Daily Practice
Journal Size
I"m continuing my studies of wet into wet while also remembering the fall leaves ...Those bright symbols of the season are about faded, and yet, I am reluctant to see their colors, and the fall, merge into winter.
Yesterday morning began at 29F ...yet temps rose to the mid 50s .. today, it's warm outside - almost 50F already --- these fluctuations are making so many folks ill ... so we all need to boost the vitamin C ...
I like the reflections in this piece, and though a simple landscape, I'm learning more and more about the effects of different pigment dilutions, trying a few new colors, moving a bit more toward simplification ...
A decent practice session.
Hope your day is grand!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
View from Sunken Meadows Woodland Trail
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
What I will remember so much about our visit with my sisters is the long hike we took along the woodland bluffs in Sunken Meadow Beach Park. This particular view took us almost 4 1/2 miles along high bluffs and under some wonderful old trees, over tree roots and rocks, and another 1 1/2 miles back to my sister's home. But how incredible was the view ... stretching over marshland and water to the sea. It was the clearest view of the water from the trail - the trail that my sisters and their friends often run - high atop some of the highest land points I've ever seen on Long Island.
It's back to a mighty busy workweek - two long, back to back workshops, decorating the Arboretum's Christmas tree for the Tree Festival, and a number of meetings .....
It's also freezing outside with temps this morning of 29F .. brrr ....We'll reach the low 50s - much like the weather we had while in New York - but these starts to the mornings are mighty cold ...
Stay warm!
Arches 140#CP
What I will remember so much about our visit with my sisters is the long hike we took along the woodland bluffs in Sunken Meadow Beach Park. This particular view took us almost 4 1/2 miles along high bluffs and under some wonderful old trees, over tree roots and rocks, and another 1 1/2 miles back to my sister's home. But how incredible was the view ... stretching over marshland and water to the sea. It was the clearest view of the water from the trail - the trail that my sisters and their friends often run - high atop some of the highest land points I've ever seen on Long Island.
It's back to a mighty busy workweek - two long, back to back workshops, decorating the Arboretum's Christmas tree for the Tree Festival, and a number of meetings .....
It's also freezing outside with temps this morning of 29F .. brrr ....We'll reach the low 50s - much like the weather we had while in New York - but these starts to the mornings are mighty cold ...
Stay warm!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
View from Sunken Meadows Beach Park
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Brrrr...... It's cold enough this morning to have frozen the kitties' water outdoors ... Brrrr indeed!
We spent a relaxing day yesterday catching up on chores, picking up a few things here and there including the deer one of my students got for me before the holidays, making some rosemary tea bread for my workshops next week, drying more persimmons, and spending a good amount of time painting. Oh how I had missed that quiet time at the art table! Creating art has become so much a part of my daily habits and quite truthfully, daily needs....
This is a view from the end of the boardwalk from Sunken Meadow Beach Park on Long Island. We walked the boardwalk and around through parts of the woodlands Thanksgiving morning ... covering over 3.5 miles. Though it was cold, we managed to enjoy the sunrise and those wonderful images of sand dunes, snow fences, the 'cliffs' (which we walked earlier that week). Funny - I had been painting marshes and beach scenes the last couple of weeks (I haven't posted those yet) ... and I had been telling C most of the summer that I had wanted to visit the beach. Little did I know that the beach would be in New York! LOL But we got there - and oh how much I enjoyed the walking and the scenery -- as well as my sisters' company!
The view from my home has changed so much in a week. Empty tree branches rise to the cooling sun and when the sun makes it over the woodlands, there are no leaves to disperse the brightness. And yet even with the sun's full shine through my window, the 'heat' of it is gone, and I am left merely with its glow. The cold has arrived ....
Stay warm today!
Journal Size
Brrrr...... It's cold enough this morning to have frozen the kitties' water outdoors ... Brrrr indeed!
We spent a relaxing day yesterday catching up on chores, picking up a few things here and there including the deer one of my students got for me before the holidays, making some rosemary tea bread for my workshops next week, drying more persimmons, and spending a good amount of time painting. Oh how I had missed that quiet time at the art table! Creating art has become so much a part of my daily habits and quite truthfully, daily needs....
This is a view from the end of the boardwalk from Sunken Meadow Beach Park on Long Island. We walked the boardwalk and around through parts of the woodlands Thanksgiving morning ... covering over 3.5 miles. Though it was cold, we managed to enjoy the sunrise and those wonderful images of sand dunes, snow fences, the 'cliffs' (which we walked earlier that week). Funny - I had been painting marshes and beach scenes the last couple of weeks (I haven't posted those yet) ... and I had been telling C most of the summer that I had wanted to visit the beach. Little did I know that the beach would be in New York! LOL But we got there - and oh how much I enjoyed the walking and the scenery -- as well as my sisters' company!
The view from my home has changed so much in a week. Empty tree branches rise to the cooling sun and when the sun makes it over the woodlands, there are no leaves to disperse the brightness. And yet even with the sun's full shine through my window, the 'heat' of it is gone, and I am left merely with its glow. The cold has arrived ....
Stay warm today!
Saturday, November 27, 2010
End of the Fall
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Home! Though it is always an extreme joy to be with my mom and sisters, like Dorothy says in "The Wizard of Oz" -- there really isn't any place like home.
Returning after a few days, it amazes me to find so many of our tree leaves on the ground ... Oh, here and there some of our Bradford pears wear tutus of yellow, gold, orange and scarlet with little 'tufts' of leaves covering their upper branches. But more than anything, the ground is simply covered with fading gold, orange and umber leaves ....
Our visit couldn't have been more wonderful - though we got home mighty tired yesterday. The incredible food - my sister is a phenomenal cook! The pastries (family tradition), walks (we had walked over 10 miles!!! A first for us), marathon games of Bookworm (like scrabble), and all the laughter, seeing Mom thrive under my sisters care, memories old and the making of memories new ... all what the holidays are about, I believe.
