon yesterday, there's nothing (for anyone…."Artist" or whatever) like the feeling of realizing "Oh….they GET it…someone understood what I'm doing/saying…".

I've been struck, reading over these comments, by how many of the responses involve a reader's wanting to commission a portrait of something she/he fondly recalls….or, even more significantly, something she/he wants to give as a gift to someone else.

Sharon's gathered unto herself/this blog a group of lovely ( I know…I perhaps over-use that adjective) readers.

Sincerely, David Terry
http://www.davidterryart.com

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Jo August 25, 2013 - 1:18 pm

I really like Yanceyville Man. Cool photo. I'd love to be in one, too. Jo @ Let's Face the Music

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 1:44 pm

David is a very talented and generous artist. I especially love the "Another Spring". It reminds me of our beloved Maltese Jason whom we lost just this past June. He was such a lap dog and loved to snuggle! If chosen, I have a photo of him with my eldest son that I would love to have done.

Thanks, Kathy

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jayneonweedstreet August 25, 2013 - 1:50 pm

Amazing talent! First Love with man and dog and book speaks to me, but I do love the cows, the sweet pair -they may be "stupid" but that doesn't mean we shouldn't treat them humanely, and maybe – I'm going out on a limb here – maybe not eat them? Capturing their essence the way David has, that is truly sublime!

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onnery August 25, 2013 - 1:51 pm

Amazing! Not only are the works of art captivating and beautiful, but Mr. Terry's writings of these works were integral. I honestly cannot pick a favorite – Loires series, animals (I particularly was drawn to the wild ponies on Assateague),the portraits like Fat and Happy, or the works portraying objects such as the one depicting the potting bench. Mr.Terry has a true gift. Sharon I love the portrait of Ghetto and Gibson and Mr.Terry's comment about it!
It would absolutely be difficult to also choose the subject if I won the opportunity to be a recipient of his work. Maybe a portrait of Clementine Chloe Maestro, my loving cat who thought she was a dog and was such a loyal companion and pretty creature, or, maybe a portrait of our granddaughter the love of our life – who knows!
Thank you Sharon for sharing this artist. Bonnie G.

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 1:55 pm

Thank you for introducing the talented work of David Terry to me. I spent a good bit of time on his sight and I will revisit again to explore some more. I stay away from facebook, but I will be sending an email to a few friends that I know will be interested in reading about Mr. Terry. Very Hard to choose a favorite, but having been trained as a graphic designer the work titled, Midnight Travelers brought a smile to my face. A painting of our beloved Landseer, Chip would be at the top of my list.

Best regards,
Maura Endres

Regards,
Maura Endres

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Kim @ Savvy Southern Style August 25, 2013 - 1:55 pm

What a grand giveaway! I loved looking through David's pet portraits and reading the stories that go with them. Love the one he did of his two dogs out in the snow in Hillsborough. I have a Yorkshire terrier, at least on paper, but we and the vet thinks she is a Silky terrier. We love her to pieces no matter what breed. I would be thrilled to have a painting of her by David who obviously captures the subjects personality.

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 1:55 pm

Sonya
I loved Loire #5. Perfection! Such an interesting and beautiful blend of mediums in all of the paintings.
I look forward to seeing his work in person when we're in Charleston next time.

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jayneonweedstreet August 25, 2013 - 1:57 pm

'First Love' with man, dog and book! Though I do love the pair of cows. David captures their essence – sublime!

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Kim @ Savvy Southern Style August 25, 2013 - 1:59 pm

Just shared it on facebook and twitter.

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Jill Prince August 25, 2013 - 2:09 pm

Winter Light is my favorite, that little Westie is so cute. Such a talented artist, I would love to have a portrait of my little poodle, Minnie.

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Jill Prince August 25, 2013 - 2:12 pm

My favorite is Winter Light, that Westie is so cute. I would love a portrait of my little poodle Minnie.

– Jill P

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Amy August 25, 2013 - 2:18 pm

What a fabulous artist! I have 2 rescue dogs (beagle mix?) and would love to have a portrait of them!!

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mindy carlene August 25, 2013 - 2:28 pm

what lovely paintings! it is impossible to pick a favorite. I loved the whimsy of 'thief in the night.' and I am a horse person, so I do find those to be quite wonderful. but the one that particularly spoke to me was 'when we were young.' it reminded me of when I was little and our Irish setter, comet, would walk me. I would choose to have a portrait of my beloved horse, rah, whom I had for twenty of his thirty years. he was a wonderful guy and I miss him something fierce.

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Not Scarlett August 25, 2013 - 2:48 pm

I enjoyed looking at the work of this talented artist! Thank you! Alas, I have never won anything in my life and do not expect to win this generous giveaway either. There were several pieces that appeal to me and I appreciate your sharing.

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Texas Girl August 25, 2013 - 3:02 pm

I loved David's site and all of the portraits. My two most favorite's are "Mama" and "Season of Ignernce". I also enjoyed reading about Mama and the tart. Should I win, the subjects of my portrait would be my golden retriever and I. My husband chose himin CA 2 years before he passed away. Cody (the golden) has been my constant companion since my husband died 3 years ago.

