Follow My Lead

I once read that an artist recommended  keeping all old or discarded work.  After simmering for months or even years, the answers to problems would show themselves.  This piece represents the change of heart it took to become interested again.   It is an 11"x 14" watercolor.

The Enso

Enso is a Japanese word for “circle.” The act of creating an Enso is contemplative as one clears the mind and allows a single, fluid brush movement to flow around the paper. The Enso also symbolizes Absolute Oneness, strength, elegance, The Universe and The Void. (Wikipedia)

As I strive for balance between improving my skills and actually enjoying the artistic process, it became clear that “where I am” doesn’t matter. What matters is the joy of creating and discovering ways that this energy comes through the art.

Geraniums

There just seem to be flowers calling for portraits. This is an 8"x10" watercolor.

Naughty Marietta

Last week I met with Dolly Duquette, artist/friend/teacher/mentor/inspirational being. She reviewed a stack of paintings and I mentioned how these little flowers were joyful and inspirational. Years ago, she had given me the "antique marigold" seeds, but this visit told me they were called "Naughty Marietta."  A friend of hers had completed an operatic run of "The Naughty Marietta" and had to purchase the namesake marigolds. She shared seeds with Dolly for her garden who shared them with me. It made me smile how the energy of opera, flowers, gardens, friends and art were entwined.

Fall Marigolds II

The subtle color shifts and patterns are delightful in the garden Marigolds.  It's as if they remind me to have fun, enjoy the endless patterns of change, and soak in the blue sky and orange palette of fall.  Now I need to learn to paint bees.  This is an 11"x14" watercolor. SOLD

Fall Marigolds

Sometimes I just want to let go and paint a painting. This is an 8"x10" watercolor of Marigolds.

San Juan Mountains

The San Juan Mountain Range in the San Luis Valley continues to inspire. This is an 8"x10" watercolor.

...not the San Juan Mountain Range, but it is an 8"x10" watercolor.

One of Marc Johnston's photos outside of Westcliffe.