No 'Black Friday' shopping for us -- though all the online gifts purchased for the grands arrived yesterday -- so my holiday shopping has begun.
Today it's laundry catch up, a bit of quiet time at the art table, and simply 'nesting' for the last of the Thanksgiving break.
Thank you all for your most generous and kind comments. Thanksgiving wouldn't be as rich, as heartfelt, or as incredible without you ---- thank you most of all for your kindness, generosity, and of all - friendship.
Bless each of you ....
Journal Size
Home! Though it is always an extreme joy to be with my mom and sisters, like Dorothy says in "The Wizard of Oz" -- there really isn't any place like home.
Returning after a few days, it amazes me to find so many of our tree leaves on the ground ... Oh, here and there some of our Bradford pears wear tutus of yellow, gold, orange and scarlet with little 'tufts' of leaves covering their upper branches. But more than anything, the ground is simply covered with fading gold, orange and umber leaves ....
Our visit couldn't have been more wonderful - though we got home mighty tired yesterday. The incredible food - my sister is a phenomenal cook! The pastries (family tradition), walks (we had walked over 10 miles!!! A first for us), marathon games of Bookworm (like scrabble), and all the laughter, seeing Mom thrive under my sisters care, memories old and the making of memories new ... all what the holidays are about, I believe.
No 'Black Friday' shopping for us -- though all the online gifts purchased for the grands arrived yesterday -- so my holiday shopping has begun.
Today it's laundry catch up, a bit of quiet time at the art table, and simply 'nesting' for the last of the Thanksgiving break.
Thank you all for your most generous and kind comments. Thanksgiving wouldn't be as rich, as heartfelt, or as incredible without you ---- thank you most of all for your kindness, generosity, and of all - friendship.
Bless each of you ....
Friday, November 26, 2010
Granville Farm in Wet loose strokes
Daily Practice
Journal Size
It's hard to believe how quickly time passes when one is with family ... but we wing our way back home today ....saying goodbye to family we wish lived closer by ... but home beckons with others we love and care for ....
Safe traveling ....
Journal Size
It's hard to believe how quickly time passes when one is with family ... but we wing our way back home today ....saying goodbye to family we wish lived closer by ... but home beckons with others we love and care for ....
Safe traveling ....
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Morning on the Lake after Szabo - HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Daiy Practice
Journal Size
On the morning of this Thanksgiving, I am sending good wishes and gratitude to my friends and family ....
MAY YOU ALL HAVE A MOST BLESSED AND HEART-FILLED THANKSGIVING!
And may the start of the holiday season be especially filled with joy and gratitude for the many blessings we each have received and each have given ....
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Journal Size
On the morning of this Thanksgiving, I am sending good wishes and gratitude to my friends and family ....
MAY YOU ALL HAVE A MOST BLESSED AND HEART-FILLED THANKSGIVING!
And may the start of the holiday season be especially filled with joy and gratitude for the many blessings we each have received and each have given ....
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Rose Hips
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Just as the seasons move forward and change, our own paths as creators and artists tend toward simliar changes and movement.
I've been working on adding a more loose and 'painterly' approach to my paintings -- not to give up the other 'styles' I tend toward - but more to learn another method of expression. I've so admired those individuals who seem to effortlessly paint such waterly, bright watercolors, and for some reason, that 'style' has been eluding me .... but here and there, I've been practicing, and in this work, done quickly yesterday morning, I think I might have found the beginning of how to work in that way. I'm not where I want to go with this - but I've finally moved a bit on the path.
My husband, sisters and I took a leisurely six mile hike yesterday over some of the most glorious wood and marshland. The day was bright, at least when we started, and cool enough so that our brisk walking kept us warm enough without overheating. By the end of the walk, clouds had rolled in and the temperatures had dropped - along with our energy -- but oh, we hadn't done this kind of hiking in years!
Today we prepare for the feast tomorrow ....and already my heart is filled with the joy that being with family members can be ...
I hope your day too is filled with family and joy ...
Journal Size
Just as the seasons move forward and change, our own paths as creators and artists tend toward simliar changes and movement.
I've been working on adding a more loose and 'painterly' approach to my paintings -- not to give up the other 'styles' I tend toward - but more to learn another method of expression. I've so admired those individuals who seem to effortlessly paint such waterly, bright watercolors, and for some reason, that 'style' has been eluding me .... but here and there, I've been practicing, and in this work, done quickly yesterday morning, I think I might have found the beginning of how to work in that way. I'm not where I want to go with this - but I've finally moved a bit on the path.
My husband, sisters and I took a leisurely six mile hike yesterday over some of the most glorious wood and marshland. The day was bright, at least when we started, and cool enough so that our brisk walking kept us warm enough without overheating. By the end of the walk, clouds had rolled in and the temperatures had dropped - along with our energy -- but oh, we hadn't done this kind of hiking in years!
Today we prepare for the feast tomorrow ....and already my heart is filled with the joy that being with family members can be ...
I hope your day too is filled with family and joy ...
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Grapes
Daily Practice
Journal Size
I painted these grapes a while back - trying a different color and composition while still using a splash and splatter approach ...
The grapes have been long gone from our vines - but here and there the leavs remain --- today about this color of green/gold/brown ...
I'll be visiting family most of this week, so my computer time will be much curtailed ... and painting too will be squeezed between dinners and family events...
The weather continues to be incredibly mild and sunshiney ...and as Thanksgiving approaches, I'm ever grateful for such a wonderful time to be out of doors.
Preparations begin for the holidays - and with family and friends an emphasis this week, I'll have to find even more time to walk off all that eating! LOL
Take care today!
Journal Size
I painted these grapes a while back - trying a different color and composition while still using a splash and splatter approach ...
The grapes have been long gone from our vines - but here and there the leavs remain --- today about this color of green/gold/brown ...