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Carolann August 25, 2013 - 3:28 pm

I think that Nest and Feathers is one of the most extraordinary pieces I have seen. Amazing artist.

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Lynn Osborne August 25, 2013 - 3:33 pm

Oh my gracious! It is so hard to choose as so many capture my heart! Absolutely beautiful! If I had to pick, I think it would be Fat and Happy. If I won, I think I would have my golden retriever or my mother's home painted. Thanks for the chance to win!

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 3:35 pm

How can I choose just one favorite? So many connections to the varied subjects.
I love the depth of the landscapes in Study for Shiloh Road and Rappanhock, the pensiveness of Julie in Tours, and Tous Les Matins du Monde (cows).

Pure talent.

Pa So
pes5151@yahoo.com

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behind the picket fence August 25, 2013 - 4:23 pm

Love the landscapes I think . But would love to have a drawing of our son who passed away two years ago. His beautiful smile is missed so very much

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Pinky at Designs by Pinky August 25, 2013 - 4:27 pm

OMGoodness, this is an AMAZING give away! My Dad was an artist but he died when was 4 s nly have a ERY few of his pieces. The animal pieces are gorgeous,and I also like the portraits, but snce we just moved here in Oct. I might like a picture of our new home. Thanks so much for the chance!!!! I am nw to yor blog but will share this on FB too.

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Pinky at Designs by Pinky August 25, 2013 - 4:28 pm

Just shared this on Facebook.

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sandy lewis August 25, 2013 - 4:32 pm

Hi Sharon,

I apologize but for some reason I do have trouble posting on your blog. I did visit David's website and LOVE his work. I may even be able to visit him in Hillsborough as my son is a student at UNC Chapel Hill. I lost my 13 year old yellow lab last September and want to have a portrait of him done to hang in my home so this is perfect timing. Please pick me!!

Thank you for the opportunity. I am still loving your blog and photographs…probably my favorite of all!

Sincerely,
Sandy Lewis

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Ron Little August 25, 2013 - 4:56 pm

MY favorite portrait found on David's website is "Goodbye to All of That." I was drawn to that portrait and began to question what the man is saying goodbye too. Is it a love gone bad or just what? I woud be great to win a portait by David. I have a 15 year old schnauzer that I would love to have memoralized by David.

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sharon santoni at my french country home August 25, 2013 - 5:05 pm

happy to copy paste onto the comment form for you Sandy,- good luck!

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Cindy August 25, 2013 - 5:09 pm

I am enthralled with "Earliest Spring"……..I can feel the promise that lies in the ground and is waiting to burst forth. It portrays hope and possibility.

There are many subjects that I would love to have David bring to life. My own humble garden is my choice. It is forever changing and evolving, but in all its many seasonal faces, it brings me peace, joy and a sense of wonder.

Thank you, Sharon, for your wonderful blog and for expanding my world.

Sincerely,
Cindy

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cakegirl August 25, 2013 - 5:27 pm

I love all of David's work. the landscapes are so beautiful, but who wouldn't love a portrait of a loved one or ones.
I have a photo of myself with my son when he was about 6 that is a favorite. That would be the one I would select right now, but I'm sure others will come to mind. Thank you for the fabulous giveaways.

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harvardmom August 25, 2013 - 6:01 pm

I think "Goodbye to all that" is my favorite for this stage of life. My own son is currently transitioning to a new life in a new culture and this portrait reflects so much that he is experiencing now. I have a portrait of him at age eight that shows the innocence of a young boy and it would be icing on an already delicious cake to have him captured at 25 as a young man saying goodbye to certain aspects of life and hello to many others. I would love to have that captured on canvas. It would be considered a timeless treasure in my mind and heart.

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Cindy Vetrano August 25, 2013 - 6:06 pm

My favorite piece on David's website is "When we were very young", not so much for the subject and creativity, which is spectacular, but more for the comments he left about his relationship with his mom. Being a 50-something, his comments resonate as being honest and heartfelt. I would love him to do a portrait of our home we have been in for the last 20+ years. While I dread leaving the "home" my children were raised in, we may venture to Charlottesville, VA to be near where they land in their adult lives. Regards, Cindy Vetrano

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Christina August 25, 2013 - 6:13 pm

His work is just amazing- I especially love his animal images- I love the dream image with the sheep- so unique- would love to be entered in the giveaway!

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E August 25, 2013 - 6:16 pm

I love all the landscapes but I would love to have a portrait of my daughter.
Thank you for the fabulous giveaways.

Erika

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JeanFB August 25, 2013 - 6:16 pm

Oh my gosh, what fabulous pieces! I adore David's combination of pastels and watercolors – my two favorite media. Amazing how long I spent perusing David's website, daydreaming about which piece would fit so very perfectly here or there in my home – because I really don't have anything else that needs to be done, LOL! So of course I can't pick one… my top two choices: The Messenger's View (such a breathtaking vista!) and Perpignan Doorway (for all those yummy textures and patina – could look at it all day!). I am convinced I need a landscape – possibly done from my travels in Greece, but possibly of a beautiful farm-scape from my childhood home in Pennsylvania. All the best…. thanks for the chance!

