This month's challenge (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3599/3297575802_5dca3f914c.jpg) certainly provided not only an incredibly beautiful image -- Thanks Bev and Bill!), but the submissions have been out of this world glorious and truly a bit intimidating.
I wrestled with how to approach the subject - limited in time and vision as I was -- and so decided to use Karlyn Holman's 'path of light' that I learned this November. I worked a bit, rested a lot, worked a bit, rested ... and so it took longer than it might have otherwise. I abstracted the leaves somewhat and tried to keep this complex piece as simple as I could.
Thank you again for your comments --- my eyes are improving. The prescriptive drops don't seem to burn as much as they did when I first began this treatmet, so I'm hoping that's a good sign. I'm slowly making my way through that lecture I've been working on for six weeks - so making progress on THAT has relaxed a bit of the stress I've been feeling. A few more days and I'm thinking I'll be able to wear my lenses again. This blurry world I've been seeing, though soft around the edges, really has me missing details! LOL
Once more, thank you all for your encouragement and caring. You kindness is a cherished blessing.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Down the Shady Lane
Daily Practice
Thank you all once more for your kind comments. My eyes are somewhat better, though still quite dry. We're expecting rain this weekend -- and would you believe -- possibly snow on Monday?? Temps today are going to be in the 70s, freezing on Monday .. but I think the moisture from the rain will help my eyes better than any drops. The humidifer helps some, but I think when EVERYTHING is wet and soggy, that should help most of all.
A loose, quick, sketch ...without my lenses, it really is difficult to see those details I love-- certainly helps making the decision easier as to what to keep and what to leave out --! LOL
It's pretty overcast this morning, very restive as the clouds close in before the storms... perfect weather for resting!
Stay well my dear ones!
Thank you all once more for your kind comments. My eyes are somewhat better, though still quite dry. We're expecting rain this weekend -- and would you believe -- possibly snow on Monday?? Temps today are going to be in the 70s, freezing on Monday .. but I think the moisture from the rain will help my eyes better than any drops. The humidifer helps some, but I think when EVERYTHING is wet and soggy, that should help most of all.
A loose, quick, sketch ...without my lenses, it really is difficult to see those details I love-- certainly helps making the decision easier as to what to keep and what to leave out --! LOL
It's pretty overcast this morning, very restive as the clouds close in before the storms... perfect weather for resting!
Stay well my dear ones!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Shack Redeaux
Daily Practice
I painted this a week or so ago working on some variations of techniques trying for a looser approach and value patterns. Looking at it today, I'm not so sure it worked -- but the loose part is certainly there! LOL
I'll be working from home this week and resting my eyes hourly per doctor's instructions. I'm not sure how much painting I'll be able to get done since my work activities will be slowed down due to sight problems and those dang deadlines are beginning to loom large.
Thank you all for your encouragement and kind comments ... I think this issue will pass quickly if I behave myself -- difficult as it will be! and listen to the doctor! LOL
I painted this a week or so ago working on some variations of techniques trying for a looser approach and value patterns. Looking at it today, I'm not so sure it worked -- but the loose part is certainly there! LOL
I'll be working from home this week and resting my eyes hourly per doctor's instructions. I'm not sure how much painting I'll be able to get done since my work activities will be slowed down due to sight problems and those dang deadlines are beginning to loom large.
Thank you all for your encouragement and kind comments ... I think this issue will pass quickly if I behave myself -- difficult as it will be! and listen to the doctor! LOL
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
The Glint of Sunlight
Thank you all for your kind comments and suggestions regarding my eyes.
I did make it to the doctor and in order to get the swelling and inflammation down, I need to rest them more, keep my contact lenses out of my eyes as much as I can, and reduce my computer use. So I may be scarce for a while, but knowing me, it won't be THAT scarce! LOL Thank you once more.
This view was chosen for the challenge of backlighting and trying to show that way the sunlight has of creating a bit of a 'halo' around an object ... interesting fun and even more challenging without contact lenses! LOL
My kitties brought presents yesterday too -- guess they wanted me to know they enjoyed my being home during the week. When I went out to give them their dinner, I found a mole or vole's head AND 6" of snake ... mercy, my life gets more 'intersting' every day! And it's good to know their 'supplementing' their diets. Geez ....
I did make it to the doctor and in order to get the swelling and inflammation down, I need to rest them more, keep my contact lenses out of my eyes as much as I can, and reduce my computer use. So I may be scarce for a while, but knowing me, it won't be THAT scarce! LOL Thank you once more.
