Yellow Pepper 6x6 Oil on Linen

Here we are, September 1st and the fall colors are upon us, thus we have a yellow pepper. Many of the trees are already turning gold, red and all the other colors nature offers us. I spent much of the summer investigating color mixing, brush work and lots of sketching. I also dusted off the many art videos and enjoyed evenings watching them and making notes like I was at a workshop. That was fun since I didn't have to travel except down to the kitchen for more coffee or tea. In the next few months we will see how much information has stuck and helped my paintings improve. Stay tuned, I'm curious also!

Americana

This painting is 8x10 oil, presently is at Tsuga gallery for the show "Americana".  There are many beautiful paintings to see. I need to go back and review them all again. Meanwhile, I will continue to paint and improve, oh yes...and post.

Well, here I am at last!

This painting depicts the farmland in LaConner, WA. one of my favorite places to paint plain air. I did this 8x10 oil on linen after a series of workshops taken. Sometimes, you paint the same way, using the same colors and techniques and need to shaken. So, I stopped posting and did on-line workshops in watercolor, pen & ink sketching. Also, I watched numerous instructional downloads and took notes as if I were in a classroom situation.

I feel recharged like a new battery and ready to share. The rest of the summer will be experimenting with new skills I hope.
What have you been doing in my absents? Let me know, I'm here waiting.

Peace

After many weeks of just keeping this little painting around, I still like the title. There is always something you want to change but this one I just decided, done. There is so much green in Washington, it is a challenge to try to vary the colors and not make a bland piece of work. What do you think?

Spring for sure!

I did this painting a few months ago ( 9x12 oil), trying to hurry spring along and by jove, here we are. There are a few things I would change but I am trying to go forward now and not so much going back for corrections. Learn from it and move on. Actually, I have several paintings in this category but they really, really need a little help so I won't make this a strict rule, always lead a little wiggle room.

What's on your agenda?

Another day...

I've let far too many days go by without posting. It's so easy to say I'll do it tomorrow then another day slips by. Does anyone else relate to this program or is it all mine?

Update, no I never stopped painting but played with sketches, gouache and worked on finishing a few paintings as well as tossing a few. It has something to do with spring, cleaning out, getting ready for flowers and sunny days. Oh yes, they are coming! Looking at this painting...again...I see a few edges that could be softened a little more so may this one is going back to the easel. Stay tuned.

Farmland

Our farmland and forest seem to be fast disappearing, replaced by ugly buildings. I feel so sad to see beautiful areas with trees being uprooted. Progress is needed, but can't we have both? I love to paint landscapes and more aware that many places I've gone to paint are now condo's and apartment complexes. Guess I must paint faster to keep just ahead of the bulldozers. What are your thoughts?

Lemon Tree 2

What a learning curve I'm going through. I do know some of these things but putting them into practice evades me. Example, I love to paint lemons and really enjoyed this composition however, after what I call finished, kept nagging. I read an article on values and had the aha moment. Those darn lemons (actually I didn't say "darn" but we will let that go) didn't have a strong value structure. Back to the easel and here it is, better I tell you. I know this about values so why do I over look the obvious at times...I think it's impatience to get something done and on to the next project. I have so many goals so guess I better add SLOW DOWN, to the list. Your thoughts?

Spring's around the corner

I haven't posted for a few days so thought I would share what I'm working on. This is a little different for me. High keyed (very light colors) and lots of hard lines.With a little work, softer edges and more variety in this painting, it should look quite different. Sort of like just before you put your dress on...well that's the only way I could explain this. Now you get the picture, right? Stay tuned for the final version. Meanwhile, I will continue to show other work more completed, promise.

Profile Sketch 2

I've redone this original little painting and took away the wings. There were a few other things I was going to do but sometimes letting go is best. I've learned from this one, so it shall rest and I will move on. Any idea how difficult that is for me? Learning many things and it so still early in the year. How promising!

