Daily Practice
Plein Air
I got to the B&B earlier than ususal last night, and so I sat in my car and tried to sketch Rebecca's patch of iris through the front windshield. I"m nearsighted, and so finding details was a BIG challenge!!! LOL It got rainy, again, and so I was very glad I was sitting in a protected vehicle! LOL
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Peach Azalea
It was yet another busy, intense day with severe thunderstorms and rain on and off until late evening. Paperwork after the plant sale continues to multiply, and I suspect I could plant a tree a day for the rest of my life, and still not make up for all the paper I generate! SIGH
Anyway, this peach azalea is from my home. I haven't planted a lot of azaleas (contrary to most southern gardens!!! LOL), since I find their blossoming, though glorious in the spring, is too short-lived. Nonetheless, the few I do have give our humble home a really festive look this time of the year.
We've got tours planned for two different groups today, a bit of rain expected, and meetings and paperwork -- sigh!
May we all have a moment today to stop and smell the roses!! ME TOO! LOL
Anyway, this peach azalea is from my home. I haven't planted a lot of azaleas (contrary to most southern gardens!!! LOL), since I find their blossoming, though glorious in the spring, is too short-lived. Nonetheless, the few I do have give our humble home a really festive look this time of the year.
We've got tours planned for two different groups today, a bit of rain expected, and meetings and paperwork -- sigh!
May we all have a moment today to stop and smell the roses!! ME TOO! LOL
Rebecca's Azaleas and Iris
Daily Practice
Plein Air
A very very quick plein air sketch of a portion of Rebecca's garden -- azaleas and iris. I had to paint this between wind and rain .... I finally gave up after sketching in the major forms and finished the values in the house. These small trees - a dogwood, now entirely in leaf and a small crep myrtle, sit near the driveway to her side door.
Plein Air
A very very quick plein air sketch of a portion of Rebecca's garden -- azaleas and iris. I had to paint this between wind and rain .... I finally gave up after sketching in the major forms and finished the values in the house. These small trees - a dogwood, now entirely in leaf and a small crep myrtle, sit near the driveway to her side door.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Lakeside
Behind the main campus building at JCC is a lake surrounded by pine trees and azaleas as well as this pink dogwood showing off its delicate blossoms. During some of my trips across campus last week, I saw this view and so wish I could have painted it plein air, but other duties called. So I snapped a photo and painted it AFTER the plant sale. Pinks, light purples and so many shades of green make up this corner of the campus. The path leads around the lake, and is always occupied by mallards and geese as well as walkers and joggers. Truly a pretty place.
My friend Donna posted a link to Susan Boyle's sensational appearance on "Britains Got Talent" yesterday
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_happy_learner/3455663732/?addedcomment=1#comment72157617043769706).
I listened once again to Susan (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY) singing. Again, her tale, a Cinderella story to be sure, had me sobbing with emotion. The crusty, gnarly oyster, was allowed to open to reveal the most golden of glistening pearls. And the world rejoices again.
How much this reminds me that we are all Susans. We are all oysters with hidden pearls that sometimes, if we’re fortunate, a few people see, appreciate and value. A few of us, even get the chance to broaden the ‘shine’ inside to wider audiences.
I want to remember … to strive always … to SEE each of those pearls that come into my world … to encourage their glowing, to help each ‘oyster’ I meet to shine ever more brightly.
May we each have the courage and conviction to keep shining ...to brighten the world for us all. And for me, some of that glow are scenes like this ... and friends like you.
Shine on, dear hearts ....
My friend Donna posted a link to Susan Boyle's sensational appearance on "Britains Got Talent" yesterday
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_happy_learner/3455663732/?addedcomment=1#comment72157617043769706).
I listened once again to Susan (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY) singing. Again, her tale, a Cinderella story to be sure, had me sobbing with emotion. The crusty, gnarly oyster, was allowed to open to reveal the most golden of glistening pearls. And the world rejoices again.
How much this reminds me that we are all Susans. We are all oysters with hidden pearls that sometimes, if we’re fortunate, a few people see, appreciate and value. A few of us, even get the chance to broaden the ‘shine’ inside to wider audiences.
I want to remember … to strive always … to SEE each of those pearls that come into my world … to encourage their glowing, to help each ‘oyster’ I meet to shine ever more brightly.
May we each have the courage and conviction to keep shining ...to brighten the world for us all. And for me, some of that glow are scenes like this ... and friends like you.
Shine on, dear hearts ....
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Azaleas
Daily Practice
Thank you all for your most generous comments yesterday and for the well wishes for our fund-raiser plant sale.
It was an incredible success!
The day itself was an exceptional gift - sunshine, temperatures in the 70s and 80s, clear skies, and an array of activities being offered around our local towns. The gardening 'bug' seemed to bite hard while the sun pulled families from the confines of their homes!
By 8:45 we had a line in front of the greenhouses back to the parking lot! I was jaw-dropped! At 9, we opened the doors - by 9:10 the cucumbers were gone, by 9:15 every pepper plant, by 10, half of the entire TABLE of tomatoes-- all gone. Birdhouses, flower pots, feeders went to loving homes with equal speed. The JCC Drumming Ensemble opened the event followed by an enthusiastic, wonderful chorus, giving the entire sale a festive, energetic 'feel.' Painters were captivated by those irises I posted earlier, and also lined the entry; and many more spent the day by the lake across the campus. Photography students, pottery students all did well. Our special musicians (Don S, Harvey and Charles, Brant and Brandy) continued to keep customers entertained and the mood light and cheeful. We had a brilliant performance by our former Arboretum Technican's daughter, Brandy (10 years old!!!) and husband, and tears of joy just fell by those listening to the talent of this little star! Hot dogs were the lunch item of choice (in between customers -- a mere smidgen of time), and students were scurrying with loaded gators and golf carts to fill customers' cars all day long.
We exceeded our best year of sales!! Which means despite the economic restrictions we've been under and will continue to operate next year, the Southern Garden can begin to move forward!
We are all incredibly grateful!!!!
And, well, exhausted. It was an exceptionally early, intense, non-stop day and late night. But deeply gratifying. Today will be quiet as not only I recover, but all the wonderful volunteers and students, our Advisory Board members, even the Southern Garden architect, my dear husband who not only sang his heart out, but also helped with receipts and clean up.
When we finally got home last night, I was too keyed up to sit, so I walked the property and plucked one of my own flowering azaleas. I didn't have enough energy to do much, but daily practice is important, and so this loose, simple sketch before I feel into bed.
Thank you all! It was truly an INCREDIBLE day!
Thank you all for your most generous comments yesterday and for the well wishes for our fund-raiser plant sale.
It was an incredible success!
The day itself was an exceptional gift - sunshine, temperatures in the 70s and 80s, clear skies, and an array of activities being offered around our local towns. The gardening 'bug' seemed to bite hard while the sun pulled families from the confines of their homes!
By 8:45 we had a line in front of the greenhouses back to the parking lot! I was jaw-dropped! At 9, we opened the doors - by 9:10 the cucumbers were gone, by 9:15 every pepper plant, by 10, half of the entire TABLE of tomatoes-- all gone. Birdhouses, flower pots, feeders went to loving homes with equal speed. The JCC Drumming Ensemble opened the event followed by an enthusiastic, wonderful chorus, giving the entire sale a festive, energetic 'feel.' Painters were captivated by those irises I posted earlier, and also lined the entry; and many more spent the day by the lake across the campus. Photography students, pottery students all did well. Our special musicians (Don S, Harvey and Charles, Brant and Brandy) continued to keep customers entertained and the mood light and cheeful. We had a brilliant performance by our former Arboretum Technican's daughter, Brandy (10 years old!!!) and husband, and tears of joy just fell by those listening to the talent of this little star! Hot dogs were the lunch item of choice (in between customers -- a mere smidgen of time), and students were scurrying with loaded gators and golf carts to fill customers' cars all day long.
We exceeded our best year of sales!! Which means despite the economic restrictions we've been under and will continue to operate next year, the Southern Garden can begin to move forward!
We are all incredibly grateful!!!!
