A painting

I just did this painting for my grandma. My dad took some photos of some hummingbirds a while ago. My grandma wanted one made into a painting. I used a couple of the photos, changed some composition, and ended up with this. The photo looks terrible, though. It's all washed out and glared. Liam is up now, though, so I can't try to take a better photo yet. I may try to take a different photo of it before shipping it off, but this is what you get for now.

As I'm staring at it on the computer screen I see lots that needs to be reworked- like the whole background. So, I guess this is take one of the hummingbird painting. Check back for the update. Ugh... maybe I shouldn't post this at all yet. Ah well. Here goes. Just remember that it looks better in person anyway, but it will be completely redone later and look a thousand times better still.

Hummingbird

8X10
oil on canvas board

I don't think you've seen this painting...

I would like to rework it. When I did it I was on a "I-want-to-try-to-use-a-palette-knife" kick. I just used the knife instead of a brush without knowing what I was doing. I think the knife is great and provides great texture when used correctly. Since I still don't know how to use it correctly I don't do a lot with it. I do love to see paintings which appear to have been slathered in paint with a knife, such as here and here.

Anyway, here is my first attempt at this technique. It will be in a show starting at the end of September called Urban Landscapes. It is a triptych rendition of Salt Lake City.

SLC Triptych
36X24
oil on board

This drawing

Night Lights
16X20
graphite drawing

and two paintings, this one

Shadow stroll
8X10
oil on board

and another, that I don't have an image of yet, will also be in the show.

I will, hopefully, have some new stuff to show you in the next few days. I just made 2 card sets with envelopes and matching boxes for a couple of birthday gifts. I didn't get pictures of those, though, so I'll have to make another just to show you! I would really like to sell cards, I think. I love to make them and try new things. Perhaps I will set up my etsy shop again and post some cards, just to see how they are received. Until then, if you need invitations, cards, or other paper crafts, let me know! My prices are great! :)

I also have at least 2 paintings to start and one that is half way finished. In related news, Liam won't take naps anymore. He has been skipping his morning nap and finally going down at about 4 in the afternoon. He then sleeps for an hour or 2 at best. This is the reason I've not gotten any painting done recently. I painted my bathroom and spare room, though... does that count?!