9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
My sincere thanks to Steve Hall for allowing me to use his photograph for this painting. Steve's photography is magnificent - please check out his site (http://www.flickr.com/photos/51607096@N07/) .... Thanks so much Steve!
I was away from the house most of yesterday as I worked a bit with my son to ready his new home for his move this week. When I returned, I spent the rest of the evening hemming and creating new curtains for my granddaughter's new room. C's jam went well, and I managed to hear a bit of it before I left ... By the time I got everything done prior to leaving this morning for the workweek, it was mighty late!
We're in for some rain today -- and we need every drop. Our drought has begun mighty early this year.
Hope your week is terrific!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Walk in the Park
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Despite the bitterly cold morning, the afternoon turned out to be warm, sunshiney and beautiful! We took the opportunity to walk around the local park - and already there were practice games of baseball filling the fields. Granville Athletic Park, one of the few in our county is relatively new - merely a few years old. But one of the most inviting features of the park are the long, fully-paved walking trails around all the playing fields, through a bit of woodland, and over some of the wetlands. The park was built on old farmland so there isn't a lot of woodland activity; still, it's an easy walking place - much easier than our gutted gravel private road.
C's jam is today and we've company for dinner - so it'll be another busy day. The temps are supposed to rather high, so I'll be spending a bit of time harvesting the weeds that are already happily blooming ....
Have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
Despite the bitterly cold morning, the afternoon turned out to be warm, sunshiney and beautiful! We took the opportunity to walk around the local park - and already there were practice games of baseball filling the fields. Granville Athletic Park, one of the few in our county is relatively new - merely a few years old. But one of the most inviting features of the park are the long, fully-paved walking trails around all the playing fields, through a bit of woodland, and over some of the wetlands. The park was built on old farmland so there isn't a lot of woodland activity; still, it's an easy walking place - much easier than our gutted gravel private road.
C's jam is today and we've company for dinner - so it'll be another busy day. The temps are supposed to rather high, so I'll be spending a bit of time harvesting the weeds that are already happily blooming ....
Have a great day!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Snowdrops in Snowy Bright Moonlight
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Watercolor, Ink
Bill offered another floral watercolor challenge (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/5461733048/ ) - this time snowdrops. There have been so many incredibly beautiful interpretations of his photograph, so I thought I'd add something a bit different -- snowdrops in a bit of snow on a bright, moonlit evening .... I used white India ink to outline and highlight the tiny snowdrops and snow, and covered the background in a splash of watercolors...
Our temps cool today after yesterday morning's rain, and we've a few more chores to accomplish.
I hope you have a terrific weekend!
Arches 140#CP
Watercolor, Ink
Bill offered another floral watercolor challenge (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/5461733048/ ) - this time snowdrops. There have been so many incredibly beautiful interpretations of his photograph, so I thought I'd add something a bit different -- snowdrops in a bit of snow on a bright, moonlit evening .... I used white India ink to outline and highlight the tiny snowdrops and snow, and covered the background in a splash of watercolors...
Our temps cool today after yesterday morning's rain, and we've a few more chores to accomplish.
I hope you have a terrific weekend!
Friday, February 25, 2011
Storm on the Lake
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
We're finally gettnig a bit of rain today -- not enough to put us out of the drought, but enough, hopefully, to quell the wildfire alerts ...
I've painted this a while back, but it seems to fit the day ....
Off today for some appointments -- hope your Friday is wonderful!
Arches 140#CP
We're finally gettnig a bit of rain today -- not enough to put us out of the drought, but enough, hopefully, to quell the wildfire alerts ...
I've painted this a while back, but it seems to fit the day ....
Off today for some appointments -- hope your Friday is wonderful!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Dreaming of Queen Anne
9" x 12"
Arches140#CP
Seems like the full moon was only moments ago, and yet as I drove in to work on this crispy morning, the moon was almost at the half ... the days seemingly passing in a blur of work and teaching.
We ended our class late again last night and today's an early day with our new Plant a Row for the Hungry volunteers. Today we teach about the miracle of seeds and how to plant them indoors - then proceed to the greenhouse where we'll continue our preparations for the new gardening season as spring fast approaches.
I painted this loose, splashy, abstraction of Queen Anne's Lace a few weeks back ... loving the play of splashed paint, water, color, scraping and splatter. These humble flowers were part of our class last night as we talked about how important they were for attracting beneficial insects to one's garden. They're also one of our first 'carrots' - the root being the progenitor of those bright orange vegetables we eat today!
Off to ready for another class -- have a great day!
Arches140#CP
Seems like the full moon was only moments ago, and yet as I drove in to work on this crispy morning, the moon was almost at the half ... the days seemingly passing in a blur of work and teaching.
We ended our class late again last night and today's an early day with our new Plant a Row for the Hungry volunteers. Today we teach about the miracle of seeds and how to plant them indoors - then proceed to the greenhouse where we'll continue our preparations for the new gardening season as spring fast approaches.
I painted this loose, splashy, abstraction of Queen Anne's Lace a few weeks back ... loving the play of splashed paint, water, color, scraping and splatter. These humble flowers were part of our class last night as we talked about how important they were for attracting beneficial insects to one's garden. They're also one of our first 'carrots' - the root being the progenitor of those bright orange vegetables we eat today!