This view was chosen for the challenge of backlighting and trying to show that way the sunlight has of creating a bit of a 'halo' around an object ... interesting fun and even more challenging without contact lenses! LOL
My kitties brought presents yesterday too -- guess they wanted me to know they enjoyed my being home during the week. When I went out to give them their dinner, I found a mole or vole's head AND 6" of snake ... mercy, my life gets more 'intersting' every day! And it's good to know their 'supplementing' their diets. Geez ....
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Fields of Solitude
A long day and night yesterday.... I didn't get to the B&B early enough to paint anything complex. I've been having trouble with my eyes lately, and hope to get to the doctor's before he leaves for a conference out of state for the next week.
This view was taken from a photograph I happened to have with me ...but it could be set in North Carolina or most anywhere. I love the peace in it ...the expanse of earth tones giving rise to dreams ....
This view was taken from a photograph I happened to have with me ...but it could be set in North Carolina or most anywhere. I love the peace in it ...the expanse of earth tones giving rise to dreams ....
Monday, February 23, 2009
Duke's White Garden and Redbuds
The climatic zone maps used by gardeners splits by a half zone the city where I work and the town where I live. That half zone is significant enough that cherry trees and redbuds are in bright bloom an hour south of me, while mine, just a bit more north, are still tightly budded, and I won't see flowers for another 2 weeks.
Charles and I spent the afternoon at the NC Botanical Garden lecture yesterday presented by Richard Westmacott on African-American Gardens. A terrific lecture and even more engaging book. Temperatures were in the mid 30s, very cold to me, and the gardens there were still in their winter browns and siennas.
I longed to see some color and feel warmer temps, and so returned home to some photographs taken last March from Sarah Duke Gardens. This is a view of their 'White Garden" while the redbuds were in full bloom. Bulbs upon bulbs upon bulbs created white blankets of flowers all around the large earthenware ....
Just the kind of hopeful vision for a cold, still-wintery day...
Happy Monday!
Charles and I spent the afternoon at the NC Botanical Garden lecture yesterday presented by Richard Westmacott on African-American Gardens. A terrific lecture and even more engaging book. Temperatures were in the mid 30s, very cold to me, and the gardens there were still in their winter browns and siennas.
I longed to see some color and feel warmer temps, and so returned home to some photographs taken last March from Sarah Duke Gardens. This is a view of their 'White Garden" while the redbuds were in full bloom. Bulbs upon bulbs upon bulbs created white blankets of flowers all around the large earthenware ....
Just the kind of hopeful vision for a cold, still-wintery day...
Happy Monday!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
French Window
A few weeks ago there was a bit of dicussion here about 'shapes' in watercolor. A bit over a year ago a friend suggested that I look up the chart of watercolor tips by Tom Lynch. I love the results Tom achieves by linking 'shapes' though his 'first colorful wash' .. and though I understood those concepts, I couldn't seem to move past that stage very successfully.
Yesterday I ran across a demo by Allan Kirk (http://www.tarnincolour.com/) that seemed to give me whatever it was I was needed to move past my own 'block.'
I altered the demo scene a bit to work on this window using the 'first bright wash' method professed by Lynch and demonstrated a bit more to my understanding by Kirk (mercy, learning can be such a long process sometimes! LOL). I find painting this way a tad counter-intuitive --though
I'm pleased with the results.
As time permits today, I want to try a similiar scene using my more intuitive approach ... just to compare the two.
I think what I am learning over and over again is that there are many approaches to painting - all with results that can be pleasing and fun, and it really comes down to individual likes and dislikes and what works for you. Still, every lesson adds something to the learner -- thus, I think, keeping the entire process fresh and fun.
Have a great Sunday.
Yesterday I ran across a demo by Allan Kirk (http://www.tarnincolour.com/) that seemed to give me whatever it was I was needed to move past my own 'block.'
I altered the demo scene a bit to work on this window using the 'first bright wash' method professed by Lynch and demonstrated a bit more to my understanding by Kirk (mercy, learning can be such a long process sometimes! LOL). I find painting this way a tad counter-intuitive --though
I'm pleased with the results.
As time permits today, I want to try a similiar scene using my more intuitive approach ... just to compare the two.
I think what I am learning over and over again is that there are many approaches to painting - all with results that can be pleasing and fun, and it really comes down to individual likes and dislikes and what works for you. Still, every lesson adds something to the learner -- thus, I think, keeping the entire process fresh and fun.
