“I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it.” Pablo Picasso When I read this quote, it resonated with me regarding my journey in botanical art. Each new project feels like it borders on the impossible because it is yet untried. There is risk involved. […]
Douglas Fir Cone on Vellum
February 4, 2014 by · 12 Comments
It’s nice to paint something that will sit still for a change. I didn’t know how much flowers and leaves move around until I started on my first botanical drawings. I would draw as accurately as I could for awhile, then take a short break and lo and behold, when I came back my drawing […]
Douglas Fir Cone
January 16, 2014 by · 3 Comments
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 […]
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).