My Header

Well, I did a painting for my header, but...I don't think it's finished enough. Here's a preview:

The border needs some work, and I think the details can be better. I spent as much time on it last night as I could. I went to Yoga and had to go to Staples for my Hubby. Those breaks actually gave me some time to get a fresh look at everything.

It's ok, but not quite what I envisioned. If anyone reads this, please let me know what you think. I can redo it, or use parts of it in a new composition or even a collage.

Right now, I'm going to the store for some groceries. Later, I'll approach it again with fresh eyes.

For now, I have placed one of my favorite photos from last summer in the header.

I'll be back.

Fairie Queen

Today I have spent most of my spare time creating this image. (After cleaning 2 bathrooms and vaccuuming the floors in my house. It still needs work, but I just wanted to post this version. I have been studying the artwork of Trina Schart Hyman. She did some amazing art for children's picture books during her career. I love the amount of detail that she brings to each of her subjects.
This may need more color, I haven't decided yet. Her proportions may be off a bit too.

When we come back from our trip to New Mexico, I may try something different either using her or another image.

Lighthouse on the Maine Coast

While I did use an actual photograph of the Nubble Lighthouse in Maine to compose this illustration, I decided to improvise a bit with the style and details of the setting. My Niece wanted a painting for her dorm room. I decided to give her both this painting and the one of the stone railroad bridge (below). I photographed this one while it was in progress, but there were very few details left to complete. Both paintings were great fun to compose. Getting them up on my blog has taken longer than I'd like.

I keep hoping I'll get better at uploading my work and publishing to my blog.

Illustration Friday: Horizon

As the racing sailboats appeared on the horizon, Abby spotted her brother's spinnaker. She excitedly called over to her friends that Joel was in the lead and headed for the finish line. This was his moment of victory and she was so pleased for him.

Illustration Friday: Backwards 2

Here's another picture for last week. I have drawn a lobster dancing backwards. I wish I had thought of it before I did the plain one. I find these challenges fun to try. I'm hoping my skills improve as I work on each trial.