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harvardmom August 25, 2013 - 7:24 pm

I think "Goodbye to All That" is my favorite at this stage of life. It reminds me of my own son who at 25 is entering a new phase of life and in a different culture; it would be so nice to have that captured on canvas. I have a portrait of him at the age of eight which so sweetly reflects innocence and wonder and to have a portrait that can seal in time his current life experiences would be a true timeless treasure.

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Vicki August 25, 2013 - 7:52 pm

Well, I'm certainly going to come back here to read all the comments when I have more time. Always have loved it when David leaves one on any of Sharon's posts. I have "toured" his website on other occasions and am quite impressed with the scope of his fine work. A few of us have "wondered" if he should have his own blog because he's so darn witty.

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Lisa Thomson August 25, 2013 - 7:53 pm

These paintings are gorgeous. I'm happy to discover this artist. Thanks!

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Marta McCall August 25, 2013 - 8:13 pm

Here's my favorite: https://www.davidterryart.com/2013/06/lost-in-arles/. Love the antique rug—and of course the adorable pups.

Thanks so much for sharing this amazing art. I am in awe. 🙂

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Heather Robinson August 25, 2013 - 8:48 pm

Sharon, I have been away from 'l'ordi' this weekend and so I hope that you can imagine my delighted surprise in seeing "my boys" featured along with other very fine examples of David's fine work. And despite trying to take a break, I read through the 91 comments, just soaking in all of the appreciation for our generous friend.

I do not wish to be entered in the giveaway however as I am the proud owner of three of David's pieces (knowing him, he won't count one of them as he said he struggled with it but we certainly do) and I can absolutely tell your readers that they are so much more beautiful 'in person' than his website can portray…I treasure them.

Thank you again for the lovely surprise.
Bisous from Arles!
Heather

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Christina Garcia August 25, 2013 - 8:56 pm

Hello Sharon ~

What a wonderful artist! I adored looking at all of David's "doggie" portraits. Especially "Waiting". . . reminded me of my beloved Westie Louie. I would love to have a piece done of my two current rescue dogs: Molly and Riley.
I'll keep my fingers crossed. Thank you for introducing us to so many talented artists.

~ Christina from Los Angeles ♥

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Sandy Messer August 25, 2013 - 9:27 pm

Oh my goodness, David Terry is amazing! I would want him to capture our precious rescue dog Pepper. Thank you, Sharon, for this wonderful opportunity.

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Vicki August 25, 2013 - 9:33 pm

I keep going back to David's "July Heat." It's so tender. In my long succession of dogs as pets at home, my current 'girls' often lay together, nested as one…big shepherd and little-little beagle, best friends. I don't think I can put into words my love for dogs. Best instead to feel your heart catch when gazing upon a beautiful piece of art…and what a gift to be able to do that for people. Thanks, David.

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Julie Mautner August 25, 2013 - 10:16 pm

I love David's writing and sense of humor…he often leaves wonderful comments on my blog ProvencePost.com or emails them to me directly. And of COURSE I love his beautiful paintings…so many really speak to me. I love Pays Cathar…I love On the Black Hill…and Loire #4. (I'm a sucker for a nice sunset!) If I won, I'd ask David to paint my pretty little house in Provence…or my mom. She loves beauty in all forms and it's just one of the many things I love about her. Thanks for this lovely giveaway!

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peggy braswell August 25, 2013 - 10:28 pm

Oh wow! need to say that again Oh Wow! I have always enjoyed David's comments + now I get to witness his beautiful art pieces. Since I grew up in NWfla I adored "pays cathare"(bet that is in france but reminded me of Pensacola beach) or "another spring" they are truly delicious. xxpeggybraswelldesign.com

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Vicky Dickens August 25, 2013 - 10:38 pm

Hi Sharon – I'd love to be entered in your drawing for a painting by David Terry. I've entered the previous two drawings but think my messages didn't go through to you. His work is both exquisite and unusual. I'm really drawn to his paintings done of SW Virginia and NE Tennessee, probably because I've spent so many wonderful days hiking and backpacking in that part of the US. If I had to pick a favorite (and I really couldn't!) it would probably be "Shiloh Road" in his landscape selections. It just looks like a place I'd like to be. It brings to mind a poem by Robert Frost . . . "Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening".
I've been following your blog faithfully since I found it several months ago. I visited France for the first time in April and loved it. My roots are there.
Thank you . . . Vicky Dickens

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Debra Bennett August 25, 2013 - 11:10 pm

OMG! David Terry's work is fabulous, it's so life like. Please enter me in the giveaway. And, I might add, that I've owned 4 Westie's in the last 20+yrs. Does that give me extra points??? Love your blog, I always feel that I've had a nice visit to Normandy after I've read it.
Thanks so much,
Debra Bennett

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Michele ma belle August 25, 2013 - 11:51 pm

It was very difficult to choose a favorite, however I really enjoyed "The Messengers View" and "Another Spring." I also absolutely loved the painting "The River's Edge" that David made of his nephew. If I won a commissioned portrait I'd ask David to paint a picture of my three children.
Thank you!
Michele Scurria

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Anonymous August 25, 2013 - 11:57 pm

I really enjoyed all the paintings, but two favorites were "The Messenger's View" and "Another Spring." I also absolutely loved the portrait "The River's Edge" that David made of his nephew. If I won a commissioned portrait, I'd ask David to paint a picture of my three children at the beach near our home.
Thank you!
Michele Scurria

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Anonymous August 26, 2013 - 12:06 am

David your work is wonderful! I would give up a lot to have your talent and your humor. A couple of my favorites are For Amos and October Breeze.

