Allison Lefcort 24/7

Just Grand!!

2011-11-09T15:42:00.004-05:00

Hello All!!

My feet are back on terra firma! I had an amazing trip aboard the Grand Princess!! The English Bulldog (pictured above) was one of my favorite pieces in the show. Since the Grand left out of England, I made sure to include some amazing icons of London like the Double Decker Bus and the famous red Telephone Booth!

Shout out to all my new friends, and old!! Shout out to my artist friends, too...Pierre, Des, and Martiros!! It was my pleasure to meet each and every one of you! We had some spectacular days together that will forever be in my memory! Thank you for your generosity and company!! I will always order a "whole jug" of wine with every pizza I eat and I promise to tell you if I come across a better peach sorbet, somewhere in the world, but I highly doubt it!!

I hope you will check back with me often to keep in touch and continue to follow my art!

That Will Be The Day

2011-09-07T18:02:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to the late, great Buddy Holly! He would have been 75 years old today. Buddy Holly influenced so many in the Rock n' Roll genre and the music really does tell a story. Growing up I loved the music of Buddy Holly, and many of the bands I listened to covered some of his famous songs. Dion, of Dion and the Belmonts (and his wonderful family) moved in next door to me when I was twelve. You know how cool it was to have a ROCK STAR next door to me??!! He was a close friend of Buddy's and recently tells a very compelling story of that fateful night in February, 1959 in his new book Dion: The Wanderer Talks the Truth. So bye, bye, American Pie...

D23

2011-08-15T20:36:00.004-04:00

The ultimate Disney fan event is almost here!! D23 is on August 19-21, 2011 in Anaheim, California! Hope to see you all there!!

"TRON" is a 30" x "40" original painting on wood with 3-D wooden hand-painted letters going down the left side. The finished mounted size of this piece is 36" x 48." I know there are a lot of Tron fans out there...this piece is something that has been brewing in my brain for a while now ever since I re-watched the original movie. I am super happy with its outcome! Come see it in person!!

D23 Expo 2011

2011-08-08T10:39:00.005-04:00

It's that time again! Time to head out to Anaheim, California for the ultimate Disney event! D23 is a Disney Expo being held at the convention center from August 19-21, 2011. For those of you who may remember with great fondness the Disneyana Conventions of yesteryear, D23 sets out to fill your heart again with magic, the way only Disney can! The name D23 refers to Disney and 1923, the year the company was founded. It's really a fun event...lots of exhibits and showcases, even cameo appearances by some of the original Mouseketeers!

This year I have put together a very special show debuting there...all the new originals are painted on wood ( a medium that I really am enjoying working on) and each one has some sort of 3-dimensional effect. My showcase piece is called "Surfer Mickey" and you can see part of it in the photograph...Mickey stands about 3.5 feet tall and will stand in front of his surfboard that is taller than me! August 19 is just around the corner...I will post some more images of other pieces in the show as we get closer to the opening. For those of you in the Los Angeles area, or if you want to make a little trip out to Disneyland, I would LOVE to see you! Here is the link with all the extra information you may need about tickets and schedules: http://d23.disney.go.com

See you there!

House of Gryffindor

2011-07-16T08:40:00.006-04:00

I love Harry Potter! Eleven years ago I read the first book and waited through the years for the subsequent stories to be released. This week, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 , the movie, comes out, ending an era of magic and Muggles. Personally I adored reading the books...immersing myself into the world of Hogwarts School. Of course, the Sorting Hat placed me in Gryffindor House...just sayin'! Many Halloweens have seen me in my best Quidditch garb, with my snow owl that looks uncannily like Hedwig! Now I am super content to have my collection of books, and I live about 3 hours away from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando and that means that I am 3 hours away from Diagon Alley where I can pull up a stool at the Three Broomsticks and order up a ButterBeer! Cheers, Harry, Ron, and Hermione!! It's been a blast!!

RIP LIZ

2011-03-25T23:33:00.004-04:00

A sad day for all as we say goodbye to this glamorous actress and activist. Elizabeth Taylor was a legendary beauty. Faces like Liz's are few and far between and I have always enjoyed making her my subject. A painting of a young Liz Taylor was a focus piece during a Hollywood show at a gallery in Key West, Florida circa 1996. Even though my portraits are black, white, and gray, it is almost like you can make out the lavender color of her eyes. I admire her not only for her classic movie roles but also for her activism fighting AIDS. She will be missed but her beauty will be everlasting.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-18T09:01:00.005-05:00

To commemorate one of my favorite holidays, I did a demonstration aboard Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas! This ship is beyond amazing!! My pictures do not do it justice, but as you can see in the photo I am surrounded by lush greenery. That is because in the middle of the Oasis is Central Park...designed to look like, well, Central Park! There are beautiful trees, and lovely sitting areas. You can go to the wonderful restaurants that line the perimeter of the park or just pick up a melt-in-your-mouth roast beef sandwich and continue on to the ship's famous Aqua Show or the ice skating rink, art gallery, whatever your pleasure.

So for the Valentine's Day celebration I chose to work on an original acrylic on paper "Love" piece from my Tattoo series. I also was excited to showcase some new mixed media originals like the James Dean piece (pictured) and the original "Lyrical Hearts" from the Love, Alli series. These are oil pastel hearts drawn over some of the most romantic love song lyrics like "Unforgettable" and "At Last." I enjoyed being in a beautiful setting and meeting all the passengers eager to enjoy their cruise! Hope everyone had a great day!

6 Minutes of Fun...

2011-01-24T15:44:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

2011-01-19T16:40:00.004-05:00

Happy 2011, everybody!!

It's three weeks into the new year and life is GOOD! I wish you all the best in the next 12 months!!
Just in time to get things started, I thought I would share my new promotional art video with you. Enjoy!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgvhmeanfes

It's Been A While

2010-11-09T21:29:00.005-05:00

It has been too long since I last posted. My apologies. All is going well; I am happily creating new masterpieces in the studio.

On a recent trip to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania I finally got to visit the Andy Warhol Museum! I have been trying for years to go but the few times I have found myself in Pittsburgh, the museum has been closed. As a Warhol fan this began to get very frustrating. But I persevered and a few weeks ago found myself on the corner of Sandusky and Isabella staring into the lobby with one of the huge "camouflage" portraits hanging! There was someting like 7 floors dedicated to Andy and his work. I saw some soup cans, skulls, portraits, movies, pen and inks, silver clouds, and most interestingly to me some of his college portfolio. I have read many books on Warhol, the man, and the artist...many things in the museum I have seen or heard before. There was one piece in particular that surprised me (and disturbed me just a little.) Andy Warhol was a hobbyist in the art of taxidermy! Cecil is a Great Dane that was literally stuffed by Andy and even stood guard at the entrance to Warhol's Factory in New York City and also was the subject of some of his paintings. Kinda weird, but kinda cool too! The museum did a great job representing the Father of Pop Art...can't wait to visit again!

