Is it Just Me?

I am quite certain I am not alone in my undeniable passion for the Spring. I have always been a fan of the "new beginnings" I experience when winter fades and the days become longer, ushering in a new season. As an artist this also means adapting to the increased sunlight that pierces my windows often casting a glare on the surface I am currently working on; and although that IS problematic - my annoyance soon fades as I marvel at how luscious everything looks in the natural light. My easel and I become dance partners, strategically taking steps in unison trying to find the "right" spot for me to continue painting whilst not being deceived by the shadows and highlights being reflected on the canvas which could lead to some failed results.

It's also this time of year that I become easily distracted, gazing out the window as I watch the squirrels scurry about, a family bunnies enjoying the grass, the hummingbird sipping the homemade nectar I made for them and the plethora of birds that enjoy the seeds and peanuts Doug so diligently provides to keep them fed, and me entertained! In fact I was on a face time call this week with a friend when I burst into a squeal of joy. I spotted a bird I had never seen before, the curiosity and delight were overwhelming. I have since looked up the species and what I had the privilege of seeing was a Rose Breasted Grosbeak. What a beauty!

Without setting a specific intention I naturally seem to shift into floral mode when Spring arrives. The drive to paint flowers, meadows, and all manner of colourful and emerging things begin to dominate my creative path. It becomes contagious. Accompanying this is an increasing pressure to get outside and simply observe. In addition to seeing my own garden begin to bloom I marvel become inspired by what my neighbours have planted. The colours, the shapes, textures, the smells...ahhhhh, ! adore it all!

As I look out the window, right now as I am writing this post, I can't help but take a moment to study the vibrant red leaves that are opening and growing each day on our Japanese Maple. To see how the birds enjoy the shade provided and the additional "privacy" is a welcome interruption. The bees are buzzing and the world feels more alive. So, is it just me, or do you also find yourself more inspired and motivated when Spring arrives?

Where ever you are, whatever you are dealing with at this moment in time; I invite you to join me in cherishing this time, breathing deeper, walking slower, being still and listening to nothing else other than the song birds. Allow the newness of Spring to enliven you, even if only for a moment, it truly is a gift from above.

Before I go I want to let you know that I am busy working away in the studio creating a new, and profoundly fresh body of work; some of which has been posted to my website, most however has not. If you are particularly fond of flowers, meadows and landscapes I think you will appreciate the direction I am currently heading. I continue to post my progress to social media, although not as often as I have made a personal commitment to spend less time scrolling and more time "being". I leave you with a picture of this recently finished floral that was inspired by a photo I took in 2022 of a Dahlia garden. It was a very crisp September morning, around 8:30am, Doug was driving me around New Dundee so I could get some photos as the sun illuminated the landscape below. I spotted this abundant garden, the light shining on the flowers was magical and I simply couldn't ignore what I saw. I took a chance and knocked on the front door hoping to be granted permission to stand on the property as I set my tripod and camera up for some photos; thankfully I didn't wake anyone up and he homeowner was honoured that I wanted to not only photograph her garden - but also use the images for paintings. I tell you this story so you better understand the mood and experience I had that morning, all of which I endeavoured to capture in this rendering.

Entitled: "Dahlias in Conversation". 11x14" oil and oil pastel mix media on an archival panel.

I look forward to sharing with you again in the near future, until then...

Love,

Char