Grey is one of my favorite colors…I know that sounds odd but after all I am a native of the Pacific Northwest where most of the year its…well…pretty grey. I enjoy the occasional sunny day but sunny weather for too long of a stretch becomes oppressive for me. I begin to yearn for the comfort […]
Intertwining Artistic Pursuits
February 24, 2014 by · 6 Comments
After a recent life drawing session, I was chatting with a friend about how certain principles in art are useful in so many different applications. For instance, using the full spectrum of tones is important to describe form, and without both the lightest light tones, and the darkest darks, an artwork can seem bland. In […]
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 […]
Pan vs Tube Watercolors
August 7, 2013 by · 35 Comments
I recently read Sandrine Maugy’s wonderful book, Colours of Nature, which is a great reference for developing a good water color palette for botanical paintings. I found that many of her recommendations line up with conclusions I have formed through trial and error regarding selecting a palette. So her information has been very helpful to […]
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).