Breakfast At The Studio

2010-09-02T13:17:00.002-04:00

I love Audrey Hepburn! She was an amazing actress and humanitarian. She was someone to be admired. A few weeks ago I was filing some photographs and magazine clippings (my archives, in a sense) which I use as reference points for some of my portrait paintings. I came across this great image of Audrey and couldn't help but feel that itch to paint it....so I did!!

One of my favorite parts of this piece is the pink color of the background. I mixed up just enough of it to complete the painting and now I am wishing I remembered the exact formula to achieve it again! This piece is 24" x 36" on gallery-wrapped canvas and I will probably include her in my next show...

Just thought i would share. Hope you enjoy!

End of Summer

2010-08-13T13:57:00.003-04:00

The summer is almost over! Where has the time gone!? I hope everyone had a wonderfully fun-filled season.

My studio is under "light" construction. I have been working hard to re-organize my supplies, rearrange my easels and files so that I can be the most efficient in my creative process. There's lots to talk about in the coming months so please stay tuned!

Lisa Loeb!!

2010-07-02T09:35:00.005-04:00

Recently I met Lisa Loeb and got to present her with a portrait that I painted!!

For many years I have spent at least one day at Pine Crest Day Camp working with the campers in my very own activity called "Art With Alli." It's always a wonderful time at PCDC and I really love seeing the talent that the kids have!

So this year, Lisa Loeb visited Pine Crest Day Camp during and all-camp assembly promoting her new album, "Camp Lisa." It's an album that makes people, old and young, remember their summer camp/ sleep-away camp experiences. She came to the stage and played a few songs from the album. Even more exciting, since many of the staff and older counselors were around when her most famous hit was on the top of the charts in the '90s, she sang "Stay." Soooo cool!! All of us were singing along. Then, before she left, I was introduced and then brought up to the stage the portrait I painted of her to present it. Lisa LOVED it!! She told me she was hanging it in her house for her husband for Father's Day! Just the other day she emailed me to say how cool the painting was and it was safely on the wall in her California home! She is a delight!

Thanks, Lisa!

Manchester, England

2010-06-07T07:36:00.010-04:00

With all the volcano talk, I forgot to update everyone on the actual exhibition!

Generation Pop Gallery is on New York Street in Greater Manchester. The gallery has huge windows that open out to the city, and with the lights on, the place just dazzles! I painted lots of new pieces for my UK collectors which I was excited to unveil at the gala event. One of my favorite pieces of the show was a huge Paddington Bear!

Thanks to everyone who came that evening, including all the media people...you all helped to make the evening a great success! A special thanks also to the Marks' Family...your hospitality and generosity is top notch!

Even though it was a short visit (or at least was supposed to be) one of the gallery directors was able to "surprise" me with some information: Several pieces of my artwork are part of an installation exhibition at Harvey Nichols Department Store!!

If anyone wants to check out the pieces in Harvey Nicks in Manchester, go right up to the cafe...you can't miss them!! I even was able to snap a few shots before the manager came over and said photography was not allowed. I explained that I was the artist, but to please tell everyone else exactly that!! Super exciting for me to see it all in person, and a great stroke to my artist's ego. Thank you!!

A couple pints and some fish & chips at the Old Monkey Pub later, I embarked on my journey to somewhere with an airport that was not affected by volcanic ash...I had no idea what to expect, or what kind of adventure I was in for. And as everyone now knows, I did make it home safe, albeit late, but home safe.

Escape From the UK

2010-04-17T13:47:00.006-04:00

OR... NO TRAINS, PLANES, & AUTOMOBILES!!!

Unbelievable!!! I had been grounded in Manchester,England due to the Volcano erupting in Iceland!!

Generation Pop Gallery in downtown Manchester was having a month-long exhibition of my new pieces and I was scheduled to fly in for the gala opening on a Thursday night. I flew through Frankfurt, Germany as it was the shortest travel-time. When I arrived at Frankfurt our flight was cancelled to Manchester. We got on what turned out to be the last flight into London's Heathrow Airport, before it got shut down due to volcanic ash! I took a 4.5 hour bus ride to get to Manchester just in time for the show. Had a great time meeting new collectors and visiting with old ones. The news of the volcano over there just bred hysteria...all airports closed, trains booked for weeks, no cars for hire. People were going crazy. Websites were down, flights were cancelled, no one to answer the phone when you call your airline or train line. Even the Queen Mary 2 had a wait-list of over 1000 people!!

Normally, to be stranded in Europe wouldn't be a negative experience...it would give one extra time to explore the Louvre, or shop in London, or catch another great meal in Madrid. However, I have been overwhlemed with work and commitments back home that this adventure became an unwelcomed event.

We gave ourselves several days to get home, and kept our fingers crossed that we could do it in that short time span. We navigated ourselves off the island country of England (a feat not to be underestimated). We had to take a train from the Manchester, close to the top off England down to London at the bottom. Then we waited for several hours in a queue for a teller to schedule us on a Eurostar train through the Chunnel. As our fantastic luck would have it, there was one leaving in 5 minutes!! Needless to say, we RAN through Euston station to get to our train (tickets in hand) just as the conductor blew the whistle and the doors closed. Phew! Arriving in Paris in the middle of the night, there were no convenient hotel rooms available...and we wearily walked and walked until we found a vacancy in a place I wouldn't have boarded my dog in...but it was a bed...and a shower, although disgusting. Magically, and after hours of waiting we scored bus tickets to Madrid that evening. 18 HOURS LATER on a lavender bus with no toilet we pulled into Madrid. There are no words to describe the terrible bus ride that could even do it justice...all that is important is we got to Madrid alive and with our bags. We took a train to the airport which was open at that point!! Our original airline that we had been booked on refused to help us get home, and we would have got on ANY flight that would have taken us to AN America (North, South, Central), we just needed to get to the other side of the Atlantic Ocean which at that point was unaffected by the volcano ash cloud. We finally searched and found an airline with 2 open seats and a flight leaving within the hour for Atlanta and $2500 per economy ticket later, we were back home in the United States. By noon the next day I was comfortably sleeping in my own bed, with my own pillow, and my own clean sheets. I even went out to my favorite sushi restaurant. I have since been back at work trying to catch up on the week that I missed trekking thru Western Europe. Home never felt so good!! And now I know how all the people on Gilligan's Island felt on their "3 hour tour..."

GIADA

2010-04-09T12:49:00.003-04:00

Today I attented a private event in Fort Lauderdale, FL sponsored by Clarkson Potter Publishers and Williams-Sonoma . Giada De Laurentiis, the star of Everday Italian on the Food Netwrk was there. I presented her with a portrait that I painted of her with a minty green background and she absolutely flipped (in a good way, for it)!!! She looks even more beautiful in person, and even more beautiful than any photos she has taken. (it's rare that a celebrity looks better in person)

After the event and most people cleared out, we got to hang for a few moments one on one. We spoke of our mutual friend and fellow artist, Aldo Luongo. She asked me lots of questions about my distinct style of painting and how I got started and where I show my art, etc....