Off to ready for another class -- have a great day!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Orchid Challenge
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Bill posted an orchid challenge (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/5461127055/) in the Watercolourist, Painting with Light group. I have been painting 'loose' flowers for a while, and thought I'd return to more traditional watercolor techniques to approach this very formal flower.
I tried scanning my painting on 2 different scanners, but the light bleached out the pale yellow, sky blue and magenta background -- but if you squint a bit, you can just about see the colors in this upload.
THANKS so much, Bill for the challenge - Wonderful fun!
We've another late night gardening class tonight -- vegetables -- my favorite topic! And a full-house and waiting list!
I took a long walk around the campus yesterday - already crocus are up, forsythia is a bright yellow, and our apricot trees (Prunus mumi) are in FULL bloom -- yet the temps are in the 40s making spring seem more like a dream than the flowers may reveal ...
Hope your day is grand!
Arches 140#CP
Bill posted an orchid challenge (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/5461127055/) in the Watercolourist, Painting with Light group. I have been painting 'loose' flowers for a while, and thought I'd return to more traditional watercolor techniques to approach this very formal flower.
I tried scanning my painting on 2 different scanners, but the light bleached out the pale yellow, sky blue and magenta background -- but if you squint a bit, you can just about see the colors in this upload.
THANKS so much, Bill for the challenge - Wonderful fun!
We've another late night gardening class tonight -- vegetables -- my favorite topic! And a full-house and waiting list!
I took a long walk around the campus yesterday - already crocus are up, forsythia is a bright yellow, and our apricot trees (Prunus mumi) are in FULL bloom -- yet the temps are in the 40s making spring seem more like a dream than the flowers may reveal ...
Hope your day is grand!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Pink Glow on the Pond - Oxford
1/8 sheet
Arches 140#CP
As evening fades at the cusp of spring, there seems to be a change in the way light reflects off the land. Such inspired this painting by one of my local ponds The light at sunset on this particular evening turned the still, quiet waters and tawny grasses a wonderful rosy pink, as if the entire landscape were blushing with the promise of a new season .....
And though the promise was made for a season yet to come, we begin our annual cha-cha with the weather. From 70s and 60s we now dance backward to the 30s and 40s ....next week, we'll probably glide forward to the 60s again ... the dance of changes.....
Have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
As evening fades at the cusp of spring, there seems to be a change in the way light reflects off the land. Such inspired this painting by one of my local ponds The light at sunset on this particular evening turned the still, quiet waters and tawny grasses a wonderful rosy pink, as if the entire landscape were blushing with the promise of a new season .....
And though the promise was made for a season yet to come, we begin our annual cha-cha with the weather. From 70s and 60s we now dance backward to the 30s and 40s ....next week, we'll probably glide forward to the 60s again ... the dance of changes.....
Have a great day!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Hellebores - Lenten Roses
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Another beautiful day yesterday - mid-60s and filled with sunshine. Though it 'feels' like spring acomin', the midwest and northeast iare scheduled for yet another blast of winter snow and ice ....and our temps will fall later this week. We are still hoping for rain as well. With our region already in a drought, the predictions for summer plant needs are not looking very good.
I was reviewing my spring photo albums from last year, and found several images of helebores blooming brightly in mid March. Those in my friend's garden are not yet in bloom, but I thought I'd nod to the wonderful weather this week with a cheerful display of flowers.
We drove around the countryside yesterday and I found several old barns where I didn't expect to see them - simply because the vegetation of spring and summer was down enough to spot the structures through the woodlands grown up around them. Can't wait to paint a couple.
Another busy week filled with teaching, workshops and meetings -- hope you have a terrific week as well!
Arches 140#CP
Another beautiful day yesterday - mid-60s and filled with sunshine. Though it 'feels' like spring acomin', the midwest and northeast iare scheduled for yet another blast of winter snow and ice ....and our temps will fall later this week. We are still hoping for rain as well. With our region already in a drought, the predictions for summer plant needs are not looking very good.
I was reviewing my spring photo albums from last year, and found several images of helebores blooming brightly in mid March. Those in my friend's garden are not yet in bloom, but I thought I'd nod to the wonderful weather this week with a cheerful display of flowers.
We drove around the countryside yesterday and I found several old barns where I didn't expect to see them - simply because the vegetation of spring and summer was down enough to spot the structures through the woodlands grown up around them. Can't wait to paint a couple.
Another busy week filled with teaching, workshops and meetings -- hope you have a terrific week as well!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Shack in the Woods
1/8 sheet
Arches 140#CP
What a full weekend it has been -- today -- REST! After working in the gardens at the Arboretum, then working in my own gardens Friday, yesterday C and I tackled the entire reorganization and clean-up of our shed! Two trips to the landfill after removing 3/4s of the contents - rubbish that had been in that shed for 15 years, moving things around -- we now have room on the potting bench for me to actually pot my plants, areas where I can reach my garden tools without stepping over boxes of supplies, and floor space we haven't seen in ages! My gracious ...
But oh, the price we are paying today! Sore backs, hands, sneezing from all the dust ... STILL, IT IS DONE! and the tidiness of it thrills me!
I painted this shed during the week, as my hands and fatigue allowed me merely to splatter a bit last night. It's from our drive through Granville County last weekend - the woodlands just beginning to green up agains the tawny fields that still remain.
