Anniversary Flowers

My husband brought me some flowers for our anniversary last weekend. It's kind of a tradition that when he buys me flowers I paint them. That way I have a memory of them that lasts long after the flowers are gone. I waited a little too long to start on these, and the petals on the sunflowers had begun to curl. It doesn't really matter because I enjoyed the process and in the end that's what it's all about. If I ever stop feeling inspired to paint, I'll sell all my paints and brushes.

16 x 20

Anniversary Flowers

When you want to paint something but you only have an hour

I get antsy if I go a day or so without painting and that's why I stock a lot of small canvases. I just have a strong compulsion to always be working on SOMETHING! I might only have an hour or so to work so if there is nothing in progress I will grab some props and set up a still life. Flowers are always the best subjects and pots come in a close second. Add some fruit or even a vegetable and you are in business! It can be a challenge to use all three in a painting, especially a small painting like this one, but I tried anyway and I love the result. Working small forces you to pay attention to the big shapes and the design.

6" x 8"

Sunflowers with Tangerine