Pink for Spring!

"Pink Bunnies at Spring" 12x16 oil on canvas

I laugh each time I see this painting :) I don't think I've ever painted anything this pink but actually I HAVE! Click here for evidence. But what's really sweet is what inspired this painting to begin with....

For Valentines the husband surprised me with a delivered beautiful spring bouquet! He's frequently brought me home handsome flowers because he probably gets a kick out of losing me for a few hours or days when a flurry of photography sessions follow while the bouquet travels from various parts of the house catching natural lighting then studio lights. I bought the bunnies from the gallery, they were made a fellow artist Shirley Peshek who is also one of my most favorite people :)

This bouquet however was painted from life. They were obviously quality picks because they lasted longer than any bouquet I've had the honor of receiving. My admiration and respect is quite intact for artists who paint beautiful flowers. It is so challenging and humbling for me to paint them because I get lost among the multitude of petals thanks to my double vision. But thank goodness I wasn't painting hydrangeas which happen to be one of my more favorite flowers!

San Francisco Pacific Palisades DSDF 21-22 and an Award

"Pink Yellow Blue and Black" about 5x7 watercolor on paper

Another impressive challenge from Karin Jurick at Different Strokes by Different Folks. This was a daunting challenge for me. Straight lines and I usually don't get along well lol However when I was 10 minutes into the drawing, I realize that it was going to be a really good project to undertake because it's an opportunity for an excellent refresher study on basic shapes! Good grief, I was feeling sorry for the builders as their challenge was far bigger than mine! I was able to start over halfway through my drawing because that's when I realized the tops of the cone roofs (I bet there's an official name for those lol), were not going to fit and that's just not acceptable! Part of the reason why I took so long to make up my mind about painting this was that I was drooling over painting the molds and cool shapes in oils! But I don't think I would have enjoyed it as much if I were to paint it smaller than 11x14. I might still do it at some point, don't be surprised! Also, I try not to see what other people do with their DSDF challenge when I can help it so I can focus on my approach. As usual this challenged attracted a wonderful variety!

An admired fellow artist Akiko Watanabe has kindly given my an Art Blog Award! The recipient of this award is supposed to list 7 things that she/he loves. Here are my 7 things:

1. I love my sweet hubby :) Such a sweet spirit on that man!
2. I love art of many shapes: visual art, music, acting, photography, and the art of cooking.
3. I love people with passion. They are titillating to me and I applaud the ones who pursue it to its highest potentials!
4. Do I have to say I love food?
5. I love Japanese cuisine and the culture. Honto!
6. I love dogs! I really appreciate how happy they are to see you and their loyal friendship.
7. I love spring and fall seasons! It's the only time I don't complain about the weather lol Right now it's so cold I can hardly think!

Now I am giving an Art Blog Award to all the blogs I list on my right column that I list because I love them! Thanks Akiko!!! xxx