Jumping Ginger Oil on panel, 11" x 14," NFS |
I'm off my game, dear reader. There's no other way to put it.
I had major back surgery last month. They went in to fuse three vertebrae but ended up fusing five for more stability.
You might wonder how this surgery came about... It was probably my fault for running myself ragged. I started weight loss medication in 2024 and one night, I passed out. My Lumbar 1 was severely fractured and my left wrist was broken. My wrist was surgically repaired almost immediately. My back was a different story.
Having had an emergency cervical fusion in 2020 (from a car accident) I never wanted surgery like that again. So, despite medical advice I tried other solutions, none of which worked. At some point, my pain management doctor told me, I was going to end up permanently hunched over if I didn't get it fixed for real... Me, being the vainglory hussy that I am then decided to get serious and get the surgery. My recovery is still ongoing. **sigh** My mood? Sour!
That's what's going on here! There are a few art news items to report, so here goes...
I wish you a bountiful abundance of spring Daffodils and fresh deviled eggs until next time! |
Artfully yours,
Diane Hoeptner Artist Kirtland, OH |
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Big news that will have to wait... Assuming the stars align and the creek don't rise: I shall crow a'plenty (much later!) in the Fall edition of this newsletter. But it has to do with a national magazine, oh yes. |
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This time next year Penitentiary Glen Reservation, part of Lake Metroparks in Kirtland, Ohio will host a four-person group art show to include my paintings. I met the exhibits coordinator and toured the gallery several weeks ago. This show has really given me something to look forward to while my back heals-- I've had time to plan some paintings too -- Local birds (as witnessed in my yard) animals from nearby Farmpark and of course kittehcats will all make appearances.
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As Calicos go, I remember being absolutely enchanted by this shelter rescue. This painting of "Tom" remains an all time personal favorite... So, I am very happy to report the painting (oil on panel, 8" x 6," Private Collection) placed 2nd/US in the 8th Annual 2026 My Cat Magazine Catit international cat art contest. Winning entries were selected by popular vote, as opposed to a judge/jury deal situation. But wait, there's more!
"Tom" was also a finalist in the January 2026 BoldBrush Painting Competition as judged by Elizabeth Robbins. I have been a fan of Elizabeth's floral still life painting for years, so that was a thrill. Have a look at all the winners and finalists, here. |
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The Seeker
Oil on panel, 10" x 8," NFS |
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Diane Hoeptner (Hep-ner) is an artist based in Ohio, known for her small oil paintings of cats. Drawing inspiration from rescue shelters, cat shows and rural farms, she creates evocative narratives that resonate with collectors worldwide. Her realistic painting style captures the nuanced behavior of cats in all their enigmatic glory. Other small animals, vintage patterns, drifting leaves and butterflies offer enchanting components to her compositions. Notable books featuring her art include Cats in Art, The Book of the Cat and Daily Painting. She holds a BA in Studio Arts from California State University, Northridge.
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