I saw some wonderful barns yesterday in our back and forth trips, so perhaps today I can get out to take some photographs. With the sun's directional change and so much of the vegetation down for the winter, it's a good time to get a bit closer to those wonderful old barns.
The temps today are supposed to be in the 60sF, but when I went outside to feed the kitties, it felt as cold as winter 40s ....I suppose Fridays 70F really spoiled us!
Have a happy Sunday!
Arches 140#CP
What a full weekend it has been -- today -- REST! After working in the gardens at the Arboretum, then working in my own gardens Friday, yesterday C and I tackled the entire reorganization and clean-up of our shed! Two trips to the landfill after removing 3/4s of the contents - rubbish that had been in that shed for 15 years, moving things around -- we now have room on the potting bench for me to actually pot my plants, areas where I can reach my garden tools without stepping over boxes of supplies, and floor space we haven't seen in ages! My gracious ...
But oh, the price we are paying today! Sore backs, hands, sneezing from all the dust ... STILL, IT IS DONE! and the tidiness of it thrills me!
I painted this shed during the week, as my hands and fatigue allowed me merely to splatter a bit last night. It's from our drive through Granville County last weekend - the woodlands just beginning to green up agains the tawny fields that still remain.
I saw some wonderful barns yesterday in our back and forth trips, so perhaps today I can get out to take some photographs. With the sun's directional change and so much of the vegetation down for the winter, it's a good time to get a bit closer to those wonderful old barns.
The temps today are supposed to be in the 60sF, but when I went outside to feed the kitties, it felt as cold as winter 40s ....I suppose Fridays 70F really spoiled us!
Have a happy Sunday!
Shack in the Woods
1/8 sheet
Arches 140#CP
What a full weekend it has been -- today -- REST! After working in the gardens at the Arboretum, then working in my own gardens Friday, yesterday C and I tackled the entire reorganization and clean-up of our shed! Two trips to the landfill after removing 3/4s of the contents - rubbish that had been in that shed for 15 years, moving things around -- we now have room on the potting bench for me to actually pot my plants, areas where I can reach my garden tools without stepping over boxes of supplies, and floor space we haven't seen in ages! My gracious ...
But oh, the price we are paying today! Sore backs, hands, sneezing from all the dust ... STILL, IT IS DONE! and the tidiness of it thrills me!
I painted this shed during the week, as my hands and fatigue allowed me merely to splatter a bit last night. It's from our drive through Granville County last weekend - the woodlands just beginning to green up agains the tawny fields that still remain.
I saw some wonderful barns yesterday in our back and forth trips, so perhaps today I can get out to take some photographs. With the sun's directional change and so much of the vegetation down for the winter, it's a good time to get a bit closer to those wonderful old barns.
The temps today are supposed to be in the 60sF, but when I went outside to feed the kitties, it felt as cold as winter 40s ....I suppose Fridays 70F really spoiled us!
Have a happy Sunday!
Arches 140#CP
What a full weekend it has been -- today -- REST! After working in the gardens at the Arboretum, then working in my own gardens Friday, yesterday C and I tackled the entire reorganization and clean-up of our shed! Two trips to the landfill after removing 3/4s of the contents - rubbish that had been in that shed for 15 years, moving things around -- we now have room on the potting bench for me to actually pot my plants, areas where I can reach my garden tools without stepping over boxes of supplies, and floor space we haven't seen in ages! My gracious ...
But oh, the price we are paying today! Sore backs, hands, sneezing from all the dust ... STILL, IT IS DONE! and the tidiness of it thrills me!
I painted this shed during the week, as my hands and fatigue allowed me merely to splatter a bit last night. It's from our drive through Granville County last weekend - the woodlands just beginning to green up agains the tawny fields that still remain.
I saw some wonderful barns yesterday in our back and forth trips, so perhaps today I can get out to take some photographs. With the sun's directional change and so much of the vegetation down for the winter, it's a good time to get a bit closer to those wonderful old barns.
The temps today are supposed to be in the 60sF, but when I went outside to feed the kitties, it felt as cold as winter 40s ....I suppose Fridays 70F really spoiled us!
Have a happy Sunday!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Crocus
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
After we cleaned the beds and gardens for the Plant A Row Project, I was walking back to my office when I spotted these crocus - their petals open and shining and raised to the sun in the warmth of the day! Their cheerful faces pulled me, like the light and warmth, into the forward movement of the seasons ...
Our temps reached mid 70s yesterday -- and I spent most of the day outdoors tackling my own garden chores ...wonderful -- but mercy was I sore afterwards! And had little time left for painting.
Still, sun, soil, tidying up all felt like an antioxident to the winter blues .... I didn't find any of my own crocus blooming - I am a half planting zone away from my office which translates into waiting about two-weeks to see those plants blooming at work finally bloom at my home. Still, I did discover the earliest green of daffodils poking thru the soil, and the buds on my sweet daphne ready to open in about 10 days ....
Now to keep fingers and toes crossed that the freezing temps of the rest of winter spare these hopeful starts ....
Have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
After we cleaned the beds and gardens for the Plant A Row Project, I was walking back to my office when I spotted these crocus - their petals open and shining and raised to the sun in the warmth of the day! Their cheerful faces pulled me, like the light and warmth, into the forward movement of the seasons ...