Have a great Sunday.
French Window
A few weeks ago there was a bit of dicussion here about 'shapes' in watercolor. A bit over a year ago a friend suggested that I look up the chart of watercolor tips by Tom Lynch. I love the results Tom achieves by linking 'shapes' though his 'first colorful wash' .. and though I understood those concepts, I couldn't seem to move past that stage very successfully.
Yesterday I ran across a demo by Allan Kirk (http://www.tarnincolour.com/) that seemed to give me whatever it was I was needed to move past my own 'block.'
I altered the demo scene a bit to work on this window using the 'first bright wash' method professed by Lynch and demonstrated a bit more to my understanding by Kirk (mercy, learning can be such a long process sometimes! LOL). I find painting this way a tad counter-intuitive --though
I'm pleased with the results.
As time permits today, I want to try a similiar scene using my more intuitive approach ... just to compare the two.
I think what I am learning over and over again is that there are many approaches to painting - all with results that can be pleasing and fun, and it really comes down to individual likes and dislikes and what works for you. Still, every lesson adds something to the learner -- thus, I think, keeping the entire process fresh and fun.
Have a great Sunday.
Yesterday I ran across a demo by Allan Kirk (http://www.tarnincolour.com/) that seemed to give me whatever it was I was needed to move past my own 'block.'
I altered the demo scene a bit to work on this window using the 'first bright wash' method professed by Lynch and demonstrated a bit more to my understanding by Kirk (mercy, learning can be such a long process sometimes! LOL). I find painting this way a tad counter-intuitive --though
I'm pleased with the results.
As time permits today, I want to try a similiar scene using my more intuitive approach ... just to compare the two.
I think what I am learning over and over again is that there are many approaches to painting - all with results that can be pleasing and fun, and it really comes down to individual likes and dislikes and what works for you. Still, every lesson adds something to the learner -- thus, I think, keeping the entire process fresh and fun.
Have a great Sunday.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
View across the Marsh
Do you ever try to analyze why you choose certain images to paint? It seems to me that when I'm trying to loosen up a bit, or I've been under an abundance of stress, that I tend to choose marshes or fields -- both the kind of landscapes I'm familiar with and both scenes from my places I've lived and loved.
I lived for over 20 years in Charleston, SC, and while most folks living there tend to enjoy the Atlantic beach, I preferred the quiet lapping waters on the marsh side of the islands -- the fields of grasses, the gentler waters, the maritime forests, the bits of undilations in the land.
Fields are part of the landscape I occupy now - hayfields and barns, tobacco and hay - and the colors of the earth as sceen in the soil and vegetation - are very comforting to me.
What scenes do you prefer to paint?
I lived for over 20 years in Charleston, SC, and while most folks living there tend to enjoy the Atlantic beach, I preferred the quiet lapping waters on the marsh side of the islands -- the fields of grasses, the gentler waters, the maritime forests, the bits of undilations in the land.
Fields are part of the landscape I occupy now - hayfields and barns, tobacco and hay - and the colors of the earth as sceen in the soil and vegetation - are very comforting to me.
What scenes do you prefer to paint?
Friday, February 20, 2009
Loosely Painting Roses
Another approach -- no pencil lines -- a bit looser ---
I seem to be betwixt the two approaches --- whenever I paint or sketch something somewhat loose, there's a 'tension' I feel that 'something is missing' -- yep, those lines ... perhaps it's simply habit, perhaps it's learning something different ...
Very interesting process....
I seem to be betwixt the two approaches --- whenever I paint or sketch something somewhat loose, there's a 'tension' I feel that 'something is missing' -- yep, those lines ... perhaps it's simply habit, perhaps it's learning something different ...
Very interesting process....
Roses from my Honey
Charles brought home some wonderfully fragrant and bright yellow roses last week ... terrific sketch material! LOL
Here, my typical watercolor approach -- a bit more structure -- lines given importance ... I thought I'd try to do something a bit looser.
Here, my typical watercolor approach -- a bit more structure -- lines given importance ... I thought I'd try to do something a bit looser.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Rebeccas Daffodills
The rain has brought warm temps again and from Rebecca's garden to the Arboretum, daffodills are joining the emerging crocuses, blooming forsythias and popping tulips ...