We took a few photos and gave a few hugs. She was such a lovely and gracious person, and told me she was very excited to show the painting to her husband!! She also said she had a few ideas for me.....we'll keep in touch! YAY!

Please check out her website www.giadadelaurentiis.com and her new book "Giada At Home." There are some really yummy recipes in there that I will be trying out in my very basic kitchen like Pea Pesto Crostini and Brown Butter Risotto with Lobster! mmm mmm mmm

I'm Ready For My Close-up

2010-03-27T22:31:00.004-04:00

Florida is warming up late this Spring! Perfect weather for enjoying South Florida and all its glory!

This week I found myself hurrying about getting ready for my photo shoot in the studio with professional photographer, Traci Brennison (brennison191photography.com). I have several media events coming up and I am due for new headshots. We also had a lot of fun taking really goofy pictures of me. Let's call those "personality pics!" She was able to shoot some of my latest and greatest pieces around the studio. I hope to post more about this series in the near future...stay tuned!!

Happy Spring Break!

The Ellen Story

2010-02-26T12:44:00.002-05:00

Well, it's official...American Idol is now consuming my Tuesday and Wednesday nights! I admit that I enjoy the live part of the show...I really could do without all those crazy auditions. This season of the show is extra special because Ellen DeGeneres is the new judge, sitting alongside Simon and Randy. Yippeee!! Ellen is one of my favorite people, I have been a fan of hers since her stand-up days and have been watching her primetime sitcom for years, as well as her daytime talkshow, especially because I am usually painting in the Studio when it's on. She is SOOO funny and cracks me up.

Back in 1996 I got the opportunity to meet my idol and present her with a painting!! I was doing a show in Los Angeles, California and my portrait of Ellen was an important piece in the show as Ellen had just been featured on the cover of Time Magazine!! Through some friendly contacts out in LA, I was invited to a taping of her sitcom, "Ellen." I didn't know at the time that I would meet her, but I was planning on bringing the painting to her as a gift. So I arrived at the Burbank television studio and was ushered into the front row of the audience, as my painting was taken backstage (or so I was told.) After the couple hours it took to tape, one of the studio personnel came to me and said Ellen is going to come out and do a "question-and-answer" with the audience. They thought it would be a great time for me to stand up and introduce myself and give her the painting since the cameras were on and "Entertainment Tonight" was there too! I have never been more nervous in my life!! I really had no idea and was caught off guard. The nice studio guy saw the terror on my face and said he'd do the introduction for me and then I could take it from there. Deal!

Ellen came out and was her usual funny and gracious self. She took a few questions from the audience and then it was all about me! They brought out the painting and Ellen absolutely loved it!! She gushed over it and talked a little about me and told everyone about starting an art career at a young age and painting for Hillary Clinton and Barbra Streisand. Ellen knew my whole story, so i didn't have to jumble up my words so much. She then turned the painting around (it was a four by four foot square canvas) so the audience of 200 Ellen fans could see and everyone started appauding! For me I was more focused on looking at Ellen standing next to my portrait of her and the smile on her face was the same smile I painted on the canvas! Awesome! I knew I did a great job.

So after everyone left, Ellen asked if I would hang out for a bit. Of course I did!! We chatted for awhile, took some photographs, and I told her this was a gift but I would like to have her sign a painting for me in my personal collection as she was a hero of mine. Logistically it was easier for her to sign the very painting I brought and paint another one for her art collection. She did say however that she loved the blue color of the background and to make sure the next piece was the same. She signed my piece with, " Allison, Continue to dream big. You are AMAZING!"
Needless to say, I was floating after that night!!

I came home, and painted her portrait, sent it to her and have subsequently painted a few portraits for her over the years and have enjoyed meeting with her on several other occasions!

Time Flies!

2010-01-28T16:18:00.003-05:00

It's amazing how fast time flies when you are busy (and having fun!)!! January 2010 is almost done...unbelievable!

Well the good news is that I have been diligently working on past commissions and brand new artwork. I feel my artistic self maturing and diversifying...which is scary and exciting all together! Lots of new pieces to be unveiled this year. I have hit the "sweet spot," artisctically speaking, and I am digging the groove!!

Stay tuned and keep checking back in with me!

Be well!

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-08T11:25:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year, all! It's the beginning of a new and exciting decade!!

I know it has been a while since my last post and I apologize. My resolution this year is to keep up with the blog better.

I hope you all had a merry and warm holiday season. I spent the time from Thanksgiving to jsut before Christmas abroad. I travelled around to places like Bangkok, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and even Australia! It was an amazing adventure. I met some new friends, reconnected with old ones and ate and drank very well!!

I am expecting 2010 to be even better than 2009 and I hope to share many stories with everyone, so please keep in touch!

Cheers!!

The Buck Stops Here

2009-09-09T18:50:00.006-04:00

It's time to pack my suitcase once again! This is a trip to the D23 Expo, Disney's reinvention of the Disneyana Conventions of years past. I am flying out to Anaheim, where D23 is being held at the convention center, just across the street from Disneyland!!

I am debuting a new edition called "The Buck Stops Here," paying homage to Carl Barks' famously painted image of Uncle Scrooge. Uncle Scrooge is the "richest duck in the world" so I titled the piece approrpriately. I am very excited to release this serigraph edition on paper, limited in size to only 99 pieces! D23 opens to the public on Thursday, September 10, 2009 and goes through Sunday the 13th. I will be remarking this edition as well as doing some painting demonstrations and hanging with the Disney crowd! It should be amazing, as Disney always is!!

If you are in the area, please come out and visit me at D23! More stories upon my return...

Les Paul 1915 - 2009

2009-08-14T09:30:00.008-04:00

Yesterday was another sad day for musicians and music lovers around the world as Les Paul, known as the father of the modern guitar and modern sound died at the age of 94.

He was a pioneer in the development of the solid-body electric guitar which he worked on closely with the Gibson Guitar Company since 1952. The Les Paul Guitar is by far the most popular guitar in their collection. Legendary players like Elvis Presley, John Lennon, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Pete Townsend, Sheryl Crow and Slash have all played Les Paul guitars throughout their careers!

Back in early 2000, I started collaborating with the Gibson Guitar Custom Shop. They sent me “naked” guitars and I “dressed” them with my paints! The guitars became my canvas! Needless to say it is an honor to work with this awesome company. I have painted guitars of Jerry Garcia, Elvis, Hugh Hefner, and even Les Paul himself!!

