Still Coloring Out Of The Lines

Sketchbook Project 2012 Completed!

2012-01-31T17:09:00.000-08:00

Yes, January 31st postmark ends the submission for the Sketchbook Project 2012; a constantly evolving library of artists' sketchbooks from across the globe.

I DID IT!

You can check their website to see when the world tour will be in the city closest to you. This year thousands of sketchbooks will be exhibited at art spaces in 14 cities. After the tour, they will join the collection of the Brooklyn Art Library and made available to the public seven days a week.

A digital view of my sketchbook:

Cover
Title Page

Sunday Sketches

2012-01-28T17:21:00.000-08:00

This watercolor and ink painting completes my Sketchbook Project 2012!

As we were knee deep in snow, I drifted to the ocean images.

Sunday Sketches

2012-01-21T15:58:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I fell in love with a hanging cactus plant that had the most incredible, huge blooms. The plant was full of buds and it was one of those "must haves".

How could one resist this beauty?!

Needless to say it has never bloomed again :( The new growth is pencil thin and would never be able to support a massive flower.

I can dream though......

Only one more sketch to complete my Sketchbook Project 2012. YES!

More Snow and First Tracks

2012-01-18T18:53:00.000-08:00

An unusual foot of snow graced our city of Olympia today.

Yes some shoveling, but time for fun too.

Fresh powder tracks......

Tee, hee :) I just could not resist

Unique Snow Sculptures

2012-01-16T16:26:00.000-08:00

I glanced out my kitchen window this morning to find Buddha smiling wrapped in a blanket of snow. Made me smile as I got ready for this morning's winter wonderland walk.

Another favorite snow scene was the bird bath with a layer of snow nesting on the bird and froggie with a mouth full of snow.

Sunday Sketches

2012-01-14T10:07:00.001-08:00

One day I was driving to our favorite walking spot and I saw my friends on the bridge at Woodard Bay in Olympia, Washington, watching and taking photos of what?

Stopping I learned that the Mama Mergansers will carry her babies on her back to move them. Later when I got home Barry sent me an e-mail with photos! Barry Troutman is not only a great photographer but also a wildlife specialist who shares his knowledge about what you are looking at when you are with him. Even in his e-mails!

"Here are some of the birds we were watching today down by the bridge. The Mergansers nest upstream, then move downstream with their broods within a day of hatching. Once they head out, they don't return, but spend their early days growing up out in Chapman Bay or outer Woodard Bay beyond the trestle."

The photo is dated July 1st, but it has taken me this long to capture Mama and her ducklings in my sketchbook.

A Dog Artist

2012-01-13T16:49:00.000-08:00

I have a book entitled, Why Cats Paint by Heather Busch and Burton Silver, but had not come across a dog that paints until now.

Hallie is a little black and tan long haired dachshund that was adopted from an animal shelter by the artist, Dee Dee Murry.

Hallie is a constant companion to Dee Dee even when she painted. One day Dee Dee wondered if Hallie might like to paint. Hallie learned to pick up the brush out of the paint cup and go over to the paper to make strokes and dabs. Hallie has a website of her paintings for purchase. Since she is a rescue dog herself, the proceeds from her artwork are donated to Purple Heart Rescue of Centralia, Washington.

In April of 2011, Hallie went blind overnight from an autoimmune disease called SARDS (Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome). After Dee Dee took Hallie to Iowa State for possible treatment, she found out that Hallie's blindness was irreversible.

After several months adjusting to her disability, Hallie re-learned to paint. By trial and error and some assistance from Dee Dee, Hallie once again repeats her routine motions of applying a brush stroke of paint followed by several dots of paint.

Dogs are so resilient and amazing in their positive adjustment to disability and Hallie is a shining example and inspiration to not fear our pets' disabilities, nor shy away from adopting disabled dogs.

Time Out

2012-01-12T18:06:00.000-08:00

It is vital for one's well being to take time out for fun and new vistas to spark inspiration for creativity.

I just returned from spending time in Whistler, British Columbia, skiing with my good friend, Elaine. Our last day of skiing was absolutely STELLAR! I must share some images of sunshine, new snow, and mountain vistas.

This is the morning view from our window. You can see the snow line and shadow of the mountains behind us as the sun was rising.

I did get a few runs in the fresh powder and can appreciate the tracks down the mountainside off one of the many peaks.

The view from the top of Whistler Mountain.

Here is my friend imitating the Whistler-Blackcomb insignia.

How did she do?

This is my favorite photo of the Whistler-Blackcomb insignia which my son and I took a few years back.

Whistler is one of my favorite places for renewal and inspiration.

And outstanding place to ski!

Sunday Sketches

2012-01-07T18:36:00.000-08:00

Very little vegetation life outside right now, but ferns are thriving here in the Pacific Northwest.

I thought I would create a sketch in colored pencil of ferns covering two pages in my sketchbook for the Sketchbook Project 2012. Three more double pages and I have completed the sketchbook! Looks like I will have no problem with the January 31st deadline.

More Scribbles

2012-01-05T18:25:00.000-08:00

I picked up one of Bet Borgenson's book on colored pencil techniques and shared it with my art therapy client who, unfortunately is now immobile due to Parkinson's. I have shared my recent creations at times, but I no longer get her feedback. I shared my woes regarding colored pencils and brought Bet's book and my sketchbook on my last visit.

What I learned is the importance of paper when using colored pencil. Bet showed a cross-section of different papers and how the colored pencil works with each. Returning again to my frustration and challenge with the paper provided in the sketchbook, I scribbled. The last sketches in my sketchbook for the Sketchbook Project 2012 will be done in colored pencil because gluing the watercolor sketches into the sketchbook has made it rather bulky.

This scene was inspired by a vista from my walk on the Chehalis Western Trail not far from my house in Olympia, Washington. I love to watch the seasonal transitions of the ponds and especially like cattails. I am a frequent flier on the Trail.

New Year Collage

2012-01-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

In Yesterday's blog, I shared about an Intention Stick.

Another way to focus on the new year ahead is to create a collage. The collage can be made alone or with a group of friends. This year I spent an afternoon by myself contemplating the new year.

I have learned that sometimes images in these collages come to fruition or symbolize a life experience or insight. One time I made a dream collage with images of the Alps in Switzerland. After finally traveling to Switzerland, I skied the Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt, the Kleine Schcidegg Mannlichca, and the Schilthorn in the area of Interlaken. Upon return, I gazed at my collage to find that all the images were of the ski area around the Matterhorn in Zermatt where I went on the spur of the moment - I KNEW ALL THE IMAGES FIRST HAND FROM MY BEING THERE!

How to create a collage:

FIRST, find a bunch of magazines.

SECOND, cut out images and/or words.

THIRD, use a glue stick to paste images anyway you want to a large piece of paper.

TA DA!

New Year Collage 2012

Who knows what meaning this collage has for me in this new year?

Intention Stick

2012-01-03T19:41:00.000-08:00

At the start of the new year, friends gathered for a potluck and to create intention sticks.

What is an intention stick?

These sticks are also known as prayer sticks or talking sticks, but the focus of an intention stick is to create a visual reminder, or fetish piece to bind to you, and the intention that you set, for your life or your future. What a great way to provide focus for the New Year.

All over the world, people make objects to hold and send their prayers. There are special ceremonies found in ancient cultures and practiced today, that involve the construction of ‘holders and senders’ of prayers from natural materials.

It is fun to create intention sticks with friends. Especially sharing food and materials as well as conversation.

