November News & Updates
Hello friends!
As November settles in, I feel a deep sense of thankfulness for art. Observing the changing landscape helps me hold onto these fleeting in-between moments: the last light on cottonwoods before winter, a quiet barn after harvest, or a sky that can’t decide if it’s autumn or snow season. I’m so grateful for each of you who follow along, collect my work, or simply enjoy seeing it in your inbox. You make this journey possible, and I never take that for granted.
Autumn colors on my palette
Scaling Up Tips
This month I’m working on two large commissions, which brings a new level of energy to the studio. Larger canvases invite movement—they make you step back, think bigger, and paint with intention. Here are a few of my go-to strategies when working large:
1. Pre-Mix Paint
Big paintings need big piles of paint! I mix large pools to help me cover the canvas quickly and I know my values for the large masses stay consistent across the canvas. When I’m done for the day, I cover the palette tightly with plastic wrap to keep those colors usable for the next session.
2. Larger Space, Larger Perspective
When painting large, I often move to another part of my home—or even outdoors! Stepping back 30 to 60 feet gives me a completely different view of how shapes, edges, and masses read. Mirrors are another great way to “see” the painting with fresh eyes and catch design imbalances early.
Stepping back and painting with intention
3. Studies First
Preparation is everything. I rarely start a large piece without smaller gouache or oil studies, color notes, and compositional sketches. These studies are like a roadmap—they keep me confident and free once the large painting begins.
4. Work Thin, Work Smart
Because I love gouache, I’m used to a quick-drying pace. To recreate that efficiency in oil, I start with thin layers and use Galkyd Lite to speed drying and improve flow. I also enjoy Gamblin’s Solvent-Free Gel—it gives body to the paint while helping layers set faster. Both are game-changers for maintaining momentum and freshness in larger works.
Behind the scenes: commission initial block in / drawing stages. This is where I think about big shapes and overall design placement.
Museum Show!!!!
I’m thrilled to announce my participation in a Museum Show next May!
“Sacred Spaces”
The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho
May 7th, 2026
Featuring the Works of:
David Dibble, Bryan Mark Taylor, Josh Clare, Allie Zeyer, Louisa Lorenz, and Carson Thompson
15th Annual PleinAir Salon Art Competition
I’m honored! “Autumn’s Glow” was selected as the Best Building recipient for the September 2025 PleinAir Salon Art Competition!
746 paintings entered, 21 winners
Thank you PleinAir Salon and Judge Abigail McBride!
Closing Thoughts
As Thanksgiving approaches, I feel profoundly grateful—for the beauty of the West, for quiet time at the easel, and for the many friends and collectors who support my work.
May your November be filled with gratitude!
Best,
Allie
The richness of painting from life, whether in the studio or outdoors, is where I find myself as an artist.