The Les Paul portrait guitar was painted for a show debuting in SOHO at Animazing Gallery on November 9, 2000 called Gibson Custom, Art & Historic Division's Art of Guitar II. The show featured more than 25 Gibson guitars, each hand-painted by a renowned contemporary artist including LeRoy Neiman, "The Simpsons" creator Matt Groening, Rolling Stones guitarist Ron Wood and official Grammy Awards artist Rick Garcia.

I loved how the Les Paul portrait guitar was finished so much that Gibson gave me one for my own personal collection (even though I don’t really play, I just wish I did). Les liked his portrait so much that he autographed my guitar before Gibson put the finishing touch on it!! It was such a surprise when my guitar arrived back at the studio and I opened the case to find that a rock n’ roll legend signed my guitar!!

It continues to be a privilege to be part of the Gibson program to honor history-making artists.

RIP ~ Michael Jackson

2009-06-26T20:12:00.008-04:00

Michael Jackson was, is, and always will be the ultimate pop star! He was a legendary entertainer, transcending culture and breaking barriers. For this I will remember him. For his unparalleled dance style, he will never be forgotten. There will never be anyone else like Michael Jackson. His music embodied love and for this I will remember him.

His death has jolted the world, but for me personally, Michael Jackson's death has been most shocking and sad. I am a fan, always have been, always will be. I was 7 years old when Thriller came out, it holds a dear place in my heart, immortalized as my very first picture LPs! Even though I was so young, I explicitly remember knowing that Michael Jackson was an important figure in our culture.

Back when I was in elementary school, I was obsessed with MJ!! I loved him so much that I even dressed up like him for Halloween in fourth grade, with the red jacket and rhinestoned glove! I have seen the “Making of Thriller” at least 300 times over, although I never did learn how to Moonwalk. What I did learn, was the creative collaborations that existed between the musician, the director, the choreographer, and even the special effect masters.

For me the level of artistry that Michael brought us is unparalleled. He used his music as a palette to paint the world not as it is, but how it could be. “If you wanna make the world a better place, Take a look at yourself and then make a change” . These are the lyrics to “Man in The Mirror”. To this day it remains my favorite song, with a love for all his other hits, I seem to always go back to that one. Michael's talent was an inspiration to me and helped me to be myself and have ‘Hope’ in the world.

As an expression of admiration and an homage I painted MJ as “The King Of Pop.” This painting has been one of my favorites ever since its completion over 10 years ago. Michael Jackson spread his message of love with his music, and it’s that message that I strive to spread through my art. That message like his music, will live on forever.

Welcome Back!

2009-05-19T18:31:00.005-04:00

It's been a while!!! I am finally home from the Transatlantic cruise and over the jet lag of a LOOONG flight home (Rome to London. London to Manchester. Manchester to JFK. JFK to Miami...it's a long story, don't ask). Needless to say I was exhausted. But I am already bustling in the studio and I amback to blogging on the regular so stay tuned. One of the highlights of being on board the Ruby Princess was meeting and getting to know one of my favorite artists (and now good friend) Aldo Luongo. This guy is amazing!! Check out his website http://www.aldoluongo.com/ so I don't have to go on and on about how incredible his art is...but also on a personal level, he is wonderful. I have to admire him greatly; after all, he has been in the business and has been extremely successful longer than I have been alive! In the picture above, we are having breakfast in Seville, Spain (notice I am drinking cafe con leche, while Aldo has his wine). His work has inspired me to try some new things. Top of my list will be an homage to his character of The Hawk. All in all, we had a great trip! Lots of new work to talk about in the coming weeks, as well as some more travelling. Stay tuned! Ciao!

Happy Friday!

2009-04-17T20:29:00.007-04:00

Happy Friday everyone!

This post will be the last one for a couple weeks. I have a show aboard the newest ship in the Princess fleet, the Ruby Princess! I am so excited to get back on the water! I always have the best time cruising and meeting the passengers on board. Throughout the cruise I will be doing some gallery events, television interviews, collector dinners, and a few demonstrations! Anyone who has cruised with me in the past knows it's always a good time!!

Internet is never a guarantee when you are in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, but if it's possible, I will try to blog and update everyone with the latest and greatest news!

Bon Voyage!!

Retro Tuesday

2009-04-14T18:59:00.005-04:00

Happy Tuesday!

Today's photograph is definitely a blast from the past (circa 1994)! This is the first wooden crate that was ever built to ship my paintings. This crate was expertly engineered with a flip-top lid and padlocks to make unpacking the 48" x 48" canvases easier. The final destination of this huge crate was ArtExpo New York at the Jacob Javits Center in NYC. Some of the portraits for that first show included celebrities like Baryshnikov, Marilyn Monroe, Barbra Streisand, Jack Nicholson, and James Dean. Participation in this show proved to be a pivotal point in my career, as it encouraged me to continue to follow my dream and do what I love.

TGIF

2009-04-10T23:15:00.003-04:00

Illuminated Letters can be found in handwritten books traditionally copied by monks during the medieval time period. Often, the first letter of the first word in a chapter was decorated with gold, brilliant colors, elaborate designs and miniature art work.

I have always admired the artistry of these letters; I love the different shapes that each letter can create, both positive and negative space. So this week I literally tried something new... The letter A seemed an appropriate letter to start with, although in researching some other old medieval images, there are some letters that are really quite exquisite, and oddly abstract. I wanted to experiment with my style of painting, just black, white and gray. Broaden my artistic horizons and all!

Anyway, I am pretty satisfied with this and when I get a chance I will definitely be working on some other letters of the alphabet.

Hope everyone has a great Easter holiday!!

Retro Tuesday

2009-04-07T21:10:00.005-04:00

Happy Tuesday!

This photo is of me (obviously) doing a demonstration at Collectors Editions' booth at ArtExpo Las Vegas in 2007. I was working on a canvas that was titled "Howdy Mickey." Mickey Mouse and cowboys are two of my favorite things...put them together and you have a very happy artist!

The ArtExpo Las Vegas coincided with my own solo show at the Palms Casino that same weekend. I will blog about that show in more detail in the future.

Stepping Into Spring

2009-04-03T17:22:00.005-04:00

Happy Spring!

This is image of Tigger and Pooh I completed in 2005 for a show at Edom Gallery in Japan. Its title is "Spring In Their Step" and it is a 18" x 24" acrylic original on canvas. I just thought it was appropriate since school is out on break, flowers are in bloom, and Winnie The Pooh and Tigger are welcoming springtime in The Hundred Acre Wood. Everything is bright and happy!

Things in the studio are bright and happy too! My busy travel time is soon upon me, so I am diligently painting everyday!

Retro Tuesday

2009-03-31T17:17:00.005-04:00

Happy Tuesday!

