Christmas Tree in Copper

 I had visions of completing several metal work Christmas pieces this season, but here we are, just days left, and this is my first.  The time gets away from me when so many paintings are going out the door - and commissions, too. So, I'll try to get a few finished for those special few, and perhaps I'll work on these in the winter months.  Painting number 3996 in 3996 days. 

Hay Bales

I'm having a little fun with fountain pen ink today in the pasture - do you see who's on watch just behind the tall grass?  I wish he'd been standing there while I was painting - he would be the perfect addition to the scene!  I'm using Diamine fountain pen inks from last year's Inkvent Calendar, Candlelight, Winter Spice and Yuletide, with the tiniest bit of Wonderland added. This is a miniature paper - 4x3 roughly, 140lb cold pressed, and is well suited for this ink work.  The girls were out today and the little ones made ornaments, Mom stopped by and Michael had a friend over to work on a project, all as Mike was working on our septic tank, which decided to cave in!  So, this little sliver of time is my sanity break with the great outdoors!  I do miss all that fresh air when duties keep me inside.  Painting number 4405 in 4405 days. 

Autumn Bales

 I LOVE exploring Diamine fountain pen inks in the pasture, and discovering just what they can do!  I am using 3 from the Inkvent 2021 calendar, Candlelight, Winter Spice, Stargazer Blue and a tiny bit of Wonderland.  These inks are so chromatic that most of the color variations happen as they bleed into the water already brushed on.  Blotting helps control the masses, and I did use a rigger for some application.  In the beginning, I used droppers only - leaving much to chance!  Every painting is a lesson - and this one certainly taught me a few things!  Looking forward to many more!  Painting number 4398 in 4398 days.