How to make an intention stick:

1. Find a stick that you feel is special.

2. Write intentions for the year on a pieces of paper.

3. Wrap the paper intentions face down around the stick and cover the intentions with colorful yarn, ribbon, thread or other materials.

4. Embellish with beads, stones, other objects.

Here is my intention stick from different angles.....

Sunday Sketches

2012-01-01T14:23:00.000-08:00

Scribbling

Do you remember scribbling when you were a child? Or, better yet, getting accused of scribbling by another child who thought they were cool?

As an art therapist, I am aware of scribbling as the first stage of artistic development for a child. It is such a freeing feeling and can be very colorful.

I was having these thoughts as I scribbled with colored pencils to create my maple leaf sketch. What fun! It is the only way I know to layer color with this medium. Leaves are a favorite of mine and I could not resist filling a page of my sketchbook with a leaf in its last days.

Maybe it is symbolic of the year ending?

Happy New Year!

Looking For Color

2011-12-29T14:55:00.000-08:00

As the dark days of winter set in, I am looking for any ounce of color.

Cyclamen!

The unique flower that blooms year round. I have always loved the grace of the cyclamen from the early rise of the bud similar to a fern's uncoiling, to the flowing dance of the blossom. Not to forget the beauty of the fluid curve in the rise of the leaf as well as the heart shaped leaves.

Another watercolor sketch to add to the sketchbook:

No Excuses

2011-12-27T14:41:00.000-08:00

I am using the holidays as an excuse for not painting even though I do not believe in excuses.

In order to set the record straight, I will gear up on artistic creations since I have one month to complete the sketchbook for the Sketchbook Project 2012.

I am amazed by the spectacular blooms of the tropical plant,Anthurium, which has a predominant spot in the living room window that faces south. It just loves this spot and graces me with blooms year round.

After completing this sketch and watercolor of the Anthurium, I am considering a full size painting.

Sunday Sketches

2011-12-17T17:25:00.000-08:00

I do not know if I have a Christmas Cactus or a Thanksgiving Cactus?

Either way this cactus blooms twice a year! Maybe it is an Easter Cactus?

I could not resist capturing the beauty of its shapes.

Happy Holidays!

What Is This???

2011-12-16T18:27:00.000-08:00

CAN YOU GUESS WHAT THIS IS?

Frosty the Snowman's baby photo :)

Original Dog Paw Print Wrapping Paper

2011-12-14T15:25:00.000-08:00

Here is a great idea for original wrapping paper and you will not have the mess of letting your dog walk all over wrapping paper with painted paws.

Make a paw print stamp!

What you will need:

1. Clay (regular modeling clay, modeling compound, or Play-Doh)
2. Petroleum jelly
3. Hot glue gun & glue sticks
4. Several small blocks of wood, a little larger than you do's paw
5. Sandpaper
6. Roll of plain paper
7. Nontoxic, washable poster paint
8. Paper plate
9. Paper towels

How to make it:

1. Work the clay with your hands until it is soft and pliable, then form several disks of clay, about 1/4 inch thick, a little larger in diameter than your dog's paw. The disks should not be very thick, so the paw print will be as flat as possible, to make a good stamp.

2. Press your dog's paw gently into each disk. The paw print should be shallow, while still being clearly a paw print.

3. Coat the inside of the paw print and the surrounding area of the clay with a think layer of petroleum jelly.

4. Plug in the hot glue gun. Fill the paw prints with hot glue, filling in each indentation, then covering the whole paw print and about 1/4 inch surrounding it with a thick layer of glue.

5. Gently place a wooden block on top of each paw print. This will be the back of your stamp. Allow the glue to dry for about five to ten minutes.

6. Gently remove the blocks and glue prints from the clay mold. If some of the clay has melted or stuck to the mold, just wipe it off.

7. Sand the glue to be somewhat flat, or rub it against concrete, such as a front step or your driveway. This will make for a better stamp.

8. Spread paint thinly on a paper plate. Dip your stamps in. Make a few sample prints on the plate to find which stamps make the best prints. Use the best ones for your wrapping paper project.

Stamp away on your wrapping paper or use the stamp to "sign" cards, seal envelops, or letterhead.

Be sure to treat your dog for helping you with this art project.

Image After Meditation

2011-12-13T17:28:00.000-08:00

Into the dark days, but I surprisingly found a sunny spot.

One might think I have cat blood, but just a positive reaction to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

On another note, have you ever seen a depressive cat?
They totally know the benefits of sunspots.

After meditating in the sunspot dressed in hat, gloves, and blanket, I went indoors to paint a mandala. This image appeared.

I know not where this is going.........

Stay tuned!

Sunday Sketches

2011-12-11T15:29:00.000-08:00

This is a watercolor sketch.

I was demonstrating to a group of women at an assisted living center how to use watercolor to paint a bouquet of flowers. To my surprise I liked the way this quick painting turned out and did not want to mess it up with details. Take a close up view of the flowers to see what I mean.....

Sand Canvas

2011-12-06T18:34:00.000-08:00

While humankind has surely been creating artworks out of sand since long before we have been able to preserve any trace of their fleeting existence, few sand artists can have worked on such a scale as Peter Donnelly.

Sunday morning when the tide goes out, Donnelly cycles down to the beach below New Brighton pier in New Zealand, with a rake and stick for paintbrushes and creates.

Elaborate patterns integrate seamlessly with more recognisable forms as Donnelly's works come to life beneath his dancing feet and the deft movements of rake and stick.

Peter Donnelly has been the subject of an acclaimed documentary, directed by Valerie Reid, extracts from which can be seen below.

Sunday Sketches

2011-12-03T22:03:00.000-08:00

I could not resist the urge to paint the Peruvian children's faces as they gathered to have their picture taken the day we visited the mountain school. I love the faces as well as the colors and designs of the textiles.

I am thinking of creating a painting on a larger scale in oils.....

This one is for the Sketchbook Project 2012.....

What Does 3,000 Paintings Look Like?

2011-12-03T20:59:00.000-08:00

Curious?

I went to Seattle today to see the art show featuring 100 artists creating 30 pieces of art 8" X 10" for the 30 Day Challenge. That's right.........3,000 paintings! Being there the second day the show opened not all 3,000 were still displayed. But, I must admit, it was an awesome sight!

Each time I went around the room looking at the displays of paintings, I saw ones I missed the time before.

By popular demand, The 30 Day Art Challenge Annual Gift Sale Event will be open next Saturday, December 10th, noon - 4PM.

Location: T.K. Gallery, 115 Prefontaine Place S., Seattle WA. 98104

Early Christmas At My House

2011-12-02T20:04:00.000-08:00

Keeping surprises is not my strong point.

Fedex delivered my grandson's Christmas present today.

It so happened that Mom and Haeden were coming to visit me on their way to Portland.

So, I opened the box.......

Good thing there were two of us to figure out how to put it together!

First, finger paints; Next, Haeden's own art desk.

An artist in the making

Oodles of Art at Affordable Prices

2011-11-30T16:46:00.000-08:00

Over 100 local artists created over 3,000 original paintings, drawings, photographs, silk screens, etc. for The 30 Day Art Challenge Annual Gift Sales Event which opens December 1st during Seattle's Art Walk from 5-10PM.

It is the 11th annual Holiday Gift Show Exhibition at the T.K. Gallery located at 115 Prefontaine Place in Seattle, Washington.

Free Admission!

Original Art Work selling for only $40 each.

Standing on a ladder, I photographed my 30 oil paintings of "Peruvian life":

Seagull or Penguin?

