PHILLY AND NEW HAMPSHIRE: One year down, one to go! I'm now halfway through the masters program at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and enjoying every minute of being a student again. I'm loving city life in Philly, too, but for the summer an escape was necessary. If you're looking for me before September, I'm living in a tent at the base of Mount Moriah in northern New Hampshire, painting the Rattle River and other surroundings.

SHOWS: Due to my return to student life, I have scaled back on exhibitions. I'll have work in the 20th anniversary exhibition for the Monhegan Island Residency, opening August 21, 4-6pm on the island, through August 27. Otherwise I'd be happy to arrange a studio visit in NH or PA. Call me at 207-449-0264.

CLASSES: Coming up soon are two weekend workshops I will be teaching at River Arts in Damariscotta, Maine. The first is Plein Air Painting, July 10-11, the second is working with Natural Mixed Media, July 17-18. Full details are available at riverartsme.org

BACKCOUNTRY ART TRIPS: Adventurous artists and artistic adventurers can now schedule trips to beautiful locations around the Northeast (and beyond?) to camp, hike, paint and draw. Custom day-trips and multi-day trips are available. More Info

MAILING LIST: For irregular mailings and e-mailings to keep updated on mikeart shows and events, please Contact Mike. Personal info is never shared with others.

WEBSITE: Mikebranca.com was launched in February 2003. Suggestions and comments are always welcome.

THANKS: To my best friend, ideal viewer, toughest critic and loving wife, Amy C.