If I won, I would have my children done. I can't decide between flesh and blood or furry children though.

Regards,
Mcihelle

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Anonymous August 26, 2013 - 12:10 am

Thank you and David for this great opportunity. Keeping my fingers crossed. David's work is beautiful! My favorite's are the animals. Can't pick just one. Would love a drawing of my grandson Parker, or one of our dog, Boo (them together would be awesome).
Many thanks,

Carol Ann Nelson

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Anonymous August 26, 2013 - 1:00 am

Oh Sharon…MFCH just keeps giving me more joy :)every single morning. Thankyou so very much.
David Terry's art is breathtaking and I have so enjoyed sitting here quietly at dawn viewing each one of his works…and I must say also reading his elegant words.
The Loire 2,3,4,5…Soleil et Ombre…June Breeze…When we were young. Exquisite every one. My heart stopped at Nightengale! There is something so familiar, comforting, soft, atmospheric in this painting (and I've never been to Italy).
What an artist…wow. Resonated with me deeply.
If I were to be so lucky as to win a portrait from David? Have no idea and many ideas of the subject. But I know it would be a treasure for years to come. Thankyou to both of you <3 Gabi, Western Australia.

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kayc August 26, 2013 - 1:03 am

Uber Artist Indeed!
Not only are his works so technically beautiful but they capture the essence of the scene.
I particularly like the portraits both human & animal: Le Bon Mariage, Love Actually, Lavender Dreams, Lost in Arles, all of them.
Would love a portrait of 2 of my loves: my boy & dog……it would be a captured point in time.
Thank you for sharing,
Kay Cotner

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Maureen August 26, 2013 - 2:09 am

Well, it's impossible for me to pick a favorite. But, after spending a delightful hour enjoying David Terry's art, I can say I was immediately drawn to "Argos's Dream" and then to "What'll I Do?" It made complete sense when I read the commentary: the serene white dog, Argos, died on the day of the memorial service for his owner the lovely Martini Emmart-Niedbalski depicted in the portrait.

At first I thought I'd want to commission a portrait of our antique cape home — but after seeing the portraits of pets and people, I think I may have to go the person or pet portrait route. David's ability to capture the essence of his subjects is remarkable.

Thanks for sharing David Terry's art with us.

best,
Maureen

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Gram August 26, 2013 - 2:27 am

I absolutely love "When we were young," the photo of David's mother and her dog.

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Anonymous August 26, 2013 - 2:35 am

Lovely to look at. What pictures with memories to last forever. Would love to enter the contest.

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Anonymous August 26, 2013 - 2:39 am

I enjoyed these lovely pictures. What memories to share with others. I love your blog especially the flower /garden pictures! Enjoy the week and would like to enter the contest.

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Linda Napier August 26, 2013 - 2:42 am

Hello Sharon,

All of David's pieces that you chose could have been my favorite but I especially like the one on his website of the 91 year old friend with the bright leaves. My mom and dad died recently and it reminds me of them. They loved being outside and we always took pictures in the fall with all the beautiful leaves. Please enter me in the giveaway. I would be honored if I would win such a beautiful gift.

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LilyBiscuit August 26, 2013 - 6:15 am

I love April Road. He's truly talented. It was my pleasure to view his art.

vac 924 at gmail dot com

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Marian Soames August 26, 2013 - 10:03 am

Dear Sharon

I found it hard to choose my favourite picture. I vacillated between the house of Frances Mayes in Cortona, I have enjoyed her books and love the soft limewashed colours on the façade of the house- Peace rose pastel , and the portrait of the small white dog,”Waiting”. Finally I have decided on Kate the little loyal dog. We have a miniature black and tan Dachshund named Bonbon because she is shaped like a Christmas cracker- and she also waits for us whenever we leave the house. We have had Bonbon now for 13 years and she is very dearly loved. We dread the inevitable day when she will no longer wait at the top of the stairs for us and would love to have her portrait for always. I love your blog and follow it every day. Thankyou.

Best wishes. Marian Somes, Australia.

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Wanda Decker August 26, 2013 - 10:04 am

How to choose one? Among my favorites are Waiting, Another Spring, and Harp Weaver (?). And of course your pooches! Thanks for submitting my entry, I, too, am having trouble with the comment section.

Wanda Decker

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david terry August 26, 2013 - 10:46 am

Hey Folks….Just for the record (and given several of the comments regarding the dog-portrait "Argos's Dream")?…..