Despite the forecast for snow flurries on Sunday, TODAY, it feels like spring .... tomorrow? Who knows! LOL
Despite the forecast for snow flurries on Sunday, TODAY, it feels like spring .... tomorrow? Who knows! LOL
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Rebecca's Salt Shakers
More late night meetings -- little time to paint ...still, I love these 'sexy' salt shakers of Rebecca's .. love their slender, clear form, and thought I could stay awake long enough to paint them!
It's raining today, but things at work should be a bit quieter and less frenetic than the last 2 weeks. We really need the rain as we're already behind our annual precipitation numbers and our new plantings have gotten mighty thirsty!
Hope YOUR day is sunshiney!!
It's raining today, but things at work should be a bit quieter and less frenetic than the last 2 weeks. We really need the rain as we're already behind our annual precipitation numbers and our new plantings have gotten mighty thirsty!
Hope YOUR day is sunshiney!!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Rebeccas Barn in the Snow
Temperatures are back to mid-20s and there's frost on the car once again. This scene is from the snow we had last week -- the view is of Rebecca's red barn ...
Work is mighty intense and busy. I'll probably be scarce for a while ....
Stay warm!
Work is mighty intense and busy. I'll probably be scarce for a while ....
Stay warm!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Red Tulips
Wet Canvas has a wonderful tutorial on spring flowers this month; and these tulips were done in response to that challenge.
We had a 'jumping' good time yesterday with Emily and Nick. The inflatable giant toys and slides kept them busy for a couple of hours, and we all came home mighty tired. A really nice way to celebrate Emily's 5th birthday.
It's another meeting-packed week for me, and temperatures have dropped, though still no signs of any snow, or rain for that matter.
Still, the cherry trees were blooming south of us which means we have another 2 weeks or so before my own trees begin to break bud.
Can spring be just around the corner?
We had a 'jumping' good time yesterday with Emily and Nick. The inflatable giant toys and slides kept them busy for a couple of hours, and we all came home mighty tired. A really nice way to celebrate Emily's 5th birthday.
It's another meeting-packed week for me, and temperatures have dropped, though still no signs of any snow, or rain for that matter.
Still, the cherry trees were blooming south of us which means we have another 2 weeks or so before my own trees begin to break bud.
Can spring be just around the corner?
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Bev's Hydrangeas in the Snow
Today the temperatures are dropping with the possibility of snow flurries -- yep -- 60s and 70s last week - cold enough for flurries today.
Bev (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bevmor/) generously allowed me to paint from the photo she took of dried hydrangeas in the snow ...I don't see these wonderful water and snow scenes where I live in Piedmont NC, so painting this was a wonderful stretch and lots of fun.... Thanks Bev!
Today we take the grands for Emily's 5th birthday to an inflatable jumping place ... sounds like a wild time! And should give she and Nick some terrific opportunities to run off some energy.
Have a great day!
Bev (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bevmor/) generously allowed me to paint from the photo she took of dried hydrangeas in the snow ...I don't see these wonderful water and snow scenes where I live in Piedmont NC, so painting this was a wonderful stretch and lots of fun.... Thanks Bev!
Today we take the grands for Emily's 5th birthday to an inflatable jumping place ... sounds like a wild time! And should give she and Nick some terrific opportunities to run off some energy.
Have a great day!
The Glow of Sunset
Fickle weather -- and a see-saw of temperatures. We were supposed to have rain yesterday and cooler temps -- wound up warm enough to be outdoors to sketch a bit -- but didn't get to it with other obligations. This sketch is a memory of our walk at sunset -- a pink glow over the fields, and trees ... LOVED IT. HAD I had the time with the sun going down, THIS is the scene I would have painted .. but did it from memory instead.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
To my husband, my children, my grands, my family, and my dear, wonderful friends of Flickr and the Blogosphere:
HAPPY HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
With all my heart, I thank you for your encouragement, support and friendship. May today be filled with the love and passion that keeps us all picking up our brushes and sharing the beauty and joy of the world!
Love and Hugs!
HAPPY HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
With all my heart, I thank you for your encouragement, support and friendship. May today be filled with the love and passion that keeps us all picking up our brushes and sharing the beauty and joy of the world!
Love and Hugs!
Valentine Rose
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! I couldn't decide which one I liked better -- the card or the simple rose -- so I uploaded both!!!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Beech - In my Woods
Daily Practice
I took a break at lunch yesterday from all the research and writing ... I've almost got all my subject matter outlined ... and it's almost time to rewrite and begin editing -- yeah! By noon, I was bleary, and despite the stiff winds, I decided to try a quick plein air.
