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.  

Red Canoe

Red Canoe

Oil    8x8

 

I thought I would send you off on your Labor Day Weekend in a bright red canoe.  I love the bright red reflections in the blue water.  Reflections in water can be striking.  If you're at the lake or river this weekend, take a moment to look at what is being reflected in the water--there's beauty there!  It's everywhere, all around us.  We just have to take the time to stop for a few moments and soak it all in. 

 

Have a wonderful and safe holiday weekend!  

A Riot of Flowers

A Riot of Flowers

Oil   5x7

 

If you love bright colors, as I do, you gotta find some joy in this painting.  I'm lovin' the many colors, varied flowers and looseness of the painting.  You know I enjoyed painting this one.  It was a day brightener.  I hope it brightens your day!

 

Thanks you for your interest in my art endeavors!

Sunflowers in Blue Vase

Sunflowers in Blue Vase

Oil   5x7

 

It's sunflower season.  I'm seeing them everywhere and they sure add a bit of sunlight--even to these rainy days we're having.  They're always a favorite subject for artists and provide a bit of a challenge with all the yellow, but fun to paint. 

 

Hope you have a sunshine day and a fun weekend!  



Copper Pot with Lemons

Copper Pot with Lemons

 

 

A copper pot placed on glass--more reflections to paint--seems to be my favorite challenge.  This copper pot has set on my fireplace for many years and I have planned to paint it many times.  I really like the way the lemons reflect in the copper as well as on the glass surface.  So, here is my rendition.  Let me know what you think about it. 

 

I want to thank those of you in other countries who are following my blog.  How exciting!  It is amazing how the internet has made the world a smaller place.  Thank you all for your support and encouragement!  



Cedar Key Spoonbill

Cedar Key Spoonbill

Oil   5x7

 

In July, we traveled to mid-Florida to the crystal clear springs along that area.  While there, we rode on down to Cedar Key, a neat little town with the feel of Old Florida--no high rises--just that laid back fishing village atmosphere.  I was SO delighted when we started across the marsh and spotted a flock of pink spoonbills standing in the water.  I had seen photos but never in the wild.  I couldn't shoot photos fast enough. What a treat! 

 

This was so much fun to paint. I love the reflection in the water and, of course, the beautiful variations of pink in the bird.  Hope you enjoy my Cedar Key experience as much as I did.

 

Have a wonderful weekend!  Thanks for stopping by!



Spring Morning on the Marsh

 

Spring Morning on the Marsh

Oil  8x10

 

I definitely love marshes and love painting them.  They change several times a day with tide ebbing and flowing, so even with the same marsh scene, there is always variety to consider.  The softness of the spring trees and marsh reflections made this a fun composition to paint. 

 

Have a great summer weekend!  Thanks for your visit!