Sunflowers

Well, this completes albeit late, my thirty painting in thirty days. As I've mentioned before, December and the early part of January were not kind to my husband health wise but he is doing much better now. I was determined to finish my paintings, learn from the experience and enjoy the process. All were accomplished. If this is a down side it's ok, found a box with about thirty five small canvases all ready to be painted. I don't think I will continue a painting a day but I'll try to come close because I plan on working a little larger which is more time consuming. So, what's your latest discovery?

A Beauty

When I leave home and go up or come down the driveway I always look at the beautiful line of roses my husband grows. The different color combinations are awesome and everyone could be a painting. There is such an emphasis on working "en plein air" or outside to be with mother nature. You can't make up those colors and it really helps you to see and paint better. Yes, many artists are strictly studio painters and do a magnificent job and wouldn't go outside if their life depended on it. If, however you don't mind a total stranger telling you his aunt Jane is an artist while you're fighting wind, sun. clouds, bugs, rain and other little atmospheric conditions, this is for you to try. So, go smell the roses!

Green Apple

As I said in my last post, I love the produce section in the grocery store. This apple was so green it just looked like another color was needed to make it even more vibrant so, a touch of red was added. Now to find another subject and solve it's color balance. Each  time I do a series of small paintings, I learn so much. It's like being in a little workshop of one, each painting helps you continue to grow. There's truth in the adage, practice, practice, practice.

Fat Cat

I chose this pear because it reminded me of a fat cat sitting in a window. Let your mind go wild in the produce section and you too will find many things to paint. It could also be me sitting after all the gala holiday get togethers but I prefer to keep this image as the pear, it saves my dignity. I also look for little boxes, bags, anything that will look interesting in a still life painting. This takes in every shop known to mankind, not just the grocery store. So, what catches your eye and it makes you think? Not sure...give it some thought and let me know.

Peachy

After dinner, sometimes it's nice to have a glass of wine and piece of fruit. Less filling but tasteful. Should the waiter mention chocolate lava cake, the wine and fruit are out of the window. Actually, chocolate anything andI"m a goner. That is my confession for the day. Feel free to leave your obsessions, guilts, pleasures right here, they are safe with me. Time to be back to painting, see you tomorrow.

Revisit to Sultan, WA

Going up toward to mountains are lots of little populations that are an artists haven. These quiet little roads and farms are wonderful to paint. You have such a sense of peace while wondering when this will be plowed under to make room for another apartment complex or big houses. Right now we can only paint and put this rich history on canvas.

Single Pear

Pears and Lemons seem to be favorites to paint. The subject seems simple enough if you get the shape correct. Sometimes being observant isn't a strong suite, I want to paint and get those colors on that canvas and disaster strikes and another wipe off occurs. doing this series of thirty paintings in thirty days has taught me to slow down even with small works and pay attention. It's like the daily life things we do, stop, look and pay attention, surprising what you see in front of you. Try it!

Profile Sktech

In most cases, you want your work to be seen at it's very best. This time, I thought I would share a sketch before completion, in it's study stage. Didn't notice the leaves had turned into wings and this puppy is almost airborne. I'll be the first to admit it needs lots of work but this shows you don't start at the final stage, you work bit by bit. Okay, I'm off to get this painting away from any windows in case it decides to fly! Carry on.

Yellow Rose

As I started to write this blog, I came across an article noting that a wonderful artist, Ken Auster passed away over the human rainbow. What a loss to the art world. Hopefully, those who have studied with Ken, followed his career and viewed his many video's will continue to make art keeping his memory alive.

Hidden/Shaw Island

A few years ago, a wonderful artist, Carolyn Buchanan took a group of artists island hopping for a week. Base Camp was Orcas and each day we would catch the ferry and have class for the day on another island. This was for watercolorist and beginners accepted. Well, I am not a watercolor artist but the trip was too good to pass on so I got supplies and off I went. It seemed everyone knew what they were doing but me. Best time ever! I used oil painting concepts which kept we somewhat from being a complete idiot so I painted my little heart out. Mostly I learned, never fear change, try something new and enjoy the moment. Okay, that was sometimes difficult but keep working and for goodness sake, maintain your sense of humor, that will get you through anything. Honest.

