Cherry painting on paper

Worked on another small cherry painting – this time on paper. I did not get over to the farmer’s market this morning. Instead, we went to Alden Lane Nursery in search for strawberry plans. My daughter made a pallet planter and was hoping to grow strawberries in it. Apparently, strawberry plants are hard to come by. She instead got bush variety green and purple beans, thyme and edamame. I am happy with this substitution.

If you are interested in purchacing this painting, It will be available in my Etsy shop

A little artwork in process

I had fun working on this painting. A classic rotary dial phone! Who grew up with one of these? I love the feel of these phones – the weight of the handset, the twirling of the cord, the sound and feel of the dialing.

I definitely was happy when we got a push button phone – it seemed so advanced! It was much easier to make a call that would not ruin newly manicured nails!

new coasters

New coasters are now available. These are made from my artwork. I will have them at tomorrow’s open studio. They make great gifts! A unique holding spot for your favorite beverage!

Bothwell open studio

I will be at my studio at the Bothwell this Saturday, Feb 29 – 11am – 3pm

Several artists will be opening up their work spaces. Please feel free to drop by! There will be art demonstrations, family art projects, snacks and of course – ART!

I really want to clear up some space, so you will find special pricing on many of my items.

Bothwell – 2466 8th St, Livermore, CA 94550

artwork in progress

For me, this is how it typically starts when doing a still life. I like to make sure that the background color feels right. This is a classic case of using the complimentary color (red and green). It is also the time when I step back and make sure that I like the positioning/composition of the objects. I will add more details as I go!

A creative journey

cre·a·tiv·i·ty

noun
the use of the imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work. 
I am planning on posting some inspiration and ideas to help me (and possibly others) on my creative journey.  I envision this as a quick list of ideas that I have tried or plan to do that is supporting any part of getting into a creative space. There are many ideas swimming in my head; some get jotted down in a notebook, some I apply and get to do and some get lost in the wind. Perhaps this space will help me stay focused, celebrate the successes and acknowledge the realities. I also hope that this helps remind that I am doing many things – both conscious and intentional and those less clear cut.
I am hoping to be kind to myself – I know that perfectionism, distractions, second guessing and life events will seep in. I am almost hesitant to do this declaring my creative journey in the first place – I just got a promotion at work and will be starting a new mental health program at my agency. I fear that this stress will pull me away from my artwork. It is not the “perfect” time to add this to my plate, yet at the same time, is the right time. I know me well enough to know that having a creative space is so critical for my well being. 

 

  • Have a small stash of art supplies ready to go. Get a bin and load it up with supplies that you can easily access. I have gouache, palette, brushes, pens, pencils, charcoal, watercolors and paper in there. I hope to be better at putting things away!
  • wake up early. This is easy for me – I am a morning person, like crazy early – a 3 or 4 am wake up is not that uncommon for me. I like working on some art while it is quiet. For me, this is when I am the most productive.

What are your art supply must haves? When do you prefer to work?

Happy creating!