Our temps reached mid 70s yesterday -- and I spent most of the day outdoors tackling my own garden chores ...wonderful -- but mercy was I sore afterwards! And had little time left for painting.
Still, sun, soil, tidying up all felt like an antioxident to the winter blues .... I didn't find any of my own crocus blooming - I am a half planting zone away from my office which translates into waiting about two-weeks to see those plants blooming at work finally bloom at my home. Still, I did discover the earliest green of daffodils poking thru the soil, and the buds on my sweet daphne ready to open in about 10 days ....
Now to keep fingers and toes crossed that the freezing temps of the rest of winter spare these hopeful starts ....
Have a great day!
Friday, February 18, 2011
Sunday's Walk in the Park
1/8" sheet
Arches 140#CP
The earth is slooowwwly turning toward spring, and with our temps in the 60s yesterday, our volunteers - 4 new ones too! - completely weeded, turned over, pulled, pruned, and cleaned all the Plant a Row for the Hungry beds and gardens!! Being outdoors in the warm sunshine, laughing and chatting as we all got acquainted was an elixir for the soul!
Have you noticed too how the light is changing? Already the sun is creeping higher in the sky, and the shadows, like the gentle ones captured here during our walk in Oxford's Athletic Park last Sunday afternoon, are growing a bit longer and brighter? Spring is definitely en route ...
Today our temps are supposed to reach 70F ... and after a short stroll around my own garden yesterday, there is MUCH work to be done ... I'm hoping to get to some of it today ...
Have a terrific Friday!
Arches 140#CP
The earth is slooowwwly turning toward spring, and with our temps in the 60s yesterday, our volunteers - 4 new ones too! - completely weeded, turned over, pulled, pruned, and cleaned all the Plant a Row for the Hungry beds and gardens!! Being outdoors in the warm sunshine, laughing and chatting as we all got acquainted was an elixir for the soul!
Have you noticed too how the light is changing? Already the sun is creeping higher in the sky, and the shadows, like the gentle ones captured here during our walk in Oxford's Athletic Park last Sunday afternoon, are growing a bit longer and brighter? Spring is definitely en route ...
Today our temps are supposed to reach 70F ... and after a short stroll around my own garden yesterday, there is MUCH work to be done ... I'm hoping to get to some of it today ...
Have a terrific Friday!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Apple Blossoms
1/8" Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Though my apple trees have not yet begun to bloom, the APRICOT trees around the college's lake have broken bud and ARE in bloom --- mercy! Our temps today are going to reach mid 60F ... but as it's only February, we have another six weeks before we can really call winter 'over.' So these bright, hopeful trees are still in danger of losing their fruits when temperatures change yet again.
Our gardening class last night went extremely well - -but mighty late -- it was after 10 pm before I got to my friend's....
And today is the kick off for 'Plant a Row for the Hungry 2011" .... With the weather so pleasant, we're planning to be outdoors turning over the green manure, trimming, pruning, and readying the soil for planting next month.
Already the seeds we've started in the greenhouse are up, and in a few more weeks will be ready to transfer to the garden ... here comes spring!
Hope your day is bright and cheerful!
Arches 140#CP
Though my apple trees have not yet begun to bloom, the APRICOT trees around the college's lake have broken bud and ARE in bloom --- mercy! Our temps today are going to reach mid 60F ... but as it's only February, we have another six weeks before we can really call winter 'over.' So these bright, hopeful trees are still in danger of losing their fruits when temperatures change yet again.
Our gardening class last night went extremely well - -but mighty late -- it was after 10 pm before I got to my friend's....
And today is the kick off for 'Plant a Row for the Hungry 2011" .... With the weather so pleasant, we're planning to be outdoors turning over the green manure, trimming, pruning, and readying the soil for planting next month.
Already the seeds we've started in the greenhouse are up, and in a few more weeks will be ready to transfer to the garden ... here comes spring!
Hope your day is bright and cheerful!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Valentine Callas
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
My sweet husband gifted me for Valentine's Day with a calla lily plant -- not only were they a thoughtful, beautiful gift, but SKETCH MATERIAL! LOL
I wanted to paint these with a bit of looseness and yet a bit more realism ... so my attempt was to do both in my painting expression ....
It'll be another late night tonight as our gardening class is filled, and I've three meetings prior to that workshop ....but temperatures are beautifully warm -- in the 50sF! And so between all of those obligations, I hope to get outdoors for a relaxing walk ...
Hope your day is filled with sunshine!
Arches 140#CP
My sweet husband gifted me for Valentine's Day with a calla lily plant -- not only were they a thoughtful, beautiful gift, but SKETCH MATERIAL! LOL
I wanted to paint these with a bit of looseness and yet a bit more realism ... so my attempt was to do both in my painting expression ....
It'll be another late night tonight as our gardening class is filled, and I've three meetings prior to that workshop ....but temperatures are beautifully warm -- in the 50sF! And so between all of those obligations, I hope to get outdoors for a relaxing walk ...
Hope your day is filled with sunshine!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Fog and Fence - Thank YOU, Alvar!
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
THANK YOU, Alvar Astulez (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alvar_astulez/) for your most beautiful photography that inspired this watercolor painting. Please take a moment to see his wonderful works!!!