And, well, exhausted. It was an exceptionally early, intense, non-stop day and late night. But deeply gratifying. Today will be quiet as not only I recover, but all the wonderful volunteers and students, our Advisory Board members, even the Southern Garden architect, my dear husband who not only sang his heart out, but also helped with receipts and clean up.
When we finally got home last night, I was too keyed up to sit, so I walked the property and plucked one of my own flowering azaleas. I didn't have enough energy to do much, but daily practice is important, and so this loose, simple sketch before I feel into bed.
Thank you all! It was truly an INCREDIBLE day!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Bill's Challenge - Lorca Spain
I won't have time to post this tomorrow since we'll be leaving mighty early and returning pretty late ...
I spent most of the day working on Bill's Challenge (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/3431879478/). And challenging it was!! From perspective to light, to figures, to GREENS, etc., etc. But it was fun!
Thanks again, Bill, for another learning experience!!!!
I spent most of the day working on Bill's Challenge (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/3431879478/). And challenging it was!! From perspective to light, to figures, to GREENS, etc., etc. But it was fun!
Thanks again, Bill, for another learning experience!!!!
Arboretum Iris
Daily Practice
Last year, the Arboretum received an incredibly generous gift of bulbs from Brent and Becky's Bulbs in Virginia. We planted over 1500 of them in our various gardens, and have been enjoying their magnificent display for the last few weeks.
Some of my favorites are the irises -- whites, yellows/golds, light blues to deep lavenders, and these, dark purple on the top, a hint of pink and white on the lower petals. They're almost as tall as I am (well, for me 3 1/2 feet is mighty tall!! especially for a plant! LOL), and as we go in and out of our office space and the sun is upon the blossoms, their white petals look like dinner plates edged in fine plum ... truly a lift to the spirits when we've been running like crazed magpies! LOL
One more day, a few more details .. then the plant sale. I'll be gone from before the dawn tomorrow to nightfall, so I hope to stay awake enough when I get home to sketch a bit. It'll be fabulous, though, watching artists painting some of the plants we've worked so hard to have shining at this special time.
I've brought home a few tomato plants to get into the ground on Sunday ... nights are still a bit cold these last few weeks, but the days are in the 60s and 70s and the pull of the sun to be outdoors is mighty strong ...!
Last year, the Arboretum received an incredibly generous gift of bulbs from Brent and Becky's Bulbs in Virginia. We planted over 1500 of them in our various gardens, and have been enjoying their magnificent display for the last few weeks.
Some of my favorites are the irises -- whites, yellows/golds, light blues to deep lavenders, and these, dark purple on the top, a hint of pink and white on the lower petals. They're almost as tall as I am (well, for me 3 1/2 feet is mighty tall!! especially for a plant! LOL), and as we go in and out of our office space and the sun is upon the blossoms, their white petals look like dinner plates edged in fine plum ... truly a lift to the spirits when we've been running like crazed magpies! LOL
One more day, a few more details .. then the plant sale. I'll be gone from before the dawn tomorrow to nightfall, so I hope to stay awake enough when I get home to sketch a bit. It'll be fabulous, though, watching artists painting some of the plants we've worked so hard to have shining at this special time.
I've brought home a few tomato plants to get into the ground on Sunday ... nights are still a bit cold these last few weeks, but the days are in the 60s and 70s and the pull of the sun to be outdoors is mighty strong ...!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Rebecca's Wegelia and Daffs
Daily Practice
Imagine my surprise last night when I dragged myself home after another day in the greenhouse to find Rebecca had graced my room with a small bouquet of blooming wegelia and sweet-smelling daffodils. Not only did it look so pretty, but I knew Rebecca was subtly asking me to paint it!! LOL
A day of meetings and more greenhouse work, then attention to the outside of the Arboretum (all those fine weeding chores), and we 'should' be ready for Saturday.
Though we might have another shower or two today, Saturday promises to be warm and sunny ... just the kind of day for music, gardening, and art!
Imagine my surprise last night when I dragged myself home after another day in the greenhouse to find Rebecca had graced my room with a small bouquet of blooming wegelia and sweet-smelling daffodils. Not only did it look so pretty, but I knew Rebecca was subtly asking me to paint it!! LOL
A day of meetings and more greenhouse work, then attention to the outside of the Arboretum (all those fine weeding chores), and we 'should' be ready for Saturday.
Though we might have another shower or two today, Saturday promises to be warm and sunny ... just the kind of day for music, gardening, and art!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Rebecca's Columbine
Daily Practice
After a day hauling planters, pots, flats, soil, walking at least 6 miles back and forth in the greenhouse rearranging plants, these bony ol' arms and legs got to the B&B just about dark -- in time to collapse!! lol
I didn't have much time to sketch, nor much energy, so Rebecca allowed me to pick a few columbine to use for my daily practice.
Today, we'll be continuing work in the greenhouse, designing a vegetable bed for display, making signs and the like. I'll be scarce.
It's raining, but warm, but Saturday promises to be glorious! Fingers crossed!
After a day hauling planters, pots, flats, soil, walking at least 6 miles back and forth in the greenhouse rearranging plants, these bony ol' arms and legs got to the B&B just about dark -- in time to collapse!! lol
I didn't have much time to sketch, nor much energy, so Rebecca allowed me to pick a few columbine to use for my daily practice.
Today, we'll be continuing work in the greenhouse, designing a vegetable bed for display, making signs and the like. I'll be scarce.
It's raining, but warm, but Saturday promises to be glorious! Fingers crossed!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Rebecca's Flowers
Daily Practice
The irises at the Arboretum -- tall, strong, colorful -- are just opening -- and how I wish I could get outdoors to sketch them! Yellows, whites, pale blues, deep purples -- all of these are bursting their sheaths just in time for our local artists to come on Saturday to paint and our customers come to purchase plants.
But readying for this event keeps me tied to the greenhouse and indoors ... sigh.
I got to the B&B last night hoping that Rebecca had some irises in her kitchen bouquet. Unfortunately, the flowers on the table were rather droopy and blown. I asked her about them, and that wonderully generous woman suggested we walk her garden to pick a bouquet for me to paint!
Off we went selecting some bright red/purple iris, about-ready-to-bloom azaleas and some of the most incredibly fragrant daffodils I've ever inhaled. She quickly fixed them in the vase, and I was off to paint! This is the result .. and, gratefully, she liked it too! LOL
Rain has set it for the next few days making the final clean-up chores around the gardens impossible. I'll be in the greenhouse all day, repotting plants, organizing tables and the like, so I'll be scarce.
Meanwhile, stay day and warm! And keep an eye on those flowers!!!
The irises at the Arboretum -- tall, strong, colorful -- are just opening -- and how I wish I could get outdoors to sketch them! Yellows, whites, pale blues, deep purples -- all of these are bursting their sheaths just in time for our local artists to come on Saturday to paint and our customers come to purchase plants.
But readying for this event keeps me tied to the greenhouse and indoors ... sigh.
I got to the B&B last night hoping that Rebecca had some irises in her kitchen bouquet. Unfortunately, the flowers on the table were rather droopy and blown. I asked her about them, and that wonderully generous woman suggested we walk her garden to pick a bouquet for me to paint!
Off we went selecting some bright red/purple iris, about-ready-to-bloom azaleas and some of the most incredibly fragrant daffodils I've ever inhaled. She quickly fixed them in the vase, and I was off to paint! This is the result .. and, gratefully, she liked it too! LOL
Rain has set it for the next few days making the final clean-up chores around the gardens impossible. I'll be in the greenhouse all day, repotting plants, organizing tables and the like, so I'll be scarce.
Meanwhile, stay day and warm! And keep an eye on those flowers!!!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Rain Coming at Satterwhite Point 2
Daily Practice
Plein Air
This is a view of the lake and the changes we experienced the other day over an hour's time. From sunshine to gusty winds to billows of darkening clouds to sheets of rain ... whew! I turned my view to paint this a bit more toward the water than the thicket to focus on the changes in the water color. Some of this was painted from the dryness of the car! LOL
It's been cooler than we had expected with rain predicted for the first of this week. We're in the throes of preparing for our annual plant sale fund-raiser, so it'll be mighty busy with work on the weekend as well.
Hope the week goes well for everyone! Stay dry!
