And I'm Back...Quite A Busy Fall!

Hello, it's been awhile! The last few months have been exceptionally busy. The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest was a huge success, which meant much of September was spent working on new paintings for an art fair in Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood (A good 'problem' to have!).

My booth at the Edgewater Fall Art Fair

(c)2013 Eric E. Paige, All Rights Reserved

The Edgewater Fall Art Fair also went well.  It was the first time this event was held, and despite an evening storm that moved our tents around, a good time was had by all.

Though the temperatures have turned cool, most of September and October were beautiful here in Chicago. My camera and I were quite busy.

My favorite neighborhood attraction is the local beach. Rogers Park's lakefront parks, Loyola Park and Hartigan Beach are incredibly beautiful.  We are lucky to not only have a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, but a grassy, shaded park area and a breakwater that offers an amazing view of the Chicago skyline.

Hartigan Beach
(c)2013 Eric E. Paige

Chicago Skyline, Loyola Park

(c)2013 Eric E. Paige

Breakwater, Loyola Park

(c)2013 Eric E. Paige

Hartigan Beach
(c)2013 Eric E. Paige

Self Portrait, Loyola Park
(c)2013 Eric E. Paige

Breakwater, Loyola Park

(c)2013 Eric E. Paige

Doughnuts on Wheels at The NOSH! (c)2013 Eric E. Paige

Beyond my neighborhood, I spent part of my time exploring Wicker Park, Bucktown, and Logan Square. One of my favorite ongoing attractions was The NOSH, an artisan food fair that was held every Saturday at the A.N. Pritztker School in Wicker Park.  Though the outdoor version ended last month, they have partnered with an indoor farmers' market for the winter (click the link above or more information). Every weekend was different with choices ranging from savory to sweet, plus there was music to boot!

The Classic Lunch Counter Experience at Johnny's Grill

(c)2013 Eric E. Paige

Elsewhere off the Blue Line, I spent some time exploring the Logan Square neighborhood. One gem I found was Johnny's Grill at 2545 N Kedzie Blvd.  A classic lunch counter, reminiscent of a Woolworth's Luncheonette or corner diner.  In fact, the place sports it's own parody of Edward Hopper's iconic "Nighthawks" with Johnny's substituted for Phillies. (Bonus: if you are in Chicago, you can see the original "Nighthawks" painting at The Art Institute of Chicago).

Of course, not all of the past couple months has been about food and hanging out at the beach. I have spent a fair amount of time revamping my website.  Please feel free to check out additional photos of Logan Square and some of my latest paintings.

I also have been working on my social media presence, you can now follow my art, culinary, DIY, and other adventures on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. See you on the web!