I'll be visiting family most of this week, so my computer time will be much curtailed ... and painting too will be squeezed between dinners and family events...
The weather continues to be incredibly mild and sunshiney ...and as Thanksgiving approaches, I'm ever grateful for such a wonderful time to be out of doors.
Preparations begin for the holidays - and with family and friends an emphasis this week, I'll have to find even more time to walk off all that eating! LOL
Take care today!
Monday, November 22, 2010
My Neighbors Trees
Daily Practice
Journal
It's hard to imagine such incredibly beautiful weather in the depths of November --- we went for a walk yesterday with temps in the 70s!!! sunshine and the fading siennas of tree leaves.
As we turned to walk back to the house, I caught a glimpse of my neighbor's line of trees in their deepening shades of golds and browns, snapped a photo, and tried to paint the scene using a wet into wet approach to render the feeling of warmth and yet late season. This is the result.
I'll be off the 'net most of the day, but will catch up as I can tonight ...
Hope your day is bright and beautiful! We're expecting another warm, sunshine-filled day ... what a gift!
Journal
It's hard to imagine such incredibly beautiful weather in the depths of November --- we went for a walk yesterday with temps in the 70s!!! sunshine and the fading siennas of tree leaves.
As we turned to walk back to the house, I caught a glimpse of my neighbor's line of trees in their deepening shades of golds and browns, snapped a photo, and tried to paint the scene using a wet into wet approach to render the feeling of warmth and yet late season. This is the result.
I'll be off the 'net most of the day, but will catch up as I can tonight ...
Hope your day is bright and beautiful! We're expecting another warm, sunshine-filled day ... what a gift!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Fall Apples
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Fall is swiftly moving toward its end .... as I look out my office window, most of the treetops have lost their leaves, and the foliage, once bright and brilliant, has dulled to a wonderful sienna and rust. Oh, here and there a few trees have kept their colorful dresses -- but they've begun to look worn and tattered from wind and frost. The sun shines through these open spaces with more shine but less warmth, even when our temps reach 60F ...
We so enjoyed the grands last night and our pre-Thanksgiving dinner. Each time I see those two rascals, I'm AMAZED at how swiftly they're growing - Emily now reaching my chest - and Nick not too far behind. Growing up too with the games they want to play, their self-discipline, their reading ability ...I'll be soon watching them graduate! LOL
I painted this a while back, but haven't had a chance to post it ...I still enjoy this method, the freedom it seems to give, and the unexpected surprises that splashing and splattering produces ...
I want to do some practice pieces today with loose, wet strokes and see if I can get what's in my mind's eye to my paper ...I know some of my 'style' is changing as I'm thinking in different colors and methods ... This 'changing' place is awkward in results though -- a necessary thing I'm sure .. but challening all the less.
Keep those brushes wet today!
Journal Size
Fall is swiftly moving toward its end .... as I look out my office window, most of the treetops have lost their leaves, and the foliage, once bright and brilliant, has dulled to a wonderful sienna and rust. Oh, here and there a few trees have kept their colorful dresses -- but they've begun to look worn and tattered from wind and frost. The sun shines through these open spaces with more shine but less warmth, even when our temps reach 60F ...
We so enjoyed the grands last night and our pre-Thanksgiving dinner. Each time I see those two rascals, I'm AMAZED at how swiftly they're growing - Emily now reaching my chest - and Nick not too far behind. Growing up too with the games they want to play, their self-discipline, their reading ability ...I'll be soon watching them graduate! LOL
I painted this a while back, but haven't had a chance to post it ...I still enjoy this method, the freedom it seems to give, and the unexpected surprises that splashing and splattering produces ...
I want to do some practice pieces today with loose, wet strokes and see if I can get what's in my mind's eye to my paper ...I know some of my 'style' is changing as I'm thinking in different colors and methods ... This 'changing' place is awkward in results though -- a necessary thing I'm sure .. but challening all the less.
Keep those brushes wet today!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Lakeside after Szabo
Daily Practice
Journal Size
I'm still continuing my lessons from Art of the Carolina classes. During the workshops I've taken with Sterling Edwards, Sterling always mentions his mentor, Zoltan Szabo. I have several of Szabo's books, and so I've begun rereading those. This painting is based on one of Szabo's lessons ... I love the different use of colors ... colors I'd never think to combine. For instance - the 'pink' in this is actually Scarlet Lake! I've also used Winsor Violet, Turquoise, Cobalt Blue and a bit of my mix of greens.
Yesterday was a good restive day - two naps, minimum running around, a bit of chores .. felt really good.
We see the grands tonight so I'm glad I've rested! LOL We're supposed to reach 60F and I"ve brought home some daylily bulbs to plant ... so I hope to get to those early in the day ...
Have a terrific weekend!
Journal Size
I'm still continuing my lessons from Art of the Carolina classes. During the workshops I've taken with Sterling Edwards, Sterling always mentions his mentor, Zoltan Szabo. I have several of Szabo's books, and so I've begun rereading those. This painting is based on one of Szabo's lessons ... I love the different use of colors ... colors I'd never think to combine. For instance - the 'pink' in this is actually Scarlet Lake! I've also used Winsor Violet, Turquoise, Cobalt Blue and a bit of my mix of greens.
Yesterday was a good restive day - two naps, minimum running around, a bit of chores .. felt really good.
We see the grands tonight so I'm glad I've rested! LOL We're supposed to reach 60F and I"ve brought home some daylily bulbs to plant ... so I hope to get to those early in the day ...
Have a terrific weekend!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Carnations
Daily Practice
Journal Size
It took six trips from the car to the house to unload my car from all the workshops and luncheons items that I carried to work this week -- and another 90 minutes to return everything to their 'places' .... whew. It's been a whirlwind ... good, busy ... but a tad overwhelming! LOL
These are some practice carnations I've been playing with trying to simplify my flowers and give them a more painterly look.... fun.
