Spring Beauty

Spring Beauty

Spring Beauty, mixed media on gallery wrapped canvas

Inspired by all the spring flowers blooming in the local nurseries I felt I must capture this feeling on canvas. I haven't painted florals in a while, but this one was inside my head waiting to come out. My own garden was in much need of some tender loving care, so after I finished this piece I actually started the spring clean up in my own backyard.  Amazing what inspires you to begin a task.

This painting began the usual way, with a textured canvas and acrylic paints. But, then I picked up some oil pastels from our local Blick art supplies store (I'd been swooning over them for a while). I painted the canvas with acrylic paints and applied the oil pastels over certain areas to really "pop" the piece.  

Base layers applied in acrylic

Final layers applied with oil pastels

So, now you can guess that I am in love with using oil pastels over acrylic. I love to experiment and play with new painting "tools". This is one I'm truly going to enjoy exploring. 

If you love this painting, the original is available along with reproductions on paper, canvas, and many other products. Here are just a few of the ways you can enjoy this painting in your home.  For more information on any of these products, just click on the image to visit my Fine Art America shop.

Thanks so much for taking time to view my art, and for your continued support friends. Until next time. 

Blessings my friends, your artist Mary

“There is nothing more difficult for a truly creative painter than to paint a rose, because before he can do so he has first to forget all the roses that were ever painted.”

— Henry Matisse

Daisies on Parade

Daisies on Parade 1 and 2

After four weekends in my garden getting it cleaned up and ready for the new season I was naturally inspired to paint flowers.  Daisies on Parade are companion paintings, both 20" x 20" on gallery wrapped canvas.  They also look fabulous on other home decor products.

Daisies on Parade no. 1 throw pillow

And, of course they make adorable tote bags for the beach, picnics and just running errands.

Daisies on Parade no. 1 tote bag

Perhaps you're ready to make a change in your powder room with the new season.  Did you know my artwork can also be reproduced on shower curtains?  

Daisies On Parade no. 2 shower curtain

“If you ask me what my favorite flower is,
I will answer daisies.

You will say that they are simple and boring,
and i will say that i love them because of that.

Because nothing in this world is simple anymore.”

— Ludmilla Marie Andersen

And, here are a couple pics from my garden now that it is once again presentable.  Would love to have you all over for a garden party.  

Thanks again friends for taking time to visit with me.  I hope you have enjoyed this post and a little glimpse into my garden which inspired these new paintings.  Wishing you all a wonderful weekend to come.

Blessings, Mary

Hello March

Birds are chirping, flowers are growing & beauty is in bloom.

Spring has sprung and we're here to help your spring season be full of hope, life and new beginnings.  It's such a natural time to paint flowers. Here are a just few of mine.  There is something sprouting for everyone. 

February is still a blur for me.  How 'bout you?  This month is starting off to be another busy one with preparation for upcoming exhibits and shows.  Spring is always a busy time for art shows in Florida.  (We try to stay indoors during the dog days of summer.)

I love helping people add art to their lives.  Did you know I offer a convenient layaway art plan?  Just send me a message if there's a piece you'd like me to hold for you.  I am very happy to do this.

February's "Steal of the Month" winner was Pamela Wilson. Thank you so much Pamela.  Restless Ranunculus will be on its way to you.  I'll select a new painting for March and send out another announcement in the next day or so.  A great, affordable way to start or add to your art collection.

Thanks as always for your support and encouragement.  I am so blessed to be able to do what I love.  I hope you'll continue to enjoy my art and share it with your friends.  

Many blessings,  Mary

“The air is like a butterfly
With frail blue wings.
The happy earth looks at the sky
And sings.”

— Joyce Kilmer, Spring