Yes…..like his namesake, Argos died on the morning of his longtime mistress's memorial service. I deliberately neglected to say on the website that the danged dog died, quite suddenly and unexpectedly (a heart attack was assumed) at home….just before 100-plus guests/friends were arriving at the front door to spend the afternoon celebrating (so to speak) Martini's life. I kid you not.

This was the sort of coincidence that could very well turn out to be comedy-gold in the hands of some sitcom-writers, but it's not particularly funny or fun when it happens in real life. Several of us took turns that afternoon, greeting new arrivals ad warning them NOT TO MENTION THE DOG.

For the life of me, I can't recall what Martini's poor husband and son did with the actual dog before all the cars began pulling up to the house.

—-david terry
http://www.davidterryart.com

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Sue J. August 26, 2013 - 1:20 pm

While his pet (Max and Ball) and landscapes (Wheat Field, Boschaud, France) are wonderful, I particularly enjoyed reading David's witty descriptions of each of the works.

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helen tilston August 26, 2013 - 2:12 pm

Hello Sharon

What an extravagant give away and how generous of David.
I have read, with amusement, David's comments on both yours and Heather Robinson's
blogs but had not seen his work. I am very moved by his portraits and would have a hard time picking one "Time After Time" captures a love that is rare and connects right to my heart. I will go back to his site and look some more.
Thanks for linking David's web site.

Helen xx

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ParisGrrl August 26, 2013 - 2:32 pm

My favorite is Winter Dreams…reminds me of my mother and her favorite season. I'd have to really think about what subject I'd choose if I won, but I'm certain it would be incredibly beautiful whatever I chose.

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Katie August 26, 2013 - 4:37 pm

This is perfect! We have been looking for someone to capture our dearest cat that we recently lost. And, living in Raleigh, NC, we aren't far from David at all! We frequent Hillsborough and will have to look for him on the next art tour. My favorite on his site is "Let's Go." Thank you for the generous giveaway.

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Pat@Life At Lydias House August 26, 2013 - 5:01 pm

What a fantastic giveaway! I love all of his work but if I have to choose just one I suppose it would be the portrait of his mother.

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Dori Gray August 26, 2013 - 5:33 pm

I love all of David's work, but especially love "After the Rains". Thanks for the chance to win! Would love a painting of our daughter who is 12.

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Anonymous August 26, 2013 - 5:35 pm

His work is amazing….can't pick just one favorite, but these are the ones that spoke to me.
Love in the Afternoon for my romantic side,
Lavendar Dreams for my "just too cute" side,
and Andalusia for my ethereal side.
If I won the giveaway, I would probably have David illustrate my 2 year old granddaughter, but I would also love an illustration of our farmhouse.
Love your blog, find myself a bit envious of your lifestyle.
Diane
dmacinness@aol.com

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Catherine Varner August 26, 2013 - 6:08 pm

David's work is exquisite. He paints with a softness that captures warmth and tenderness and beauty in his subjects. I have been hoping to offer my daughter a lovely portrait of her with the horse she rides, Silver Slippers. They are amazing partners in the ring and over the jumps. What a lovely giveaway and opportunity to have a piece of David's artwork. Thank you!
Catherine @ chvarner@aol.com

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Catherine Varner August 26, 2013 - 6:19 pm

David does exquisite work, capturing a softness, warmth and beauty – and a bit of quirkiness on occasion – within his subjects. I love the painting of Ben and Kipling, the terrier with the roll of toilet paper (a recent mess we've been having with a new jack russell/dachshound mix puppy) and the beautiful horse, braided and ready for the show. I have been hoping to find just the right artist to paint my daughter and the horse she shows – Silver Slippers; they are quite a lovely pair. David has the most perfect touch to capture these two. What a generous and wonderful gift you will provide! Thank you.

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Jennifer Clark August 26, 2013 - 6:36 pm

What a generous offer of such a talented artist! I just spent a hour over my second cup of coffee looking through his work, instead of doing my own work…. I loved "Delta Morning"; we live in the oak savannah on the Central Coast of California. The oaks here are magnificent. I love portraiture, especially of women, so "Portrait of my Mother" is another favourite. Landscapes are another love for me and "Trois Fontaines" blew my socks off!

Were I to win such a wonderful opportunity, I'd ask David to paint my identical twin girls. Of course, then I'd struggle to decide who to give the painting to; their Daddy or their Gra-Maw and Papa?! What a Christmas gift that would make!

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Jennifer Clark August 26, 2013 - 6:45 pm

PS: Just shared David Terry's website on FB. Gotten a couple likes already!

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Monika Bonn-Miller August 26, 2013 - 8:24 pm

Hi,
I would like to be entered in your August give-away. I looked at all the paintings and, although it was hard to choose, pick "July Heat" as my favorite.
It was a very pleasant surprise when I read that his work is exhibited at a gallery in Charleston, SC, my second home 🙂
Thank you so much. I very much enjoy your blog,
Monika Bonn-Miller

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margif August 26, 2013 - 8:29 pm

I love David Terry's work! "Step Into This House" featuring Newby is precious. Actually, I would love to ask David to paint my 3 Westies. I miss them terribly and hence, seeing darling Newby was so precious, and David truly got the character of a Westie. I have many pictures of my three
but not enough for me now since the vet killed our third one on a healthy yearly check-up. Thank you for introducing us to David Terry – it is a lovely and generous offer.