The weather's turned cold and our temps today will make staying indoors a luxury ...
Hope your day is terrific!
Journal Size
It took six trips from the car to the house to unload my car from all the workshops and luncheons items that I carried to work this week -- and another 90 minutes to return everything to their 'places' .... whew. It's been a whirlwind ... good, busy ... but a tad overwhelming! LOL
These are some practice carnations I've been playing with trying to simplify my flowers and give them a more painterly look.... fun.
The weather's turned cold and our temps today will make staying indoors a luxury ...
Hope your day is terrific!
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Beach in Rose
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Thank you all for your most kind comments yesterday --! I am humbled by your generosity and thank you once more....
I painted this while Lorraine was here -- a simply landscape in rosy morning light ...
Last night's advanced soap crafting class went well -- but we didn't leave the office until after 9:30 PM ... whew -- another 15 hour day. This morning is another soap class and our Thanksgiving luncheon for the Plant a Row volunteers.
The weather has turned mighty cold ... at least this morning. We'll reach the 60s and 70s by the weekend and the fluctuations are making so many sick ...so be careful!!!
Hope your day is great!
Journal Size
Thank you all for your most kind comments yesterday --! I am humbled by your generosity and thank you once more....
I painted this while Lorraine was here -- a simply landscape in rosy morning light ...
Last night's advanced soap crafting class went well -- but we didn't leave the office until after 9:30 PM ... whew -- another 15 hour day. This morning is another soap class and our Thanksgiving luncheon for the Plant a Row volunteers.
The weather has turned mighty cold ... at least this morning. We'll reach the 60s and 70s by the weekend and the fluctuations are making so many sick ...so be careful!!!
Hope your day is great!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Early Fall on the Eno and 5 Years of Daily Painting
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Masa Paper
HAPPY FIVE YEARS OF DAILY PAINTING AND BLOGGING!!!
Today marks the fifth year of my daily painting -- five years!!! Blows me away too ... ! Though I could not post daily due to trips out of the country or internet access, I have painted something -- very often not masterpieces!!! LOL - every day. WHEW!
Folks often ask me how I manage to paint every day -- and the truth is - YOU do. Your constant, considerate, generous comments have kept me going day after day, year after year. Your kind encouragement has kept me on the journey -- and I sincerely, deeply, humbly -- THANK YOU!
HERE'S TO THE NEXT FIVE!
Arches 140#CP
Masa Paper
HAPPY FIVE YEARS OF DAILY PAINTING AND BLOGGING!!!
Today marks the fifth year of my daily painting -- five years!!! Blows me away too ... ! Though I could not post daily due to trips out of the country or internet access, I have painted something -- very often not masterpieces!!! LOL - every day. WHEW!
Folks often ask me how I manage to paint every day -- and the truth is - YOU do. Your constant, considerate, generous comments have kept me going day after day, year after year. Your kind encouragement has kept me on the journey -- and I sincerely, deeply, humbly -- THANK YOU!
HERE'S TO THE NEXT FIVE!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Thistles
Daily Practice
Journal
Saying goodbye to Lorraine as well as a week of art seems even harder when there is little time to assimiliate all one has learned and all the fun one has had. Returning to work has plunged me into a different world in a way, and as such, my focus has to be on the tasks at hand, plans, management, averting crises, moving forward. But I'm hoping that over time, what I've heard, practiced a bit and direction I want to move toward artwise, will, perhaps unconsciously, seep into my hand and brush. It was so difficult to see Lorraine return home knowing that it may be another year or so before we can get together again - but we hope to make these art treks an annual get together ...!
These thistles were done earlier this month ...I was attempting a bit of simplicity, yet a touch of realism. They were done quickly, without much fanfare ... but I like their reminder of summer.
Our temps are still warm and the colors of the landscape are still vibrant - a total surprise after such a dry, dry spring and summer. I hope to get a chance to enjoy a bit of the outdoors this weekend. Rain is predicted today, and we need it. I noticed the lakes were getting pretty low ...
Hope your day is terrific and your brushes wet!
Journal
Saying goodbye to Lorraine as well as a week of art seems even harder when there is little time to assimiliate all one has learned and all the fun one has had. Returning to work has plunged me into a different world in a way, and as such, my focus has to be on the tasks at hand, plans, management, averting crises, moving forward. But I'm hoping that over time, what I've heard, practiced a bit and direction I want to move toward artwise, will, perhaps unconsciously, seep into my hand and brush. It was so difficult to see Lorraine return home knowing that it may be another year or so before we can get together again - but we hope to make these art treks an annual get together ...!
These thistles were done earlier this month ...I was attempting a bit of simplicity, yet a touch of realism. They were done quickly, without much fanfare ... but I like their reminder of summer.
Our temps are still warm and the colors of the landscape are still vibrant - a total surprise after such a dry, dry spring and summer. I hope to get a chance to enjoy a bit of the outdoors this weekend. Rain is predicted today, and we need it. I noticed the lakes were getting pretty low ...
Hope your day is terrific and your brushes wet!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Moody Misty Morn with Sterling Edwards
Quarter Sheet
Arches 140#CP
I just had to have another workshop with Sterling Edwards while he was in town. His fine teaching style, simplification of landscapes, use of brushes and contasting colors are always inspirational ....!
This workshop focused on some of his classic techniques using large, bristle brushes, credit card rocks, mist and always, large shapes and contrasts. FUN! Though I used Winsor Newton paints, I tried to match his colors as closely as I could with the colors on my palette ...
Well, the week of workshops and company is over, and I take Lorraine to the airport this morning and begin catch up at work. It promises to be mighty busy with workshops and pre-Thanksgiving deadlines .... I just hate to see it all end ...seems so soon!
Hope your week is fabulous!
Arches 140#CP
I just had to have another workshop with Sterling Edwards while he was in town. His fine teaching style, simplification of landscapes, use of brushes and contasting colors are always inspirational ....!