Plein Air
This is a view of the lake and the changes we experienced the other day over an hour's time. From sunshine to gusty winds to billows of darkening clouds to sheets of rain ... whew! I turned my view to paint this a bit more toward the water than the thicket to focus on the changes in the water color. Some of this was painted from the dryness of the car! LOL
It's been cooler than we had expected with rain predicted for the first of this week. We're in the throes of preparing for our annual plant sale fund-raiser, so it'll be mighty busy with work on the weekend as well.
Hope the week goes well for everyone! Stay dry!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
HAPPY EASTER!
Spring! Easter! Blossoms! The turn of the year and a day of celebration! May the joy of this blessed time embrace each of you!
Our trees are rejoicing in displays of pale pink and white. Dogwoods have donned their ballerina skirts while plum, pear, peach and apple dress themselves in soft flowing pastels ...
Spring!
The Happiest of Easters to you!
Our trees are rejoicing in displays of pale pink and white. Dogwoods have donned their ballerina skirts while plum, pear, peach and apple dress themselves in soft flowing pastels ...
Spring!
The Happiest of Easters to you!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Satterwhite Point before the rain
Daily Practice
Plein Air
The day began with wonderful sun and warm temps. C and I packed up the car and headed to a lake about 35 miles from home that neither of us had been to in over 15 years ... (I know! I know! LOL). We drove around the area remarking about the changes. We disembarked several times as we watched fishermen and fisherladies on the lake being tossed about by the furious wind that seemed to beat us to the water.
We settled on a spot on the backside of the lake where the wind was kept at bay by the trees. C pacticed his guitar and I sketched the view before me -- deciding that I needed to hurry a bit in case that wind was going to catch up with us. I went straight in with the watercolor - keeping things simplified.
I loved this wee spot overlooking the lake. We were joined by several folks we 'tried' to fish .. but gave up after a while as the wind began changing direction and blowing more strongly.
After about 30 minutes, both C and I noticed that the clouds were darkening; and the wind, gusting more, was far cooler. When one gust came seemingly out of nowhere and blew my paints across the picnic table, we decided to pack up and head to the car.....just in time.
The rains came then, furious, cold and gusty. I was able to capture the majority of the changes in the lake in my sketchbook before we left -- I'll post those later.
Today looks like another beauty! I'm thinking we may head out again or work a bit in the garden. I really like this 'resting' thing!
Plein Air
The day began with wonderful sun and warm temps. C and I packed up the car and headed to a lake about 35 miles from home that neither of us had been to in over 15 years ... (I know! I know! LOL). We drove around the area remarking about the changes. We disembarked several times as we watched fishermen and fisherladies on the lake being tossed about by the furious wind that seemed to beat us to the water.
We settled on a spot on the backside of the lake where the wind was kept at bay by the trees. C pacticed his guitar and I sketched the view before me -- deciding that I needed to hurry a bit in case that wind was going to catch up with us. I went straight in with the watercolor - keeping things simplified.
I loved this wee spot overlooking the lake. We were joined by several folks we 'tried' to fish .. but gave up after a while as the wind began changing direction and blowing more strongly.
After about 30 minutes, both C and I noticed that the clouds were darkening; and the wind, gusting more, was far cooler. When one gust came seemingly out of nowhere and blew my paints across the picnic table, we decided to pack up and head to the car.....just in time.
The rains came then, furious, cold and gusty. I was able to capture the majority of the changes in the lake in my sketchbook before we left -- I'll post those later.
Today looks like another beauty! I'm thinking we may head out again or work a bit in the garden. I really like this 'resting' thing!
Fireplace at the Lake House Restaurant
Daily Practice
Pen and Wash
When we were driven from the lake by the rain, we decided to continue our 'day out' and so drove another 20 miles across to Virginia for dinner at The Lake House Restaurant - near another portion of Kerr Lake. Since it was Good Friday and we were in 'lake country,' we dined on Tuna and Catfish -- both excellent.
While our meals were being prepared, I sketched this in ink -- again, no pencil, and added a bit of paint before we left. By the time we were heading home, the rain was spotty, and so I finished it while C was driving ...
Pen and Wash
When we were driven from the lake by the rain, we decided to continue our 'day out' and so drove another 20 miles across to Virginia for dinner at The Lake House Restaurant - near another portion of Kerr Lake. Since it was Good Friday and we were in 'lake country,' we dined on Tuna and Catfish -- both excellent.
While our meals were being prepared, I sketched this in ink -- again, no pencil, and added a bit of paint before we left. By the time we were heading home, the rain was spotty, and so I finished it while C was driving ...
Friday, April 10, 2009
Hyacinths
Daily Practice
The hyacinths are in their full glory right now -- these brilliantly purple ones grace the front and sides of the kitchen garden at the Arboretum .. LOVE them!
We had a surprise yesterday when I picked up the kitties from the vet .... Target -- is a BOY! LOL Imagine how silly I felt not to have known and thinking he was a she .... oh well ... at least I know Pepper now has a brother. Both Target and Spot are doing well, though neither of them likes being confined. They have a couple of days for restricted activity and contact with their siblings. Spot has already managed to escape twice ...maybe her pain medication today will calm her down a bit.
It's going to be a glorious day -- sunshine and warm temps. I think C and I are headed for the park for some painting and hiking .... yahoo!!
Have a great day!
The hyacinths are in their full glory right now -- these brilliantly purple ones grace the front and sides of the kitchen garden at the Arboretum .. LOVE them!
We had a surprise yesterday when I picked up the kitties from the vet .... Target -- is a BOY! LOL Imagine how silly I felt not to have known and thinking he was a she .... oh well ... at least I know Pepper now has a brother. Both Target and Spot are doing well, though neither of them likes being confined. They have a couple of days for restricted activity and contact with their siblings. Spot has already managed to escape twice ...maybe her pain medication today will calm her down a bit.
It's going to be a glorious day -- sunshine and warm temps. I think C and I are headed for the park for some painting and hiking .... yahoo!!
Have a great day!
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Wisteria Drapes
Daily Practice
It's amazing to me how quickly our landscape is turning from winter bare to spring profusion! This is the view from the front of the Arboretum across the road to a small patch of trees and shrubs -- today covered in lavender and purple wisteria. The vines have formed a sea of low bushes, while the more adventuresome vines have begun taking over the trees to form purple draperies. If I squint my eyes, all I see is a curtain of purple and chartruse ....
It's raining as I am writing this. The temps are a bit cooler, and thankfully, C and I have been able to 'capture' Spot and Target for their appointment with the vet -- the last of the litter to be spayed.
The school closes at noon today for the Easter holiday. After a flurry of activity, the plant sale next week and other obligations each weekend until June, I think we're planning a quiet, restive weekend ... it'll be a welcome change!
Have a great day!
It's amazing to me how quickly our landscape is turning from winter bare to spring profusion! This is the view from the front of the Arboretum across the road to a small patch of trees and shrubs -- today covered in lavender and purple wisteria. The vines have formed a sea of low bushes, while the more adventuresome vines have begun taking over the trees to form purple draperies. If I squint my eyes, all I see is a curtain of purple and chartruse ....
It's raining as I am writing this. The temps are a bit cooler, and thankfully, C and I have been able to 'capture' Spot and Target for their appointment with the vet -- the last of the litter to be spayed.
The school closes at noon today for the Easter holiday. After a flurry of activity, the plant sale next week and other obligations each weekend until June, I think we're planning a quiet, restive weekend ... it'll be a welcome change!
Have a great day!
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Flowering Quince
Daily Practice
The quince in my garden is in full bloom .... and on one side of the house, the quince is this wonderful peachy-pink; across the drive, the other quince is a magenta-pink -- wonderful eye-candy!
I tried to sketch this shrub plein air on Sunday; but it turned out too poor to post! LOL So I thought I'd give it another attempt ...
Temps didn't plummet as cold as predicted last night; so our flowers look like they survived the worst of it. Time now to turn our attention to the garden and putting in some of the plants our students have been growing.
I've created a power-point presentation for 'small space gardening' for our Arboretum web viewers:
http://www.johnstoncc.edu/Arboretum/
scroll a bit toward the middle of the page. I used my own gardens for this presentation ... enjoy it! We'll be using this for the school's earthday festival at the end of the month.