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Coulda shoulda woulda August 26, 2013 - 8:38 pm

What an amazing giveaway! If I could enter the giveaway my choice though hard to choose is the two labs that belong to Heather from Lost in Arles. My email is linked to my profile. Many thanks

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margif August 26, 2013 - 8:42 pm

What a talented artist! I am so happy to know about David Terry. I loved all of the paintings at his site. Several paintings particularly touched me. "Winter Light", "Ecclesiastical" and "Love actually" were all so special. They are Westie portraits and David has a way of getting the true Westie character. In "Love, actually" it seems that this may have been David's pup. I would like a portrait of my three special Westies. I have pictures of them but they have now crossed the RB. Our last one was killed by our vet in NC when she was at her yearly physical. I am still traumatized. But what fabulous artwork! Oh, and I saw Gibson's fabulous portrait also – so beautiful!!!!! Best, Margi

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nancy reilly August 26, 2013 - 10:25 pm

My favorite (although it is difficult to have a favorite) is Welbourne hound. Nothing says so much, or is as majestic as an old dog. Nancy

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dave wetherall August 26, 2013 - 10:37 pm

Sharon,
My favourite piece is, without doubt, Nightingale. The capture of the unique Tuscan light and mood is perfect. It reminds me of a wonderful 2 week stay we had in a very similar villa in the hills near Lucca a year or 2 ago. Magic.
In terms of subject matter, we have spent the last 10 years designing then having built our dream home (on a beach north of Auckland). I’d love to have it memoralised permanently by such a stunning artist (given our 4 sons have all departed off-shore, it may be the only piece of the house that stays in the family post our demise….).

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Tammy Macpherson August 26, 2013 - 11:34 pm

Hi Sharon. Long time reader, first time commentator. How could I not come out of the shadows for this one? Amazing, amazing work. And what a generous giveaway – I know I have a very slim chance of winning – but THANK YOU David, for your generosity in offering this wonderful gift.

I really love the portraits, but have a particular leaning towards the animal portraits. Impossible to pick just one as they are all so beautiful, but I would have to say the one of your two dogs, Sharon, really seemed to completely capture their personalities given the photos and stories you have shared.

For me, if I was so lucky to win, I would have trouble choosing between a portrait of my beautiful mum (lost too early to breast cancer), my gorgeous kids, my two golden retrievers (sadly also now gone) or my current two sweet king charles cavalier spaniels. How to choose??

I can only hope I am lucky enough to get the chance to have this wonderful dilemma. Kind regards Tammy Macpherson

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Leslie in Portland, Oregon August 27, 2013 - 12:50 am

I have long enjoyed David's comments on this and other blogs, and I make a point of visiting his website weekly. It's impossible for me to pick a favorite piece among his art, but current favorites are "Another Spring," "Gibson," "For Amos," "Lavender Dream," "Lost in Arles," "Under the Storm," "Jack of Hearts, "Riptide," "These Days to Come," and his winter landscapes. If I ever have an opportunity to commission a piece from him, it most likely would be a portrait of one or both of my dogs (Henry, a Golden Retriever, and Bob, a Long-Haired Dachshund) or of my son, Johnny, dancing. Thank you for this very generous giveaway.

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Marielle August 27, 2013 - 1:38 am

I can't resist the portrait of Gibson in the snow. Such a lovely guy. A pleasure to meet and play catch with. A warm-hearted sweetheart. David Terry's art is stunning.

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Mumsy August 27, 2013 - 1:53 am

Wow! Such beautiful work from someone new to me. I love so many of the advertising pieces but I have to say that my absolute favorite is What'll I Do…It just hits me in the heart. My fingers are crossed and thank you for the introduction.

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Marielle August 27, 2013 - 1:54 am

Linked, blogged, Facebooked.

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Mumsy August 27, 2013 - 1:59 am

Wow! How beautiful his work is and thank you for introducing me to this wonderful artist. Everything is so beautiful and I love the advertising pieces. However, the What'll I Do piece tugs at my heart. It would be wonderful to have a drawing of my daughter and her little one that I took from her; her first pet, a beautiful sweet yorkie! Thank you and thank you also to David.

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Lady of the Cloth August 27, 2013 - 2:03 am

Wow, what a talented artist. I loved the one called Edna Lewis. I think I would have one painted of my best friend, Maggie, a standard poodle and therapy dog. I always enjoy you're blog. You give me inspiration daily.

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joan mckniff August 27, 2013 - 6:50 am

After visiting the collections twice today, I finally must select one as it is now 12:41 PM. "Roses" it is.

If I were to be fortunate enough to win this out of the sky gift, I think I'd like a portrait with and featuring my aging cat who rescued me in Madagascar almost fifteen years ago and now lives me in Florida, our third continent together.

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joan mckniff August 27, 2013 - 6:55 am

Shared on Face Book and even managed not to say if you win, my cat must appear somewhere in your portrait.

