30 in 30 Challenge, Day 25, "Mingling"

Mingling, 3x3in. Oil on linen/board
Painted En Plein Air in Plymouth, Nova Scotia

Available Here

Mingling

"Mingling together in gardens, zinnias and violas add charm and cheer. "

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©


I have a row of violas and Zahara Starlight zinnias in my front flower bed. The violas popped up this year on their own accord and I planted the zinnias around them. I like how cheerful they look along our front walkway. They just make me smile. 

It's a short post today, as we are heading out to supper to celebrate my brother's birthday. His birthday is tomorrow, so we are just a few hours early. I am sure a few good laughs will ensue! 

It sounds like it is going to be a gorgeous weekend. I hope to get out and paint a few studies this weekend. Wishing you a relaxing and inspiring weekend as well!

Warmly,
Debbie

P.S. I couldn't post this painting yesterday as scheduled, due to it being too wet. We just couldn't get a proper photo of it. Also, we had a great birthday celebration for my brother. Lots of laughs and fun made for a great evening! 

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Diary of a Plein Air Painter #25

Available Here

Bursting With Color

"Bursting with color, zinnias add radiance to summertime gardens."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

July 23, 2013

Fraser's Mtn. Nova Scotia.

I have ventured up to my parents' flower gardens once again. I decided to get out early this morning as it is predicting overcast skies this afternoon.

After having a chat with my mom, I began my walk about searching for my inspiration for the day. At last I spotted vibrant colored zinnias. I have always been intrigued with shadows against walls or buildings and loved how the zinnias cast a shadow on my parents' house.

My Subject--Zinnias

Zinnias' petals are so dense and solidly shaped that they almost look artificial. Even their vibrant colors make them appear almost "plastic" in nature.

Set up in front of my subject.

Adding the finishing touches.

I tried to make every brush stroke count so as not to loose their vibrancy and shape. Taking time to really observe before I applied paint was a good working method. Looking at darks and lights helped me form their shape. I have to say they were super fun to paint. I think I would like to paint more zinnias in the future in a larger format. 

As I finished up the day changed drastically. The clouds rolled in, the wind came up and the sun totally disappeared. I left feeling grateful and satisfied that I was able to paint this little painting today.

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. While I worked my dad scared me as he came up from his garage. We had a nice chat.

P.P.S. Just before I cleaned up, I took a break to have lunch with my parents. My aunt and her granddaughter also arrived at the same time. So overall it was a great painting session and visit. Working art into my everyday life leads to greater productivity.