This workshop focused on some of his classic techniques using large, bristle brushes, credit card rocks, mist and always, large shapes and contrasts. FUN! Though I used Winsor Newton paints, I tried to match his colors as closely as I could with the colors on my palette ...
Well, the week of workshops and company is over, and I take Lorraine to the airport this morning and begin catch up at work. It promises to be mighty busy with workshops and pre-Thanksgiving deadlines .... I just hate to see it all end ...seems so soon!
Hope your week is fabulous!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
In the Wind with Linda Kemp - Badger Brush
8" x 8"
Our workshops with Linda Kemp were fantastic! SOOOO much information and good general practice - which meant little time to apply what we were learning during the workshop.
This work, done with Linda Kemp's Badger Brush, wet on wet, and pure, rich pigment, was done in the last 15 minutes of class time .... the idea being a focus on BIG SHAPES (the theme I heard in so many of this week's workshops). The two pieces that follow this one were done at home using alternative brushes and dry pigments ....
Today, our last workshop. This one a complete reversal, I think, from all the loose, abstractionish styles I've been learning. Today's workshop is focused on color with Karen Vernon - a more traditional approach to watercolor, I suspect ... but her work simply glows and will offer another approach to expression.
I can't believe the week is almost over. It has flown by in a blur of activity, fun, learning, and yes, fatigue .... but oh, what a gift!
Hope your Sunday is wonderful!
Our workshops with Linda Kemp were fantastic! SOOOO much information and good general practice - which meant little time to apply what we were learning during the workshop.
This work, done with Linda Kemp's Badger Brush, wet on wet, and pure, rich pigment, was done in the last 15 minutes of class time .... the idea being a focus on BIG SHAPES (the theme I heard in so many of this week's workshops). The two pieces that follow this one were done at home using alternative brushes and dry pigments ....
Today, our last workshop. This one a complete reversal, I think, from all the loose, abstractionish styles I've been learning. Today's workshop is focused on color with Karen Vernon - a more traditional approach to watercolor, I suspect ... but her work simply glows and will offer another approach to expression.
I can't believe the week is almost over. It has flown by in a blur of activity, fun, learning, and yes, fatigue .... but oh, what a gift!
Hope your Sunday is wonderful!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Ditch Flowers on Hot Press with Karlyn Holman
Arches Hot Press
11" square
This painting of poppies and lupines was done on hot press paper during Karlyn Holman's workshop. We used hot press paper, wet into wet to create a path of light, added elements such as paint, splatter, watercolor pencil shavings, bits of watercolor stamping on unryu, and then completed the flowers once the paper had dried -- fun!!
Yesterday was another full day of classes including two with Linda Kemp on negative painting - landscapes and flowers. There was a TON of information, which left only a very short amount of time to paint ... but the demonstrations and suggestions were invaluable!!!
Today - more classes. I've had little time at home and even less on the computer, so I hope to catch up next week ... It's been a BLAST! My own wish is that I could have spread out the classes over a month or two ...!
Have a great day!
11" square
This painting of poppies and lupines was done on hot press paper during Karlyn Holman's workshop. We used hot press paper, wet into wet to create a path of light, added elements such as paint, splatter, watercolor pencil shavings, bits of watercolor stamping on unryu, and then completed the flowers once the paper had dried -- fun!!
Yesterday was another full day of classes including two with Linda Kemp on negative painting - landscapes and flowers. There was a TON of information, which left only a very short amount of time to paint ... but the demonstrations and suggestions were invaluable!!!
Today - more classes. I've had little time at home and even less on the computer, so I hope to catch up next week ... It's been a BLAST! My own wish is that I could have spread out the classes over a month or two ...!
Have a great day!
Friday, November 12, 2010
November Morning with Jeanne Carbonetti
Half Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Our full-day workshop yesterday with Jeanne Carbonetti was wonderful! She has the most incredible way of exuding such calm and peacefulness despite the frenzy often felt at workshops.
We began the workshop with a discussion of her approach to watercolor and talked about design, color, value and the like. We then each returned to our tables to begin our work.
Though we were each given a palette of vivid colors, the colors that seemed to mix themselves for my own work were those I am seeing this week - November fall ..... deep reds, golds, bits of orange. The white birches are definitely Jeanne's signature trees ... but some of our sycamores rival them in starkness ...
Lorraine and I also had late night classes - she with an encaustic instructor and me with Tom Jones .... I have a bit more to do on the work I did with Tom (long long day - I was working slowly! LOL) ... and some photos to take of my final painting with Karlyn ... .but this morning, we're dashing off for another full-day of classes and another late night.
Hope you have a great day ....!
Arches 140#CP
Our full-day workshop yesterday with Jeanne Carbonetti was wonderful! She has the most incredible way of exuding such calm and peacefulness despite the frenzy often felt at workshops.
We began the workshop with a discussion of her approach to watercolor and talked about design, color, value and the like. We then each returned to our tables to begin our work.
Though we were each given a palette of vivid colors, the colors that seemed to mix themselves for my own work were those I am seeing this week - November fall ..... deep reds, golds, bits of orange. The white birches are definitely Jeanne's signature trees ... but some of our sycamores rival them in starkness ...
Lorraine and I also had late night classes - she with an encaustic instructor and me with Tom Jones .... I have a bit more to do on the work I did with Tom (long long day - I was working slowly! LOL) ... and some photos to take of my final painting with Karlyn ... .but this morning, we're dashing off for another full-day of classes and another late night.
Hope you have a great day ....!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Abstract Landscape Gone Rocky
Half Sheet
Arches 140#CP
This abstracted landscape was done for a class taught by Karlyn Holman. The lesson is from one of her books and involved a lot of wet into wet, tossing of paint, finding and and losing edges, layering, unryu paper and more.
My landscape turned pretty 'rocky' -- but the general principles of abstraction and realism were applied ... including the addition of landscape elements such as lines and shapes. It was fun -- took a lot longer than I thought-- but fun! I've already started a second one more scenic in nature than form ....