In this image, I was attracted to the light, the fog, and the wonderful dawn light .....I changed the fence and angle of the capture a bit to look somewhat like the views I see in my early morning drives through rural North Carolina.
We've been busily preparing for another full class tomorrow, and our vegetable gardening class next week has a waiting list!! WOW!
It's a warm week and we've begun addressing the gardens outdoors -- I"m hoping that when we meet Thursday for our kick-off Plant a Row for the Hungry we can begin turning over the soil in preparation for spring planting!
Have a great day -- and again, my sincerest thanks to Alvar!
Arches 140#CP
THANK YOU, Alvar Astulez (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alvar_astulez/) for your most beautiful photography that inspired this watercolor painting. Please take a moment to see his wonderful works!!!
In this image, I was attracted to the light, the fog, and the wonderful dawn light .....I changed the fence and angle of the capture a bit to look somewhat like the views I see in my early morning drives through rural North Carolina.
We've been busily preparing for another full class tomorrow, and our vegetable gardening class next week has a waiting list!! WOW!
It's a warm week and we've begun addressing the gardens outdoors -- I"m hoping that when we meet Thursday for our kick-off Plant a Row for the Hungry we can begin turning over the soil in preparation for spring planting!
Have a great day -- and again, my sincerest thanks to Alvar!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Anemones - HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
1/8" sheet
Arches 140#CP
Though not a traditional red for Valentine's Day, I wanted to paint something bright, cheerful and different - thus blue anemones! HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
The anemone have been associated with anticipation and unfading love and come in all sorts of colors from red to white to blue/purple. I saw a wonderful variety of these at the Green and Growing Show last month. They grow from bulbs or from seed, bloom in our region in May and June, but some varieties can bloom as early as crocus and daffodiles (still a bit early here for us in piedmont North Carolina). They thrive in partial shade, and cut flowers can last a week or more. Absolutely lovely flower!
Off to work again -- HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! HOPE YOUR DAY AND WEEK ARE FILLED WITH LOVE AND JOY!
Arches 140#CP
Though not a traditional red for Valentine's Day, I wanted to paint something bright, cheerful and different - thus blue anemones! HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
The anemone have been associated with anticipation and unfading love and come in all sorts of colors from red to white to blue/purple. I saw a wonderful variety of these at the Green and Growing Show last month. They grow from bulbs or from seed, bloom in our region in May and June, but some varieties can bloom as early as crocus and daffodiles (still a bit early here for us in piedmont North Carolina). They thrive in partial shade, and cut flowers can last a week or more. Absolutely lovely flower!
Off to work again -- HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! HOPE YOUR DAY AND WEEK ARE FILLED WITH LOVE AND JOY!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Lemon Tree
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Last week, a cousin of one of our Plant a Row for the Hungry volunteers brought a box of Meyer's lemons to share with the group. He had visited his mother-in-law in Florida and was returning North with a ton of these luscious orbs ... and decided he would share them with us!
OH MY GRACIOUS! DELICIOUS! Sweet, HUGE fruit, that made the best scallapini!! I brought home twigs and leaves to paint from, but by the time I had gotten to it, all the foliage was dried -- so I used a reference photo for this painting. I wanted to surprise our volunteer with a thank you card of lemons to thank her and her cousin for such generosity. BTW, the right side of the painting in real life has more sky blue in it that the scan didn't pick up ..
The grands are here ... and we're cooking and crafting. Already we've created flower nightlights for their room, lemon/strawberry cupcakes, watched a bit of Snow White and painted. Today we finish another nightlight, take a long walk since it will be in the mid 50sF and then celebrate both their birthdays by joining their father at a video funhouse!
Off to have a few minutes of quiet painting time before the house awakens. Have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
Last week, a cousin of one of our Plant a Row for the Hungry volunteers brought a box of Meyer's lemons to share with the group. He had visited his mother-in-law in Florida and was returning North with a ton of these luscious orbs ... and decided he would share them with us!
OH MY GRACIOUS! DELICIOUS! Sweet, HUGE fruit, that made the best scallapini!! I brought home twigs and leaves to paint from, but by the time I had gotten to it, all the foliage was dried -- so I used a reference photo for this painting. I wanted to surprise our volunteer with a thank you card of lemons to thank her and her cousin for such generosity. BTW, the right side of the painting in real life has more sky blue in it that the scan didn't pick up ..
The grands are here ... and we're cooking and crafting. Already we've created flower nightlights for their room, lemon/strawberry cupcakes, watched a bit of Snow White and painted. Today we finish another nightlight, take a long walk since it will be in the mid 50sF and then celebrate both their birthdays by joining their father at a video funhouse!
Off to have a few minutes of quiet painting time before the house awakens. Have a great day!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Fall Forest - Inspired by Denis Collette
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
THANK YOU once more, Denis for the inspiration for this painting! (Please see Denis' incredible photography here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/deniscollette) ...! Though fall may be behind us, the morning cold temperatures encourage me to find warmth where I can! When I go outdoors to feed the kitties, I find them huddled in their 'cat house' under the heat lights - they too struggling to keep warm.
