Ancient Bridge

oil on panel, 16x16"

We were lucky enough to spend a month in China 2 years ago; what an amazing place and civilization. There were so many highlights to the trip, but one of the things I liked everywhere was the sense of permanence, the simple age of things. How many generations of people have crossed this bridge?

World Traveler

oil on panel, 16x16"

Transcending the everyday, Carousels let us travel time and space, going to exotic places and back to innocence. What more could anyone ask for? This painting was a real joy to do, getting to know each animal, each nook and cranny of the structure. I have another version about 1/2 done - I think I will do a whole series of these. If you have a favorite carousel animal or story, share it here!

At The Fair

oil on panel, 24x16.5"

I love going to the State Fair. Its such a production, with something for everyone. The rides, the food(!), art shows, crafts, traditional skills like baking and quilting, all kinds of music, Hispanic arts, African American arts, Native American dancing, the barns filled with 4-H projects, horses... Maybe what I like best is seeing all the families, parents sharing with wide-eyed kids, the teens being oh-so-cool but still having a great time. Its a day where everyone seems to shed the worries and cares, basking in the sunshine. My favorite Fair food has always been a corndog - last year I discovered a green chile corndog (I'm in New Mexico, after all) and it was the best ever. Can't wait till this year's Fair, but while we wait, what are Your favorite things about the Fair?

I'm not sure why, but this image looks so much better on my website than here at the blog - the link is on the upper right of this page, or click Here.

Pears III

8x10 oil on panel

I took a long break - the move and a few other events intruded into my painting life. But I'm finally back, and painting most days.
These pears were done taking a fabulous workshop with Laura Robb in Santa Fe. I'm finding myself drawn to more traditional still lifes and landscapes, so will be posting more of those along with my more unusual subjects.
The big news is that I entered New Mexico's Masterworks show and not only got accepted but won an award for "Things You Can Stack"; have to say, I'm happy! The second bit of news is that I finally put up a website: terryrafferty.com Please visit and let me know what you think!


Things You Can Stack
Oil on Panel, 18x6