I walked a bit in the thicket behind the house. Beech trees are still holding onto their leaves, and the thorny smilax really gave me a fit! I sat behind a bit of a knoll and some shrubs, and I wasn't tossed about as badly as the tops of the trees. I definitely need more plein air practice and so I found my attempts awkward and frustrating. I was a bit better focused that last week, but I can tell, I need to quicken my painting and just 'go for it' ... while trying to remove that studio mind set! LOL
As the winds slackened after dinner, we walked a bit. Spring peepers were seranading us, the buds on the tulip poplars and my flowering quince are about to pop!
Temps are falling this weekend with rain predicted. It isn't spring yet -- though it's 'tease' is definitely in the wind!
I took a break at lunch yesterday from all the research and writing ... I've almost got all my subject matter outlined ... and it's almost time to rewrite and begin editing -- yeah! By noon, I was bleary, and despite the stiff winds, I decided to try a quick plein air.
I walked a bit in the thicket behind the house. Beech trees are still holding onto their leaves, and the thorny smilax really gave me a fit! I sat behind a bit of a knoll and some shrubs, and I wasn't tossed about as badly as the tops of the trees. I definitely need more plein air practice and so I found my attempts awkward and frustrating. I was a bit better focused that last week, but I can tell, I need to quicken my painting and just 'go for it' ... while trying to remove that studio mind set! LOL
As the winds slackened after dinner, we walked a bit. Spring peepers were seranading us, the buds on the tulip poplars and my flowering quince are about to pop!
Temps are falling this weekend with rain predicted. It isn't spring yet -- though it's 'tease' is definitely in the wind!
The Kitties
I've been asked how the kittens are doing, and so I've snapped a photo of these now 'cats' romping through the woods. They've grown so fast it seems, and all in all, tend to stick together. The pairs we noticed when they were younger - Boots and Pepper, Spot and Whiskers, Blackie and Target (above) have continued.
We noticed all six of them last weekend 'playing' with something behind the garage. Looking further, we found them with a black snake, and we thought the poor snake was dead. Since it was close to dinner, we fixed plates for the cats, which brought them to the porch.
It turns out, Mr. Black Snake was merely playing possum, and once the cats were around the other end of the house, the snake took off!
We used to have a black snake living under the house -- sure kept the field mice to a minimum. Ah, the benefits of rural living!
We noticed all six of them last weekend 'playing' with something behind the garage. Looking further, we found them with a black snake, and we thought the poor snake was dead. Since it was close to dinner, we fixed plates for the cats, which brought them to the porch.
It turns out, Mr. Black Snake was merely playing possum, and once the cats were around the other end of the house, the snake took off!
We used to have a black snake living under the house -- sure kept the field mice to a minimum. Ah, the benefits of rural living!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Old Granville Shed
Daily Practice
There are still some paintings and sketches I haven't posted that were done a few months back -- this shed is one of them. I find it interesting to see how my approach to these subjects is changing over time, though I'm finding lately that that 'moving forward' is a bit more dificult with all else that's swirling around the busyness.
I remember taking the photo of this shed -- I had to scramble through tangles of undergrowth, vines and a ditch to find an angle that was clear enough to see the shed. The hill it was on posed its own challenge. I remember thinking as I painted this that I had to simplify it so that the shed was the focus and NOT all the tangles. Still, remembering all those snarly vines, I'm wondering today if I should have put more of them in there.
We're in for another 70sF day and another day at the computer and reserach table for me. I hope to get out for an hour to enjoy a bit of the warmth before the rain sets in this weekend.
There are still some paintings and sketches I haven't posted that were done a few months back -- this shed is one of them. I find it interesting to see how my approach to these subjects is changing over time, though I'm finding lately that that 'moving forward' is a bit more dificult with all else that's swirling around the busyness.
I remember taking the photo of this shed -- I had to scramble through tangles of undergrowth, vines and a ditch to find an angle that was clear enough to see the shed. The hill it was on posed its own challenge. I remember thinking as I painted this that I had to simplify it so that the shed was the focus and NOT all the tangles. Still, remembering all those snarly vines, I'm wondering today if I should have put more of them in there.
We're in for another 70sF day and another day at the computer and reserach table for me. I hope to get out for an hour to enjoy a bit of the warmth before the rain sets in this weekend.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
The evening ended around 10 pm last night and went well. With the intense busyness of the day, I had time merely to sketch and no time to paint.