Our temps are supposed to rise for the rest of the weekend and next week - and reach the 60s and 70s .. and though I am still pining for snow, I'll take the warmer weather. It'll be hard to resist the urge warm temperatures as they seem to push us outdoors to the garden -- our last frost dates are typically in mid- APRIL -- so we'll all try to resist the desire to prune and plant! LOL
The grands come today for the weekend so I'll be a bit out of touch ..
Hope your day and weekend are wonderful!
Arches 140#CP
THANK YOU once more, Denis for the inspiration for this painting! (Please see Denis' incredible photography here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/deniscollette) ...! Though fall may be behind us, the morning cold temperatures encourage me to find warmth where I can! When I go outdoors to feed the kitties, I find them huddled in their 'cat house' under the heat lights - they too struggling to keep warm.
Our temps are supposed to rise for the rest of the weekend and next week - and reach the 60s and 70s .. and though I am still pining for snow, I'll take the warmer weather. It'll be hard to resist the urge warm temperatures as they seem to push us outdoors to the garden -- our last frost dates are typically in mid- APRIL -- so we'll all try to resist the desire to prune and plant! LOL
The grands come today for the weekend so I'll be a bit out of touch ..
Hope your day and weekend are wonderful!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Christchurch Harbor - Thank you Jen'B!
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
My thanks go to Jen'B whose wonderful capture of Christchurch Harbor (http://www.flickr.com/photos/doggone_photograhps/5418307482/) inspired this painting.
What drew me to her image was that moody blue/pink light that comes at the end of the day and which she magnificently captured, the marsh grasses, the reflections of the sky on the water .... I didn't follow her photo exactly, but drew too on my memories of the South Carolina marsh where I spent so many years raising my children. THANK YOU SO MUCH, Jen! Please keep sharing these magnificent views!
We had about 30 minutes of snow flurry yesterday - so many of our Plant a Row for the Hungry volunteers didn't make it in. For those that did, we watched a most incredible, frightening DVD "The Vanishing of the Bees" about the decline and sudden disappearance of so many honeybee populations -- HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS WORLDWIDE. If I wasn't already convinced about the importance of buying local foods, supporting our local farmers and growing foods organically, this video would certain convince me! I shared it with our volunteers so they could truly understand why we do what we do in growing food for the Food Bank and the philosophy behind our approach to gardening. See the movie it if you can! And I'll see you at the Farmer's Market!
Hope you have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
My thanks go to Jen'B whose wonderful capture of Christchurch Harbor (http://www.flickr.com/photos/doggone_photograhps/5418307482/) inspired this painting.
What drew me to her image was that moody blue/pink light that comes at the end of the day and which she magnificently captured, the marsh grasses, the reflections of the sky on the water .... I didn't follow her photo exactly, but drew too on my memories of the South Carolina marsh where I spent so many years raising my children. THANK YOU SO MUCH, Jen! Please keep sharing these magnificent views!
We had about 30 minutes of snow flurry yesterday - so many of our Plant a Row for the Hungry volunteers didn't make it in. For those that did, we watched a most incredible, frightening DVD "The Vanishing of the Bees" about the decline and sudden disappearance of so many honeybee populations -- HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS WORLDWIDE. If I wasn't already convinced about the importance of buying local foods, supporting our local farmers and growing foods organically, this video would certain convince me! I shared it with our volunteers so they could truly understand why we do what we do in growing food for the Food Bank and the philosophy behind our approach to gardening. See the movie it if you can! And I'll see you at the Farmer's Market!
Hope you have a great day!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Dreaming of Fields of Wildflowers
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Still unable to get my email on my work computer, and still unable to access Flickr except thru a borrowed laptop. This condition has multiplied across the campus, so I hope SOMEONE figures out what's wrong.... it's mighty frustrating!
The snow we were 'supposed' to have fizzled to a drip of rain... dang - I was hoping for a bit of snow! LOL So if I can't have snow, I'll dream of wildflowers ....
Which we won't have either if we don't get more rain. We're already in a state of drought ... and summer isn't even here ... I suspect it's going to be rocky year for landscaping unless the weather improves a lot!
Off to prepare for our Plant a Row volunteers -- have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
Still unable to get my email on my work computer, and still unable to access Flickr except thru a borrowed laptop. This condition has multiplied across the campus, so I hope SOMEONE figures out what's wrong.... it's mighty frustrating!
The snow we were 'supposed' to have fizzled to a drip of rain... dang - I was hoping for a bit of snow! LOL So if I can't have snow, I'll dream of wildflowers ....
Which we won't have either if we don't get more rain. We're already in a state of drought ... and summer isn't even here ... I suspect it's going to be rocky year for landscaping unless the weather improves a lot!
Off to prepare for our Plant a Row volunteers -- have a great day!
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Hydrangeas by Moonlight
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Mercy, what a way to start a day -- I'm still having trouble logging into Yahoo to get into flickr, my mail, etc. Service to these accounts are sporatic across the campus,so I may not be able to do much today ...
At any rate, these are some splash and splatter winter moonlight hydrangea ... I love the blues of winter -- cool as they are ... and thought I'd give hydrangeas a 'moonlight look.'
Off to teach classes .. have a great day and I hope YOUR mail is working better than mine!
Arches 140#CP
Mercy, what a way to start a day -- I'm still having trouble logging into Yahoo to get into flickr, my mail, etc. Service to these accounts are sporatic across the campus,so I may not be able to do much today ...
