Trees Take Two

The other day I completed, or thought I had, a sketch of the maple trees along the Chehalis Western Trail. I was not totally satisfied, but posted it on Sunday Sketches which is a group of artists who post art each Sunday as a weekly discipline.

It looks like this.......

And I complained that the computer over did the blues.

Well that was truly not the issue!

VALUES!!!

No values! A classic mistake which can make the difference between a good painting and a mediocre one.

I believe I fixed the sketch and the computer was cooperative.

What do you think?

BTW, for those of you who are not artists, value is an element of art that refers to the lightness or darkness of a color.

The Power of Artists' Organizations

Margaret Mead said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world, indeed it's the only thing that ever has."

I feel that way about Artists' organization whose value has increased since our society has become increasingly depersonalized. The artists' organization offers the artist a place to share values, convictions, ambitions and solutions to common problems. It empowers the artist-activist who wants to make positive changes. It offers camaraderie and a support system for creative, spiritual and political development. It is the quickest way for an artist to feel less like an outsider. It is one of the best routes for a beginning artist to develop an exhibition history.

Being involved with the Fine Arts and Crafts Sale, which is going on this weekend at the Coach House in Olympia, Washington, is great opportunity for camaraderie and support from fellow artists. Besides, it is a lot of FUN!