The Last Day -- Day 30 -- 30 Day Challenge

Orchid

Oil   6x6

 

For the Last Day of the Challenge, we have the elegant, regal orchid.  I thought it only appropriate to end this journey with a special flower (of course, all flowers are special). 

 

This has been a very rewarding journey for me in so many ways. First, I exceeded my own expectations in that I did paint every day even though I didn't think I would.  I met some wonderful friends online from around the country and world. Even though I'm not new to the internet, I still find that so amazing.  I feel that I've taken steps forward in my painting ability and managing time to paint.  I honestly don't believe any of this would have happened if it had not been for all of you--my wonderful friends and fans.  You have taken your time to follow my progress and send comments and it has built up my excitement and energy level and kept me interested and focused on the challenge ahead.  You cannot know how encouraging and supportive you have been, and how important that is to anyone on a quest. 

 

Also, my sweet husband has made it possible to paint, post, etc. for so many hours every day by helping out with everything at home and being my biggest fan and cheerleader.  He never complained but instead went above and beyond to make things easier for me.  My children kept up with each and every painting and kept encouraging me along the way.  So good to have a fan club right here at home.

 

It has been fun and I'm so glad you came along on my Wild Ride.  Even though I must catch up on some things at home, stay tuned to see what we might have in store going forward.  Thank you ALL SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!  I couldn't have--wouldn't have--done it without you!!!

Day 29 -- 30 Day Challenge

Iceland Poppy

Oil  6x6

 

One more day to go.  It has been a very busy month, and like all months, it has flown by at warp speed.  Can hardly believe I have painted this much in one month.  I've come close before, but did not approach it with the gusto that I approached this challenge.  Some artists attempt to paint at least some every day as part of their daily routine.  I haven't gotten there yet, but maybe this will help me along in that endeavor. 

 

Have a wonderful Sunday and know that each and every visit of yours has been a stepping stone for me in this 30 day journey.  Thank you!

Day 28 -- 30 Paintings in 30 Days

Red Zinnia

Oil  6x6



 

Two more days to go in the challenge and we're still rockin' along--a little slower than before, but still painting.  I didn't have the good shadows on this zinnia that I had on the pink from a couple weeks ago, but there was sunlight on the top petals  which give it some nice color variation in the red petals. 

 

We are spending the day watching our grandchildren in a kayak competition and having a family picnic during the lunch break.  It's a beautiful day in the sunny South.  Hope you're having a fun Saturday on this beautiful early fall day. 

 

Thank you for checking in with me today.  I appreciate your time!



Day 27 -- 30 in 30 Challenge

Yellow Hibiscus

Oil   6x6

 

This was fun to paint.  I even got pretty excited with the block in--the initial stage of the painting because I could see that it was going well from the beginning.  I think that bright center is what really drew me to painting this flower, but as it turned out, I enjoyed trying to depict all those dips and ruffles in the petals as well. 

 

If you have followed this blog since the beginning of the challenge, you may remember that when I announced I had signed up for the challenge, I stated up front that I probably would not paint every day but would paint when possible.  Lo and behold, I really got into it and have only missed the first day because we were out of town.  Who would've thought it--I surprised myself.  Of course, I may be bragging too soon because there are still 3 days to go.  Wish me luck. 

 

Have a great day!  Thank you for all your encouragement. 

Day 26 -- 30 Day Challenge

 

Star Gazer Lily

Oil  6x6

 



I've been looking at the photo of this flower for sometime thinking I would like to paint it.  I'm so glad I did.  Those vibrant reds and pinks were so much fun to work with, and I like the side view. 

There are lots of talented artists posting their paintings on Leslie Saeta's blog each day.  If you are interested in checking out other art work, be sure and visit her blog at www.lesliesaeta.blogspot.com .  It's fun to check it all out.  You can click on an artist's thumbnail art photo and it will take you directly to their art blog.  Have fun!

Have a wonderful Wednesday and thank you for checking in with me today.  You are appreciated!

Day 25 -- 30 Day Challenge

Bird of Paradise

Oil   6x6

 

I remember when I was growing up, my aunt in Alabama always had Bird of Paradise in her flower garden.  She would take it into the plant house in the winter.  I always thought the flowers were so exotic and fascinating and I haven't changed my mind.  They are so beautiful with their unusual shape and bright colors, and they do look like a bird. 

 

It was a bit of a challenge to paint trying to work in all those wonderful colors and spikey shapes.  I started out painting with a brush--then changed to a palette (painting) knife and back to a brush. 

 

Only 5 days to go on this challenge.  It seemed so daunting when I first decided to sign up.  I thought I must be crazy to even consider it, but I can't wait to paint every day.  My "to do" list of household chores is growing each day, but so far, I've been able to ignore it. 

 

Thank you all for coming along with me.  It has meant more to me than you will ever know.  