Tree Study

I never thought about trees very much until I started to sketch and paint them. Sitting quietly, looking at them you discover they have personalities all there own. Some branches slope upwards and other down. I've taken many photo's in the arboretum and had the opportunity to paint there, this little sketch is from a combination of my photo and a pencil drawing. What little things in nature have you discovered?

Favorite Things

I don't know about you, but sitting down with a good book, cup of tea or coffee is the most relaxing enjoyable way to spend an hour or two. Okay, sometimes it goes way beyond that. We need to take these little breaks every once in a while to just recharge ourselves. What's your favorite way of kicking back and relaxing? I do want to know so drop a comment, I'll look forward to hearing from you.

Orange w/ Blue Vase

This was a quick study this afternoon done with mostly a palette knife. The little pattern in the vase was completed with the tip of the knife, a first for me. I am learning so much doing the 30 paintings in 30 days, you start to really reach and take chances hoping all will work out. Constant reminder is, this is a study, nothing more. I'm off to find more fruit or something that catches my eye. What's on your mind today that you're willing to share?

Lemon Tree

This little painting is 8x10, slightly larger than the usual 5x7's I've been posting for the 30 paintings in 30 days. For some reason, January was going to be quiet, organized, planed out, those types of things and it has been any but! So, I am just going with the program, painting when I can and I've found if you really make a commitment to yourself, you can do many things. Do what you can and then let it go. Wow, wish I could do this, easier said than done but I'll all keep trying.

How about you I ask?

Dried Flowers

I have this tiny little vase that holds dried flowers and sometimes I add it to other still life paintings but not often because it gets lost with other objects. Sometimes it just wants to go sol, so I do a little portrait of it. They are never the same so seeing the outcome is always fun. This is like most of my days, I plan what I think I would like to do and usually it's a curve ball taking me in a different direction. Is there something that keeps you on the straight and narrow? Well, I do want to know in case I become organized. Waiting to hear from you as always.

Rose Tea

I will visit this one again. It was photographed at night and the painting is wet. Sometimes you can be your own worst enemy. The painting was started after dinner but I didn't want to miss not posting so lesson learned, paint anytime but use the camera and post during the day. Anything you want to say about yourself? It's ok, I will listen.

Christine's Teapot

I love it when friends, family and sometimes total strangers get involved with my work. It's nice to know there is an interest out there. So, Christine suggested I paint a teapot, lord knows I have my fair share of them so...here it is. I hope she likes it. What suggestions are you receiving and are you following up on them? Let me know.
I'm off to pull out a couple more teapots.

Apples

This was fun to do. I tried not to be literal but also have some recognition. Does this sentence even make sense? Making small paintings for me at least  gives the opportunity to try different technics you probably wouldn't try on a larger painting because you want to be safe and not mess up. But the also stops you from growing and experimenting. So, get out there and turn loose, try something different, your friends will always bail you out!

The Winner

This painting was almost the winner today. We had a wipe out session about three times but I refused to give up. Brush milage counts for something so I am glad I continued to work at this painting. My next ribbon will be less of a problem. This could apply to many things, rather than walking away, just have a little patience and try again. Now if I can only remember this...what a coup it would be.

Sweet

I think I'm safe saying most people love flowers and sweets. Why not put them together? Made sense to me so here are two of my favorite things. Sometimes it's the simple things in life that make you happy. Sure wish it worked for the rest of the world. What are your thoughts on the subject?