2011-11-28T16:58:00.000-08:00

Before Thanksgiving my friend, Elaine, and I spent a few days at Rockaway Beach on the Oregon Coast. It was stormy at times, but we managed to get in a couple of beach walks despite the weather.

I enjoyed watching the huge waves and was delighted by our frequent visitor we named, Arthur. I think he wanted to come inside out of the storm.

For additional entertainment, we decided to visit some of the thrift shops in the small beach towns nearby. My unique purchase was this metal sculpture; at first sight I thought penguin. He became our table center piece. Arthur would join us at the table (we pushed it next to the window), and it became clear to me that the sculpture was a seagull.

What do you think? Seagull or Penguin?

Elaine asked me if I found this metal sculpture at a thrift store in Olympia, where we live, would I have bought it? Probably not!

Or.......maybe as a humorous gift for a friend or relative?

Sunday Sketches

2011-11-27T16:48:00.001-08:00

In Honor of Gypsy

My dearly beloved kitty died. I wanted to honor her with a sketch today. First I drew the lines with ink and then applied watercolor.

She has the sweetest face :)

I had been her hospice nurse focusing on making her quality of life the best possible which meant spoiling her with food and special privileges. She spent her last evening finishing a bowl of ice cream and snuggled next to me in bed.

She is missed by all.....

Sunday Sketches

2011-11-19T19:32:00.000-08:00

Last week I was excited by the vivid colors of the maple leaves. This week it is the array of browns in the leaves on the ground which catch my eye.

This sketch was started with splashes of color, followed by the ink line, and then additional watercolor was applied. Not my usual pattern, but found it fun and refreshing.

It is Just Paper!

2011-11-16T21:09:00.001-08:00

My classic line when I work with people creating art who are critical of their artwork is, "It is just paper, not to worry."

Well this line takes on a new dimension after viewing paper sculptures by Canadian artist Calvin Nicholls.
My good friend and artist, Judi Colwell, introduced me to him.

I use the expression this time as.....
"Oh my gosh, it is just paper!"

There is nothing simple or ordinary about his paper art. Where we would use a piece of paper and a pair of scissors, Calvin uses everything you could possibly think of to carve, cut and rip perfect details onto his creations. The motifs are mostly wildlife and the details are truly amazing. One can not even fathom the time it must have taken to create these masterpieces of art.

Here are two of my favorites:

Be sure to visit his website to see more ASTONISHING JUST PAPER creations.

Stellar Day in the Pacific Northwest

2011-11-15T20:10:00.000-08:00

Yes, sunshine and fall colors!

One of our rare fall Pacific Northwest STELLAR DAY.

I took my dog, Ebony, for a walk on the Chehalis Western Trail here in Olympia, Washington.

I love the arches of color and the depth seen down the trail.

It is like a fairy land.

The leaves are a still-life in themselves.......

Sunday Sketches

2011-11-12T18:02:00.001-08:00

Finished another sketch for the Sketchbook Project 2012. I took Carol's advice to use better quality paper and glue it into the sketchbook.

I have been looking at this photograph of the Quechua school children waving good-bye to us after our visit to their school. It was a memorable day for both the children and us.

I love the line up and knew one day it would be a painting. It was challenging to capture their faces with a single line of ink. The watercolors were applied after the ink drawing.

Guessing Game

2011-11-10T15:04:00.000-08:00

Creative people alert!

I love sculptures and came across this one recently.

Try to guess in the first three photos what it is made of.

Any ideas?

Okay, for those of you who need more help......

Did you guess right?

FLIP FLOPS

Thousands of pairs of recycled plastic flip-flops live on in a large-scale outdoor art installation in San Paulo, Brazil. Local art students created the Giant Flip Flop Monkey Sculpture community art project.

Start Them Early

2011-11-09T17:00:00.000-08:00

Finger painting with my grandson at 19 months old!

I introduced Haeden to the big crayons, but finger paints are definitely more fun.

I spent three days babysitting my grandson and decided it is time for finger paints. First, I covered every possible inch of the table and chair. Haeden watched as I opened the four containers of washable finger paints.

I placed a blog of blue, his favorite color, on the paper and he tentatively touch it with his finger. With my encouragement he moved the paint slowly across the paper. I placed another blob of color on the paper and encouraged him to put a finger in it, too. This might have been my first mistake. The artist in me thought he would like all four colors. Maybe I should have stayed with the one color for a while because Haeden kept asking for more paint.

After a few paintings done in this manner, the next thing I knew he had his hand in one of the paint containers. I again encouraged him to spread it around on the paper. He went back for more and seemed to be enjoying the squishy feel of the paint in the container. I was getting nervous about the possible mess danger of allowing him to get his own paint from the container.

By this time Haeden had done several paintings and I thought he was done or I was done as his hands were full of paint........more so than the paper! I juggled him with my painted hands to the sink which was a feat in itself.

Cleaned up and let loose, Haeden headed back to the table to finger paint again. Okay I thought, this time I will put four small blobs of paint on the paper and hide the paint containers. Even with encouragement and help finger painting, Haeden insisted on more and did not fall for my hiding act.

In fact, he got angry and slapped his hands on the paper. "Yes, let's paint with our hands," and helped him to smear paint on the paper with his whole hand. He did like this........for a little while.........and then asked for more paint.

One more time I carefully rationed out the paint and this time I painted with him drawing circles in the paint. I decided it was time to quit as I thought this was plenty for a first lesson. Besides, I was trying hard to keep the mess to a minimum and know it could at any time quickly get out of hand (pun!).

As a good grandma and artist, I left all the painting materials in plain sight so that Haeden would ask Mom to paint again. Oh boy is she in for a treat!

Haeden's art.........and Mom's favorites:

This painting was created with a fist full of paint

Sunday Sketches

2011-11-06T07:30:00.000-08:00

Still learning about this Sketchbook Project 2012 process.

Today's lesson; Joanne verses "the paper."

I wanted to give a blast of color with watercolors to emphasize the leaves' fall color. The paper got saturated and started to shred. Immediately I took out the hair dryer before disaster occurred and I would have to remove another page from the sketchbook.

I remembered that my ink pen leaked through this paper, therefore, I opted for colored pencil to bring out the leaves and trees.

Hey, it worked! Score one for Joanne!

I have to figure out what to do with the next page because it is now wavy from the use of water on this page.

Ah, the challenge continues........

Mini Art Show

2011-11-04T19:53:00.000-07:00

I enjoy entering the annual miniature art show in Cannon Beach, Oregon. For one, it is a fabulous place to visit and many people visit the gallery. Two, because the art is small, they can be boxed and sent by mail.

When I first learned of this annual show, I talked two of my artist friends into the challenge of doing miniature art and entering the show. At that time we added the adventure of traveling down to Cannon Beach and spending the day. One time we even spent the night at the youth hostel in Seaside. I have many fond memories!

For two dimensional art the size limit for the miniature art show is 6" X 6," not framed. Because I was on a roll with painting images of Peru, I continued with the subject matter on two 3" X 5" stretched canvases.

This year there was no entry fee and you could submit eight pieces of art. I did, and that is when I got really creative. As I was looking at the stack of Sunday Sketches, I thought there were sections of the paintings that would really make great mini paintings. Out came the scissors!

These are the mini paintings that were submitted:

Aspen
watercolor & ink
5" X 5"
Stargazer
watercolor & ink
5" X 5"
Foxglove
watercolor & ink
5" X 5"

Even though these paintings look the same size, they are smaller.

