Publisher's Notes

I really like creating Still-life designs.  They are interesting to look at and can be put together easily by grouping things that I already have in the house.   Sometimes I get something in my mind that I want to include in a design and I go out searching the stores (or the yard, woods, beach, etc) to find it so I can see it first-hand when drawing and painting it. 

The design below is called "Family Chalkboard."   I created this as an insert for a chalkboard (the chalkboard is the frame around the design).  It is a combination of things that I had on hand; a basket, candle and wreath.  However, I wanted limes in the painting, so I went and bought some limes to study while I painted.  I visualized them in the basket and drew them in.  I changed the flowers that were really in the wreath with sliced limes, not physically but visually when drawing them.   Sometimes you just have to get a little creative.

     

I hung this up and a fresh new look was added to my tired four walls.  The bright green gives the hope of spring coming soon and I can write messages and thoughts on the chalkboard as I walk by.  

OH, and for those of you that have had MORE than your share of snow this year.......don't go out and get cold building a snowman........stay in, have some hot tea and paint one!  

Have a creative week......... Tracy