I sketched these last week -- a pair of salt and pepper shakes that sit on Rebecca's kitchen table. The practice here was keeping things soft, enlarging what is a very tiny set (under 3"), and trying, as always, to complete the sketch a bit swifter than normal. I see as I've uploaded this a bit of wonkiness to the plate ... good thing I keep practicing! LOL
Today is my technician's last day before she changes jobs at the college. We've spent the last few weeks in small bouts of retraining, catching up budgets, refamiliarizing ourselves with tasks that I will have to re-assum until the posiiton is filled, working through the hiring freeze, new employees in other positions, the 'where's this' kind of questions, and all else. A has been an incredible asset to the Arboretum and right-hand to me, and I'm thrilled for her promotion -- so justly deserved. She will definitely leave a huge gap to fill.
I've another day of writing tomorrow and so the busyness continues. The mild temperatures have begun to give folks a bit of spring fever. I've already spotted forsythia in bloom and I'm itching to get outdoors and paint! Fingers crossed for this weekend.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Daily Practice
Walking into the greenhouse yesterday was like changing climates and finding spring waiting. On each work table was evidence that spring isn't too far away. Brightening one of the tables was this clematis in full bloom. But taking a look around, I found a fully ripened fig on another table, sprouts of seedlings, houseplants in rich greens, begonias in full bloom, etc., etc.
I took a rare hour away from my desk to stand and sketch this beauty with the hum of fans and scents of flowers surrounding me in the greenhouse.I so hope to get back there today.
Temperatures are going into the mid 70s, and already the crocus are beginning to bloom in each of their beds.I have another late night tonight - a repeat of the soap crafting class we did last week for another 20 participants, so it'll be after 10 pm before I fall into bed.
Still, I hope to at least get to sketch a bit later today.
Monday, February 09, 2009
Arboretum Azalea Bed in the Snow
I couldn't let the snow last week pass me by without painting a bit of the white magic I found in our Arboretum. Here's the view of the Azalea beds, the fluffy stuff gracing the greens and bare branches. Hard to believe that 3" of the stuff was entirely gone by the next day ... so glad I could catch a bit of it.
It's off to another intense week, but with temperatures in the high 60s and low 70s ... we'll all have spring fever by Wednesday!
Have a great week!
It's off to another intense week, but with temperatures in the high 60s and low 70s ... we'll all have spring fever by Wednesday!
Have a great week!
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Sheep in a Snowstorm - Another Challenge
Bill (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/) issed another challenge - this one, sheep in a snowstorm. With temps yesterday in the mid 60sF, I thought it was finally warm enough to enjoy snow! LOL Somehow when I'm cold, I need to paint something warm ... and vice versa ...
Anyway, here you go, Bill - my interpretation of sheep in the snowstorm.
Watercolor, ink, 9" x 12" 140#cp Arches
Thank you all too for your birthday wishes for Charles. We had a quiet, terrific day, including a long walk in the warm weather.
Funny thing happened that is just too humorous not to share. We were doing a bit of shopping and as we were loading the car, one of the many gulls that seem to frequent the shopping area dropped a 'splat' on poor Charles' head. What made this funnier to us -- do you remember the scene in "Under the Tuscan Sun" when the heroine is negotiating for the house in Tuscany and a bird does the EXACT same thing, and the owner of the villa declares that it's a 'sign' and she sells the house to her? Well, we're wondering if this means I should buy a house during my trip to Italy in May ... whatcha think???? LOLOL
Anyway, seems an omen for good luck or a good shampoo ...
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Today my dear, sweet, sweet husband celebrates his birthday! I won't say how many candles are burning on his cheesecake, but suffice it to say, it's keeping us both warm! LOL
I hope this is one of his very best! I don't know another soul who deserves as wonderful a birthday as the man I married over 16 years ago.
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEAREST!
Art Blog Award
My sweetest of friends, Laure, (http://paintedthoughtsblog.blogspot.com/), has generously given me this Art Blog Award, which suggests I share seven things with you. Okey Dokey -- seven:
1. I love black licorice and drink licorice tea when my stomach is upset; it's a fabulous carminative.
2. I met my husband while rollerskating, and our skate coach (who worked with us while we learned to dance-skate -- yes, like ice competitions) was the best man at our wedding.
3. I believe those who have the broadest smiles, the most jovial of laughs, often have been terribly hurt sometime in their lives.
