Sunday, May 17, 2009

Florals sold at Open Studios

"California Poppies"
5" x 7"

"Judith's Flowers"
5" x 7"

These two pieces sold at my recent Open Studios. Both were matted and nicely framed in classic dark wood frames. They were purchased by two cycling instructors who frequently teach with me. When we cycle, we get to admire the beautiful wild flowers and people's gardens as we pass at bike speed. "California Poppies" was done from photos I took while cycling just south of my home in Coyote Valley. Every spring there is a beautiful display for my personal pleasure. The second was inspired by flowers grown by a friend in her garden in the nearby Santa Cruz mountains.

Yesterday we were on the coast shepherding our cycling academy through a 63-mile graduation ride. We do this ride on the coast to avoid heat, but unfortunately, that plan didn't work this time. Part of the ride is one ridge from the coast, a ridge we have to climb, and the heat in the interior valley was brutal. Once we crossed the ridge, the temps dropped a bit. With stops at Gizdich Ranch for their famous pie and other rest stops for food along the way, we were on the road 8 hours. Today I have some barbecue fund-raising duties at church, so I have another busy day.




4 comments:

Unknown said...

I always love our Cali Poppies. Their bright orange is always a challenge for me to capture. You did a wonderful job here.

Mary Paquet said...

Thanks, Sheila. The poppies are so wonderful and I have painted them quite a few times, but this piece was my first.

theresamillerwatercolors said...

Mary, I truly enjoyed looking at the photos of your Open Studios event. Congratulations on the great success! Your work is outstanding! I agree with Sheila, your poppies are fantastic!

Mary Paquet said...

Theresa, your warm cheer and congratulations mean a lot to me. I so admire your work!