Hellebore
watercolor & ink
3" X 3"
Lupines
watercolor & ink
3" X 3"

The oil paintings on canvas did not photograph well and I forgot to photograph the pastel of the fall hillside in New England. Thus, eight paintings were sent to the 25th Annual Miniature Art Show in Cannon Beach.

I found out today that ONE of the eight paintings was accepted.

Which one???

I will delay my gratification until later this month when I visit the area to view the art show.

Stay tuned.......

Last Four Peru Paintings

2011-11-03T19:09:00.000-07:00

I realized that four of the oil paintings from the 30 Day Challenge have not been posted. Therefore, time to catch up!

I have enjoyed painting the lovely Quechua children and their colorful clothes. In our little English and Spanish exchange with the young girls, I learned that they make their own clothes especially the dark embroidered skirts.

The Mothers with their babies swaddled on their backs are touchingly beautiful.

The Peruvian textiles are bold and bright.

I do not know how many artists have submitted art for the 30 Day Art Challenge. Just the number of artwork will be astoundingly amazing. The art show premieres November 30th at the T.K. Artist Lofts on 115 Prefontaine Place S. #308 in Seattle, Washington. The sale begins on December 1st and I am waiting to hear how long the sale will last.

Sunday Sketches

2011-10-30T17:51:00.000-07:00

Having completed the 30 Day Art Challenge and shipped off eight miniature paintings to Cannon Beach Gallery for the 25th Annual Miniature Art Show, I decided to get back to the Sketchbook Project 2012.

FRUSTRATION!

In the time that transpired, the title page stuck to the inside cover. It was not salvageable :( It tore in several places. I ended up cutting the page out of the book and starting over. I still like my image idea, so I thought about re-creating it on watercolor paper and paste it into the sketchbook.

I was enjoying working with the water-based oil paints for the Art Challenge and thought I would try them on watercolor paper. Disaster! Needless to say, I began another sketch and returned to watercolor paints. I must admit, I did use the oils for the line of paint because they layer well.

Here is the second version of the title page. You will need to imagine a fold down the middle, but I will allow more time for it to dry having learned my lesson. Hopefully, it will glue into the sketchbook without any further challenges.

Peruvian Mountain Atmosphere

2011-10-28T19:03:00.000-07:00

At Machu Picchu you may be sitting on a stone wall or on the grass and a llama or two might wander by you. Between the magically appearance of the llamas and the occasional flute music drifting through the air, being in the Peruvian mountain atmosphere is awesome.

I tried to capture this feeling in these paintings done from images my retreat sisters shared online.

More Oil Paintings From Peru

2011-10-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am glowing in the feeling of accomplishment having completed the 30 Day Art Challenge.

Since I am on a painting frenzy, I decided to do a couple of paintings for the Cannon Beach Gallery's Annual Miniature Art Show. I love this beautiful spot on the Oregon Coast. The size of my paints are going from 8" by 10" to 4" by 5." Believe it or not they still take several hours to paint! I think I will continue with the Peru subject matter. I need to have them finished by Saturday to mail in time for the jury process next week.

Here are more of the paintings for the 30 Day Art Challenge which will be displayed in Seattle at the Tashiro Kapalan Art Lofts in December.

This painting is of Gabbie who was our fabulous guide. Having ground up in Peru and the Sacred Valley, she knew all the lore and history as well as great adventures tourists do not know about. In this painting she is showing us how to do the coca leaf ceremony to Pachamama (Mother Earth).

I loved seeing the llamas freely roaming around Machu Picchu. Besides, they are fun to paint!

THIRTY Completed!

2011-10-25T20:58:00.001-07:00

Yes, I did it!

I completed the 30 Day Art Challenge!!! Five days early which will give the last few paintings a chance to dry. Need I say, THAT WAS A CHALLENGE?!?!

Now, to catch you up on the last several paintings......

This is one of the Quechua girls at the school we visited in the Sacred Valley. Did I mention the school was at 14,000 feet? Our escorted walk up the hill to the schoolyard found us breathing heavily. We had to chewed on coca leaves to revive.

This Quechua girl was with her mother selling beautiful handmade items by the side of the highway as we entered into the Sacred Valley.

Here I am looking out at the incredible vistas from the trek to the Temple of the Gods in Pisac.

Sunday Sketches

2011-10-22T21:07:00.000-07:00

I am still engrossed with images and paintings of my experience in Peru.....it is almost like being there!

At the end of my adventures in the Sacred Valley, I flew to Puerto Maldanado where I embarked on a boat down a tributary of the Amazon River to EcoAmazonia Lodge. The lodge is nestled on 10,000 acres of wildlife preserve which I explored with a small group lead by a native Peruvian guide. The rain forest is awesome!

I have a passion for the bird of paradise flower. The huge species found in the rain forest is gorgeous! This batch of birds lived outside my little bungalow which was home for four days. I made time between hikes and viewing wildlife to create a sketch of the Amazon bird of paradise.

Challenge

2011-10-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

I believe I could have this 30 Day Art Challenge completed tomorrow which is SEVEN days early! It has been an amazing journey and a great lesson in motivation. Where will this experience take me next?

This painting is of a bowl of wool which we watched dyed and spun at the school we visited in the Sacred Valley of Peru. The wool is now ready for weaving. It was amazing to see the fabulous creations by the young girls. Our group of women bought everything they made.

Next week I will post the rest of the 30 paintings and tell you more about the art show in Seattle where they will be hung.

Light at the End of the Tunnel

2011-10-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, I see light!

FIVE more paintings to complete the 30 Day Art Challenge.

I am behind with postings. One more set tomorrow and next week I will post the rest after I retrieve my camera which I left at my son's house. Another good reason to see my grandson on a weekly basis.

The first one is of two Quechua girls (do you think they are sisters?) watching the children playing on the school grounds.

We went to a textile gallery and shop in Cuzco and we intrigued by the weavers at work.

The textiles were awesome and had to restrain myself from buying.

Day Off To Play

2011-10-18T19:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took the day off from painting for the 30 Day Art Challenge, and took my grandson to the zoo. What fun!

Today I am back on track painting and see the light at the end of the tunnel. I completed painting number TWENTY!

The stellar day of sunshine and warmth here in the Pacific Northwest needed to be enjoyed, so Ebony and I went for a walk. Therefore, I got a late start on the second painting for today.

Here are a couple more paintings.

A Peruvian woman hand weaving
A Quechua Girl
Don Bonito a Peruvian Shaman

Sunday Sketches

2011-10-16T12:36:00.000-07:00

In Peru at the Willka T'ika Guesthouse, I became fascinated with flowers of the Ruda plant also known as Rue.

Carol, who created the fabulous gardens and guesthouse, says that the it is an important protection plant and one of the native Andean medicinal plants. Because it is the "golden light of life" she planted it abundantly in the fourth chakra garden relating to the sun and the solar plexus. Each day Carol adorns her hat with flowers and Ruda is one of her favorites.

I sketched the flowers of the Ruda plant one day while enjoying the gardens.

The bright yellow fringed flowers with protruding stamens are star-like, and grow in clusters, facing straight up. The central flower has five petals, while all other have four. The rounded petals are initially curled around the center and slowly open up, forming a protective shield for the light green, four/five-lobbed ovary, which gradually swells up, until the petals are no longer necessary and drop.

One of the most striking features of this plant is the strong, aromatic, bitter or acrid scent, but once you get used to it, it can be very soothing and comforting.

Here are a couple of photographs of Ruda.

Pattern Broken

2011-10-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

Although I painted two pictures today, I did not finish the second one which breaks my pattern this week of painting two pictures a day.