Day 24 - 30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge

Just One Rose

Oil  6x6

 

A pink rose just for you.  I wanted to give a little recap to my non-painter friends about what all goes into getting a painting posted each day.  Thought you might find it interesting.  First, I sift through numerous photos looking for the perfect one with just the right lighting because in art, it's all about  light and shadow.  (If I was really smart, I'd be painting from life--real flowers).  Secondly, that photo has to be drawn onto the canvas.  Then the fun begins--the painting.  I'm not a fast painter and I tend to love the details, so I usually put at least 3 hours painting time into these little 6x6 paintings.  Then I clean my palette (where the paint is mixed) and brushes.  Next it has to be photographed and loaded to the computer and cropped (haven't gotten into editing yet).  I then load the photo onto my post for that day and write a post.  I publish that post to my blog, to Leslie Saeta's blog--the artist who issued the challenge, and to Facebook and post it to my log of paintings.  During the day, I check the blog and Facebook to see if there are any comments and, if so, I reply to those as timely as possible.  I also try to comment on other artists' blogs.  I've done that every day for the past 24 days!  It's been like the Mad Hatter's Wild Ride--but just plain fun. 

 

You can tell from all this, my house is a wreck, we eat cold food and only wash clothes when necessary.  Just kidding, with the help of my wonderful husband, we manage to get by pretty well.  But I will admit,  midnight comes earlier and earlier these days.  I'm not complaining though.  I consider it a privilege to be able to follow my lifelong dream of pursuing art.  Don't know why I didn't do it sooner. 

 

Thank you all for coming along on this Wild Ride!  Hang in with me--you never know where we might end up.  



Day 23  -  30 Day Challenge

Orange Pansy

Oil  6x6

 

Good morning Monday!  We'll start off the week with an orange flower--that should wake you up.  Do you realize we truly are on the last leg of this 30 Day Journey--only one week to go.  It has really flown by, but then again, I've really been busy (as is everyone) trying to keep up with this challenge and everyday things that come our way. 

 

What has kept my excitement going and made me want to paint every day is the support and encouragement I have received from my many blogging and Facebook friends.  So many of you have told me how much you look forward to seeing what I will post each day, and that has given me more incentive to be sure I don't disappoint you.  Thank you!!!

Day 22 -- 30 Day Challenge

Pink Hibiscus

Oil  6x6

 

Last Sunday, my sister suggested that I paint a hibiscus.  We must have ESP as the just the day before, I had gone through over a 100 hibiscus photos deciding on a couple to paint.  So little sis, hope you enjoy my rendition of this beautiful, graceful flower.  Thank you for your suggestion, interest, support and encouragement.  You're the best!

 

I appreciate suggestions and comments.  Thanks you all for your continuing support of my efforts in art. 

Day 21 - 30 Day Challenge

Pink Water Lily

Oil  6x6

 

A water lily needs a lily pad--right?  So I veered a little from the total dark background and painted in the lily pad--just seemed appropriate.  Water lilies are so beautiful and come in so many vibrant colors.  I have quite a few more photos of these beauties to ponder for future paintings. 

 

Day 21--guess that means we're on the last leg of the 30 Day Journey.  Hope to see you tomorrow!  Thanks for all your encouragement!  

Day 20 - 30 Day Challenge

Red Iris

Oil  6x6

 

All flowers are beautiful, but when asked what my very favorite is, my first thought goes to the iris.  Or, as my granddaughter says, maybe this is just my "new favorite".  It is difficult to choose just one--we've been blessed with so many beautiful flowers to savor and enjoy. 

 



Only 10 days to go in the Challenge--how did that happen?  Time flies when we're having fun--and we have had fun.  Thank you for sharing this 20 days with me.  Tune in tomorrow.

Day 19 - 30 in 30 Challenge

Sunflower II

Oil  6x6

 

Sunflowers are always a fun and popular subject to paint.  Lots of yellows and oranges to work with and set off by the dark center. 

 

It's Day 19 of the 30 Day Challenge and I've heard from several of you "challenged" people and seems everyone's having fun with it and hanging in there.  It has certainly been a good thing for me--kept me focused and on my toes. 

 

Thanks to all of you for visiting each day!  It is a pleasure to have you join me. 

Day 18 - 30 in 30 Challenge

Red Poppy

Oil  6x6

 

Red is an exciting color to paint and this poppy painting came together nicely.  All the curves and folds make it an interesting flower to paint.  Hope this bright red flower brightens your day. 

 

I appreciate each and every one of your visits to my blog.  Thank you!

Day 17 - 30 Day Challenge

 

Cala Lily

Oil  6x6

 



This one gave me a bit of trouble.  I ended up wiping it completely and starting over.  Lighter values give me more of a problem than the darker ones. In the end, I was pleased with the results.  I especially like the glow in the throat of the lily.  Cala lilies are so graceful--beautiful form. 

