Still lifes are my main focus and have been for many years. For this painting, I gathered together an assortment from my collection of interesting vases, flowers, fabrics and bottles. I spent a lot of time considering their placement of the objects and how they connect with each other. I vary the elements and shapes that will make up the composition. The set-up is informal and casual. I move objects around until it pleases me. I strive for an interesting composition with a strong value/color pattern.

I photograph the set-up from different angles with the natural light source from my North window or a lamp. I favor the transparent glass with the fractured glass patterns along with the flowers and the soft textures of the fabrics. These shapes lend an abstract quality to the painting. This is a more complicated design because I have three different fabrics arranged on the table and in the background. It is very detailed, but is simplified. Some of the shapes were eliminated when I began the rough sketches, working on the eye movement around the composition and what the center of interest is and what needs to be emphasized, along with the planning of values and colors of the design.

While painting, I decided to add some cubist linear movement on the right hand side to suggest depth by breaking up some of the detailed cloth patterns and the poppies. Also added were the geometric shapes for interest. I do not copy my photograph; as I begin painting, each shape is connected with each other and many changes happen along the way. The final painting is always a surprise because I allow for changes along the way.