Bark with Sky – the Art

I am a lover of texture and pattern. I used a limited palette with this painting, rather than employing a full spectrum of color as has recently been my practice. My aim was to guide the viewers’ attention to the organic representation of “bark” and the shapes’ diagonal exodus upward.

Bark with Sky – the Creation

I cannot explain this phenomenon. I only know that it was inspirational for me to see a pine tree endure that much trauma and continue to live. I have seen techniques of manipulation performed on bonsai, but never such effects on a life-sized tree. I would welcome any explanation . . .

Bark with Sky – the Connection

God is the champion of lost causes. Regardless of how twisted our lives have become because of our bad choices or unfortunate circumstances, it is never too late to right ourselves if we seek Him. Our gnarled past will always be with us, but as we develop new growth, we can stand straight again on our journey heavenward.

Tree with Branches 2 – the Art

For some artists, soldiering through the winter is a dreary prospect. Our little rock has tilted away from the sun, producing less light and less color. I believe that my artwork is more colorful during the winter months, perhaps overcompensating for the more monochromatic palette laid out for us in nature.

Tree with Branches 2 – the Creation

Trees have but one aim – to reach for the sun in the heavens. Growth, or “branching out”, is the most efficient approach for them to meet this goal. Is there a better way to gain nourishment? Enlightenment?

Tree with Branches 2 – the Connection

“Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead.”
— Louisa May Alcott

Spring has finally arrived. I am blessed to have beautiful views from my studio, where I can see leaves emerge - fragile and tentative. Perhaps these new buds are God’s way of drawing our attention heavenward once again . . .

Blanchard Springs – the Art

Blessed again to escape the studio a couple of weeks ago, I accompanied my husband to Blanchard Spring(s) in northern Arkansas. The drizzly, overcast day aided my husband’s photographic endeavors, but the weather was disappointing to me. It has been a long winter, and I crave spring, as is evident from the dreary colors in my watercolor sketch.

I was painting far away from the “main attraction”, but I set up along the path. An artist who creates out in the world – especially around a popular destination – expects that curious people will appear. My experience this day was unique: a woman offered to help me set up my easel; each of the dozen or so curious passersby asked permission to approach. No one failed to offer me encouragement, and my spirit was warmed – instant spring.