The showcase photo this week has been one of my all time favorite projects and dates back to when I was in the 8th grade. It is a "wax resist" which is basically crayons and watercolor. It exemplifies the basic concept of how oil and water don't mix. I used day-glo crayons as well as regular box crayons, organic shapes as well as geometrics. The watercolor paint filled in any part of the paper that wasn't covered with the wax of the crayons. My teacher submitted this piece to the South Florida Fair and fortunately for me, I won a blue ribbon, 1st place award!! I got $100 for me, and also won $100 for my school! After the fair was over, my parents had it matted and framed, and it has been on their wall ever since!

New Edition!!

2009-03-27T15:49:00.005-04:00

Happy Friday!! Today is an exciting day because my new edition titled "Beatles '64" is being released!!

Each piece is a 20" x 20" giclee on acid-free paper, and I have spent some extra time hand-embellishing every one of them with silver accents! They look incredible!!

"Beatles '64" is an exclusive edition available only for "The Fest For Beatles Fans."

This is a very small edition, limited only to 10 pieces which makes it extra special. If you are interested in acquiring one, or need some more information, please call 516-823-0300.

Hope everyone has a great weekend! And don't forget, if you are in the neighborhood, go check out "The Fest For Beatles Fans" and Ronnie Spector!!

I Heart The Beatles

2009-03-24T20:45:00.007-04:00

Happy Retro Tuesday! The Fest for Beatles Fans is this weekend...are you going??

My love for The Beatles started around the age of thirteen or fourteen. Before that I was a huge fan of The Monkees and basically in love with Davy Jones. Because I collected so much Monkees paraphernalia, I actually owe my Beatles fandom to them!

My collection of stuff includes video footage of Davy Jones pre-Monkees. Davy began his career on the stage when he starred as the Artful Dodger in the Broadway musical Oliver. Coincidentally, the cast of Oliver performed on the same Ed Sullivan show as the Beatles' first appearance in February of 1964!

The Fab Four sang the now classic songs "All My Lovin'," "Til There Was You," "She Loves You," "I Saw Her Standing There" and "I Wanna Hold Your Hand." So, naturally, loving that genre of music, I started collecting Beatles posters to decorate my room. Posters turned to collectible records and watches and eventually their faces showed up in my art. These 4 pieces above date way back to when I was about 15 or 16. In retrospect they are very primitive paintings, and notice there is no gray shading…just black and white and the background colors. Each painting is 16” x 20” which was an average size for me when I was in high school.

I know I am not alone in saying that the Beatles continue to be not only one of my favorite musical groups to listen to but also the subject of some of my favorite paintings.

Fest for Beatle Fans And The Special Guest

2009-03-20T09:21:00.011-04:00

One of the galleries that represents me always participates in "The Fest for Beatle Fans", as they specialize in classic rock art. A few weeks ago I was informed that I had been chosen to paint the Special Guest appearing this year... Ronnie Spector!!!

What an honor!! Ronnie Spector was the lead singer for the 60's girl group The Ronettes. Everyone knows (or should know) her most famous song, "Be My Baby." The sixties was an amazing time for music, and personally my favorite era (remember my parents always said I was born in the wrong decade).

At first I only knew Ronnie Spector from her famous song, but after researching and learning all about her, I realize she is a Rock 'N Roll icon and has been inducted into the Rock 'N Roll Hall Of Fame! If you are wondering what her connection to the Beatles is I can tell you a little bit of what I found out:

Ronnie was particularly close with both John Lennon and George Harrison.

The Beatles personally invited The Ronettes for their 1966 U.S. Tour, which turned out to be their final tour.

George Harrison wrote and co-produced “Try Some Buy Some” for Ronnie's Apple Records single. George liked it so much, he took the exact version, but with his vocals, and put it on his “Living In The Material World” album.

WHAT: The Fest For Beatle Fans

WHERE: Crowne Plaza Meadowlands Hotel - Secaucus, NJ

WHEN: March 27 -29, 2009

Ronnie is being welcomed as their SPECIAL GUEST for this FEST.

On Saturday and Sunday, Ronnie, will be speaking of her experiences, signing autographs, and showing that the "Beehived Bad Girl" still knows how to rock!

This painting of her (which will be completed soon!) will be presented to her during the fest, live on stage!! I wish I could be there but I am currently working on a secret project, which I still don't want to jinx by saying anything now. However, I will announce the big news in a future blog. Go check out "The Fest for Beatle Fans" if you are in the neighborhood and tell Ronnie I said hello!!

Is Ea, Is Cuimhin Liom Go Maith é

2009-03-17T11:11:00.005-04:00

Yes, I remember it well... (the title of today's blog)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!! Erin Go Bragh!! I am reminded today of one of my favorite Irishmen, and fellow artists, Gene O'Shea.

Le me take you back to the Disneyana Convention of 2000 in Orlando, Florida. All the artists sat at tables in a room and met the ConventionEars and Disney fans as they made their rounds and collected autographs and dedications to the pieces of art they purchased. I had the wonderful fortune (or luck of the Irish, as it were) to sit next to a very talented glass sculptor for Waterford Crystal named Gene O'Shea. He had made a limited edition crystal Dopey figure for the convention. My contribution for the convention that year was a limited edition lithograph of the Evil Queen from Snow White titled, "With Malicious Intent." Gene was on a short visit to Florida from Waterford, Ireland. He came in just for the convention. We got along famously!! I have always been a lover of languages so I asked Gene to teach me some Irish (Gaelic) sayings and words. I just remember having the best time getting to know him and having a blast with him throughout the convention. In the photo above, you can see he is holding my page of the Collector's Book, while I am posing with his!

Ireland is a place I have not visited yet, but it is at the top of my list.

Sláinte!! (Cheers!)

In The Studio

2009-03-14T09:23:00.005-04:00

This week the studio is absolutely buzzing with me running from table to table, from easel to easel, with two paint brushes in my hands and one like a rose between my teeth. Welcome to "Crunch Time" at Allison Lefcort Studio!!

Crunch Time can best be described as a period of time when I have deadlines and commission dues dates and all the paintings are on schedule. Then out of the blue, another thing pops up and I try to fit it in, and then something else changes and needs to be modified. In two words: Life Happens.

I love what I do and paint everyday. I don't usually get overwhelmed with busy-ness, except in these particular moments. When it happens, I usually end up needing to take a step back, write a billion to-do-today lists to myself, crossing them off or dry-erasing them off my board, and then little by little, everything miraculously gets done. Crunch Time, ironically, is also when the studio and I (the artist) work most efficiently.

The paints are calling me now! Until next week...

Alli and Holly Madison

2009-03-10T11:21:00.005-04:00

Happy Tuesday!

Last night, I was channel surfing and saw that Holly Madison, Hugh Hefner's ex-number-one-girlfriend, replaced Jewel on Dancing With The Stars. So today I thought I would share a little bit about the time that Holly and I had to actually SNEAK around part of the Playboy Mansion together, and ended up in one of the bedrooms!! It's all true, my friends, and I have witnesses and the photos (above) to prove it!!

