Geraniums on the Table

At every turn, this Greenwood Vintage Market offered up another wonderful scene!  After taking a quick pass through the main areas, I jumped right in, hoping I could paint three before lunch!  I love the way the geranium branches fell over the edge of the pot, heavy with blooms.  The color was so rich against the antique cupboard and chair.  Again using this new lighter weight cotton rag paper, I start with inking the lines in my sketchy way.  I float the watercolor in with less water than the first one, to keep it where I want it.  I finish with a few more ink lines with India ink, as my orginal lines were quick and light.  Perhaps they rubbed off a little with the watercolor work?  Too soon to tell if it is a trait of the paper.  Next, I'll have to try a larger size, and see how it behaves!  It's like I'm interviewing this paper, and I keep calling him back.  Not sure if he's got the job, yet!  Painting number 2374 in 2374 days.

Miniature Cyclamen ATC

After a morning spent painting at Suburban Lawn and Garden, it was time for a little shopping!  I couldn't resist this bright pink miniature cyclamen in the shiny glazed blue pot!  Since I didn't have time to paint it at the nursery, I am painting it today, as I take care of necessary computer chores.  Each time I have to wait on something to load, I pick up my ink or brush and work on this little beauty, turning frustration into joy!  What fun to paint this cheerful little flower!  Painting number 1835 in 1835 days.  Now, back to my chores!

Donna's Geraniums

Donna's Geraniums
Oil on wood panel, 10x8
Tri County Art League paint-out at Donna's
purchase here

Today, we had a special treat for the Tri County Art League! Instead of our regular scheduled meeting at the bank, Donna and Yvonne graciously offered their homes for a little plein air and lunch.  With so many beautiful views to choose from, including lakes behind both homes, these geraniums ultimately called my name the loudest! Painting number 871 in 871 days.

Trailing Petunias

Missouri Valley Impressionist Society hosted a paint-out today at the beautiful Powell Gardens.  It has been 5 years since I have been there - and how it has changed!  I remember when all the trees were small near the visitor center, and I could see most of the cement walkway as it circled the large pond.  Now, all the trees are mature, and they create many "rooms" of various garden beauty.  The lily pond was fabulous - and I already have paintings finished - in my mind!  Another late posting - as I stayed out working in the flowers until dark.  Painting number 177 in 177 days.

Trailing Petunias
Oil on panel, 14x11
MVIS Powell Gardens Paint-Out

Coffeepot Peonies

Coffeepot Peonies
Oil on panel, 9x12

Today was such a beautiful day to be outside!  I opened all the windows - letting the warm spring air flow through.  After the big snow just days ago, this is certainly a welcome change!  It is spring break, and the house was full of kids, their friends, and grandchildren - so no plein air painting for me today.  I wouldn't dare leave them to run amuck while working out in the pasture.  So, here I brought in this antique enamelware pot and set up a still life.  Good thing, too, as I started and stopped this painting about a million times today!  I have yet to take friends home, and drop off children - so I must hurry with this post.  This is painting number 84 in 84 days, and I think the next few will need to be quite small to get them done in the busy week ahead :)