I do hope to get outdoors this weekend for some gardening and another plein air attempt. Weather should be much warmer than today!
The quince in my garden is in full bloom .... and on one side of the house, the quince is this wonderful peachy-pink; across the drive, the other quince is a magenta-pink -- wonderful eye-candy!
I tried to sketch this shrub plein air on Sunday; but it turned out too poor to post! LOL So I thought I'd give it another attempt ...
Temps didn't plummet as cold as predicted last night; so our flowers look like they survived the worst of it. Time now to turn our attention to the garden and putting in some of the plants our students have been growing.
I've created a power-point presentation for 'small space gardening' for our Arboretum web viewers:
http://www.johnstoncc.edu/Arboretum/
scroll a bit toward the middle of the page. I used my own gardens for this presentation ... enjoy it! We'll be using this for the school's earthday festival at the end of the month.
I do hope to get outdoors this weekend for some gardening and another plein air attempt. Weather should be much warmer than today!
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Spring at Duke
Daily Practice
A scene from Duke Gardens and their terraces. Each of the Italianate terraces are filled with seasonal flowers. This weekend, tulips of all colors -- from purple and magenta and red to white, peach and yellow --- were showcased. Crab apples, dogwoods, azaleas all in bloom ... set against the ever-present pine green .... a wonderful place to visit! Some day OUR Arboretum will look simliar---- I pray ...
The temps have plunged to freezing for the next two days - all of us have our fingers crossed for the strawberries and peaches in full bloom ....
Stay warm!
A scene from Duke Gardens and their terraces. Each of the Italianate terraces are filled with seasonal flowers. This weekend, tulips of all colors -- from purple and magenta and red to white, peach and yellow --- were showcased. Crab apples, dogwoods, azaleas all in bloom ... set against the ever-present pine green .... a wonderful place to visit! Some day OUR Arboretum will look simliar---- I pray ...
The temps have plunged to freezing for the next two days - all of us have our fingers crossed for the strawberries and peaches in full bloom ....
Stay warm!
Monday, April 06, 2009
Duke Duck
While waiting for my hand-made sketchbooks to be bound (getting my journals ready for Italy!), C and I paid a quick visit to Duke Gardens. Our time was limited, so we walked swifty, snapping tons of photos in the beautiful spring weather. We were joined by quite a few other photo-takers.... and by the time we left (45 minutes later), the parking lot was full!
I sketched this yesterday to the sound of C and his friends rocking the house with their music! Though I sat outdoors and attempted a sketch of my flowering quince, apparently my muse decided she'd rather inspire the boys ... LOL
It's off to work and an administrator retreat,,,
We've a bit of cooler, wetter weather for the early part of this week - even a bit of a freeze predicted. With tulips and trees and all sorts of flowers blooming, we're hoping the ground has warmed enough to keep them alive through the worst of this ...
Have a great week!
I sketched this yesterday to the sound of C and his friends rocking the house with their music! Though I sat outdoors and attempted a sketch of my flowering quince, apparently my muse decided she'd rather inspire the boys ... LOL
It's off to work and an administrator retreat,,,
We've a bit of cooler, wetter weather for the early part of this week - even a bit of a freeze predicted. With tulips and trees and all sorts of flowers blooming, we're hoping the ground has warmed enough to keep them alive through the worst of this ...
Have a great week!
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Azaleas and Rocks
Daily Practice
Another busy day yesterday and the grands overnight. Charles has his jam group coming this afternoon, and the weather is about as beautiful as any spring day ...I've my fingers crossed for finding a bit of time to paint outdoors or at least time to paint with leisure! LOL
I painted this a couple of weeks ago. The scene could have been Duke Gardens -- flowers galore! Even my own patches of daffodils, my redbuds and saucer magnolila are in bloom .... and the pine pollen is flying! With the winds we've had, it feels like a yellow duststorm! LOL
Have a great day ...
Another busy day yesterday and the grands overnight. Charles has his jam group coming this afternoon, and the weather is about as beautiful as any spring day ...I've my fingers crossed for finding a bit of time to paint outdoors or at least time to paint with leisure! LOL
I painted this a couple of weeks ago. The scene could have been Duke Gardens -- flowers galore! Even my own patches of daffodils, my redbuds and saucer magnolila are in bloom .... and the pine pollen is flying! With the winds we've had, it feels like a yellow duststorm! LOL
Have a great day ...
Saturday, April 04, 2009
A Pot of Purple Posies
Daily Practice
The sun came out yesterday just about lunchtime, and temperatures rose with it ... a beautiful day spent running errands .... not much time to paint.
But everywhere we went, flowers! From dandelions to azaleas ... spring is emerging ....! Trees are shedding pollen and there are still many without their green dresses, but under incredibly blue skies, wee bits of green can be seen everywhere!
Temps this morning have started out cool, and those furious winds of yesterday have calmed down to soft whispers ....
I so hope to get some painting time in today!
The sun came out yesterday just about lunchtime, and temperatures rose with it ... a beautiful day spent running errands .... not much time to paint.
But everywhere we went, flowers! From dandelions to azaleas ... spring is emerging ....! Trees are shedding pollen and there are still many without their green dresses, but under incredibly blue skies, wee bits of green can be seen everywhere!
Temps this morning have started out cool, and those furious winds of yesterday have calmed down to soft whispers ....
I so hope to get some painting time in today!
Friday, April 03, 2009
Rainy Day Ride Home
Daily Practice
As I drove home in the rain and gray yesterday, I could spot such wonderful spring color - chartruse, maroon, pinks and white of dogwoods ... but I had no where to stop to take a photo. So, being really careful, I aimed my camera out the dashboard as we slowly snaked our way up the long roads north.
This house and gnarled tree reside about 15 miles from my house .. I was able to snap a photo since I was stopped at a light ...
Reviewing my 'moving photos' there are lots of color references, but not much more ... oh well ... lol
Catch up day for chores and errands through a day of more rain.. I hope to get these completed to find some relaxing time to paint. It's been such an intense week!
Hope your Friday is a good one!
As I drove home in the rain and gray yesterday, I could spot such wonderful spring color - chartruse, maroon, pinks and white of dogwoods ... but I had no where to stop to take a photo. So, being really careful, I aimed my camera out the dashboard as we slowly snaked our way up the long roads north.
This house and gnarled tree reside about 15 miles from my house .. I was able to snap a photo since I was stopped at a light ...
Reviewing my 'moving photos' there are lots of color references, but not much more ... oh well ... lol
Catch up day for chores and errands through a day of more rain.. I hope to get these completed to find some relaxing time to paint. It's been such an intense week!
Hope your Friday is a good one!
Thursday, April 02, 2009
HAPPY BIRTHDAY LORRAINE!!
Today is my dear friend Lorraine's birthday. She asked me ages ago for a watercolor of her cat, Nick, and so here it is, dear heart .... ENJOY!!!
May this birthday be your very best!!!
Hugs to you!!!
May this birthday be your very best!!!
Hugs to you!!!
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Azaleas
Daily Practice
Thank you all for your well-wishes for our event. It could not have been more well received.... the entire day was sheer grace ...
Between a weekend of rain and rain today, we had a gloriously sun-filled, warm day. The first swallowtails appeared along with the bright pink blooms of our azaleas, seemingly to open just for the Prelude Event. Over 50 people arrived (so many called with that dreaded flu) to participate in a lecture, tour, seed exchange, refreshments, a history of the Arboretum's progress and to enjoy a balmy, beautiful day.
After hours on our feet, talking non-stop, answering questions, cleaning up and readying two buildings for classes and for interviews this morning, I about crawled back to the B&B to do a quick 'impression' of a bit of our azalea garden. I clustered these shrubs around a crepe myrtle in the style we see so often here in the south, but our azalea beds are not quite so donut-y ... I painted this partly from an old photo and mostly from memory and license and mostly from sheer will to paint something before sleep! LOL
I cannot express how grateful we are for the way the day turned out. We're all pretty tired and must now focus our attention on the plant sale (our largest fund-raiser of the year) scheduled a bit more than two weeks away.
Whew.
Thank you all for your well-wishes for our event. It could not have been more well received.... the entire day was sheer grace ...