I must admit, I did take a fabulous walk with my dog in the SUNSHINE!!!

I also spent several hours on my first painting creating the details of the textiles warn by the Peruvian people. Because the oil painting is still wet, I did not photograph it to share. But here are some of the others that are drying.

The first one is of a Peruvian woman and her child who we met when stopping for a Kodak moment while going over the mountains into the Sacred Valley. You find Peruvians selling beautiful items at various stops along the roads as well as in the towns.

This painting is of a Peruvian woman weaving.

I am starting to rethink entering my paintings in the 30 Day Art Challenge. Because of the time I am spending on each painting and the final product, I am considering doing my own Peru art show.

Pace Continues

2011-10-12T21:10:00.000-07:00

Today I worked late into the evening to complete painting number two for today.

But I did also get a great four mile plus walk at Tomie State Park (Olympia, Washington) before the rains, and an hour's worth of weeding between painting sessions. Needless to say, a full day!

I took a diversion from people painting.

A couple of llamas roaming free at Machu Picchu.

Here are a few more oil paintings

Machu Picchu

Back to Mother and Child motif with colorful textiles.

Painting Frenzy

2011-10-11T20:21:00.000-07:00

Maintaining the pace of two paintings a day.

Total of thirteen so far!

It has helped that it has been rainy outside. But today was perfect; after completing my first painting of the day, the sun came out. Ebbie and I went for a walk. As I was beginning the second painting, the rain returned with vengeance.

I find myself drawn to the people and colors of Peru.

Here are a few more paintings.

Quechua Girl
Peruvian Mother and Child
Quechua Boy

I must take photos of the paintings between rain storms and have not been very successful these past few days. I will post more tomorrow, hopefully.

Momentum

2011-10-10T18:30:00.000-07:00

I am in the groove!

It is the 10th of October and I have ELEVEN paintings completed in the 30 Day Art Challenge. Considering I did not get started painting until the 5th, I am a painting maniac! I have been averaging two a day and plan to stay at this pace as long as I can because the paintings must be dry by October 30th.

I am having a great time painting with oils (water-based) and using images from Peru that my fabulous sisters are sharing on the internet. I was camera less in Peru after the second day, but found myself enjoying the freedom of just being present

And, now I am reliving the experiences and memories while painting.

Here are the first few......

Don Benito and His Son
Quechua Child
Peruvian Woman with a Goat

They are on canvas board and are 8" X 10".

More tomorrow........

Sunday Sketches

2011-10-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

I just returned from incredible adventures in Peru and managed to create a few sketches along the way.

I spent several days at Willka T'ika Guesthouse in the Sacred Valley which is a charming and lovely place full of beautiful gardens, fabulous vegetarian food which was grown there, and filled with 18 wonderful women to share experiences.

I became very fond of the thousand-year-old Lucuma tree which called Carol, the inspiration behind Willka T'ika, to this piece of land for the setting of the guesthouse. As she explains, "In the crown chakra garden, a thousand-year-old lucuma tree connects guests to the energy and wisdom of the ancient Inkan civilization. The grassy area beneath the lucuma tree is a perfect place for meditation." The tree has these wonderful, bulbous appendices of bark. One evening for desert we were treated to a wonderful dish with the lucuma fruit......yum!

Here I am painting the first sketch of the Lucuma tree.

This is the first sketch.

I had to get closer to really capture the bark.

Here is that rendition of the Lucuma Tree.

And here is the beautiful tree.

I will be painting more of this tree!

Peru Adventures

2011-10-06T19:52:00.000-07:00

I did it!

Yes, I spend time at Machu Picchu, traveled the Amazon River and explored the rain forest, as well as many other Peruvian adventures.

The first two days I was in Cuzco getting acclimated with the help of altitude medication and coca leaves. The colors and people were amazing. Gabriella, our guide, was a delight with her knowledge of the area and sense of spirituality and sacred space. Along with several other like-minded women, I spent a week at Willka T'ika in the Sacred Valley near the Urubamba River. The gardens and food were fabulous! We took day trips to sacred grounds, Inca ruins, and a local school which was at an elevation of 14,000 feet.

Along with a reverence for Pachamama (mother earth), Peruvians live the word, ayni where all beings are recognized and appreciated for the good of all. Peru is a joyous place filled with love and colors.

I did find a little time to sketch and paint, but will rely on photos from friends to share. This month I am participating in an art challenge where I will create 30 paintings which will become a part of an art show in Seattle. I have decided to paint images from Peru and at the present time have finished four paintings.

Stay tuned.......

Title Page for Sketchbook Project 2012

2011-09-05T20:29:00.000-07:00

Challenges accepted and proceed ahead!

Here is the title page:

Now to figure out what direction to go and how to cover up the bleed through from this page to the next.

I will have time to think about it as I am off on another adventure. This time to Peru.....Machu Picchu and the Amazon rain forest.

Until next time.......

Sunday Sketches

2011-09-04T11:53:00.000-07:00

Ha Ha!

Many lessons ahead........

I began my sketchbook for the Sketchbook Project 2012 and found out that this may be more challenging than I thought. First, different paper always presents unknowns. Today, I learned that "there are no mistakes" since I sealed the cover and cannot rebind the sketchbook.

For the cover I chose to create a colored pencil drawing on paper and glue it to the cardboard cover. It needed to have some kind of protection and I just happened to have a container of Golden gel medium which I won at the local Golden demonstration. It worked!

Here is the cover; imagine it folded in half:

The theme of the sketchbook is "Along The Line".

I came up with an idea for the title page and that is where the real challenges begin.

I tried some of the Golden acrylic paint to cover up the brown cardboard on the inside. It was rather messy and I managed to get acrylic paint on the cover and the next page :( When I turned the page, I notice that the ink from drawing on the title page came through to the next page :( Okay, now I need to think of a some kind of artistic creation that will cover up the lines and paint.

Yes, I see this sketchbook creating itself as I proceed.

More to follow. Stay tuned!

Maximize Sunlight

2011-09-03T14:57:00.000-07:00

The light source is a vital element in any painting or drawing. I believe it distinguishes a great piece of art from a mediocre one.

But, on the other hand, it is a known fact that kitties know how to make the best use of sunlight.

Here are my girls maximizing sunlight.

In the morning, in bed after breakfast.....

On the love-seat, in the middle of the afternoon....

When the mood strikes........

I think they need a job!

Oriental Dogwood Painting

2011-08-31T19:49:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that this painting has been sitting on my drafting table since spring! I was concerned that the tape which I use to adhere the watercolor paper down to prevent buckling would be permanently stuck to the table.

In a former blog, I shared my love affair with the Oriental Dogwood Tree which came highly recommended as an addition to my landscape plans.

I also posted a sketch of the lovely flowers which I drew as one of my Sunday Sketches.

Finally, the watercolor painting is done!

Ta Da.......here it is:

Sunday Sketches

2011-08-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

Leaving LA after finishing college, I moved to Colorado to be a ski bum; ski everyday and work at night. I graduated to skiing all day when I became a ski instructor.

Living in Colorado, I began a love affair with aspens. In spring, you can watch the bright yellow-green little leaves appear and magically turn large before your eyes. Through the summer, the aspen leaves flutter in the breeze. Many times I sketched their white bark with the circular lines and "eyes". But the fall is awesome when you walk in the woods amongst the glow of the yellow and orange leaves. The leaves then make wonderful patterns on the ground when they fall. What a magnificent tree!

