Douglas Fir trees have formed the backdrop of much of my life. Just look at snapshots of the houses I’ve lived in, schools I’ve attended and places I’ve gone hiking and camping, and there you will likely see a Douglas Fir somewhere in the distance. I’ve mostly taken them for granted until recently when I […]
Garry Oak or Oregon White Oak
January 10, 2014 by · 8 Comments
Massive branches zigzagging upward, leathery dark green leaves, and craggy gray bark characterize the impressive Garry Oak tree, which is native to the Pacific Northwest where I live. It’s acorns remind me of tiny heads with knit caps pulled down snugly over the ears. A friend pointed out that they are the perfect size for […]
Art Goals for 2014
January 1, 2014 by · 9 Comments
I’ve been a big goal-setter in my life, though admittedly not always successful in achieving them. Somehow having goals adds zest to life, and surely there is value in the attempt. I have learned that the key to success is to set realistic goals and to make a do-able plan for achieving them. So I’ve […]
Garry Oak & Vellum
November 22, 2013 by · 14 Comments
I became enamored with the idea of painting on vellum while researching the history of botanical art for an essay I was assigned to write when I was about halfway through the SBA course, in 2011. I had noticed that many of the most stunning contemporary works were on vellum, but wasn’t aware of the […]
Garry Oak Update
November 18, 2013 by · 3 Comments
I wrote in August about my delight in finally finding tiny baby acorns nestled in the low branches of a native oak tree that grows near my house. Since then I have often stopped to examine the little nuts with their neat caps as they slowly grew more plump on the branch. Finally in late […]
This blog is about my journey as a botanical artist--what I am learning, what inspires me and what I am currently drawing or painting. My desire is to continually hone my skills to better express my wonder and gratitude for the beauty of the creation around me in the Pacific Northwest (USA).