Between a weekend of rain and rain today, we had a gloriously sun-filled, warm day. The first swallowtails appeared along with the bright pink blooms of our azaleas, seemingly to open just for the Prelude Event. Over 50 people arrived (so many called with that dreaded flu) to participate in a lecture, tour, seed exchange, refreshments, a history of the Arboretum's progress and to enjoy a balmy, beautiful day.
After hours on our feet, talking non-stop, answering questions, cleaning up and readying two buildings for classes and for interviews this morning, I about crawled back to the B&B to do a quick 'impression' of a bit of our azalea garden. I clustered these shrubs around a crepe myrtle in the style we see so often here in the south, but our azalea beds are not quite so donut-y ... I painted this partly from an old photo and mostly from memory and license and mostly from sheer will to paint something before sleep! LOL
I cannot express how grateful we are for the way the day turned out. We're all pretty tired and must now focus our attention on the plant sale (our largest fund-raiser of the year) scheduled a bit more than two weeks away.
Whew.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Rebeccas Side Yard
Daily Practice
After spending so many hour indoors this weekend with the rain and yesterday in preparation for today, when I got to the B&B, I sat in the car and sketched the view from my window of Rebecca's side yard. Flowers were in bloom, and the entire scene was welcoming and so springy!
In a few hours, we'll be filled with Arboretum guests and I suppose we are as prepared as we can be. A few more final 'touches' this morning, and it's TIME!
Thank you for your wishes of luck! We'll need it!
It'll be late tonight before I return to the computer -- I hope your day goes well, too!
After spending so many hour indoors this weekend with the rain and yesterday in preparation for today, when I got to the B&B, I sat in the car and sketched the view from my window of Rebecca's side yard. Flowers were in bloom, and the entire scene was welcoming and so springy!
In a few hours, we'll be filled with Arboretum guests and I suppose we are as prepared as we can be. A few more final 'touches' this morning, and it's TIME!
Thank you for your wishes of luck! We'll need it!
It'll be late tonight before I return to the computer -- I hope your day goes well, too!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Sunset on the Island
I painted this last week, again working on those sunsets and sunrises I so love. I kept the 'island' simplifed so I could highlight the sky.
It's our 'busy' week with close to 75 folks coming for my Southern Garden lecture and Arboretum tour tomorrow; interviews for gardeners the next two days ... Thank heavens the weather promises to be sunny and warm, and my fingers are crossed that folks are satisfied with what they see and hear.
Hope your week is good. I may be a bit scarce with all this going on ...and my fingers are crossed for a bit of a quieter time next week! LOL
It's our 'busy' week with close to 75 folks coming for my Southern Garden lecture and Arboretum tour tomorrow; interviews for gardeners the next two days ... Thank heavens the weather promises to be sunny and warm, and my fingers are crossed that folks are satisfied with what they see and hear.
Hope your week is good. I may be a bit scarce with all this going on ...and my fingers are crossed for a bit of a quieter time next week! LOL
Sunday, March 29, 2009
My Travel Kit
As promised -- my travel kit. I keep all but the sketchpage in a zip lock bag.
There was an interesting post on Wet Canvas last week about using 'Sculpy' clay to mold wells for paint and add them to an Altoid Tin. (see www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=5...
I purchased some Sculpy and used a $1, unhinged tin from Michaels Arts and Crafts to try out the idea. As you can see I wasn't very tidy -- but I did manage to get in all my favorite colors. The Altoids tin on the right I prefer for the 'hinged' part ... I don't have to juggle but one palette. Still, I prefer having the colors I like and so I will redo the tin on the left, but neater. BTW, I molded the Sculpy in the Altoids box and baked BOTH in the oven according to Sculpy directions -- worked very well!
A couple of pieces of info:
I used double-faced Scotch Tape to add a piece of freezer paper (wax side up) to line both sides of the palette -- it works incredibly well to mix my paint, and then wipes up clean to remix additional colors. When the 'wax' is worn off, it's a simple thing to pull it off the adhesive and add a new piece of freezer paper.
I cut a sponge to fill in the gap between the paint wells and the tin -- I find the sponge especially helpful to wick off too much water on my brush.
The sketchpad is 7" x 10" Arches spiral watercolor pad, 140# cp. I love it -- but it's mighty expensive. I'm in the midst of constructing my own of a similar size and using the same paper. I'll be interspersing typing paper between the sheets of watercolor paper for journaling. Once I have this spiral-bound and decorated, I'll post. I'm adding an envelop or two as my travel journal to Italy.
The tiny spray bottle works well to wet my paints. It's a 'mini-sprayer' from Ranger.
The double water holder works exceptionally well in the car ... hold just enough water and clips onto my book so I can keep all of this on my lap.
Hope this helps!
There was an interesting post on Wet Canvas last week about using 'Sculpy' clay to mold wells for paint and add them to an Altoid Tin. (see www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=5...
I purchased some Sculpy and used a $1, unhinged tin from Michaels Arts and Crafts to try out the idea. As you can see I wasn't very tidy -- but I did manage to get in all my favorite colors. The Altoids tin on the right I prefer for the 'hinged' part ... I don't have to juggle but one palette. Still, I prefer having the colors I like and so I will redo the tin on the left, but neater. BTW, I molded the Sculpy in the Altoids box and baked BOTH in the oven according to Sculpy directions -- worked very well!
A couple of pieces of info:
I used double-faced Scotch Tape to add a piece of freezer paper (wax side up) to line both sides of the palette -- it works incredibly well to mix my paint, and then wipes up clean to remix additional colors. When the 'wax' is worn off, it's a simple thing to pull it off the adhesive and add a new piece of freezer paper.
I cut a sponge to fill in the gap between the paint wells and the tin -- I find the sponge especially helpful to wick off too much water on my brush.
The sketchpad is 7" x 10" Arches spiral watercolor pad, 140# cp. I love it -- but it's mighty expensive. I'm in the midst of constructing my own of a similar size and using the same paper. I'll be interspersing typing paper between the sheets of watercolor paper for journaling. Once I have this spiral-bound and decorated, I'll post. I'm adding an envelop or two as my travel journal to Italy.
The tiny spray bottle works well to wet my paints. It's a 'mini-sprayer' from Ranger.
The double water holder works exceptionally well in the car ... hold just enough water and clips onto my book so I can keep all of this on my lap.
Hope this helps!
Blue Flowers and Fields - Sketching at 60
MILES PER HOUR -- that is ....
I've been trialling the mini-kit I put together to see how this might work during my plane trip as well as plein air opportunities. I'll have a chance to take a photo later tonight. Right now, I'm pretty pleased with it.
I sketched and painted this while driving to the mountains -- it's based partly on a photo reference, partly from what we could see in the fog and rain, and I've added an enormous amount of artist's licence to make the day sunnny!! LOL
It looked like the rain 'might' be clearing late last night. But we've had steady rain -and fortunately, warm temps. We kept the grands last night -- they were incredibly good. They're still asleep so I've only a few moments. While my daughter fed Riley yesterday afteernoon, we took Taylor to a museum featuring 'Health" and there were lots of opportunities for her to slide, and roll, and shop and play. Fun! We brought both girls to our motel last night for some arts and crafts and a sleep over. Riley ate on schedule, awakening only once at 2:45 am for a bottle ... I am so pleased at how well they've both done.
We head home later this morning ...hope your Sunday is terrific!
I've been trialling the mini-kit I put together to see how this might work during my plane trip as well as plein air opportunities. I'll have a chance to take a photo later tonight. Right now, I'm pretty pleased with it.
I sketched and painted this while driving to the mountains -- it's based partly on a photo reference, partly from what we could see in the fog and rain, and I've added an enormous amount of artist's licence to make the day sunnny!! LOL
It looked like the rain 'might' be clearing late last night. But we've had steady rain -and fortunately, warm temps. We kept the grands last night -- they were incredibly good. They're still asleep so I've only a few moments. While my daughter fed Riley yesterday afteernoon, we took Taylor to a museum featuring 'Health" and there were lots of opportunities for her to slide, and roll, and shop and play. Fun! We brought both girls to our motel last night for some arts and crafts and a sleep over. Riley ate on schedule, awakening only once at 2:45 am for a bottle ... I am so pleased at how well they've both done.
