I have wanted to paint Orchids for years. They just defy description don’t they. From the plain and simple, to the outrageously exotic. There are over 25,000 species, and over 100,000 hybrids. What??? No wonder they seem so intimidating to me.
Now that I have made my first attempt, I can wipe my brow and… try again.
I am happy with how my little orchid turned out. I had planned on going loose and washy with it. And I should have added some warmth in the background. This palette is entirely too cool. But what better to brighten a dreary day than a brilliant, blushing bloom.
Stay warm out there! Take a moment to visit Leslie’s blog, you are bound to find a few sizzling summer scenes to slip into.
In 9 days I will begin a month long challenge to create a painting a day. I will be away from my studio for half of that time, and I have a feeling it may get a little tricky. I have not chosen a theme, but I might try to use the same palette throughout. I will be working small 3 in. x 3 in., 4 x 6 or 5 x 5.
Leslie Saeta is the events organizer and mastermind. She is an award winning artist who paints fresh and colorful paintings using only a palette knife. She paints in her studio full time and has over 30 years of marketing experience. In addition to painting, she is devoted to helping other artists sell their art, especially on-line. She hosts a weekly talk radio show titled “Artists Helping Artists” which is a great resource tool for all artists. The show is currently listened to by over 5000 artists per week.
Join us! Currently there are 167 artists taking part, but the list is growing. There are no rules. You choose the medium, the size, the subject.
I have also joined a mixed media group on Creative Souls. I am planning to work in watercolor for the 30, but I am sure there will be some overlap. Here is a peek at a portrait. I am going to do a few in advance, in case I have a hard time working away from my studio. Hope you have an awesome week!
To fit in better with the struggling, striving, sprouting souls on earth, they leave their wings behind. And are known to us as friends.
I know this is true. I have proof. I have witnesses. I will share a short story, and you too can bear witness to the miracle of friendship.
This past weekend I was elbow deep in research. My phone was not ringing, my inbox was empty. My focus was on reading, note taking, blog building.
How to Blog. Build a better Blog. Blogging 101. What beginners need to know about blogging.
By Sunday I was overwhelmed, and sure that I was the biggest under achiever in Blogland. I decided to take a break, but before I turned the computer off, I checked my mail. There it was. A gift. A blessing. A letter from a friend.
Most of the letter was an update on what is new in her art world. Exciting, interesting, GREAT news. I couldn’t wait to reply! And then in the last few lines… she just lifted me up the way Bette sang about to Barbara in Beaches.
She said my friendship was a blessing to her. She complimented my work. And get this, she asked me to teach her about Blogging. What??
ME, teach about blogging?
Her words brought me to tears. A pat on the back that turned into a full-fledged HUG.
She asked if she could buy one of my bookmarks (they are free by the way, and you can see them here.) I replied, telling her that one was on the way via USPS. I couldn’t help but include a quick little ATC (Artist Trading Card) for her. This is just a partial peek, because she might read this. I am hoping it will brighten her day, and serve as a reminder of what a blessing her presence here on earth is.