Today we're off to the first day of Jerry's Art of the Carolinas. We have classes from 9 am until 8 pm tonight, with little time between ...
I'll be catching up next week it seems!
Have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
This abstracted landscape was done for a class taught by Karlyn Holman. The lesson is from one of her books and involved a lot of wet into wet, tossing of paint, finding and and losing edges, layering, unryu paper and more.
My landscape turned pretty 'rocky' -- but the general principles of abstraction and realism were applied ... including the addition of landscape elements such as lines and shapes. It was fun -- took a lot longer than I thought-- but fun! I've already started a second one more scenic in nature than form ....
Today we're off to the first day of Jerry's Art of the Carolinas. We have classes from 9 am until 8 pm tonight, with little time between ...
I'll be catching up next week it seems!
Have a great day!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Still Dreaming
Daily Practice
Journal Size
We left early yesterday morning and got caught in a TON of traffic making our trip to Karlyn's workshop a bit longer - almost 90 plus minutes. But we found the building, and as ususal, Karlyn was already preparing for class, giving the early attendents a few pointers. Cheerful, enthusiastic, eager to begin, Karlyn, no matter day or night, weary or alert - can always be counted on to smile and create an atmosphere of FUN, creativity, and delight!
After reviewing some new ideas she's working on, we jumped into the day by working on abstract landscapes -- a far different approach than this simple one I did last week .. Discussions included elements of design, abstraction, texturing methods. We were working on a half sheet of watercolor paper - and we were all arm-deep in wet paint! Hair dryers and participants tried to keep pace with Karlyn's instructions --- but despite all my attempts, I brought the painting home to finish -- and adjust.
I find concentrating at workshops a bit challenging --- you're absorbing so much new information, trying to apply it, watch other folks, think thru ideas ... it takes me longer these days to do all this at once! LOL
Lorraine and I worked late into the night trying to get to a stopping point - so I'll post mine once it's closer to 'done.' I LOVED the ideas ... and I wish I had another week to process them before heading back to work next Monday -- sigh ...
Today we work on flowers ... and knowing that traffic awaits, we'll be leaving before too long.
I'll try to catch up as I can -- but oh, is it a busy, fun time!
Have a great day!
PS - Carol, Karlyn says HI!!
Journal Size
We left early yesterday morning and got caught in a TON of traffic making our trip to Karlyn's workshop a bit longer - almost 90 plus minutes. But we found the building, and as ususal, Karlyn was already preparing for class, giving the early attendents a few pointers. Cheerful, enthusiastic, eager to begin, Karlyn, no matter day or night, weary or alert - can always be counted on to smile and create an atmosphere of FUN, creativity, and delight!
After reviewing some new ideas she's working on, we jumped into the day by working on abstract landscapes -- a far different approach than this simple one I did last week .. Discussions included elements of design, abstraction, texturing methods. We were working on a half sheet of watercolor paper - and we were all arm-deep in wet paint! Hair dryers and participants tried to keep pace with Karlyn's instructions --- but despite all my attempts, I brought the painting home to finish -- and adjust.
I find concentrating at workshops a bit challenging --- you're absorbing so much new information, trying to apply it, watch other folks, think thru ideas ... it takes me longer these days to do all this at once! LOL
Lorraine and I worked late into the night trying to get to a stopping point - so I'll post mine once it's closer to 'done.' I LOVED the ideas ... and I wish I had another week to process them before heading back to work next Monday -- sigh ...
Today we work on flowers ... and knowing that traffic awaits, we'll be leaving before too long.
I'll try to catch up as I can -- but oh, is it a busy, fun time!
Have a great day!
PS - Carol, Karlyn says HI!!
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
In the Light of the Moon
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Lorraine and I spent the day at the art tables and last night night went to an area gathering to listen to Charles and his 'Sunday Pickers' perform for the crowd. They did wonderfully! and were so well received! All their hard work and practice seemed to come together so well, and they had such a grand time.
We drove home late with a mere fingernail of a moon (not this full one--LOL) watching for deer all the way. We see so many of them along our rural roads - and often, they'll just stop and watch US too! LOL
We're heading off for the first round of workshops -- a two day class with Karlyn Holman (www.karlynholman.com) ..YAHOO!!!! It feels like 9 forevers since I've taken a class with her and I've looked forward to this for a long time! We'll be back late, so I hope to catch up as I can ...
Have a great day!
Journal Size
Lorraine and I spent the day at the art tables and last night night went to an area gathering to listen to Charles and his 'Sunday Pickers' perform for the crowd. They did wonderfully! and were so well received! All their hard work and practice seemed to come together so well, and they had such a grand time.
We drove home late with a mere fingernail of a moon (not this full one--LOL) watching for deer all the way. We see so many of them along our rural roads - and often, they'll just stop and watch US too! LOL
We're heading off for the first round of workshops -- a two day class with Karlyn Holman (www.karlynholman.com) ..YAHOO!!!! It feels like 9 forevers since I've taken a class with her and I've looked forward to this for a long time! We'll be back late, so I hope to catch up as I can ...
Have a great day!
Monday, November 08, 2010
Celebration Challenge - Guess Who?
Daily Practice
Journal Size
This month marked the second anniversary for the group, "Watercolourist: Painting with Light" - and Bill posed another challenge - to use a celebratory photograph (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/5144111839/) and paint in the style of one of the artists mentioned in the list.
I simplified the photograph, chose an artist I admire (Can you guess who? It's one of my contacts), and chose instead of this individual's normally brilliant colors, I'd change things a bit and keep the colors simple but focus more on that artist's style.
It was a fun exercise and more challenging than one might imagine ...! Thanks Bill! And my art friend!
One more day at our art tables before our formal classes begin tomorrow. The weather has been sunshiney and bright - but cold - still we've been able to get out of doors for a nice fall walk each day.