We head home later this morning ...hope your Sunday is terrific!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Redbuds
This is the view we saw while driving to and from work, to the mountains, and this will greet us again when we get home. The redbuds are brightening our woodlands with their pink/magenta...beautiful time!
Oh how Riley has grown!! We met the 'girls' at their hotel and all went to dinner. Today, we spent the day and evening with them in our motel while we give my daughter and her husband the first 'free' night they've had since January. They have a special dinner to go to as well ... Since Riley eats every 3 hours and Taylor is a bundle of 3 year old energy, there won't be much sleep in our immediate future ... but my camera is ready, and we'll have a fun time bonding and playing.
It's warm outdoors, but still rainy. Spring has come to the mountains .. and despite the grey -- those pinks and chartruses are brightening the world!
Oh how Riley has grown!! We met the 'girls' at their hotel and all went to dinner. Today, we spent the day and evening with them in our motel while we give my daughter and her husband the first 'free' night they've had since January. They have a special dinner to go to as well ... Since Riley eats every 3 hours and Taylor is a bundle of 3 year old energy, there won't be much sleep in our immediate future ... but my camera is ready, and we'll have a fun time bonding and playing.
It's warm outdoors, but still rainy. Spring has come to the mountains .. and despite the grey -- those pinks and chartruses are brightening the world!
Friday, March 27, 2009
Spring Again
We're heading to the mountains to see my daughter and son-in-law who are participating in a special National Guard event there. We'll be watching the grands for the weekend --- I haven't see my newest granddaughter since January, so I'm sure she's changed a lot.
I probably won't have a lot of time to check mail, so I hope to catch up with everyone Sunday night.
It's raining still and while I was hoping to see scenes like this in the mountains, I expect it'll be far more grey!
Stay well everyone--and have a great weekend!
I probably won't have a lot of time to check mail, so I hope to catch up with everyone Sunday night.
It's raining still and while I was hoping to see scenes like this in the mountains, I expect it'll be far more grey!
Stay well everyone--and have a great weekend!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The Old Wooden Bucket
Daily Practice
Working a bit on drawing skills (still need a lot of practice there!) and textures .....
We're blanketed with rain and fog this morning and it's going to remain with us until Sunday. We've gotten most of the outdoor work completed so from now until then we'll be working in the greenhouse to ready for the plant sale. Temps are warm, but everything is sodden.
Take care of yourselves ....
Working a bit on drawing skills (still need a lot of practice there!) and textures .....
We're blanketed with rain and fog this morning and it's going to remain with us until Sunday. We've gotten most of the outdoor work completed so from now until then we'll be working in the greenhouse to ready for the plant sale. Temps are warm, but everything is sodden.
Take care of yourselves ....
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Quick Practice of What's in Front of Me
Daily Practice
I got home last night after 9 pm and an intense day. I didn't have time for any painting, but did manage to sketch a bit before turning off the light at 10. This simple watercolor was done a few weeks ago when I got to the B&B a bit earlier -- but still didn't have enough time for anything more elaborate.
Thank you again for your well wishes. I'm feeling much better -- and have to put a plug in for a product that seems to have helped me turn the corner -- Airborne (no paid sponsorship, I assure you! LOL). Somehow that herbal remedy has take the 'hack' out of the cough, the 'stuff' out of the stuffiness, and put the 'well' into wellbeing. I'm sure resting, lots of fluids, cough syrup and decongestants have contributed as well - but this stuff worked well for me and so I thought I'd pass that along.
We're making a dent in the preparations for our big event next week - the 'Prelude' to the next phase of the Arboretum. We'll be creating a 'southern' garden and the lecture I've written explains the heritage of these gardens and the cultures that have contributed to making them distinct. It'll be a mighty busy time, because immediately after that event, we'll be interviewing for two positions we urgently need to fill. Once all those obligations are met, we have a brief respite (24 hours, I think! LOL) before we ready for our largest fundraiser -- our plant sale. So, I'm stocking up on Airborne... lol
Stay well!
I got home last night after 9 pm and an intense day. I didn't have time for any painting, but did manage to sketch a bit before turning off the light at 10. This simple watercolor was done a few weeks ago when I got to the B&B a bit earlier -- but still didn't have enough time for anything more elaborate.
Thank you again for your well wishes. I'm feeling much better -- and have to put a plug in for a product that seems to have helped me turn the corner -- Airborne (no paid sponsorship, I assure you! LOL). Somehow that herbal remedy has take the 'hack' out of the cough, the 'stuff' out of the stuffiness, and put the 'well' into wellbeing. I'm sure resting, lots of fluids, cough syrup and decongestants have contributed as well - but this stuff worked well for me and so I thought I'd pass that along.
We're making a dent in the preparations for our big event next week - the 'Prelude' to the next phase of the Arboretum. We'll be creating a 'southern' garden and the lecture I've written explains the heritage of these gardens and the cultures that have contributed to making them distinct. It'll be a mighty busy time, because immediately after that event, we'll be interviewing for two positions we urgently need to fill. Once all those obligations are met, we have a brief respite (24 hours, I think! LOL) before we ready for our largest fundraiser -- our plant sale. So, I'm stocking up on Airborne... lol
Stay well!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Farmstead
Daily Practice
Thank you for your well wishes ... I got some much needed sleep last night, and the coughing is down to management proportions .. thank you!!
I had a hard time finding something to paint last night -- finally resorted to choosing one of the old photo references I carry in my travel kit for just such times so I could get my 'practice' in .... Though I don't think this is an image from North Carolina, it could have easily been. These rural barns and views are what I love about where I live.
Temps have fallen again and we're supposed to have four or five days of steady rain ... Good for the soil and plants .. but mercy.....I'm going to enjoy the sunshine while I can!
Thank you for your well wishes ... I got some much needed sleep last night, and the coughing is down to management proportions .. thank you!!
I had a hard time finding something to paint last night -- finally resorted to choosing one of the old photo references I carry in my travel kit for just such times so I could get my 'practice' in .... Though I don't think this is an image from North Carolina, it could have easily been. These rural barns and views are what I love about where I live.
Temps have fallen again and we're supposed to have four or five days of steady rain ... Good for the soil and plants .. but mercy.....I'm going to enjoy the sunshine while I can!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Our Blooming Peach Tree
Plein Air
Our Peach Tree - young and already looking gnarly... We found an old, dried up peach from last year still clinging to one branch ..
The weather yesterday was too beautiful to stay indoors -- warm, sunshiney -- so I just HAD to sit in the spring weather for just a bit of time.
Despite the dips we've had in temperature, our forsythia continues to bloom, as does our peach trees, flowering quince, and even our saucer magnolia. The red/green leaves of the crab apple are emerging, and there's new growth in the ornamental grasses and perennials herbs. In our walk around the neighborhood yesterday, we saw daffodils in the middle of now-woodlands - evidence of former dwellings and how the land and its use has changed over time.
I'm still coughing and congested -- seems there's a lot of that going around ... stay well! And have a great Monday
Our Peach Tree - young and already looking gnarly... We found an old, dried up peach from last year still clinging to one branch ..
The weather yesterday was too beautiful to stay indoors -- warm, sunshiney -- so I just HAD to sit in the spring weather for just a bit of time.
Despite the dips we've had in temperature, our forsythia continues to bloom, as does our peach trees, flowering quince, and even our saucer magnolia. The red/green leaves of the crab apple are emerging, and there's new growth in the ornamental grasses and perennials herbs. In our walk around the neighborhood yesterday, we saw daffodils in the middle of now-woodlands - evidence of former dwellings and how the land and its use has changed over time.
I'm still coughing and congested -- seems there's a lot of that going around ... stay well! And have a great Monday
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Tuscan Hill - loosely speaking
Daily Practice
I continue to practice various techniques seeing how some of them might help me through some challenges I continue to have with watercolors.
This scene, painted a while back, is one of my favorites of Tuscany. What I like most about it is the size of the building against the landscape -- and the huge sky. I wanted to practice blending more colors on the paper ... and so attempted another, looser rendition of this scene. I"m hoping to see more of this type of view when overseas ... those urban scenes challenge me a bit too much! LOL
The weather has been cool, though the sun has been brilliant. The grands left me with a bit of their 'colds' .. so though the sun tempts me out of doors, the colder temperatures are a bit too much for plein air work right now. It's supposed to be a bit warmer today ..so if I can get this cough under control, I may venture out for a short amount of time ..