Blue/Grey Road

These are the color I woke up to this morning. Sorta blue and grey and rain. After a delightful Sunday breakfast...ok no church, watching important game at 10:00, I decided to post this painting. It matches the weather in color and also reminds me of the Seahawk colors but way more subdued. Hoping for a clear day, a little sunshine in the weather and, game. Go SEAHAWKS!

Red Pear

I have a small collection of little fans. They were brought with the idea of doing a series of paintings and seeing how far an idea could go. To date, only three paintings have been completed which means lots of possibilities are still waiting. I also have teapots, masks, shells, etc. a rather long list for options don't you think? It's a little like life, we have much to choose from so let's try selecting from the best of them. Your thoughts?

Pear and Chopsticks

The more I explore color, the more I realize how much there is to learn. So many things on my to-do list. It will be nice to get a few of these projects done. So far, the 30 paintings in 30 days makes you aware of being flexible, stretching and continue to experiment. I've said in the past, we as artists need to spend more time playing and not set out on the perfect painting trail. So, playing with color combinations, different still life set ups and lighting should keep my plate full for a while. What are you going to do?

Blue Bottle

I have so many things to paint from. Lots of still life objects around the studio, but find myself going back to the same comfortable things. Where does that adventurous spirit go? We are creatures of habit and breaking that cycle is difficult however that is another one of the things I hope to combat this year. My list continues to grow. What obstacles are you facing? Please share.

Green

I feel like a kid always late for school. Actually, I'm playing catch up again refusing to give up when there are problems. Leaving early and getting home late took it's toll on my painting time but think I've got this schedule in hand now. So, hang in there with me.

Trying to use more variation in color and still stay loose in the process. Does anyone see progress here? Let me know. Thanks.

Whaaat?? Another post?

Yes, another post and I am now up to date. Either you have it or you don't, just go with the program and all will work out. Yesterday I struggled and thought my painting days at come to an end and this morning after fixing yesterday's painting White Peach 7x5 oil, came together nicely, or I think so. What are your thoughts? Yep, still want to know

Monday Morning 5x7 Oil

I like to do the crossword puzzle while having my coffee in the morning. For some reason, this painting didn't want to happen. I wiped it off three times and on the verge of just tossing it in the trash. I finally wiped out the left side and added the puzzle and it came together or at least I hope it did. Sometimes you bang your head for no reason and should step back and see what you are really doing. Now to play catch up for today's painting.

Sunday's Flower's

I'm playing with my palette knife, thick paint and loose strokes. Sometimes you don't need to be in control and try for perfection. This is way more fun and relaxing. Advice for the day, take it easy and enjoy the time you have to be creative in whatever you do. These little mini's are 5x7 and this one goes out to my knitting group. Church of the Holy Stitch. Don't worry, these ladies are not slated for sainthood. OK, maybe at the winery. Seriously, a finer group of women you  will hard press to find anywhere.

It's day two (2)of 30/30

Must reschedule to an earlier time for posting. Just getting under the wire with this one. I've titled it "Flowers for A&W" I wanted to ask permission to use their names but didn't so I'll just say the "A" guy is my cousin and his partner is "W". We visit very briefly on Facebook but live in different cities, I haven't seen him since he was a very young man, now he is just older but still beautiful. Anyway, this year I plan to recognize those who have meaning in my life so don't be surprised to see yourself in print right here on this blog. Say tuned. Now, what you you up to for the coming year? As usual, I do, want to hear.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

WHERE TO START?

First, I'll stop shouting in print, but so glad to  be back. We had a rough 2015 with my husband's health and, my attention span could not handle being an inexperienced care taker and artist at the same time. I did continue to watch art related programs and did lot's of sketching but to kick start the New Year I am doing the 30 paintings in 30 days. Stay posted so you can watch the progress or back slide. Naw, just kidding, I aim to go forward.

So let's catch up, what have you been doing? Drop a line in the comment section, I'd love to hear from you. (Dear Julie, hope you are listening, smiles).

Health, happiness and lots of smiles to you all in this year.