Hope your week is terrific!
Journal Size
This month marked the second anniversary for the group, "Watercolourist: Painting with Light" - and Bill posed another challenge - to use a celebratory photograph (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/5144111839/) and paint in the style of one of the artists mentioned in the list.
I simplified the photograph, chose an artist I admire (Can you guess who? It's one of my contacts), and chose instead of this individual's normally brilliant colors, I'd change things a bit and keep the colors simple but focus more on that artist's style.
It was a fun exercise and more challenging than one might imagine ...! Thanks Bill! And my art friend!
One more day at our art tables before our formal classes begin tomorrow. The weather has been sunshiney and bright - but cold - still we've been able to get out of doors for a nice fall walk each day.
Hope your week is terrific!
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Desert Sunset
Daily Practice
Journal Size
My friend Lorraine is in love with colors and is entralled with landscapes such as that we saw this weekend at Art Space. This is painted after those works of Linda Ruth Dickinson (http://www.lindaruthdickinson.com/main.html).
Most of the artists she admires paint bold, brilliant colors in acryllic, and so I've attempted some of their works and styles in watercolor (good practice for the current watercolor challenge!! LOL). She also loves those landscapes of the southwest.
Linda Dickinson paints HUGE acryllic landscapes filled with brilliant colors and horizontal or vertical perspectives. Painting such deep colors in watercolor is a double challenge - keeping the luminosity of the medium while still achieving rich, bold colors and contrasts.
Since Lorraine is new to 'return' to watercolors (she stopped her lessons years ago), these playful exercises and paintings are a teaching opportunity for me as well as a learning tool for both of us-- fun!
The weather has made an about-turn last night. We began the day in dreary, wet chilly, weather, had a wonderful afternoon of cool temps and sunshine, and ended on a note close to freezing.
We played at the art tables most of the day, so the extra hour we 'gained' with Daylight Savings (did you remember to turn back your clocks?) helped us rest a bit more.
More art today -- hope your Sunday is terrific!
Journal Size
My friend Lorraine is in love with colors and is entralled with landscapes such as that we saw this weekend at Art Space. This is painted after those works of Linda Ruth Dickinson (http://www.lindaruthdickinson.com/main.html).
Most of the artists she admires paint bold, brilliant colors in acryllic, and so I've attempted some of their works and styles in watercolor (good practice for the current watercolor challenge!! LOL). She also loves those landscapes of the southwest.
Linda Dickinson paints HUGE acryllic landscapes filled with brilliant colors and horizontal or vertical perspectives. Painting such deep colors in watercolor is a double challenge - keeping the luminosity of the medium while still achieving rich, bold colors and contrasts.
Since Lorraine is new to 'return' to watercolors (she stopped her lessons years ago), these playful exercises and paintings are a teaching opportunity for me as well as a learning tool for both of us-- fun!
The weather has made an about-turn last night. We began the day in dreary, wet chilly, weather, had a wonderful afternoon of cool temps and sunshine, and ended on a note close to freezing.
We played at the art tables most of the day, so the extra hour we 'gained' with Daylight Savings (did you remember to turn back your clocks?) helped us rest a bit more.
More art today -- hope your Sunday is terrific!
Saturday, November 06, 2010
The Flow of the Sands
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Oh what a time!!! I picked up Lorraine yesterday morning and right away we plunged into artwork and play!
We had lunch, picked up some supplies for our workshops next week, and then spent most of the afternoon at Raleigh's "Art Space" (http://artspacenc.org/). This two-story building houses so many INCREDIBLE artists, and we had to explore each studio. We spent some time talking with the artists there, admiring their works, discussing classes. I don't know why I don't get to Artspace more often -- but I suppose having a friend with similiar interests visit those places with me makes a world of difference in the experience.
We came back to my house for dinner, unpacking, and then some time at the art tables.
This work was inspired by an encaustic artist we met - Dianne Rodwell (http://e3motion.com/rodwell/). Lorraine will be taking an encaustic class next week, and Dianne will be teaching at Art in the Carolinas in 2011 ... so we had a lot to chat about.
This work is a bit less green in real life, but is similiar to one of Dianne's encaustic tiles. I fell in love with the abstractness and flow of colors and wanted to see if I could create a similiar work in watercolor ... this is the result -- It reminds me of an abstracted beach scene in yellow and blue (more blue in my painting - I couldn't adjust it any more for the screen) .... fun .... done wet in wet with some removal of pigment with a thirsty brush and adding a bit of salt.
I also fell in love with Dianne's landscapes.... she's a talented, wonderful artist. I may just have to try encaustics next year ....
We got to bed after midnight .. so today, we'll be resting a bit and playing some more ...
Hope your weekend is fun!
Journal Size
Oh what a time!!! I picked up Lorraine yesterday morning and right away we plunged into artwork and play!
We had lunch, picked up some supplies for our workshops next week, and then spent most of the afternoon at Raleigh's "Art Space" (http://artspacenc.org/). This two-story building houses so many INCREDIBLE artists, and we had to explore each studio. We spent some time talking with the artists there, admiring their works, discussing classes. I don't know why I don't get to Artspace more often -- but I suppose having a friend with similiar interests visit those places with me makes a world of difference in the experience.
We came back to my house for dinner, unpacking, and then some time at the art tables.
This work was inspired by an encaustic artist we met - Dianne Rodwell (http://e3motion.com/rodwell/). Lorraine will be taking an encaustic class next week, and Dianne will be teaching at Art in the Carolinas in 2011 ... so we had a lot to chat about.
This work is a bit less green in real life, but is similiar to one of Dianne's encaustic tiles. I fell in love with the abstractness and flow of colors and wanted to see if I could create a similiar work in watercolor ... this is the result -- It reminds me of an abstracted beach scene in yellow and blue (more blue in my painting - I couldn't adjust it any more for the screen) .... fun .... done wet in wet with some removal of pigment with a thirsty brush and adding a bit of salt.