About two years ago, Holly contacted me to do a surprise 80th birthday present for Hef. Hugh Hefner as many of you know is a big fan and collector of my artwork. I have painted his family over the years and done many other collaborative things with Playboy Enterprises. Anyway, Holly's idea was to have me paint the three (at the time) girlfriends which also included Brigid Marquardt and Kendra Wilkinson, aka The Girls Next Door. Easy as it sounds it was actually quite tough to keep it a secret from Hef!

So I completed the three gold-leaf paintings and shipped them out to the Mansion. Coincidentally, I was travelling to Hawaii via California and hearing that I would be in town, Hef invited me over for dinner and a movie (a story I will keep for another time)! This was a perfect scenario because I would also be able to meet with Holly and the girls to show them their portraits before dinner and without Hef's knowledge. The paintings were "hiding" in one of the many closets in the Mansion. Holly led me through a few hallways and stairways covered with framed photographs of Hef and all his friends, and incredible collection to be sure! Hef works and hangs out often in the same area where the portraits were hidden so it was kinda funny to have to "sneak" around and try not to be seen. Finally Holly led me into the bedroom where the portraits were and we unpacked the boxes containing the paintings, which was no cakewalk either....these pieces were each 36" x 36" on canvas. Each of the girls LOVED their portraits. Holly was super excited to give them to Hef on his birthday! And if you are interested in watching how it went on Casablanca Night, you can download the episode of The Girls Next Door on iTunes...it's called Hef's 80th Birthday Bash. But like I said above, that evening at the Playboy Mansion was so eventful, I will share more about it another time.

In The Studio

2009-03-06T17:28:00.003-05:00

TGIF!!

Here's a look at one of the pieces I have been working on this week. I love painting Ray Charles...it is one piece that has so much movement. I am having second thoughts on the red background. At first I was feeling the red...but now that I have been living with it for a while, I may change the background to a cool blue. We shall see.

This week has been full of interesting new prospective projects and commissions. As they come to fruition I will fill everyone in, but I don't want to jinx anything!! All I will say is that I am very excited about ALL of them!!

Retro Tuesday

2009-03-03T13:03:00.005-05:00

This week I'm taking everyone back to the summer of 1992 when I was seventeen years old and about to start my senior year of high school. I spent that summer in New York at my uncles' apartment. This photograph shows how I spent those 3 months: painting Barbra Streisand, Liza Minelli, and Lucille Ball, their three favorite women. The bookcase was originally a light-colored oak wood. As far as I was concerned, it looked like three big huge empty canvases to me, so I got to work!! What should be noted is that both Barbra and Liza are painted on cabinet doors, while the top of Lucy's head is a drop-down desk with more cabinets underneath it.
My uncles have continued to live with and love this piece.

In The Studio

2009-02-27T13:09:00.005-05:00

Happy Friday!

It's been another great week of keeping the creative juices flowing. Recently, I finished the piece in this week's photograph, "Love Tattoo."

I am a huge fan of tattoos, and the artists that create some fantastic indelible designs. I am also fascinated with the diversity of sentiments regarding why people get certain tattoos on their bodies. Although I don't have any ink on me, I have started to paint tattoos on canvas and paper.

One of my best friends got married recently. This piece is my expression of a "forever" love, painted just for the newlyweds!

Retro Tuesday

2009-02-24T12:00:00.005-05:00

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Going through some old photographs, I came across this one. While I was in college, my mother fulfilled one of her dreams: to own a gallery for emerging artists. It was around 1993 or 1994 between Mizner Park and the Pink Plaza in Boca Raton, Florida. My mom represented a handful of sculptors, ceramicists, watercolorists, jewelry makers, and painters (me included). As you can see in this shot, she dedicated an entire wall for me. Back then, I painted on a relatively large scale. Most of these pieces are 48" x 48" and 36" x 48", depicting some of my favorite celebrities including John Lennon, Madonna, Baryshnikov, and Elton John.

It wasn't too long before I went to my first international art exhibition in New York and my mom decided to turn the gallery into a working studio for me. She became my "Mom-ager" and focused her efforts on representing and promoting my artwork, thus commencing my career as a professional pop artist.

In The Studio

2009-02-20T10:36:00.004-05:00

Happy Friday!

It has been another busy week in my studio!

One of the pieces I was working on and touching up for one of my collectors is this piece of Jerry Garcia. At one point in my life, I was a Dead Head by association. My roommate was a diehard Grateful Dead follower, so naturally, we always had that hippie, patchouli, tie-dyed, free-spririted philosophy about us. I own many of their albums and have continued to keep their music alive in my playlists (my parents always told me I was born in the wrong decade). I still love my tie-dyes, too!

My roommate and I even each ended up owning VW buses. Mine was a 1969 Camper with a hammock, black furry seat covers, and a legacy story of travelling to both Woodstocks! A couple hundred thousand miles later (only a small, minute fraction of those were mine), my bus died and went to VW heaven. I have a few remnants of it still: original "moon" hubcaps, the original shifter, the screen that its original owner emblazoned with a giant peace sign (at Woodstock ca.1969), and the vanity plate that beared its name, PapaBus, after the late great Papa Bear, Jerry Garcia.

Retro Tuesday

2009-02-17T18:00:00.004-05:00

Hope everyone had a lovely long holiday weekend!

This week I want to share with you a very special and rare piece of art, and one of very few self-portraits.

When I was in school at Skidmore College, I took a studio 2-D Drawing class. I relished spending the 8 to 10 hours a week in this class, and my professor was amazing, too!! My college career was short lived, but I was like a sponge and took it all in. I was never formally trained in art, but rather self-taught. Classes at Skidmore were the first exposure I had to "real" art technique and teachings.

This self-portrait was assigned as a 3-hour study. Because it was my first Thanksgiving holiday from my first semester at school, I opted to complete it at home. I carried this huge piece of paper on the plane, along with my artbox filled with pencils, kneaded erasers, charcoals, and conte crayons. I got home from the airport and before comiserating about the whole college experience with my family, I explained I had an assignment, and excused myself for 3 hours to complete it. In my room, I had a full length mirror on the back of the door which was a necessary tool for doing a self-portrait. I taped the 25" x 40" (really big!) paper to the wall, got out the charcoals and erasers and got to work. This piece took me every second of the 3 hours, but when it was done, I was surprised that I recognized myself, hand in my pocket and all!

Throughout my late teens I was famous for wearing a pony tail in a Greek sailor's cap, Doc Marten boots, and a big silver ankh around my neck, all of which are depicted here. At that time in my life, I was dealing with a lot of different things, all contributing to the fact that I believe I look sad in the drawing. Recognizable, but still sad. This is one reason that even today I have a hard time looking at it; I feel so much happier now! It leads me to the idea that it is time to do a new self-portrait. It is also the reason that it is such a special piece, as this is the first time that anyone except my immediate family has seen it! But for the record, my parents adore this piece and it actually hangs in a beautiful frame in their home!