When I was planning what trees to include in my landscape, aspens were a definite. I bought little "twigs" from the conservation district and planted them. Unfortunately, the deer also like my aspens. The first year the little forest of aspens were pruned at the top. This year I put a few in cages, but the ones not caged were pruned by the deer this time the middle leaves as the trees were much taller than last year. I will cage them all! These aspens will definitely have some interesting shapes when they mature due to the selective deer pruning. The most exciting thing this year is that the bark on these aspens have turned white and no longer look like twigs.

I love the shape of the aspen leaves, and recently I noticed something unusual. Two of the leaves on opposite sides of the trunk had wonderful colorful designs; worthy of a painting. Hopefully it is not some sign of a bug. If so, what wonderful creative work the bug does!

Giant Dahlias

2011-08-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

I will admit that I was a bit lost in Tacoma, Washington, when the Point Defiance Park sign appeared before me. Having taken a detour from the waterfront park, it was a welcome surprise.

Point Defiance Park is 702 acres of natural forest, saltwater beaches, awesome views and spectacular gardens. The rose garden caught my attention immediately upon entering the park.

After putting my nose in several roses, the huge dahlias in the Dahlia Trial Garden caught my eye.

I learned that the Dahlia Trial Garden at the Point Defiance Park is one of the largest official trial gardens in the US and Canada. The Dahlia Trial Garden is sponsored and maintained in cooperation with the Washington Dahlia Society. The garden is comprised of plants grown from tubers sent by dahlia growers from throughout America, Canada, England, New Zealand and Australia. Each year, the dahlias are scored by official judges of the American Dahlia Society. Dahlias receiving between 85 and 100 points are included in the annual classification book. They are then named and become available to the general public. Blooms begin in July, but August is the best time to view the garden in full bloom, when plants reach heights higher than 6 feet.

I took a few photos......

This one was the monster of the bunch

"Arts to Remember"

2011-08-23T18:16:00.000-07:00

Today was my last day creating art with residents at various assisted living centers in Olympia as part of the "Arts to Remember" program. Selected art pieces will be on display at the annual Arts Walk in downtown Olympia October 7th and 8th.

This year I went to two locations, Merrill Gardens and Olympia West. We created mandalas and several different still lifes in craypas and watercolor. The challenge was to relate that everyone can do art and that the art does not need to be realistic. I even got to a point where I "outlawed" any negative talk about one's art creation. But, that was short lived.

Today, I brought a bouquet of strawflowers from my garden. First time I have grown them and what amazing plants. The shape of the leaves and flatness of the stems are as as unique as the flowers themselves.

Here is a close up view of the strawflowers

The bouquet that became the subject matter of today's session.

Closer view

I attempted to explain that we would be doing an Impressionistic version of this bouquet; my demonstration....

Anyways, they said that they had fun!

New Challenge

2011-08-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

Thank heavens for good friends to stretch you! Thank you, Ellen.

I entered the 30 Day Art Challenge which is in its eleventh year. Artists who enter create 30 works of Art in 30 days, during the month of October, for the Annual December Show held at the T.K. Artist Lofts in Seattle, Washington.

The 30 Day Art Challenge is an open group show with at least 75 total spots available. Each artist is provided with 30 identical canvases (8” x 10” canvas board)and have 30 days to produce 30 pieces of new artwork.

The curators will sort, organize, photograph, and install the artwork for the annual Exhibition Sale Event at the Tashiro-Kaplan Artist Lofts. All displayed artwork will be for sale at the Annual Gift Show. The event will be held during the 1st Thursday Seattle Art Walk, December 1st 2011.

Canvas???

30 paintings!!!

S-T-R-E-T-C-H....

What shape will this artist return to?

Sunday Sketches

2011-08-21T13:15:00.000-07:00

Have you had the opportunity to smell a Stargazer lily?

What a treat! The fragrance is delightful.

I must add, the color of the Stargazer is magnificent.

I cannot resist the Stargazer; the subject of this week's sketch.

Clever Posters

2011-08-20T20:43:00.000-07:00

What to do with hands and a phone.....

Could this be a new genre, Phone Art?

I apologize for the advertisement,
but the creativity and art is exceptional!

Sketchbook Project 2012

2011-08-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

My good friend an gifted artist, Ellen Miffitt, encouraged me to enter the Sketchbook Project 2012 sponsored by the
Art House Co-op.

First you choose a theme for your sketchbook and Art House Co-op will send you a sketchbook. I picked "Along the Line" and not sure why, but it will unfold (pun intended!). Your sketchbook must be postmarked by January 31st 2012 in order to be on the 2012 Tour. The tour begins in April and thousands of sketchbooks will be exhibited at galleries and museums as they make their way on tour across the world.

You can find out the which cities are participating in the 2012 tour and a recap of the five month 2011 tour at the website.

After the tour, all sketchbooks will enter into the permanent collection of The Brooklyn Art Library, where they will be barcoded and available for the public to view. Many of the books will be available by digital image too.

2011 Sketchbook Project Tour Seattle from mightymoss on Vimeo.

Dream Time

2011-08-17T18:53:00.000-07:00

Yes, being a new grandma my thoughts are centered around children and so are my friends who send me fabulous baby images.

Adele Enerson, is a computer specialist from Helsinki, Finland. While her baby daughter is sleeping soundly, Adele creates worlds from whatever she can find around her home.

Second Mural in Rafah

2011-08-16T20:11:00.000-07:00

The Maia Mural Brigade was super charged at the end of our time in Gaza and painted two murals in one day. This one was created at Tuyou Al-Jenna school which is one of the sites of the water purification systems so badly needed in Gaza. Bringing awareness to this important issue was one of the main objectives of the
Maia Mural Project.

The Inspiration
Mohammad, Awesome Palestinian Artist

Afaq Jadeeda Association Mural In Gaza

2011-08-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

This mural, one of the many painted by American and Palestinian artists as part of the Maia Mural Project, was painted on the wall at the Afaq Jadeeda Association. Afaq Jadeeda assists the Palestinian children's growth both mind and body through various cultural activities. When I worked with the children creating art, their artwork reflected the water crisis in Gaza.

The little figure with its back facing us is Hanthala created by the famous Palestinian cartoonist Naji al-Ali that has become an iconic symbol of Palestinian struggle and defiance. Hanthala is a 10 year old refugee boy with ragged clothes, bare feet, and his back is always to the viewer.

Rachel Corrie Mural in Rafah

2011-08-09T20:39:00.000-07:00

The Rachel Corrie Foundation for Peace and Justice funded one of the water filtration systems at the Afaq Jadeeda Kindergarten in Rafah, Gaza.

The memorial mural in Rafah was one of eight murals painted by American and Palestinian artists as part of the Maia Mural Project.

To find out more about Rachel Corrie, please visit the website.

Sunday Sketches

2011-08-07T14:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Maxine, Ray, and I hiked the Marmot Pass - Upper Big Quilcene in the Olympic Mountain Range in Washington. Amazing waterfalls in the first section, beautiful wildflower meadows in the second section, and scenic views of so many peaks from the top. It was a gruesome hike of 3,500 feet elevation in 5 miles, but worth every ache and pain.

The wildflowers were spectaular!

The view at the top of Marmot Pass was awesome!

I chose one of my favorite wildflowers to sketch: Wild Tiger Lily

Alice Walker Mural in Gaza

2011-08-04T17:48:00.000-07:00

"Boats in the Flotilla sailing to Gaza," was the theme of the mural the Maia Mural Brigade painted at the Beit Hanoun Kindergarden in Gaza City where writer and activist Alice Walker generously purchased a water filtration system so that the children have fresh, clean water to drink EVERYDAY.