I also fell in love with Dianne's landscapes.... she's a talented, wonderful artist. I may just have to try encaustics next year ....
We got to bed after midnight .. so today, we'll be resting a bit and playing some more ...
Hope your weekend is fun!
Friday, November 05, 2010
Radishes
Daily Practice
Journal Size
Despite the rain yesterday, we are still harvesting a good amount of produce for the food shelter. Our fall crops are coming in - carrots, radishes, lettuce, kale, spinach, turnip greens and more ... Inspired by these efforts, I painted these radishes ....
My friend Lorraine arrives in a few short hours to spend the next ten days with me as we attend several watercolor workshops. I'm off work for the week to immerse myself in the world of art and friendship -- what a delight! I can't often get to art classes with my work and travel schedule, so having one week set aside each year (this will be the third or fourth year I've done this) is a blessing indeed!
I'll be fairly scarce during this time ... but will try to post some of the things we are learning and share some of the classes ... but you can be sure, I'll be painting everyday!
I hope you have a terrific day ....and a most creative week!
Lin
Journal Size
Despite the rain yesterday, we are still harvesting a good amount of produce for the food shelter. Our fall crops are coming in - carrots, radishes, lettuce, kale, spinach, turnip greens and more ... Inspired by these efforts, I painted these radishes ....
My friend Lorraine arrives in a few short hours to spend the next ten days with me as we attend several watercolor workshops. I'm off work for the week to immerse myself in the world of art and friendship -- what a delight! I can't often get to art classes with my work and travel schedule, so having one week set aside each year (this will be the third or fourth year I've done this) is a blessing indeed!
I'll be fairly scarce during this time ... but will try to post some of the things we are learning and share some of the classes ... but you can be sure, I'll be painting everyday!
I hope you have a terrific day ....and a most creative week!
Lin
Thursday, November 04, 2010
Foggy Fall Morning
Daily Practice
Journal
Warm days, cool, cold mornings bring on the fog .....I drove in this morning in mighty thick mist almost missing my turn ... gracious!
This painting was based on a photo reference, but it could have been my drive into work this week.
We're expecting rain today and we've plans to try a hypertuffa garden project with the volunteers this morning since the weather with keep us indoors ....
Hope your day is terrific!
Journal
Warm days, cool, cold mornings bring on the fog .....I drove in this morning in mighty thick mist almost missing my turn ... gracious!
This painting was based on a photo reference, but it could have been my drive into work this week.
We're expecting rain today and we've plans to try a hypertuffa garden project with the volunteers this morning since the weather with keep us indoors ....
Hope your day is terrific!
Wednesday, November 03, 2010
Inspired by My Property Trees
Daily Practice
Journal Size
This is a most simplified landscape created by splashing and splattering and based on the inspiration of the incredible fall colors of the trees I see from my upstairs Oxford window. I omitted the reds as they were few .. but oranges and golds and bits of green tend to predominate. I have to admit that the 'path' appeared on its own ...
Yesterday was a full day of planning -- very productive - but tiring ... still, having our plans on paper helps focus and streamline our efforts.
We're expecting rain for the rest of the week and temps are very fall-ish and cool ...
Hope your day is terrific!
Journal Size
This is a most simplified landscape created by splashing and splattering and based on the inspiration of the incredible fall colors of the trees I see from my upstairs Oxford window. I omitted the reds as they were few .. but oranges and golds and bits of green tend to predominate. I have to admit that the 'path' appeared on its own ...
Yesterday was a full day of planning -- very productive - but tiring ... still, having our plans on paper helps focus and streamline our efforts.
We're expecting rain for the rest of the week and temps are very fall-ish and cool ...
Hope your day is terrific!
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
View from Pilot Mountain
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Masa Paper
I painted this a few weeks ago after returning from our trip to the mountains. We stopped at an overlook on Pilot Mountain to view the valley below. I painted this view on masa paper to give the painting additional textures.
The week will be cool with rain in the forecast. We've begun working on collecting natural materials to decorate one of the trees in the town's Festival of Trees. We wanted to capture the materials before the cold and rains beat them into nonuse.
Hope your day is grand!
Arches 140#CP
Masa Paper
I painted this a few weeks ago after returning from our trip to the mountains. We stopped at an overlook on Pilot Mountain to view the valley below. I painted this view on masa paper to give the painting additional textures.
The week will be cool with rain in the forecast. We've begun working on collecting natural materials to decorate one of the trees in the town's Festival of Trees. We wanted to capture the materials before the cold and rains beat them into nonuse.
Hope your day is grand!
Monday, November 01, 2010
Beach Walk at Sunset
Daily Practice
Journal
The colors of Autumn continue to entice me - but after such a busy weekend, the calm and quiet of the beach seemed to call a bit louder.
I started this small painting last week after work and finished it this weekend. This time of year when the weather turns cooler and the children return to school is my favorite time at the beach .... the crowds are gone, the colors of the ocean, sky, grasses and sand dunes intensify, and the quiet -- oh the quiet - save for the call of gulls - restores one's center.
Four days of intense work this week - then I'll be off for a week of art classes -- yahoo! I try to do this each year - my early Christmas present ... and I'm eager for new ideas and a change of pace.
Hope your week is terrific!
Journal
The colors of Autumn continue to entice me - but after such a busy weekend, the calm and quiet of the beach seemed to call a bit louder.
I started this small painting last week after work and finished it this weekend. This time of year when the weather turns cooler and the children return to school is my favorite time at the beach .... the crowds are gone, the colors of the ocean, sky, grasses and sand dunes intensify, and the quiet -- oh the quiet - save for the call of gulls - restores one's center.
Four days of intense work this week - then I'll be off for a week of art classes -- yahoo! I try to do this each year - my early Christmas present ... and I'm eager for new ideas and a change of pace.
Hope your week is terrific!
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