Seasons Of Love

2009-02-12T17:03:00.005-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Please welcome "Seasons Of Love" which is my brand new edition, premiering this Saturday, February 14, 2009!! It is a 12" x 12" edition of 214, representing its romantic debut date.

"Seasons Of Love" has a long history: My mother loves hearts. The shape has become a symbolic image that reminds me of her, obviously very sentimental.

I was playing around with oil pastels one day. I really liked how the colors were vivid, sometimes blending, sometimes overlapping. I loved how the pastels were so soft, they seemed to melt into the paper. A heart is a pretty simple shape to execute, so I started to use the oil pastels to create very colorful hearts.

Twelve 4-inch hearts, all different pallettes of colors, came out on different sheets of bristol paper. I roughly cut each of them into a square composition and presented them all to my mom on a Mother's Day, one for every month of the year. They are pieces that my mom has held near and dear. I decided to choose 4 of my favorite hearts and use them for this edition, representing the 4 seasons. In this edition, I chose not to have a traditional background, but instead, used a famous romantic poem by Lord Byron. "She Walks In Beauty" is classic, timeless, beautiful, and a fitting match for my mom and the pastel hearts that were first given to her, and now to the world.

A gift of "Seasons Of Love" will be cherished every day of every season of every year.

Retro Tuesday

2009-02-10T14:20:00.004-05:00

Greetings, all!!

Grammy fever has been in the air! Those who know me know that I love music. My music library is very eclectic. Most often you will find me jamming out to the cool sounds of singer songwriters from the '50s and '60s all the way through today. None of my friends truly share my love for folk/folk rock, although they are kind and try not to laugh when I sing all the words to "Tom Dooley," by the Kingston Trio.

Anyway, this time of year I often reflect on some of the spectacular moments in my life. I have been fortunate to have been able to attend a few of the Grammy Awards shows, and as I have mentioned in previous posts, I got to go to some of the extra events and parties in conjunction with the Grammys!

One Sunday night back in 1997, I was a rock star. I invited my sister to New York City for the event at Madison Square Garden. I remember weaving through the grid of NYC blocks when all the streets were closed off for the parade of black stretch limos, all going to the same place...I was in one of those! My sister and I walked the red carpet, as very important people...wearing our best rockstar threads. Mine consisted of a silver velvet shirt and holographic Doc Marten shoes (well it was the late '90s)!!

We actually had to arrive in the early afternoon...many awards were given out before what most people see on television. Ellen DeGeneres was the host, and although she and I had yet to meet (that would happen months later) she was my favorite comedian and tv personality. Eric Clapton and BabyFace won Song Of The Year with "Change The World."

Jessica and I had great seats just behind all the famous people. I was watching how everything worked. How when the winner went up to receive their reward, someone came and filled their seat temporarily. That's how that lower section always looks full when we watch from home.

Needless to say we had a great time, and it was a LONG, LONG night. When it was over, we had the arduous task of finding our limo driver in the long line of limo drivers. Everyone had to go to the same place and we miraculously found our car without too much commotion. I remember Pat Boone was waiting for his limo right in front of us and he looked to me and matter of factly said to me how crazy it was trying to find the right car. I matter of factly noted that he was only wearing a vest and tie, no shirt. My sister and I were driven to an after party with extravagant decorations and over-the-top catering. Open bar, of course. We had a blast. Just being part of that energetic night was amazing. So was the gift bag on the way out with lots of make-up, colognes, sunglasses, etc.!!

I donate to MusiCares, the charitable arm of the Grammys. One year I offered this painting of the Gramophone, with a gold leaf background. In this photograph it was still a work in progress.

Butterfly Effect

2009-02-06T10:56:00.004-05:00

Happy Friday, everyone!!

People ask a lot of interesting studio-related questions. One of the most common is: "Are you a morning person or a night owl?"

This week is perfect to answer: It depends. Usually, I am early to rise, which I guess puts me in the "morning person" category.

I make myself a cup of coffee, take care of the dogs, get dressed, and since my studio is attached to my house, I don't have a far walk to work. I am very disciplined when it comes to painting. I paint, sketch, and prepare canvases and paper virtually everyday because I love what I do. Fulfilling commissions and exhibition deadlines is another reason I am always busy.

This week is special because I have been on a roll, artistically speaking. My motivation is alive and kicking right now and that alone just keeps me pushing forward.. I've been burning the midnight oil this week. After dinner, I've been drawn back into the studio to keep painting or to do one more sketch.

So, this week in particular, I have been a bit of a night owl. But, I welcome this situation. It's great to feel productive and then look around and actually SEE the output.

In the picture above is a new image I have been working on called "Butterfly Wing (Right)." And yes, a "left" wing is also in the works. Years ago I painted a canvas with a butterfly wing. Again, just one of those pieces I put aside after I finished it. For whatever reason, now I have butterflies on the brain; therefore, butterflies emerge in the art.

Retro Tuesday

2009-02-03T21:57:00.002-05:00

Hey! Hope everyone is recuperated from Superbowl Sunday!! Not only was the game, a great one (and not just because the Steelers won), but also I loved Bruce Springsteen at halftime! He can really get a crowd all riled up and feeling good! "Born To Run" is on my list of favorite songs, by the way.

So remember how last week I was going through old portfolios of my art? Well, here is a picture of an unfinished Ebony pencil piece of Jimi Hendrix that was started while I was in high school (more than 15 years ago!!).

The story that I can recall about this piece was there was this kid that I was friendly with who loved Jimi Hendrix. He wanted this particular image of Jimi...a photograph out of one of his favorite books. Back then, I didn't paint. I only used pencil and colored pencil. The largest of my pieces was about 18" x 24" on paper, just like this one. Because there was so much space for the darkest pencil shading, my wrist couldn't handle the workload and about fell off. Needless to say, I never completed the piece. The kid never did ask about it again, but I should probably thank him for sparking my interest in the genius of Jimi Hendrix. This is one of the few unfinished artworks in my portfolio. Ironically, I am content with keeping it just that way.

Happy Friday

2009-01-30T20:12:00.005-05:00

TGIF!!

Today was a very productive day! I was up super early this morning, painting of course!

Most of this afternoon was spent rearranging things and organizing stuff in the studio. I am getting ready to do a complete remodelling project to help make my studio more efficient.

I got a charge out of seeing all the portfolios my mother kept of all my drawings and paintings since I was a little girl. I haven't had the time to actually sit and go through everything yet, but it will happen bit by bit this year. Or, at least that's my goal.