4. Though I love sweets, candy, dessert and cookies of all kinds, I can take a bite or two and leave the rest. And yes, sometimes, it's more difficult than others! LOL
5. I studied botany at The Citadel in Charleston, SC LONG before that school admitted women to it's daytime programs.
6. I still love tramping through the woodlands to see what wonders Nature has created.
7. The worst grade I ever got in a college class was in badmitton and racket-ball -- my puny arms just couldn't get that shuttlecock FAR enough over the net to satisfy my professor! LOL
I am now supposed to pass this along to 7 others ... THIS is ALWAYS the most challenging part since I"m always so curious about my flickr friends, so could 7 of you help me out and tag yourselves for me?! And for those who are curious about the artwork that graces my life every day, please click on 'contacts' above, or see my blog roll.
And thank YOU, Laure!
Friday, February 06, 2009
A Pink Sunrise Over Oxford
I love those early morning sunrises when the landscape is drenched in warm pink and purple. Here's one of them from as viewed from my upstairs window ....
It's so very cold this morning; the cats didn't even come for their breakfast! They're cuddled up tight near the heater in the garage, and I can't blame them. As cold as it's been, it's going to be in the 60s tomorrow ... I feel like we're on a thermal roller-coaster! But I am SO glad for the warmth! And to be home for a few days.
Have a great day today -- stay warm!
It's so very cold this morning; the cats didn't even come for their breakfast! They're cuddled up tight near the heater in the garage, and I can't blame them. As cold as it's been, it's going to be in the 60s tomorrow ... I feel like we're on a thermal roller-coaster! But I am SO glad for the warmth! And to be home for a few days.
Have a great day today -- stay warm!
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Abstract Negative Painting
There's a really interesting tutorial this month on Wet Canvas about spring flowers and negative painting.Since I was thoroughly unhappy with my painting practice this week, I thought I'd give this a try ... Here's the link (http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=544498) ...And my results are above. I'll be playing with this some more when I'm not so tired .. Negative painting really makes me twist my mind in different directions! LOL
Still Life with Warmth
Daily Practice
No -- no snow today, though I expected when I got home yesterday that I would definitely paint snow .. but it was so COLD, tired and just wanted to be warm again, so I played instead with some warm colors and tulips -- thinking that maybe they would give me some energy and a bit of heat....! lol
Today is mighty cold and the last few days are catching up with me ... but we've another busy weekend and more work from home -- I hope to squeeze in some quiet, painting time, though -- I miss it!
No -- no snow today, though I expected when I got home yesterday that I would definitely paint snow .. but it was so COLD, tired and just wanted to be warm again, so I played instead with some warm colors and tulips -- thinking that maybe they would give me some energy and a bit of heat....! lol
Today is mighty cold and the last few days are catching up with me ... but we've another busy weekend and more work from home -- I hope to squeeze in some quiet, painting time, though -- I miss it!
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
WE GOT SNOW!!!
After a 15-hour workday yesterday and getting to the B&B after 10 PM, I vascillated whether to leave to go home -- snow was predicted -- so, do I leave, do I stay, will school be closed?
I decided to remain in Smithfield with predictions of only an inch of snow.
But this morning -- over THREE INCHES of the softest, prettiest snow we've seen in a while! Typically, our snow is the iced-crunchy version .. but not this -- sweet, FRIGID, powder -- and because no ice, no delays, no closings!
So after 3 hours of sleep, I headed to school, stopping along the way for 'reference photos!' LOL and to add to the Arboretum's webpage.
I did NOT paint this last night! LOL I did sketch, but I painted this over the weekend -- wishing for snow! LOL So I thought it really fit today's snowy conditions!
The snow will be gone before tonight -- DARN -- but mercy, it is GLORIOUS!
I decided to remain in Smithfield with predictions of only an inch of snow.
But this morning -- over THREE INCHES of the softest, prettiest snow we've seen in a while! Typically, our snow is the iced-crunchy version .. but not this -- sweet, FRIGID, powder -- and because no ice, no delays, no closings!
So after 3 hours of sleep, I headed to school, stopping along the way for 'reference photos!' LOL and to add to the Arboretum's webpage.
I did NOT paint this last night! LOL I did sketch, but I painted this over the weekend -- wishing for snow! LOL So I thought it really fit today's snowy conditions!
The snow will be gone before tonight -- DARN -- but mercy, it is GLORIOUS!
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMILY!
