From start to finish

Many have asked me how I begin a painting. What do I look at or what inspires a piece? I thought I would share with you a small painting from start to finish. I've been wanting to experiment with southwest succulents on a small canvas and then eventually a larger one. The first thing I did was to go to a greenhouse that specialized in unusual plants, found the ones I liked and bought them. I then grouped and photographed them. I narrowed my selection down to about 10 photos. The photo above is the one that I've chosen and will use to create my 12 x 12 painting. This painting is not one that will have a story or more than one element reacting to one another but will simply focus on the shape, color and texture of these plants which I find interesting. Here we go!

Fan Dance

"Fan Dance" is all about the color and texture of this unique creature. As you can see there is no story going on here. I just think these Lizards are fascinating and wanted to come up with a playful way of addressing their color and texture. The reason I chose the title "Fan Dance" was not only because he is on a Fan Palm branch but because of the way a Chameleon slowly sways as it walks while being provocative to another chameleon I'm sure. This reminds me of the Burlesque Fan Dancers and thus the connection was made.

Next Workshop

Thank you to all who attended my last workshop at the Visual Arts Association of Livonia (VAAL). This was a Colored Pencil nature still life two day workshop where we put our focus on the textures of natural objects. I hope you all had as much fun as I did. I can talk nature and art all day.

My next workshop is scheduled for September 14th and 15th which is a Tuesday and Wednesday from 5pm to 9pm with VAAL at their new location at 37653 5 mile road in Livonia, Michigan. This workshop will focus on the techniques of drawing Roses with Colored Pencil. For more information please visit the VAAL website for complete class and workshop descriptions as well as registration.

My new workshops for Canton, Michigan begin in October.