At any rate, these are some splash and splatter winter moonlight hydrangea ... I love the blues of winter -- cool as they are ... and thought I'd give hydrangeas a 'moonlight look.'
Off to teach classes .. have a great day and I hope YOUR mail is working better than mine!
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Mountains and Fields of White Wildflowers
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Yep, I am enjoying these mountain scenes! And the dream of wildflowers in their fields ....This was painted with contrasts in mind - particularly the blue/purple against the greens and yellows. The sky is light blue and my scanner couldn't quite pick up the subtleties -- but the sky is there! LOL
The promised busy week is definitely here with a night meetings, classes and public visitors ... The rain kept yesterday grey and cool, and snow (a trace to one inch) is still in the forecast for later this week -- but the weekend temps are expected to rise to 60F!! My gracious -- such fluctuations!
Off to prepare for my next meeting -- have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
Yep, I am enjoying these mountain scenes! And the dream of wildflowers in their fields ....This was painted with contrasts in mind - particularly the blue/purple against the greens and yellows. The sky is light blue and my scanner couldn't quite pick up the subtleties -- but the sky is there! LOL
The promised busy week is definitely here with a night meetings, classes and public visitors ... The rain kept yesterday grey and cool, and snow (a trace to one inch) is still in the forecast for later this week -- but the weekend temps are expected to rise to 60F!! My gracious -- such fluctuations!
Off to prepare for my next meeting -- have a great day!
Monday, February 07, 2011
Mountains and Flowers - Eric Michaels
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
This is an exercise from Eric Michaels, writer of the emagazine "En Plein Air"... I wanted to begin painting a few more mountain scenes and this was the perfect exercise to practice!
Our long walk yesterday in the bright sunshine was splendid! Birds were flitting, the air was cool in the shadows, and there was just enough warmth to the day to give us the boost we needed to be outdoors. I'm especially glad we took advantage of the day since rain will be back this afternoon and snow is in the forecast later in the week.
Off to another busy workweek. I drop off three of my paintings for a yearlong exhibit at our community college system office where they'll be viewed by all sorts of officials as well as the general public. The office returns the two that have been on display since last year.
Hope your day is sunny and bright!
Arches 140#CP
This is an exercise from Eric Michaels, writer of the emagazine "En Plein Air"... I wanted to begin painting a few more mountain scenes and this was the perfect exercise to practice!
Our long walk yesterday in the bright sunshine was splendid! Birds were flitting, the air was cool in the shadows, and there was just enough warmth to the day to give us the boost we needed to be outdoors. I'm especially glad we took advantage of the day since rain will be back this afternoon and snow is in the forecast later in the week.
Off to another busy workweek. I drop off three of my paintings for a yearlong exhibit at our community college system office where they'll be viewed by all sorts of officials as well as the general public. The office returns the two that have been on display since last year.
Hope your day is sunny and bright!
Sunday, February 06, 2011
Almond Blossom Challenge
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
The Watercolourist group held another challenge offered by Janina of an almond blossom ... this is my interpretation of the posted image ... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33128445@N05/5410405638/) Thank you Janina for the challenge!
I enjoyed painting these, the promise of spring evident in the sunshine and blossoms. Today promises a bit of that sunshine and warmth and we hope to get outdoors again once for a much needed walk.
And yet -- we've got a 'mixed winter forecast' for later next week ... rain, perhaps snow ...depending on the stronger front that enters our area. It's been a see-saw of a winter!
Hope you enjoy the day!
Arches 140#CP
The Watercolourist group held another challenge offered by Janina of an almond blossom ... this is my interpretation of the posted image ... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33128445@N05/5410405638/) Thank you Janina for the challenge!
I enjoyed painting these, the promise of spring evident in the sunshine and blossoms. Today promises a bit of that sunshine and warmth and we hope to get outdoors again once for a much needed walk.
And yet -- we've got a 'mixed winter forecast' for later next week ... rain, perhaps snow ...depending on the stronger front that enters our area. It's been a see-saw of a winter!
Hope you enjoy the day!
Saturday, February 05, 2011
Snowy Sunrise on the Farm
1/8 Sheet
Arches140#CP
We won't see the sun today - the grey clouds and rain have us gloomed in yet again .... We need the rain, but the long days of grey seem to dull the spirit ... I'd rather have snow actually ... and so if the forecasters can't predict any more for us, at least I can find some myself! LOL
Though this is painted from a general reference photo from Wet Canvas, it could easily be Oxford. After watching Nick and Emily BOTH win Star Awards for their academic achievements, I drove to our new library yesterday and was thrilled with the new building. It was filled with light and space and modernity -- yahoo! Now to hope they get some new books and audios! LOL
But on the way back home, even through the grey, my views were like this one (minus the snow) - and I felt an overwhelming sense of joy for the privilege of living in the countryside.
Hope your day is filled with sunshine and warmth! Have a great weekend!