My first grandchild turns 5 !!! today -- mercy how the time has flown! Her favorite color is pink... and so these quickly done pink flowers for Emily -- HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY SWEET YOUNG LADY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SELECTED!! Charleston Window
I received word yesterday that this painting and "Fog In The Trees" were selected for a year-long hanging at the NC Community College System office!
YAHOOOOOOOOO!!!
I had one of my watercolors selected last year, and I am thrilled to have two selected this year!
YAHOOOOOOOOO!!!
I had one of my watercolors selected last year, and I am thrilled to have two selected this year!
SELECTED!! Fog In the Trees
I received word yesterday that this painting and "Fog In The Trees" were selected for a year-long hanging at the NC Community College System office!
YAHOOOOOOOOO!!!
I had one of my watercolors selected last year, and I am thrilled to have two selected this year!
YAHOOOOOOOOO!!!
I had one of my watercolors selected last year, and I am thrilled to have two selected this year!
Monday, February 02, 2009
Granville County, NC
Daily Practice
It was a beautiful day yesterday - a bit windy - but in the 50s and 60s F with the tease of spring in the sunshine.
I spent the day tied to research papers and writing and got another quarter of the project almost done. It will definitely be spring before I get this paper/talk completed!
We did manage a short walk and the time away from so much concentration felt good. I managed to sketch a bit before packing the car for the work week. That too will be busy - I've a couple of late-night workshops to conduct ... I'm thinking of doubling my vitamins!
This view is from a photo I took of a Granville County Farm last fall.... I love the cluster of trees and fence and will probably use it again and try to change the season or look ... a good exercise I think. I've been so used to painting rocks lately, that those haybales gave me a fit! LOL Maybe I'll turn them into rocks next time! LOL (After I typed that, I felt like a witch using her magic potion -- turning hay into rocks!!! LOL How about into GOLD, Lin!!! LOL)
Have a great week!
It was a beautiful day yesterday - a bit windy - but in the 50s and 60s F with the tease of spring in the sunshine.
I spent the day tied to research papers and writing and got another quarter of the project almost done. It will definitely be spring before I get this paper/talk completed!
We did manage a short walk and the time away from so much concentration felt good. I managed to sketch a bit before packing the car for the work week. That too will be busy - I've a couple of late-night workshops to conduct ... I'm thinking of doubling my vitamins!
This view is from a photo I took of a Granville County Farm last fall.... I love the cluster of trees and fence and will probably use it again and try to change the season or look ... a good exercise I think. I've been so used to painting rocks lately, that those haybales gave me a fit! LOL Maybe I'll turn them into rocks next time! LOL (After I typed that, I felt like a witch using her magic potion -- turning hay into rocks!!! LOL How about into GOLD, Lin!!! LOL)
Have a great week!
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Our Walk
Though in reality, our roadsides are far denser with trees, this pretty much is the walk we take from our house toward the 'main' (actually tertiary) road. It's still pretty green with pines and other evergreens, but there are plenty of fading russets and siennas for interest.
We've been walking this road now for over 15 years, each year noting the changes -- how the trees have grown (heck, we planted many of them! LOL), how every few years we need to regrade, the way the wildlife has come back after each family built on some of its acreage, how more or less traffic travels the road, how each year changes the deer and turkey and fox populations, how few or more children, dogs, cats, and now chickens greet us as we walk.
It's a quiet road, peaceful as we like it, and we pray it remains that way in our often frenetic world.
As my own cats have grown and have begun to roam away from our porch, our birds are returning to the feeders -- a much appreciated sight!
The snow that was originally predicted for Tuesday has changed paths (thusfar), so it looks like mild weather is in store. Our temps are due to be in the 60s today, and though I'll be researching and writing, we'll take this inviting walk today, simply to be outdoors in it!
I hope your day is restive!
We've been walking this road now for over 15 years, each year noting the changes -- how the trees have grown (heck, we planted many of them! LOL), how every few years we need to regrade, the way the wildlife has come back after each family built on some of its acreage, how more or less traffic travels the road, how each year changes the deer and turkey and fox populations, how few or more children, dogs, cats, and now chickens greet us as we walk.
It's a quiet road, peaceful as we like it, and we pray it remains that way in our often frenetic world.
As my own cats have grown and have begun to roam away from our porch, our birds are returning to the feeders -- a much appreciated sight!
The snow that was originally predicted for Tuesday has changed paths (thusfar), so it looks like mild weather is in store. Our temps are due to be in the 60s today, and though I'll be researching and writing, we'll take this inviting walk today, simply to be outdoors in it!
I hope your day is restive!
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