Balance--the elusive one!

Balance, 4x4in. Oil on linen/panel. $75

Available Here

Balance

"With balance, comes a sense of calm and renewal."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Balance is an elusive state we all seem to be in pursuit of in our busy society. Juggling it all seems to be an ongoing process that I continually try to refine. Etching out time to reflect and just enjoying small moments, enables me to catch my breath and escape the whirlwind. I feel so grateful that my painting process provides a joyful interlude and allows me to live in the moment.

One place I love to visit, that I find very soothing and exciting, is the beach. Last summer I collected these flat stones with the intention that I could use them in a small painting to capture a sense of tranquility. Although a bit challenging at times, I really did enjoy capturing these stones in paint. I think I will incorporate them into more meditative still life paintings in the future.

I would love to hear what inspires you and how you take mini retreats from life's busyness as well!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. If you are local, you can view some of my work at the Stone Soup Cafe in Pictou, as I am the Featured Artist until about mid April. 

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Diary of a Plein Air Painter #18

 (Sharing one of my Plein Air Diary Notes I didn't get to share in September. These light filled photos made me yearn for warm autumn days! )

Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012

Plymouth, Nova Scotia

3:30-6:00 (30 min. Supper Break)

Painted En Plein Air in my own Backyard.

"Before The Frost"

"Nasturtiums glow in the autumn light, before the first frost makes its debut."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald 

3x3in. Oil on linen/panel.  Available Here

Today the sun presents warmth, but when it disappears behind a drift of clouds the cool autumn air is evident. Ian is taking down our pool while I make a stew and roast chicken. I have decided to paint in my own backyard while supper cooks.

Ian hard at work. Lots of baby powder drifting in the air as he packs up the pool. Some even drifts my way!

As I scout around our property, I am drawn to my small raised garden beds. The small nasturtiums I planted in my herb garden have ballooned to quite a size. I love their rounded mottled leaves and bright flowers that peek above their green discs.

My Set Up

My small raised herb garden. I loved the glass bird feeder I bought this year!

My subject

I have decided to do a miniature painting of the backside of a nasturtium. I love back lighting and how the values shift in direct sunlight and shadow. An earthy smell from my garden and the fresh scent of herbs permeates the space around me. It is a beautiful September afternoon to paint in my own backyard!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. While I painted bees buzzed nosily around me as they feasted on many garden delights.

P.P.S. Our Persian Cat Marlee came to visit while I painted. She hopped over my box of brushes and paints as she snooped around the garden.

(You may read more of my diary posts by clicking the link on the side bar labelled "Diary of a Plein Air Painter or the link here.)