this stuff requires practice

On the last day of virtual art retreat, feeling a little frisky, I decided to dive deep into the philosophy of "doing something hard you think you can't do".  An excellent mantra for the timid artist, especially during an art retreat. 

So, with the proper frame of mind notched in place, self-doubt in check, Annette (whose birthday is soon) was selected as the model for the first page. Great fun was had. Concentration was focused, laser sharp, except for when it wasn't.

Next up, a Kansas landscape in the black sketchbook. 

There was much to experiment with - in particular how much water to use on the gouache to maintain the opaque vibrance, but still juicy enough to swish around on the paper. There is more to learn there.  Sister painted brother Paul and cats and landscapes. Time went by so fast. Before you know it, day 3 was done. We are going to schedule another art retreat in February. This stuff requires practice. More of it. 

It's humbling to do things you aren't that great at, but at the same time enjoyable if that even makes sense. And, unlike knitting, quilting, and sewing you can start and finish a piece in a few hours. Or you can keep fiddling and overwork it if you want to. The thing about these sketchbooks is they are for fun. Every time sister and I get together to do these sessions, we flip though and show each other previous bits of work... hilarity ensues. It's good therapy. 

Comments

[Chris Oliveira]

I think you’re better at this than you think you are! So nice that you and your sister share this interest. I have a group of friends that are like the Prairie Makers - we get together, have lunch, and do show and tell. We all leave with enough inspiration to last a month! I rarely get to actually make art with someone though, and it’s so much fun.

[Kathy Barrow]

Therapy, indeed! Your creative spirit shows up in so many ways and I am so grateful you enjoy a 'show and tell' on the blog. I have some friends who love to venture out on photo treks with me...and when we get together for a show and tell session...it's the delight & hysterical laughter that makes those trips even more a marvelous memory. Balm for my creative soul.
KathyB