This is a full sheet collage that is part of my series of non-objective subject matter. It began with choosing some favorite colors: purple, orange, indigo and teal. I began making the shapes using random cuts with the X-Acto knife and folding various parts of my hand-painted papers. This is quite challenging to begin this […] more »
The impetus for this design was an upcoming juried competition and the fact I wanted to do an abstract composition. Having a definite deadline always propels me into action. Starting with some geometric shapes, I began arranging the shapes on the support and thought about a definite value pattern. My main idea was a circular […] more »
Birds are a favorite subject matter of mine. I decided to do this unusual zoo bird, dancing on some eggs. The challenge was to do something different with the design. I placed it in a warm climate with its huge body, long neck and funny red hair and chunky, brown legs. I used one of […] more »
This rooster acrylic collage is one of the many I have done with an Iowa animal theme. I usually begin doing a loose contour drawing and do not concern myself with a perfect, detailed drawing of the subject matter. I want the linear design to be lyrical and expressive. The background element was unknown at […] more »
I decided to paint another still life with my eggplants, books and favorite turquoise goblet. It is an up-close, intimate view of these elements. Especially important is the featured book, Art & Soul, by artist Audrey Flack. The art on the cover ignited my imagination. I love the deep, purplish-blue-black of the eggplants, and their […] more »
This was a fun watercolor to paint with my glossy black eggplants and glassware. I enjoyed the process of drawing the design using my reference photo. Some of my favorite art books are included in the still life. Usually I wet the paper where I intend to drop in the pigments wet-in-wet, which is one […] more »
I have challenged myself to do a series of petite collages. No easy feat when you are used to 22” x 30”. Using my sketch of a perky bantam rooster, I collaged the rooster shapes with yellow, tan, and orange feathers. Keeping the background simple and plain because of the small area to work, I […] more »
Our pets are a source of never-ending entertainment and inspiration. I couldn’t resist painting our cat Vincent, who was caught in the act. He is so curious and dipped his paw into a glass of water while perching on various pieces of furniture to do it. more »
This is another petite painting challenge, in a 6” x 6” format. Square designs are more difficult than the usual rectangular ones, but I prefer them. I began with a detailed drawing of my garden coneflowers from life. Working in my sketchbook daily is on my to-do list. It is good practice and your observation […] more »
I have been working on a series of Christmas themed animals and birds because I believe there is a need for something humorous and different than what the usual holiday designs offer. I love toucans because of their shape and colorful feathers. I’ve combined the winter holly with the tropical bird in a Christmas hat, […] more »