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Cynthia Schimpf August 27, 2013 - 8:53 am

My favorite portrait is Love Actually. If I win I would be the subject the portrait, to reward myself of my healthier lifestyle I have developed this passed year. Thank you kindly…. Cynthia

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Dee August 27, 2013 - 10:49 am

This is a very generous giveaway. I spent more than a couple of hours on David's site enjoying his work. It's almost impossible to choose a favorite, but since I must, it will have to be "Another Spring". I was surprised at the reaction I had when I saw it as I normally would go directly to the animal art. Perhaps it's the way I envision myself in another few years that struck a chord with me. I also really liked "Argos Dream", "Lavender Fields", and "Lost in Arles". He's a very talented artist and I'm grateful to have been introduced to his work, so I thank you.
If I were to win, I would have a portrait of my current dog Zuzu, a Boston Terrier, or my pit bull, Kate, who passed on a few years ago.
Thank you again for the wonderful giveaway. – Dee

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silkannthreades August 27, 2013 - 12:53 pm

I have come here through the lovely blog of Heather of Lost in Arles. I am feeling overwhelmed by discovering yet more loveliness on My French Country Home and on David Terry's site. And what a generous giveaway. My favourite on David's site is Lavender Dreams, although it was very hard to choose only one piece of art. If I were to win, I would probably like a portrait of myself with my miniature schnauzer, Jack. Or perhaps a portrait of me and my husband. Too hard to decide 🙁 So, I am simply going to dwell for awhile in the loveliness I have encountered. Gallivanta

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Jenntly Juniper August 27, 2013 - 3:06 pm

Kids and the daily demands are calling me away from the computer, otherwise I'm certain I would be lost for many hours on the beautiful website of David Terry. Thank you for introducing us to his work. And thank you Mr. Terry for a truly generous gift. I know my chances are so very small to win a portrait but I feel I've already had a gift to be introduced to this fine artist. What a pleasure to see the paintings but also to read the artist's commentary on them. My favorites are "Fat & Happy," "Into this House," and "Valentino." Were I so lucky as to win I think a portrait of my husband when he was but a young thing would be very pleasing.

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Anonymous August 27, 2013 - 5:39 pm

The artwork is amazing. My favorite is Another Spring. My eyes keep going back to this portrait…the expression captured is so pure, I feel drawn in to their story. Such a wonderful artist. I'm not quite sure what I would want painted for me. But I do have several ideas and would love a piece of David's artwork. I have signed up for his newletter as well so I can admire his work as it is completed. Thank you for drawing my attention to his site.
linpowell@hotmail.com

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molly- See you downtown August 27, 2013 - 8:45 pm

OMGosh, he is so close to me and I am just discovering him thanks to you. Spent an hour reading and looking, what fun. My favorite, because of the story, is What'll I Do?" the Portrait of Martini Emmart-Niedbalski. What to have him capture would be hard choice- my child, hubby, our business, tough decision. Fingers crossed that I'll have to make it though. Thanks.

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Anonymous August 28, 2013 - 1:41 am

Hmmm. Love "Reading the Morning Mail". It is such an ordinary thing to be doing, eating breakfast, reading the mail before the starting of the day. Now, is it a letter from a long ago friend or is it a bill (ugh!)?
Marisol
pepper_park@hotmail.com

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Maria August 28, 2013 - 11:13 am

Hi Sharon! Thank you so much for that – really precious! My personal favorite is the 'October Light'….but then again it was so difficult to choose. 🙂

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Sophia Home August 28, 2013 - 11:29 am

Wow Sharon! David is beyond talented…..it is hard to believe that these are not photographs. One of my favourites is 'Newby and Kate'….what a picture! If I were fortunate enough to win this wonderful giveaway, I would love to have a portrait done of my husband Andrew, with his ageing and adored Labrador 'Rocco'. x

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Pamela Barber August 28, 2013 - 3:17 pm

What a beautiful gift David has, thanks Sharon feels like I went to art gallery loved them all xxpamela

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Anonymous August 28, 2013 - 6:51 pm

David is a very talented artist! The portraits and landscapes seem like photographs but even better. I LOVE the two dogs in "Lost in Arles." All of the drawings and paintings are wonderful!
We have two old standard poodles that we would love to have a portrait of.
What a lovely offer.
-Lisa in Charlottesville, VA

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Anonymous August 28, 2013 - 7:11 pm

I am very impressed with this artist's portraits. I loved David's work "Lost in Arles" especially his
brush work. I know David would capture the spirit of my beautiful Irish Setter.
Thank you Sharon, for this lovely offer.
-Barbara in Richmond, VA

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Anonymous August 28, 2013 - 7:24 pm

David Terry's work is amazing. Thank you for introducing me and for offering such a great giveaway! I loved the painting of the Sealyham Terrier that actually looked like he would BITE". If I win I would love a painting of my two pals Augie & Smitty.
Pauline, Eliot ME

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Dagmar Smrekovská August 28, 2013 - 9:45 pm

thank you so much …. number one for me is April Road – spring, pink, road, promis, … If I won the giveaway, I would probably have David illustrate my 2 dogs.
dada@zoon.sk

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Hilary Coman August 28, 2013 - 11:25 pm

As a dog lover and a pug owner, the pet portraits stopped me in my tracks. The landscapes (both local and foreign) were lovely, but the pet portraits captured that special essence that makes an animal unique. My favorite was "July Heat" because of the interplay between the two and because that's exactly what you would imagine two dogs doing on a long summer's day- taking a nice nap! Great work.

