Love In Venice V

5 x 8" watercolor

I've now done 5 of these little studies, and I quite like them.... whether they'll ever survive to "real painting" status is another question.

Eric Van S - Steve's Friend

10 x 8 or so, watercolor

Painted this for blogpost today from a pic off my brother-in-law's computer. He was showing us pictures from his Hawaii trip, and this guy caught my eye, with his lei and his jaunty hat.

Rooster No. 2

Another Rooster 11 x 14" Watercolor

This one is allegedly a Silver Gray Dorking.... and that about ends my interest in painting chickens. Ever find that some subjects are like that? You see it and just burn to paint it, but then the fire goes out. Like something you have to get out of your system in order to move on to what really ices your cake. For instance, I used to really really want to paint a complex flowers-silver-crystal sort of still life, all those tiny pieces and reflections -- part way through, I wanted to shoot myself; it required restraint, patience, planning and endurance, but I am not known for these character traits. Besides, there are plenty of people out there who do this sort of painting very well already; there's nothing much for me to add.

Not that one should always choose the easy route; quite the contrary. My son made the comment that you have to like something really well to be able to really work at it. Good advice. Chickens ain't it.

Rooster No. 1

Some kinda rooster 11 x 14" WC

I have been painting, I just couldn't find my camera. Started this as a demonstration for the 8th Street Art Show and decided to use it today for warm up. According to the National Geographic Magazine (which always seems to have these tempting, perfectly composed and highly appealing images) this is a Speckled Sussex. At least I'm getting the brush wet, and not caring how something turns out is supposed to be good for you.

She Wants to Play

30" x 22" Watercolor

I received word last night that the above painting was accepted into the 91st NWS Juried Exhibition!!! Yipeee!!!! But wait -- the notifying email referred to mailing me an acceptance packet ASAP because I was "international" and it would take a while...... I know Fargo is remote, but.....maybe I got the acceptance email by mistake? Guess I'd better check...

On the assumption that the above painting was indeed accepted, it seemed like this would be a great way to resume regular painting and posting to this blog.