Hope your Sunday is warm and wonderful!
I continue to practice various techniques seeing how some of them might help me through some challenges I continue to have with watercolors.
This scene, painted a while back, is one of my favorites of Tuscany. What I like most about it is the size of the building against the landscape -- and the huge sky. I wanted to practice blending more colors on the paper ... and so attempted another, looser rendition of this scene. I"m hoping to see more of this type of view when overseas ... those urban scenes challenge me a bit too much! LOL
The weather has been cool, though the sun has been brilliant. The grands left me with a bit of their 'colds' .. so though the sun tempts me out of doors, the colder temperatures are a bit too much for plein air work right now. It's supposed to be a bit warmer today ..so if I can get this cough under control, I may venture out for a short amount of time ..
Hope your Sunday is warm and wonderful!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Harbour Challenge
Another challenge from Bill (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lorus_maver/3353742355/) and this one completely out of my arena. Even though I lived in Charleston, SC for 25 years and grew up on the water, I was raised to be mighty wary of boats and the ocean -- and so I've been an advocate of 'terra firma' all my life ... Familiarity with harbors, boats, masts and the like is pretty foreign to me. The photo presented additional challenges ... composition especially, as well as elements of water, depth, architecture ... pretty complex. I have to be honest and say that I truly devoted a good amount of time just thinking about this image and how I could best portray it in my own terms.
I simplified the scene immensely ...had my dear husband help me with the perspective (still a challenge), and used quite a bit of artistic license to move boats around. I wanted some verticality so I added a sailboat from another image. I also wanted to focus just a bit more on that blue boat with the red stripe. I loved the yellow house so I wanted a bit more of that and the red building. I remembered some 'posts' from the Charleston harbor and so added those to an area of the painting that I thought needed something else. Lastly, I added a bit of humor since the white boat looked so 'naked.'
This was done on Arches #140cp, 9" x 12" -- a bit small for the scene I think .. but with the challenges I had -- large enough! LOL
I had a bit of trouble with the water, so if I'm going to be visiting Venice in May, I'd better spend some time practicing both boats AND water !!! LOL Truly this was a really good practice for that trip .... so THANk YOU once again, Bill ... for the stretch!
I simplified the scene immensely ...had my dear husband help me with the perspective (still a challenge), and used quite a bit of artistic license to move boats around. I wanted some verticality so I added a sailboat from another image. I also wanted to focus just a bit more on that blue boat with the red stripe. I loved the yellow house so I wanted a bit more of that and the red building. I remembered some 'posts' from the Charleston harbor and so added those to an area of the painting that I thought needed something else. Lastly, I added a bit of humor since the white boat looked so 'naked.'
This was done on Arches #140cp, 9" x 12" -- a bit small for the scene I think .. but with the challenges I had -- large enough! LOL
I had a bit of trouble with the water, so if I'm going to be visiting Venice in May, I'd better spend some time practicing both boats AND water !!! LOL Truly this was a really good practice for that trip .... so THANk YOU once again, Bill ... for the stretch!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Smithfield Plein Air - #1
Our first Johnston County Arts Council Plein Air went extraordinarily well! Thank you all for your well wishes!
The day couldn't have been more delightful -- a cool morning, sun warming us to the mid 70s ... sunshine, a glorious beaver pond, outbuildings, chickens, French hens, gardens, a beautiful home, vignettes both in front and behind the dwelling, wonderful and eager folks, and the deliciousness of time spent in the early spring outdoors! A gift indeed.
Sixteen artists arrived with sketchpads, oils and watercolors, and each found their 'niche' to memorialize. Some were first-timers, and were surprised at how much they enjoyed the experience. Four or five of those who had registered called to say their plans had changed, but they would make the next event.
Some friends from my 'home' plein air group came -- some as far as 2 1/2 hours away ... gifts upon gifts!
I knew that I'd be busy with coordinating the event, so my attempt to paint was limited to my 7" x 10" sketchbook ... and a good deal of artistic license. I did a LOT of clear-cutting to include only these few trees between my spot on the porch and the beaver pond -- and the forsythia and quince came from another part of the property -- but I suppose that is what painting is all about -- making the scene our own.
It was a most enjoyable day with many ideas for expanding our little group.
We meet next month during the Arboretum's plant sale .. and as coordinator of that event (helping customers, supervising students, helping other exhibitors), I sincerely doubt I'll do much more than have a moment to take photos ... but to see these incredible artists enjoying another gathering -- sheer poetry.
We've weather changes again -- rain and cold today, making yesterday even more special.
Enjoy the day!
The day couldn't have been more delightful -- a cool morning, sun warming us to the mid 70s ... sunshine, a glorious beaver pond, outbuildings, chickens, French hens, gardens, a beautiful home, vignettes both in front and behind the dwelling, wonderful and eager folks, and the deliciousness of time spent in the early spring outdoors! A gift indeed.
Sixteen artists arrived with sketchpads, oils and watercolors, and each found their 'niche' to memorialize. Some were first-timers, and were surprised at how much they enjoyed the experience. Four or five of those who had registered called to say their plans had changed, but they would make the next event.
Some friends from my 'home' plein air group came -- some as far as 2 1/2 hours away ... gifts upon gifts!
I knew that I'd be busy with coordinating the event, so my attempt to paint was limited to my 7" x 10" sketchbook ... and a good deal of artistic license. I did a LOT of clear-cutting to include only these few trees between my spot on the porch and the beaver pond -- and the forsythia and quince came from another part of the property -- but I suppose that is what painting is all about -- making the scene our own.
It was a most enjoyable day with many ideas for expanding our little group.
We meet next month during the Arboretum's plant sale .. and as coordinator of that event (helping customers, supervising students, helping other exhibitors), I sincerely doubt I'll do much more than have a moment to take photos ... but to see these incredible artists enjoying another gathering -- sheer poetry.
We've weather changes again -- rain and cold today, making yesterday even more special.
Enjoy the day!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Flowing Almond - a Gift from Rebecca
After a far-too long day, I returned to the B&B to find this tender gift from Rebecca -- a beautiful vase of just-opening flowering almond blossoms! I arrived too late in the evening to see the shrub in bloom, but these delightful pink flowers certainly cheered me! And so, of course, I had to paint them! Such a sweet surprise!
We're off today to meet area artists, and I hope to find a moment to paint. Fingers crossed ...!
Have a great day! It's supposed to be sunny and warm -- another gift ...!
We're off today to meet area artists, and I hope to find a moment to paint. Fingers crossed ...!
Have a great day! It's supposed to be sunny and warm -- another gift ...!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Fog
Daily Practice
Driving in to work on Mondy as well as this morning, the change from rain and cold to the predicted warm up and sunshine created a mighty dense fog. I decided to use these experiences and practice 'foggyness' again....
We're due for some sun, and I know there's a lot of us anxiously awaiting its return. We've standing water in the woodlands and around the school, and the dampness sure produces its share of joint aches ...
I'm coordinating our local Arts Council's first plein air paint-out tomorrow, so after a few minutes at the office, I'll be out all day. We're hoping the sun and warmer temps work with us as we gather local artists to paint together for the first time.
Meanwhile, it's a meeting-filled day ..
Hope the sun is shining where you are!
Driving in to work on Mondy as well as this morning, the change from rain and cold to the predicted warm up and sunshine created a mighty dense fog. I decided to use these experiences and practice 'foggyness' again....
We're due for some sun, and I know there's a lot of us anxiously awaiting its return. We've standing water in the woodlands and around the school, and the dampness sure produces its share of joint aches ...
I'm coordinating our local Arts Council's first plein air paint-out tomorrow, so after a few minutes at the office, I'll be out all day. We're hoping the sun and warmer temps work with us as we gather local artists to paint together for the first time.
Meanwhile, it's a meeting-filled day ..
Hope the sun is shining where you are!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!
May the luck of the Irish be with you today!
In the greening of the landscape as in the celebration of today's holiday, I hope everyone's day is filled with the brightness of new growth and the colors of spring!