If I won, I'd like an illustration of my black pug Toby.

Hilary Coman, coman@mindspring.com

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Anonymous August 29, 2013 - 2:07 am

I really enjoyed "Another Spring" as it reminded me of my grandmother. I would probably go with one of my two dogs, cat or historic house. Thanks!
Gary gary06074@aol.com

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Jody.Kippels August 29, 2013 - 3:54 am

My favorites would be any of his portraits with children in them, especially Erwin or Julie. I would LOVE to win this wonderful giveaway. Thank you for introducing him to us, and for your wonderful blog.

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Brenda August 29, 2013 - 4:31 am

How amazing. At first I thought they were filtered photographs. They all seem so beautiful and gentle it is very hard to pick one. However I did relate to "Waiting" as that is what my dog Lizzi does whenever I leave the house and so I would dearly love a picture of her as she's the best. Thank you…B:)

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david terry August 29, 2013 - 12:48 pm

Hey Brenda, no….they're not "filtered photographs". I don't, actually, know a thing about photoshop, etcetera.

One of last year's more dramatic, domestic disasters occurred when Herve (my partner) said "Go ahead and spend the money…just GET it…", andI went out to Best Buys and finally bought (for several hundred dollars) the complete Photoshop software & tutorial package. It came in what looked like a DVD package.

While there, I also picked up a relatively expensive new halogen lamp for my desk.

I got home, plugged in the lamp on my drawing table, and I thought Oh, this is SO good…life will be wonderful, now".

Thirty minutes later, Herve and I were sitting two rooms away at the kitchen table when we smelled something burning….

I ran into the studio to find that the new goose-necked lamp (turned on, and I hadn't tightened the neck sufficiently) had fallen…..so that the bulb was sitting right on top of the new Photoshop CD package…..which had (you guessed it) been reduced to a smoldering, melting ("melted", more accurately) pool of burning plastic.

Needless to say, this was one of those times when you realize that there's NO WAY you can carry the item back to the store, lie your ass off, and claim that your purchase was like this when you brought it home.

In any case, I don't know how to "filter" photographs, and it now seems unlikely that I ever will.

—-david Terry
http://www.davidterryart.com

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Susan August 30, 2013 - 4:01 pm

Love the pet photos and If I could win, I would also love a portrait of our home. Or Maybe our dog, Sophie with the Home too! Love your blog and my how entertaining all these wonderful blog are! Thank you for all the beautiful posts!
Susan

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Janice August 30, 2013 - 7:19 pm

As a dog and cat lover, I found David's animal portraits exquisite. He captures their spirit so well. I love Welbourne Hound and Lost In Arles.

If I were lucky enough to win, I would like a portrait of my twenty-three year
old cat, Annie. She came to me as a very friendly and endearing kitten with her
sister, Sophie. They brought so much joy to our hearts through rough times and
happy times. Sophie passed away five years ago. Knowing that Annie's days with
us are limited somewhat, I would love a portrait of the two so they would be
together again forever.

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Julie West Wales August 30, 2013 - 11:12 pm

Hi Sharon, I imagine I'm too late to be entered into the giveaway competition, but I would just like to say that since I saw David Terrys name on your blog several weeks ago I have visited his website for inspiration. I dabble in pastels, and every time I look at his paintings it makes me want to pick up my pastels and have another bash! I particularly love his paintings of Bisous Horwitz, and One Fine Day (not forgetting your own Lavender Dreams!) I would love David to paint our dog Sweep, just another "little black dog" who has given so much in her thirteen and a half years. In her youth she was in a display team raising money for charity, doing obedience and agility, including jumping through fire hoops! I have lost count of the times I have tried to paint her, each and every attempt ending up in the waste bin – it is so difficult to capture a black dog on paper!
Love Julie

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Martha I August 31, 2013 - 12:15 am

I just lost my favorite Westie "Jack" I would love a painting of him.. David is amazing..

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Martha I August 31, 2013 - 12:18 am

My favorite is Wings of the Dove Forgot to mention that in above post

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Darla P. August 31, 2013 - 3:11 am

Wow! What an amazing artist. I couldn't truly pick just one that I love the most, but April Road and Afternoon Duet surely got my attention. What a gracious giveaway.

I'd probably love a portrait of our horse! Thanks!

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Anonymous August 31, 2013 - 4:03 pm

My favorite piece is the Mare and Foal – lovely. I would ask David to portray my two children. xo

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Menton October 27, 2013 - 6:15 am

I liked the best the cat picture. Consequently I would like David to make an artwork of my cat Duke (Duki cica) who was poisoned by one heartless person. He was euthanized because the veterinarian couldn't save him. I am so heartbroken to this day. (I hope it's not too late to respond here. I've just found out about David through a blog where his name was mentioned. )

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