As I have shared in previous blogs, the problem of water is at crisis proportion in Gaza. The Maia Mural Project is helping to bring awareness to this issue and help bring about funding for more water filtration systems to all the schools and kindergartens.

Alice Walker was on the Flotilla which was destine for Gaza as an expression of Solidarity except that Israel would not allow the ship to pass to the shores of Gaza.

The Flotilla was made to turned back by Israel.

Here is the mural....

Another Mural in Gaza

2011-08-02T17:21:00.000-07:00

Our second mural in Gaza as part of the Maia Mural Project was painted at the Shatea Kindergarten outside wall. The inspiration came from one day at the Summer Camps that take place in Gaza City. About 15,000 schoolchildren in the summer camps of UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Work Agency) flew around 10,910 hand made kites. It broke the record registered last year in China when people flew 10,565 kites.

Here is the sketch for the mural:

And the mural.....

Alicia Martinson one of the artists of the Maia Mural Brigade

Sunday Sketches

2011-07-31T12:02:00.000-07:00

There is something magical about butterflies.

I was doubly fascinated watching my 16 month old grandson follow this tiger swallowtail as it lighted around the yard.

Children of Gaza Tell Their StoriesThrough Art

2011-07-26T20:04:00.000-07:00

I was privileged to visit and conduct an art therapy session with the Palestinian children at the Qattan Centre for the Child (QCC) in Gaza City. QCC is a non-profit cultural and educational institution which focuses on the basic needs of the Palestinian children.

With the aid of my Russian interpreter, Natach, the children told me about the water problems they contend with on a daily basis in Gaza.

Pollution, lack of water, misuse of water, and their difficulties were the themes in their art.

One of the children drew a picture of the Israeli bombs and the white phosphorous which was dropped on the citizens of Gaza.

The children made it very clear the problems they live with in Gaza.

Third Mural in Gaza

2011-07-25T17:46:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have been following our adventures in Gaza, I will be posting the different murals that were painted by the Maia Mural Brigade.

This is the third mural we painted at the Jabalia Girls School in Gaza. The second one was finished in the evening and I await a copy of the mural from one of the artists who photographed it the follow next day in daylight.

The challenge was painting in 100 degree temperatures in the sunshine.

The Maia Mural Brigade Artists

Hillary, Vyal, Alicia, Josue, Joanne, Melissa
We found an large umbrella which saved the day!

Just some of the girls....not at all camera shy!

Sunday Sketches

2011-07-24T10:58:00.000-07:00

I am back from Gaza!

Attempting to assimilate the experience of my adventures and being part of the Maia Mural Project.

Here is one of the sketches I created as I was gazing out the dinning area window of the Adam Hotel in Gaza City, Gaza.

The people of Gaza depend heavily on fishing to provide for their families as well as income. I was privileged to go out fishing with the fishermen of Gaza on the "Olivia", which is the international boat that keeps the Palestinians safe from the Israeli warships which harass the fishermen.

The Israeli warships make waves so that the fishermen cannot fish. The Olivia moves to where the Israelis are harassing the fishermen and the harassment stops for the time being until they isolate another group of fishermen. The Oslo Accords allows the fishermen 20 nautical miles from the coast, but these photos were taken around 3 miles from the coast of Gaza which Israel has illegally imposed.

It is very unraveling to have the guns pointed at you!

Read more about the Civil Peace Service Gaza boat "Oliva".

Artists in Gaza

2011-07-11T21:40:00.000-07:00

I must share this press release of the Maia Mural Project......

Back to painting........

First Gaza Mural

2011-07-11T07:08:00.001-07:00

Today was the opening ceremony for the Maia Mural Project at the New Gaza Boys School. There were Palestinian dignitaries from several organizations as well as our Maia Mural Brigade.

The children helped to put the finishing touches to the mural.

I think it looks outstanding!

Children Of Gaza and Art

2011-07-07T10:51:00.000-07:00

Today I returned to the Afaq Jadeela Association in Mukhaim El Jadeed to create art with the children.

Water is a big issue here in Gaza. The children are asking for clean water to drink. As part of the Maia Mural Project we will paint murals around Gaza.

I asked the children to create pictures about water. Their pictures told the story of the water pollution and the need for fresh water and a cleaner environment.

The most interesting part of being "lost in translation" was that after I passed out the boxes of crayons and paper, the children just sat there. I did not know what was wrong. Majd came with pencils and the children began drawing.

Here are some photos of these sweet, beautiful children who graced my day.

Another Day in Gaza

2011-07-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

I spent the day with the children and coordinators at the Afaq Jadeela Association in Mukhaim El Jadeed as part of the Maia Mural Project.

They were sooo gracious and joyous.

You must watch the dance they performed for Melissa and me.

"We are the children of Palestine. We are living, sometimes we are not. We demand our rights. We have the right to play and have recreation. We have the right to education. It is good for man to go any place, we cannot. We have the right to express our thoughts. We are the makers of the new future. We have the right to protection. We have the right to live in peace. We have a right to clean environment. We have the right to healthcare and medications. By our talents and our skills...we can do miracles for our homeland.

Sunday Sketches

2011-06-26T14:07:00.000-07:00

I amazed myself!

With the excitement of travel and much to do, I managed to squeeze time for a sketch.

As promised, here is my favorite weed the foxglove.

I will be part of a delegation of artists creating murals in Gaza to bring awareness to the water crisis and need for water purification systems in the UNRWA schools. As soon as the website goes live, you can follow us each day at
http://www.maiamuralproject.org

I might be able to blog here, too.

Stay tuned........

I Love My Weeds!

2011-06-23T19:30:00.000-07:00

As they say, one person's weed is another person's treasure.

I think?

In this case the Foxglove, also know as Digitalis, is a weed and many people pull them up. On the other hand, I have seen these flowers FOR SALE at garden stores.

I love them! But rather than buy the flower, I transplanted the plant from the woods to my garden and the patch is growing like a weed (pun intended!). Yes, I might have to pull some in the future, but for now I am enjoying this lovely weed.

I call the spots inside freckles :)

Foxgoves will be the subject matter for Sunday Sketches.

Watch for it.

Sunday Sketches

2011-06-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

My first sketch of the lovely oriental dogwood that I planted last year. Each day the flowers seem to get more pink and today they are coral. Guess I will need to do another rendition of the flower.....

I have another watercolor painting in progress on my drafting table at the moment.

This is one GORGEOUS tree!

A Taste of France

2011-06-16T21:12:00.000-07:00

Mont Ventoux

Four blogging buddies meet in Provence, France, to sketch and paint, enjoy French delights of food and wine, and good company.

I am enjoying their adventures and art posted at
Four Go Painting In Provence.

Check it out and experience a taste of France.

Oriental Dogwood Enchantment

2011-06-14T20:10:00.000-07:00

I am totally in awe watching the daily transformation of the Oriental Dogwood Tree which a friend highly recommended I plant in my yard.

Not only are the flowers a study in grace dancing on top of the branches, but the color of the flowers have changed from a blush white to a dazzling pink in just a few days.

I see several watercolor paintings in the near future!

But for now, here are some photos of the beauty.....

The full tree is rather small; I am not sure how big it might get.

Check out the cluster of flowers!!!

And a close view of the flowers.

Subject matter for my Sunday Sketch....stay tuned!

Sunday Sketches

2011-06-12T08:20:00.000-07:00

This is the most faithful clematis.

