"Manual Labor"13" x 15"
Pastel
"Springtime in Santa Teresa Park"10" x 7"
Watercolor
Some art activities that I do are similar to my visits to the gym. I am building my art muscles. At drawing class this morning, we started this pastel, which I will continue working on next week. From my drawing class, I not only learn to draw accurately, but also learn a lot about value and color relationships. I have to flex my art muscles to make myself a stronger artist. Everything I learn transfers well to my watermedia works. Bob Semans brought in some broken concrete and old brick he had removed from a patio at his home, along with the tool he used. This piece was challenging and satisfying.
Yesterday was a glorious sunny day, so I rode my bike to the top of Santa Teresa Park, located at the edge of my neighborhood. The park is so lovely with mountain peaks, and in about 18 minutes on my bike, I can be on a mountain in a world where nature prevails and there are no visible signs of the million people living in San Jose. I've been wanting to paint the hills during different seasons, so this was a modest start. I used my tiny Koi watercolor set and brush pen with the handle filled with water. I sat on a rock next to my bicycle and painted. I also took some reference photos of multiple scenes visible from the rock. I'm sure I was a rather amusing sight to the hikers and bike riders out getting their exercise. I found this a great way to flex both my art and body muscles.
9 comments:
Hi Mary. I really like "Manual Labor," good perspective. Of course, I love tools, and am quite good at using the "pick axe." (That's probably a southern term.)
I'm glad you enjoyed the reception.
Hallie, I grew up in New England and we also called it "pick axe." In fact, I was trying to think of a clever title, but was drawing a blank.
Both lovely! I agree with Hallie - "Manual Labor" has a good perspective and interesting composition. I really like how you captured the colors and textures. I'm very inspired by how you flex your art muscles and your body muscles!! Your artistic success is clearly due to your dedication and hard work.
Pam, thanks so much. The perspective thing is always so interesting and challenging.
Hi Mary,
Your pastel piece is very nicely done! And, bravo to you for getting out there and working on location! It's a lovely painting.
Hi, Peggy. Thanks for encouraging me onward!
Mary - I think "Manual Labor" is so well done. It is a very appealing work. The colors are beautiful. Your bicycle trip and resulting artistic creation are very appealing also - I envy you the opportunity to be outside and paint en plein air - it is still pretty cold here.
love the pastel alot!!
Barb, thanks for checking in. I am enjoying the days when the weather cooperates. We had another fine day today with a little bike adventure that included my painting and Bob doing photography.
Nina, thanks so much. I just checked out your latest work and want to know more about your book.
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