Cathedral

"Cathedral", Acrylic on Board, 40x30"

I know this blog is supposed to be about my daily paintings, but I had to share this larger piece that I just completed.  I've been completely obsessed with painting trees the last few months (actually, more like always).  Here's the latest contribution to my 'painted forest' series.  I just love capturing how light falls through foliage - so beautiful.  Looking at this small, I may go in and darken up the trunk a bit.  I was trying to get the feel of light through stained glass - which really calls for high contrast.

No Parking

"No Parking", Acrylic on Panel, 5x7"

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Another quirky snapshot from my neighborhood -  I thought the juxtaposition of the bike and sign was amusing.

Next, I think I may try some still life - smaller scale objects for the smaller size paintings.   Happy Thursday.

Nap

"Nap", acrylic on board, 7x5"

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Everywhere I walk in my neighborhood, I see cats.  They are sunning on the benches, visiting on the steps and teasing my dog by walking along the top of the backyard fence.

I'm still struggling a bit with the small size, but I'm happy w/the composition.  I love the way the foliage crawls under the bench and the pop of the red flower in the bottom right corner.

Curl

"Curl", Acrylic on Panel, 5x7"

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Here's the first daily painting.  I have to admit that I started a bit early and did a few to make sure that I'd have something to show on my first day as a 'daily painter'.  This was the first painting and I'm pretty happy with it.  I've taken so many reference photos for the larger tree paintings, that it's nice to be able to use some of the close-up, more intimate images.

I'm not sure I like the smaller format...it's hard to get the detail that I'm accustomed to in my larger paintings.  Maybe time to get some smaller brushes?

February Resolutions

New year's resolutions typically start in January, but this year February is beginning of my newest initiative.  Starting on February 1st, I'll be joining the ranks of artists who are doing a painting a day.  I've modified it slightly, committing to doing 5 per week, since I can't count on being able to get out to my studio on the weekends, when the kids are home from school.

Here are the basics:

• The paintings will be small, e.g. 5x7, 6x6, etc.
• I will do any subject that strikes my fancy - no specific themes.
• I will post everything I paint (though the editor in me shudders at the prospect...)
• The works will be available for sale via dailypaintworks.com

I'll try to write a bit with each painting, so that I can share the creative process.  I'm excited about being able to try some new techniques and subjects.

Wish me luck and enjoy the art!