In the mornings (and sometimes evenings), in order to loosen up before painting on my canvases, I have begun painting on antique and vintage book covers left over from wreath projects (see my Simple Joys Paperie shop).
These are quick and simple, whimsical paintings, a bit painterly or impressionistic in style. I plan on doing at least one a day until the end of September, since the Norcross Art Fest is the first weekend of October.
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| {Cake on a Pedestal - Inspired by the latest Country Living magazine cover} |
Who am I kidding? Let's just face it... I've had episodes of thinking, "What possessed me to sign up for something big like this??!!!" and I have to talk myself out of that panic-y mindset. I'm doing these small pieces to try to work through a big artist block.
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| {French Pear - poire - on antique French book cover} |
Almost daily I have to remind myself that I may not be trained or schooled, and I may not have known a bright from a filbert (until recently), and I may make mud more often than not when trying to mix diads and triads and tetrads (thank goodness for color wheels and charts!)... but I know what I like and I paint what I feel and for some odd reason, other people have started to like it, too!
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| {French Apple - pomme - on antique French book cover} |
My art is simple, sometimes whimsical, and always imperfect, but it comes from my heart... and my hand... not the hand of another artist, so it is what it is, I suppose.
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| {Cherries (sold) - on vintage hymnal cover} |
I think if I just keep practicing and paint what I love and what I feel, it will serve its purpose, whatever that may be. It won't take away all the doubts and fears and insecurities, but it will put them in their place and I will be glad I tried. :)
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| {Cottage Roses - on old book cover} |
Thanks for listening... again... :)
I'll be busy painting the next several weeks, but I'll try to post a few in progress or finished pieces once in a while.
Oh! I almost forgot --- my friend, Patti of Winding Vine Designs, is hosting a giveaway of one of my art prints. You have just a few days left to visit her blog and enter according to her instructions. Good luck!
Take care & God bless,
Lana
Your book cover painting are just lovely...and you don't need to be schooled to be a wonderful artist...just be yourself...and all will blossom from there! Hugs Susan
ReplyDeleteSusan, thank you so much for visiting and for your encouraging words! I've admired (& owned) your work for years! :)
DeleteLana, you never cease to amaze and delight with your honest words and charming artistry.
ReplyDeleteHow you keep coming up with great ideas! This new venture turning remains into beauty is a delight.
Love these.
(by the way, putBose nagging insecurities in your apron pocket. There is not need for them!)
Dear Ruth, How lucky Suzanne is to have you in her family! Thank you for your compliments and wise words! :)
DeleteBanish those insecurities! It doesn't matter if you've been trained or not. Customers are never going to ask you about your experience or training. They like it, they buy it, they hang it! I really like the idea of using the book covers as a canvas. They are turning out great!
ReplyDeleteDonna, thank you so much! :)
DeleteDo not fret Lana...your love of, passion for, and superior talent comes through in your art. Your pieces are simply brilliant! Do what speaks to you, what is in your heart...everything else shall fall into place.
ReplyDeleteWishing you much joy...
Judy
Thank you, Judy! :)
DeleteLana, I love these sweet paintings! Your color and style is lovely. The texture of the book covers adds another dimension to them. I did some collage on Readers Digest Condensed book covers, now I have tons of pages to play with. I may try to make a wreath like yours. I always admired them!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your project!
Hugs,
Sherry