As I come across all the cool "vintage Lefcort" pieces, I'll post some pics. Already, Jay and I have been brainstorming some really exciting ideas for upcoming shows. Days like today are great for me because I feel like I really accomplished a lot...and still have so much to do. A day where Time just completely flew by me!

This weekend will be a working weekend for me, as I have been on a roll completing commissions and starting new projects. However, I am taking Sunday afternoon to enjoy the Superbowl!! (Go Steelers!)

Retro Tuesday

2009-01-27T15:40:00.008-05:00

This painting of Luciano Pavarotti is very special to me. A few years back, I was chosen to paint the potrait of the "Person of the Year" for the Grammys charitable arm, MusiCares. Mr. Pavarotti was given this special honor and I was privileged to give him this gift. Also, I was able to attend this star-studded event, a few days before the Grammy awards.

The formal function was held at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. While hanging out with celebrities like David Crosby and Tony Bennett in the Silent Auction (this is also the night that Deborah Gibson bought my portrait of Elton John), record producer Phil Ramone came up to me and told me how much Mr. Pavarotti loved his portrait. They had just presented it to him in his suite upstairs.

Mr. Ramone, also a collector (he has my portrait of Quincy Jones in his office), proceeded to describe to me with much enthusiasm how Pavarotti kept covering his eyes with his hand, a la peek-a-boo, and then moved his hand to see the portrait and exclaiming, "She got it!! She got it!!"

Mr. Ramone told me how Mr. Pavarotti was eager to meet me and would I please come down to their table during the dinner so he could introduce us. I pretended not to be shy and said, "Of course!"

"Holy shnikees!!" was what was actually going through my head. Anyway, during dinner, I got over my anxiety and headed over to their table, front and center. Mr. Ramone saw me coming and got up, whispered something to Pavarotti, and then shuffled me right beside him!!

Pavarotti was probably the biggest man I have ever seen, and his presence was even bigger than his physical being. But I am a tall 5'4" and seated, he was almost as tall as me!! Pavarotti immediately took his oversized hand and grabbed my right hand, held it to his heart and told me with his Italian accent, "Eets boooteeful. I lahv eet!" Here is where I would like to tell you that I said wonderful things like, "It's my privilege and honor to meet you!" "You are a living legend!" "I'm such a big fan!" Things like that....but I cannot honestly say that. I believe the exact words that I uttered to one of the greatest tenors the world has known was: "That's so cool!" That's it. I crack myself up remembering how nervous I was and how my mind went blank.

I'm sure we exchanged a few other niceities and I was also introduced around the table. I got to meet Sting (who actually stepped on my foot while getting up to meet me), Aretha Franklin, and Natalie Cole. And those people were just at Mr. Pavarotti's table!!

The evening was amazing!! Among other performances, I got to see Pavarotti sing an aria with Aretha Franklin, on stage, just for the lucky people at this event!

I should have also said that I painted three portraits, all 48" x 48", for this event. One for Pavarotti himself. One that hangs in the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences in Los Angeles, California. And one that I asked to be signed by Pavarotti, if he didn't mind, for my personal collection. He didn't mind, and a few weeks after the award ceremony, I received my autographed painting!!

Sadly, when Pavarotti died, I was on a train heading from London to Manchester.
Meeting him was definitely one of the extraordinary highlights of my life so far.

TGIF

2009-01-23T17:35:00.005-05:00

Happy Friday!!

Last week's excursion to my friend's art show was fantastic!

I was really delighted to know that "pop art" is alive and well!!

There were paintings, drawings, bronze sculptures, fiberglass masterpieces, and ceramic objects d'art, depicting some of the most beloved "pop" icons. One of my favorites was a ceramic piece of a giant Campbell's Soup can. It has been the ultimate pop icon since Andy Warhol made it so in 1962 by silkscreening 32 canvases with all the different varieties of soup.

When I was in elementary school in Miami my class took a field trip to one of the art museums downtown. Lucky for me there was a Warhol exhibition going on and it was through wide open eyes (and a giant smile on my face) that I saw some of these soup cans! I also remember his pieces of Howdy Doody and Superman, as well as some of Andy's self-portraits. I was greatly attracted to his use of diamond dust. Interestingly, as a 10 year old little girl, I had no idea what exactly I was looking at, nor did I have any notion of the impact this field trip would have on the rest of my life.

Still, to this day, I get excited when I see pop art; I just love it. And, truthfully, that's why I do it.

Inauguration Day!

2009-01-20T16:59:00.004-05:00

It is with a patriotic spirit that I am posting today.

How amazing to watch the Inauguration of Obama with millions of people and feel like such and integral part of history!!

I am truly touched by the enormity and importance of this remarkable occasion. Spurred by my overwhleming sense of pride and excitement of the day, I got out my trusty sketch pad and went to work. Every original painting I do starts as a pencil and marker sketch on paper. I have been working on ideas for this sketch since Obama's nomination, but only today have I actually completed it. Fitting, isn't it? This sketch will become an all-acrylic original in the near future, and when it's finished the title will be "With Hope And Virtue."

Forever an optimist, I will end this blog with an Obama quote that I find most inspiring: "I'm asking you to believe. Not in my ability to bring about real change in Washington...I'm asking you to believe in yours."

Still workin...

2009-01-16T14:37:00.005-05:00

Hi everybody!

I am really excited about the new format for the website! All week I have been looking forward to updating you all on the progress in the studio!

This past week in sunny South Florida has been beautiful! We have had highs in '70s and lows in the '60s...perfect weather as far as I am concerned. I have had all the windows and doors open in the studio, trying to simulate working outside. I love the fresh air and the cool breeze. My paints, on the other hand, do not dry as usual which is mildly frustrating when I am trying to keep to my painting schedule. But perfect weather definitely makes up for it!!

One of the pieces I got started on this week is "NYC Lennon." This piece was commissioned by my good friends Jim and Viv. I really hope they enjoy it when they finally receive it!

I am surely looking forward to the weekend. Tonight I am attending an art exhibition for my friend Jonathan Stein (shout out!) up at PB3 in West Palm Beach, Florida. I am also going to try to spend some time with friends and family before getting back to the swing of things next week!

Have a GREAT 3-day weekend!

First Post!!

2009-01-09T13:45:00.003-05:00

Greetings and salutations!!
Happy New Year and welcome to my Blog!!

With a new year comes a new look for allisonlefcort.com. My New Year's resolution (or the one that I know I will keep) is to frequently update this site with exciting news and pics from my studio, gallery shows, and abroad.

I hope you all enjoy and come back often to check in with me!!

I have been very busy painting in the studio. "Elvis" is one of my newest pieces. I began it way back in November, in preparation for a demonstration aboard the Emerald Princess, where it was sold! I painted on my balcony aboard the ship at all hours of the day and night, brought the piece back to the studio and put the finishing touches on it.