The plant looks rather scrawny and it was uprooted and moved, but it continues to put out a bunch of lovely flowers.

Mosaic Murals

2011-06-11T18:16:00.000-07:00

Since I have been focusing on the impending Maia Mural Project, my friend Rebeccah sent me a link to Lewis Lavoie's Mural Mosaic.

Mural Mosaic is a process invented by artist Lewis Lavoie that takes individual paintings and places them in a specific order to create a large painting. In 2004, Lavoie took his process and involve other artists. He pre-prepares panels with color tones and shapes. Using the color guidelines on the prepared panels as inspiration artists create a painting using their own style within the "theme" of the mural subject. All the panels are reunited to create the final image which is kept a secret until the final unveiling.

Each tile is one foot square. At the website you can click on each tile to see them in detail. Truly amazing!

Watch him create a mural....

Murals

2011-06-09T20:01:00.000-07:00

A new art expression for me......MURALS!

This July, thirteen artists, art therapists, teachers, organizers, and psychologists from Olympia, San Francisco and beyond will be traveling to Gaza in order to collaborate with Palestinian youth and artists to design, paint and document, A Tale of Two Cities - The MAIA Mural Project!

We will begin our trip with an orientation and training throughout Israel and the West bank, where we will meet with Jewish Israeli and Palestinian artists and activists.

The MAIA Mural Project will be a series of collaborative murals focusing on environmental justice, specifically water or ‘maia’ in Arabic. The group will work with youth and artists in Gaza to paint murals at sites of the water purification units that the Middle East Children’s Alliance (MECA) is installing at schools and kindergartens. The quality of water in Gaza has been eroded, particularly in the Israeli assault of 2008-9, creating a severe health hazard to which children are most vulnerable.

You will be able to follow The MAIA Mural Project as it unfolds on blogs, Twitter, Facebook and Flickr! You will find uploaded video interviews with Palestinian partners, giving you a real sense of our experience and all of the amazing individuals involved. This extensive documentation will become part of a growing global conversation about resources, water, solidarity, cross-movement building and non-violent resistance to oppression.

Example of mural in Olympia which will be incorporated into the project.

The leaf near the upper right corner with the bird of peace, OM, and world is the one I created.

There are many ways that you can support this unique endeavor! Donations of any amount will help towards airfare and paint! All donations are tax deductible and can be made at www.olympiarafahmural.org – click, MAIA Murals.

If you live in Olympia.......The MAIA Mural Project Café and One Big Drawing will take place on Saturday, June 18th from 5-10pm at Mariah Art School, 1403 Garfield Ave, NW, Olympia WA. Come enjoy a nice meal and drinks, and live acoustic music will begin at 7pm. Susan Greene, director of ORSMP and Ziad Abbas, director of MECA will introduce the project and share images from past projects in Palestine as well as the process of ORSMP and the MAIA Water purification units.

This will truly be life changing experience!

Sunday Sketches

2011-06-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

Planning ahead! I did my sketch during the week.

I spent the full weekend baby-sitting my fourteen month old grandson, Haeden. Need I say, I was BUSY!?!?!

Tried the paint first then draw technique once again. My garden patch of purple lupines are in full bloom. These are one of my favorite flowers because they remind me of the wild ones growing along the Metolious River in Oregon where I lived for many years.

Here is stage one....

And the final.....

Posted this evening. Grandma is retiring for the night!

Favorite Watercolor Painters Past & Present

2011-06-02T18:39:00.000-07:00

Fumee d'Ambre Gris (Smoke of Ambergris)
John Singer Sargent
watercolor
1880

Today I received an e-mail from artist blogger, Katherine Tyrrell of Making A Mark, who queried about one's favorite watercolor artists.

I enjoy reading her blogs on a daily basis, but this one caught my eye because I had never seen paintings by the favorite British contemporary watercolor painter, Trevor Chamberlain. As Katherine indicates, Trevor Chamberlain says so much with minimal effort. My favorite painting is Sunbeds and Parasols.

Of course, Winslow Homer and John Singer Sargent made the list of favorite watercolor artists of the past.

What a treat to visit the various websites and view watercolor paintings of all the artist Katherine listed as people's favorites.

Also the watercolor paintings of Kiff Holland caught my eye.

Leaf Trellis

2011-05-31T20:55:00.000-07:00

When I decide to enter an art show, one criteria is that the show is located in a place I like to visit or would like to visit. The bonus when one of my paintings is accepted.....I get to plan an adventure.

In May one of my watercolor paintings was accepted into the Sequim Art Show. When I dropped off the watercolor painting, my friend Shelley and I hiked the Dungeoness Spit to the light house. On the return trip, my friend Janet and I stopped at the Whitney Gardens and Nursery, an art show, the Blue Whole Gallery, the Native Art Gallery, and my favorite place "Over The Fence".

"Over The Fence" is a unique garden store in the heart of Sequim, Washington. What a fun place to visit and get ideas for the home and garden. On this adventure, I saw two leaf trellises which would look outstanding as landscape art. They came home with me!

Closer view

With the dinosaur egg

Thinking about adding some flowers around the base....

Rhodys In Abundance

2011-05-30T19:26:00.000-07:00

Sunday I traveled with my friend, Janet, to Sequim to catch the last day of the Sequim Art Show and to pick up my watercolor painting. Janet suggested we stop at the rhododendron garden on our way.

I had never been to Whitney Gardens & Nursery in Brinnon, Washington, and what a RARE TREAT. Whitney Gardens is at the foot of the Olympic Mountains and has the most beautiful array of rhododendron hybrids and species in the Northwest nestled among rare trees and ponds. Also in abundance are azaleas, magnolias, maples, conifers, kalmias, camellias, perennials, trees, shrubs and ground cover. It is definitely a breathtaking experience especially when the rhodys are in full bloom as we experienced.

My favorite was this Rhody tree whose name I have misplaced.

The small greenhouses of rhododendrons were organized by colors and one greenhouse had fragrant varieties.

I especially like the colors and rows of maples.

Sunday Sketches

2011-05-29T09:41:00.000-07:00

I broke the cardinal rule of composition; placing the subject matter in the center of the painting.

BUT, this showy Iris deserved center stage and I did it!

Rebellious, aren't I :)

Mama Robin Attack

2011-05-28T15:03:00.000-07:00

Although I was under attack from Mama Robin, I was able to capture (pun intended) her little one nesting in the Rhododendron in my front yard.

It was challenging finding the nest while zooming in with the camera. After several attacks, she buzzed my head, I decided to just snap a picture and hope for the best.

Surprisingly the attentive little one was captured. I thought the photo was striking and wanted to share.

What big eyes you have.......

Another Beauty Erupts

2011-05-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

What a surprise!

Having been gifted with Iris bulbs from my neighbor when I moved into the neighborhood, I had no idea what they would look like. The first year the lavender ones bloomed (the other day's blog) and I thought they were soooo gorgeous. What a treat to see the addition of a new beauty which erupted upon the scene this morning. I am in awe.

Close up view

The lavender Iris group's display, so far

Did you notice there are a couple of buds on another plant behind the newest arrival? I wonder what it will look like?

Which one will I paint?

Stay tuned for the unraveling mystery....

Getting Ready To Open

2011-05-24T20:00:00.000-07:00

I can hardly wait......

The beautiful Iris in my front yard have started to open and what a gorgeous sight! Hopefully the coming rains will not wipe them out.

Ebony could not understand why she was not getting attention.

Definitely a future watercolor painting subject!