Letting Go

Over the years as my painting skills develop, I sometimes find it hard to let go of certain paintings.
Each painting reminds me of a time and place in my life, so letting go can sometimes be difficult.

What I like to do is move them onto the next stage.

With a ruler and sharp blade, I cut them off the stretcher bars and use them as table covers (placemats). That way they are still functional and take up less room in the studio.

They can be changed seasonally.

And yes, I actually do have a candy dish on my coffee table. It reminds me of my dear old aunt, who always has a full candy dish on her coffee table.

Till Next Time ...

From the Prairies, to the West Coast and Beyond...

Susan

Finding Inspiration in my Gardens

As far back as I remember, I have absolutely LOVED gardening. My house has always been full of plants, starting seeds early in the spring.

I thank my mother for my passion for gardening. Growing up on the farm, my mom always encouraged me to have a little flower bed of my own. There I could plant anything that I wanted. My usual choice were marigolds, possibly because they bloomed for a long time, but also because I have always been attracted to warmer colours. (as you might know if you follow my artwork)

Several years ago I made the move to Canada's West Coast. A good part of the reason to move from Sask. was in search of better weather. In terms of growing zones I was leaving a 2 and heading for a 7 zone. Now I can putter around the yard for 10 months of the year. Spring comes early on the west coast.

I often check my yard a couple times a day, just to see what I can see. It's also a good break from a day of computer work. I get up, stretch, walk outside and breath. Often a quick walk in the yard ends up being an hour or more. A little weeding, some transplanting, plans for future beds ....

If I have a difficult decision or puzzle that I can't quite figure out ... I go outside, start working in the yard, and like magic the solution pops into my head.

Gardening provides endless inspiration for my artwork.

Not to mention that I absolutely love it when my dinner plans includes something fresh from the garden. Plant something today.

Till Next Time ...

From the Prairies, to the West Coast and Beyond...

Susan

Spending Time Outside

From the frogs and iguanas painted on the garden shed, the metal sculpted bird feeder, to the turquoise window frame hanging on the fence ... my back yard is a work of ART.

Mornings are blissful as I stretch out the yoga mat on the patio and breath. The warm sun caresses my face and birds discuss their daily plan as I stretch up to begin my sun-salutations. I love my new patio as it provides a place to relax and think about nothingness.

I have a hard time throwing out old rubber boots, as they too can re re-purposed and turned into another growing place.

Petunias are always one of my favourite flowers, as they seem to bloom forever.

When the rainy and gloomy days of November settle in, I will be able to go through my photographs  and have endless material for future paintings. Happy summer ....

Till Next Time ...

From the Prairies, to the West Coast and Beyond...

Susan