Thank you for checking in today!  Have a great day!

Day 16 - 30 Day Challenge

Pink Zinnia

Oil  6x6

 

Good Monday morning!  A bright pink flower to start your week.  I wasn't too sure about all these petals but it was a pleasure to paint.  Only got confused a time or two trying to follow the petal pattern. 

 

When I began this challenge, I had not intended on carrying this theme of close up flowers on a dark background all the way through the 30 days.  However, I'm enjoying painting these so much, I'm now planning on sticking with my theme.  Hope you're liking the theme as much as I am.

 

Have a great Monday and week!

Day 15 - 30 Day Challenge

Purple Pansy

Oil   6x6

 

It is Day 15 of the 30 Day Challenge to paint 30 paintings in 30 days--we're half way there!  My, how times flies.  Thank you all who have stuck with me following my blog every day.  It has made it so much easier to take the time to paint every day knowing that you are by my side and cheering me on.  I really appreciate hearing your comments.  If you would like to comment, just scroll to the bottom of this post, and you see in very small letters "No comment" or "1 comment", etc.  Just click on that and it will open up a box to type in your comment.  You will have to have a password with Google or one of the other social networks.  But that is all there is to it.  Or you can find me on Facebook at facebook.com/judybakerfineart. 

 

This is my very first ever challenge and I have thoroughly enjoyed it.  It has taken a lot of focus and sometimes painting late at night to keep up, but it has been rewarding knowing that I've gotten this far. 

 

I hope you enjoy this cute little pansy "face" today.  Hope you're having a great weekend!

Day 14 - 30 Day Challenge

Cobalt Morning Glory

Oil  6x6

 

This is another painting from John's beautiful photographs.  Thank you, John, for providing me with this wonderful inspiration!  This came together so easily and was such a pleasure to paint.  Morning glories are so beautiful and aptly named.  I hope this brings some glory to your morning!

 

Thank you for taking your time to check out my daily paintings.  

Day 13 - 30 Day Challenge

Daffodil

Oil  6x6

 

I always look forward to the daffodils blooming as they herald the arrival of spring.  My spirits soar when I know warm weather is just around the corner.  On this 13th day of the 30 Day Challenge, I hope this flower brings you some sunshine. 

 

Thank you for following my blog.  It has been so exciting to see all the folks checking in to take a look at the blog and on Facebook.  I have a whole new world of friends--literally around the world.  It is humbling.  I really appreciate your interest and encouragement!

Day 12 - 30 Day Challenge

Hydrangea close up

Oil  6x6

 

I approached this painting with great trepidation.  So many petals--so little time, but the more I painted, the more excited I became to see the finished product.  I also discovered that when I click to enlarge a painting on the computer, if I step back from the computer, it looks more like the original painting.  (You all know how I complain about my photography skills--this is the answer.  Maybe my photography is not as bad as I thought).  Did all of you already know that and I'm the last to figure it out.  Same as stepping back in an art gallery to look at paintings.  They have so much more depth from a short distance as opposed to getting right up to the painting to observe.  Of course, if you are studying the artist's technique, you would want to view it up closer. 

 

So remember to take a few steps back.  Have a great day.  Thanks for stopping in today!

Day 11 - 30 Day Challenge

Pink Tulip

Oil  6x6

 

I like the depth in this open tulip and the light hitting the edges.  I'm off to paint with some ladies today and, hopefully, will have something to post tomorrow from that painting session.  Normally, I prefer to paint at home in "solitary confinement", but have received several invitations to paint with a group.  It is always rewarding each time I do as I learn so much just from listening and seeing other's work, as well as being inspired by working with those with whom I share a common interest.  Artists are a very giving group, sharing their knowledge and encouragement. 

 

Stayed tuned!  

Day 10 - 30 Day Challenge

John's Morning Glory

Oil  6x6

 

My friend, John, sent me several beautiful photos of morning glories from his yard. He's a great photographer and took close ups with good lighting.  Thank you, John, for sharing your photos.  This was a joy to paint.  I do love morning glories--oh well, I guess by now you've got the idea that I love all flowers.  But then again, who couldn't love such amazing creations. 

 

I have been working  really hard trying to get prepared for the next 2 weeks of paintings.  Spent hours choosing material and getting the drawings ready.  Of course, I had already spent many hours going through photos, but I'm looking for those special ones.  I think I should surely have enough to get me through the remainder of September. 

 

Thanks for hanging in with me!  I'm enjoying all your comments.  Thank you for taking the time to comment!

Day 9 - 30 Day Challenge

Pink Rose

Oil  6x6

 

A pink rose for your Monday morning.  We off on running on Week 2 of the Challenge.  I like all the curves and ruffles in this rose.  Trying to get depth in a pastel flower is a challenge, but the answer to that dilemma is practice,  practice. 