Arches140#CP
We won't see the sun today - the grey clouds and rain have us gloomed in yet again .... We need the rain, but the long days of grey seem to dull the spirit ... I'd rather have snow actually ... and so if the forecasters can't predict any more for us, at least I can find some myself! LOL
Though this is painted from a general reference photo from Wet Canvas, it could easily be Oxford. After watching Nick and Emily BOTH win Star Awards for their academic achievements, I drove to our new library yesterday and was thrilled with the new building. It was filled with light and space and modernity -- yahoo! Now to hope they get some new books and audios! LOL
But on the way back home, even through the grey, my views were like this one (minus the snow) - and I felt an overwhelming sense of joy for the privilege of living in the countryside.
Hope your day is filled with sunshine and warmth! Have a great weekend!
Friday, February 04, 2011
Playful Daisies
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
It's cold and rainy again, and I am in a great need of color ... This is a playful piece -- wish I had added a fifth daisy --- but wanted to try a few techiques and simply play with color and light. I want to do this again with a better composition, but I enjoyed the playfulness of it and the COLORS! LOL
I'm off early this morning to see my two grands receive school awards .. yahoo!!!
Stay warm and dry!
Arches 140#CP
It's cold and rainy again, and I am in a great need of color ... This is a playful piece -- wish I had added a fifth daisy --- but wanted to try a few techiques and simply play with color and light. I want to do this again with a better composition, but I enjoyed the playfulness of it and the COLORS! LOL
I'm off early this morning to see my two grands receive school awards .. yahoo!!!
Stay warm and dry!
Thursday, February 03, 2011
Evening Snow - Thank YOU Denis!
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
The hush of snow, that fabulous blue light in the quiet of an evening's snowfall, the cold, crisp air -- I can't help but think of that song of the 1970s "There's a Kind of Hush, All Over the World" ..... I LOVE that light snow brings to such a night ....
This painting is based on a wonderful photo of Denis Collette (www.flickr.com/photos/deniscollette), whose wonderful photography makes me dream!! THANK YOU DENIS for allowing me to use your work again for inspiration!
Our high temperatures have crashed into the 30sF this morning, and we return to 'winter weather' yet again. Despite working in the greenhouse today, warm temps, and the teasing sunshine, we are still in for wintry weather, and if I have my wish - a bit more snow before spring arrives.
For those of you in the throes of yet another snowfall, please be safe, and send just a bit our way, please ....!
Arches 140#CP
The hush of snow, that fabulous blue light in the quiet of an evening's snowfall, the cold, crisp air -- I can't help but think of that song of the 1970s "There's a Kind of Hush, All Over the World" ..... I LOVE that light snow brings to such a night ....
This painting is based on a wonderful photo of Denis Collette (www.flickr.com/photos/deniscollette), whose wonderful photography makes me dream!! THANK YOU DENIS for allowing me to use your work again for inspiration!
Our high temperatures have crashed into the 30sF this morning, and we return to 'winter weather' yet again. Despite working in the greenhouse today, warm temps, and the teasing sunshine, we are still in for wintry weather, and if I have my wish - a bit more snow before spring arrives.
For those of you in the throes of yet another snowfall, please be safe, and send just a bit our way, please ....!
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Remembering Italy
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Though it's warm today and heading to the low 70s, the skies are grey and raining, and the wind blows with a ferocity that reminds us that tomorrow, our temps will merely be in the 40s ... a see-saw of a weather week. It is times like this, that my heart returns to Italy .... and the joy of its incredible light and landscapes ....!
Tonight we have a full house for our beginning gardening class. The 'green' movement, the emphasis on healthy foods, growing one's own produce, and return to simpler times fill the classes we offer -- and we're grateful. It makes for a long day, but a rewarding experience for all involved.
Tomorrow we return to the greenhouse to continue planting our crops for this spring's garden. Though so much of the US is in the throes of yet another snowfall ... the spring IS coming ....
Have a great day!
Arches 140#CP
Though it's warm today and heading to the low 70s, the skies are grey and raining, and the wind blows with a ferocity that reminds us that tomorrow, our temps will merely be in the 40s ... a see-saw of a weather week. It is times like this, that my heart returns to Italy .... and the joy of its incredible light and landscapes ....!
Tonight we have a full house for our beginning gardening class. The 'green' movement, the emphasis on healthy foods, growing one's own produce, and return to simpler times fill the classes we offer -- and we're grateful. It makes for a long day, but a rewarding experience for all involved.
Tomorrow we return to the greenhouse to continue planting our crops for this spring's garden. Though so much of the US is in the throes of yet another snowfall ... the spring IS coming ....
Have a great day!
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
Dreaming of Summer Beaches
Daily Practice
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Yep, the grey, rainy days have returned, the Northeast US is being hit with yet another snow storm, and I"m dreaming of summer sand, salt air, beaches, and the leisure of vacations! I'll bet I'm not the only one these days. I'm only wishing those were MY footprints in the sand! LOL
Busy days at work, another week of workshops and late nights, LOTS of visitors yesterday -- a good day -
I hope your day is safe and warm - and filled with dreams of leisure ...
1/8 Sheet
Arches 140#CP
Yep, the grey, rainy days have returned, the Northeast US is being hit with yet another snow storm, and I"m dreaming of summer sand, salt air, beaches, and the leisure of vacations! I'll bet I'm not the only one these days. I'm only wishing those were MY footprints in the sand! LOL
Busy days at work, another week of workshops and late nights, LOTS of visitors yesterday -- a good day -
I hope your day is safe and warm - and filled with dreams of leisure ...
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