 Beginnings always look elementary During a visit with an artist friend, I took note of this canvas leaning against her wall. When I asked her plans for it, she said she had none as she prefers to work within a smaller frame. She then offered this blank vastness to my imagination.
While she made dinner for us in her outdoor kitchen, I set up my easel nearby. Inspired by the ominous sky in the east and the setting sun casting shadows from the west, I began painting color onto its white. The beginning of a composition looks, well, elementary as evidenced by this photo. But with tenacity, shape takes form and beauty results. Art reflects life. We begin a task that appears elemental in light of our efforts. But as we put our hands to the hard work, our skill set develops. And as we persevere, what emerges is reward beyond imagining.
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 Watercolor October 2023 - Photographed Outside I painted this watercolor one evening over a week ago. It needed detailing, so I consulted with my granddaughter who is also artistically inclined. She suggested I apply a tea wash to help soften the stark white background. Awesome idea sweet-pea. As my morning coffee was at hand, I used this as a wash instead. I just finished adding the last of the details to this little owl, I framed it and now I am ready to pass it on to it's new owner. Lighting plays an amazing role in presentation. I took photos of my work inside the house at night and also during the day. And then I took this piece outside into the sun to photograph. Even framed, the colors appear slightly different. I did not edit any of these pictures. I find it interesting how light plays such an imperative role in how and what we see. |
AuthorGrowing up the oldest in a household of six children and raising four of my own, I felt grateful when time allowed for a bit of quiet. But, somehow I never quite grew accustomed to spending too much time alone. Solitude and creativity are synonymous if productivity is the goal. I confess, it requires acts of discipline on my part in order to live creatively. The decisions I've made over the last several years, both professionally and personally, work to free up more time for my writing, drawing, painting and other artistic ventures. And the sacrifices I've made for this quieter, creative life are well worth the effort as I grow to enjoy a solace that produces outcomes from long-held creative dreams. Archives
July 2024
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