We're supposed to get sunshine today - and that will certainly brighten our landscape! Meantime, it's watching the unfolding of spring through the haze of rain and fog ... but the bright green spears of daffodils and tulips make our gardens a bit more 'Irish' today ....
Erin go Bragh!
In the greening of the landscape as in the celebration of today's holiday, I hope everyone's day is filled with the brightness of new growth and the colors of spring!
We're supposed to get sunshine today - and that will certainly brighten our landscape! Meantime, it's watching the unfolding of spring through the haze of rain and fog ... but the bright green spears of daffodils and tulips make our gardens a bit more 'Irish' today ....
Erin go Bragh!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Apple Blossoms
Well, the rain and grey finally got to me, and I just had to have some COLOR! LOL
Though my own apple blossoms are a few weeks away from blooming, my PEACH blossoms are surviving the cold temps and rain ... but even they look somewhat muted in all the misty conditions -- hence -- apple blossoms! LOL One more day of rain, and we 'should' see the sun again. That ol' sol has been mightily missed.
Off to work for another busy week -- stay dry and keep painting!
Though my own apple blossoms are a few weeks away from blooming, my PEACH blossoms are surviving the cold temps and rain ... but even they look somewhat muted in all the misty conditions -- hence -- apple blossoms! LOL One more day of rain, and we 'should' see the sun again. That ol' sol has been mightily missed.
Off to work for another busy week -- stay dry and keep painting!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Storm's Coming - Homage to Rain
A few weeks ago, my staff and I were finishing our work, when they called me to look at the sky. The sun was setting by the greenhouses, and the approaching clouds were onimous! I snapped some photos trying to capture the dazzle of colors and the dark, foreboding entry of the storm behind the dark pine trees.
I thought today, day 3 of rain, seemed quite fitting for the painting (plus it's taken 3 times to try to get it to this stage! LOL)
Thank you all for your comments, encouragement and suggestons yesterday. Please know how grateful I am for your taking the time to write and for your kindest of words. Words, like painting, mean the world to me, and so YOUR comments are very much taken to heart. I won't give up on plein air -- I am determined if nothing else! LOL What I hope to give up is my own perfectionism and ridiculous expectations -- doing that should help a lot too! LOL
We had a grand time last night with Nick and Emily. It's been a while since we all had enough time to sit and play for several hours. And though Emily didn't get a chance to brighten my eyes with shadow, or pink my lips with glaze or paint my nails pink and purple, we had an entertaining time racing cars, making crabycakes and spaghetti with PlayDoh, splashing a lot in the tub, and snacking on PawPaw's special cookies and berries. It's amazing to me how grown up they are becoming -- and how tall! Emily clearly is passing my waist, and Nick is right behind her. Before long, we'll be sharing clothing! LOL
The poor kitties have confined themselves to the porch in all the rain -- and are startling us with their antics across the porch chairs as they chase one another and bang the chairs against the house. We have another one or two days of this .. I hope the furniture survives! LOL
Stay dry and warm today!
I thought today, day 3 of rain, seemed quite fitting for the painting (plus it's taken 3 times to try to get it to this stage! LOL)
Thank you all for your comments, encouragement and suggestons yesterday. Please know how grateful I am for your taking the time to write and for your kindest of words. Words, like painting, mean the world to me, and so YOUR comments are very much taken to heart. I won't give up on plein air -- I am determined if nothing else! LOL What I hope to give up is my own perfectionism and ridiculous expectations -- doing that should help a lot too! LOL
We had a grand time last night with Nick and Emily. It's been a while since we all had enough time to sit and play for several hours. And though Emily didn't get a chance to brighten my eyes with shadow, or pink my lips with glaze or paint my nails pink and purple, we had an entertaining time racing cars, making crabycakes and spaghetti with PlayDoh, splashing a lot in the tub, and snacking on PawPaw's special cookies and berries. It's amazing to me how grown up they are becoming -- and how tall! Emily clearly is passing my waist, and Nick is right behind her. Before long, we'll be sharing clothing! LOL
The poor kitties have confined themselves to the porch in all the rain -- and are startling us with their antics across the porch chairs as they chase one another and bang the chairs against the house. We have another one or two days of this .. I hope the furniture survives! LOL
Stay dry and warm today!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Plein Air Oxford NC
Plein Air Practice
I spent most of the day yesterday working on those obligations that I've put off for months -- including updating my grandchildren's photo albums. So I didn't quite finish my painting for the day -- so I pluckekd up my nerve to post this plein air attempt from last week.
It was so warm and beautiful -- in contrast to our 40sF temps and constant rain -- so I sat in my car and painting a view of one of the woodlands on our road. I'm not happy with it, and though I can't tell why, I do like the colors and shadows. I"m posting today to give a bit of sunshine to the rainy cold weekend.
The grands come later so it's going to be a busy day -- I still have all of 2009 photos of the grands to catch up with! LOL
I spent most of the day yesterday working on those obligations that I've put off for months -- including updating my grandchildren's photo albums. So I didn't quite finish my painting for the day -- so I pluckekd up my nerve to post this plein air attempt from last week.
It was so warm and beautiful -- in contrast to our 40sF temps and constant rain -- so I sat in my car and painting a view of one of the woodlands on our road. I'm not happy with it, and though I can't tell why, I do like the colors and shadows. I"m posting today to give a bit of sunshine to the rainy cold weekend.
The grands come later so it's going to be a busy day -- I still have all of 2009 photos of the grands to catch up with! LOL
Forsythia
Okay, I'm getting brave. Here are two plein air paintings I did last week. I"m very unhappy with this one, despite the bright forsythia that called to me to paint it in the first place. I think the foreground is too flat and the dry creek looks weird.... anyway -- here's to daily practice and the things one learns when things DON"T work out! LOL
Friday, March 13, 2009
Spring on the Lake
Daily Practice
Though it's begun a four-day rain session for us, spring is here as evidenced by those chartruse greens that can be witnessed in emerging, new leaves of some of our largest trees and shrubs.
Temps have fallen again, and yet the parade of blooms continue as though to remind us that a brief kiss of cold is merely that -- perhaps to be viewed as a gentle 'goodbye' to winter.
It should be a far quieter weekend than we've had in a while, especially since the rain will keep our activities close to home. The grands come for dinner tomorrow night, and I've a few projects that need completing ... other than that, I'm hoping for a restive time at the painting table.
Hope you can find time to do what you'd like this weekend!
Though it's begun a four-day rain session for us, spring is here as evidenced by those chartruse greens that can be witnessed in emerging, new leaves of some of our largest trees and shrubs.
Temps have fallen again, and yet the parade of blooms continue as though to remind us that a brief kiss of cold is merely that -- perhaps to be viewed as a gentle 'goodbye' to winter.
It should be a far quieter weekend than we've had in a while, especially since the rain will keep our activities close to home. The grands come for dinner tomorrow night, and I've a few projects that need completing ... other than that, I'm hoping for a restive time at the painting table.
Hope you can find time to do what you'd like this weekend!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Sunset Over Oxford
This was our view the other evening as Charles and I took our walk around our neighborhood. Buzzards and hawks were circling overhead, the sun was setting over the neighbor's woodlands, and the sky was filled with rich yellows, golds and oranges. I had enough time last evening at the B&B to finally paint it.
Our temps will fall this evening, causing a bit of a slow down to the rampant blooming we're experiencing ... from Bradford pears, maples, oaks to daffodils and crocus and tulips .... I won't see anything like this flower exuberance for a couple of weeks in Oxford - but spring is definitely on its way.
Working south and living north, I'm reminded of Edwin Way Teale's book "North With the Spring" ... for that title describes exacting my weekly commutes ...along with the way the seaon progresses for me.
I hope you have a great day!
Our temps will fall this evening, causing a bit of a slow down to the rampant blooming we're experiencing ... from Bradford pears, maples, oaks to daffodils and crocus and tulips .... I won't see anything like this flower exuberance for a couple of weeks in Oxford - but spring is definitely on its way.
Working south and living north, I'm reminded of Edwin Way Teale's book "North With the Spring" ... for that title describes exacting my weekly commutes ...along with the way the seaon progresses for me.
I hope you have a great day!
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