A mixed bag

A watercolor experiment with dense foliage and fog

I’m always gobsmacked when someone is totally taken by one of my paintings, and it just happened with this watercolor. I made a retirement gift of this painting to a woman who not only admired it, but was responsible for the public seeing it at all. She was the director of the Cass District Library and was responsible for the fact that Cass Area Artists has been able to exhibit members’ work (including this painting) there for a couple of years now. She also made it possible for one of our member artists to hold drawing and painting classes at the library on a weekly basis, along with providing extensive space to allow us to hold an exhibit of student work from nearby Edwardsburg High School. We couldn’t have done it without her, and were always so appreciative of her cooperation, encouragement,  and generosity.

Anyhow, now that you know who the recipient is, here’s what she wrote to me in a note after she received her surprise gift:

“If only I could write as eloquently as you paint! I want so badly to convey my appreciation for your thoughtfulness. I am overwhelmed by your affection and generosity. The painting hangs in my living room. I am called into the mist every time I gaze at the scene. And, I never tire of gazing. Thank you.”

All I can say is, she does write eloquently! Now, on to part 2 of today’s mixed bag.

Sky Pads 19–all the red is gone (almost!)

This is really close to what it actually looks like. For once the natural daylight was just right and I didn’t have to wait for dark and set up a bunch of lights. I already have the poured paint wash done for #20, so if I don’t get back to you soon with the drawing you’ll know I’ve just been fiddling around a lot!