Nature's Patterns

Nature's Patterns, 24 x 24, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2019

SOLD

This is another piece in the group show, Circadian Buzz. I know the word circadian typically refers to 24 hour cycles, but all of nature's cycles have an affect on us. With this painting, I chose to celebrate the longer, seasonal cycle of spring awakening. When our loquat trees burst forth with fruit each April, it's always new. I am transfixed by their color and fragrance, and must paint them. Something about the giant leaves and clustered golden orbs is endlessly compelling. I particularly loved the challenge of this unusual angle... separating the light on the tree limb from the dappled light on the ground was tricky! 

This piece is on display through August 31...

Circadian Buzz, Davis Gallery Group Show, Austin, TX

The small pieces below allowed me to study different angles before painting the big one. They are also in the show... of course, I wanted to paint all of them larger, but I had to choose! 

Dangled, 8x8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2019

SOLD

Dappled, 8 x 8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2019

SOLD

Bunched, 8 x 8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2019

SOLD

Fruit Bearing - Show Tip #22

Fruit Bearing Loquats, 18 x 18, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2016

Sold in Solo Show, "Chasing Color, Finding Light", Davis Gallery

These pretty little fruits are Loquats. We have several Loquat trees in our backyard and they produce lots of fruit every spring. I am always attracted to their shapes and often paint them. And yes, you CAN eat them (squirrels love them too). They have several pits and taste a bit like apricots. Yum! 

Show Tip #22 - Deep Six Your Doubts

Somewhere along the line, and often as the big reveal of all my work draws near, a case of the "doubts" sets in. I begin to wonder... What I was thinking? Is any of the work good enough? Why did I think I could paint at all? I've come to expect this stage, but it's never fun. Combatting it requires digging deep for hidden courage reserves and keeping a level head (having a trusted friend or spouse who can talk you in off the ledge is very helpful too). It's all related to the fact that these paintings are very personal expressions, and let's face it, the possibility of rejection is scary. I share this tip not because I have a foolproof solution, but because the feeling is pretty universal. Somehow it helps to know that we ALL feel it at some point. 

Here are links to other Show Tips:

Tip #1 - Stock up on Supplies
Tip #2 - Set up Deadlines
Tip #3 - Determine Subject Matter

Tip #4 - Work in Series

Tip #5 - Establish a Schedule

Tip #6 - Be Kind to YOU

Tip #7 - Follow your Heart

Tip #8 - Stay Flexible

Tip #9 - Whistle While You Work

Tip #10 - Fight Through Fears

Tip #11 - Take Notes

Tip #12 - Know when to Quit

Tip #13 - Stay Updated

Tip #14 - Balance Effort and Ease

Tip #15 - Assign Tasks

Tip #16 - Step Back

Tip #17 - Sign As You Go

Tip #18 - Take Your Best Shot

Tip #19 - Celebrate Growth

Tip #20 - Varnishing Day(s)

Tip #21 - Frame Incrementally

Painters - join me at this Plein Air Workshop:

April 28-30, Anderson Fine Art Gallery, St. Simons Island, GA

Contact Info: Mary Anderson, 912-634-8414