 

Last week I attended a 2 day workshop with Barbara Janeicke, a very accomplished pastel artist.  However, the workshop was a "composition boot camp".  We worked strictly on simplifying the landscape and getting values correctly.  It was very good and something I need to work on.  With nothing major on my calendar (yet), it should be a little easier to work in the paintings this week. 

 

Thank you all for cheering me on!  I love it!

Day 8 - 30 Day Challenge
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Pink Hollyhock

Oil  6x6

 

I think this one qualifies for being painted today since I started around 9:30 p.m. and finished at 12:30 a.m.  this morning.  My husband thinks I should get a little earlier start with my next painting. 

 

I really wish you could see the real paintings.  The photos just aren't doing them justice.  My photography skills are severely lacking.  I do love hollyhocks and these were especially beautiful. 

 

Thank all of you for following my blog!  It means so much to me and makes me want to keep on keeping on.  I really appreciate and welcome all your comments!  Have a wonderful day!

Day 7 - 30 Day Challenge

The Rose

Oil  6x6

 

Day 7 of Leslie Saeta's 30 Day Challenge--week one finished and I'm still excited and hoping to maintain my momentum.  Check out Leslie's blog at www.lesliesaeta.blogspot.com .  She has 400 artists participating and you can see thumbnails of all the paintings being posted.  Of course, you can click on those to go to that person's blog or website to view more.  If you're not already on my email  list, be sure and sign up to receive each new painting as they are posted.

 



The romantic red rose!  Shame on me, I've been hesitant to paint roses because of the complex petals, but this one caught my eye because of the beautiful back lighting.  I am pleased with the way it turned out.  I'm ready to try another one. 

Hope you're having a great weekend!

Day 6, 30 Day Challenge

Magenta Day Lily

Oil  6x6

 

I really love the bright throat of the day lilies against the color of the petals.  This one had the creamy outer ruffled edge that added another dimension making it even more special.  I have other day lilies I'm looking forward to painting.  So be sure and check in every day to see what's "new and improved".

 

Have a great weekend!

 



Day Five, 30 Day Challenge

Iris

Oil   6x6

 

We're into Day Four of Leslie Saeta's 30 Day Challenge to paint 30 paintings in 30 days.  I'm having so much fun with this in spite of juggling so many balls in the air at one time--painting, photographing, posting, choosing painting subjects, as well as all those things that get in the way such as meals, clean clothes, etc.  To add to that confusion, I'm in an art class today and tomorrow all day.  But, it's a fun adventure. 

 

We had several of these beautiful lacy iris in our sun garden this spring.  They are pink with purple edges and lots of folds and lacy edges--a lovely flower. 

 

Thank all of you for cheering me on!

Orange Tulip

 

Orange Tulip

Oil  6x6

 

An orange tulip for the fourth day of the Challenge.  I love the light falling on this tulip and I'm enjoying painting close ups of flowers on a dark background.  The dark background really makes the flower "pop".  I have chosen several flowers to paint for September, so stayed tuned to see what's in store. 

 

Thanks for following my progress this month.  



Sunflower

Sunflower

Oil  6x6

 

Day 3 of the 30 Day Challenge and I missed the first day because I was out of town.  However, I'm patting myself on the back because I completed 2 paintings while we were gone.  We were "glamping" in the Great Smokey Mountains with family.  If you're not familiar with that term, it is camping with a "glamorous" twist--my kind of camping.  A camper with almost all the amenities of home--wraparound windows for a beautiful view of the creek, fully equipped everything, comfortable bed, etc.  The purist say it's not really camping and I would tend to agree.  But, it works for me.  We all spread dinner together every night and had a good ole time making memories.

 

I painted this sunflower while were gone and it was a joy to paint.  I had a great photograph to work from and it came together without too much fussing over it.  Love sunflowers. 

 

See you tomorrow.  



The Last of the Hydrangeas

Last of the Hydrangeas

Oil   8x8

 

 

I picked these from our yard and got the last blooms except for a few lace caps.  I placed these in a tea glass and started painting.  I enjoy painting glass and seeing the different colors reflected.  Of course, the flowers are fun too. 

 

I have joined artist Leslie Saeta's 30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge for the month of September.  Now that is a challenge!  Leslie suggested that we choose a theme for the month.  Leslie issued this same challenge in January of this year, and I followed some of the artists at that time.  I thought about throwing my hat in the ring, but just coming off the Christmas holiday, I felt I needed some down time.  However, I promised myself that the next time she issued the challenge, I would take her up on it, so here I am today.

 

I will start out with florals, but will probably choose other subject matter as the days progress.  The object is to paint some every day; try new techniques and just have fun putting paint to canvas.  I can't say I will paint every day but I'll sure give it a try.  We'll see where this road leads.  Wish me luck.