Still!

I took this picture a month or so ago but did not have time to post it. I wanted to show the process I went through to finish this mosaic.

Progress is Slow

I have been working on this piece longer than any other because it has no set design. It is evolving out of my wanting to create without boundaries or rules. I love saying, “I think I will try this and see what happens.” No judgment; no critical voice of disapproval. I am coloring outside the lines, and while it is fun; it is also agonizing to be breaking out of my comfort zone. So, here is the direction it is going in to date.

Recyclables become Magical

Here is my latest project. It is unlike anything I have ever done. It is the largest piece (approx. 20"x30"), it is evolving without a precise drawing to follow, and it has no theme or cohesiveness. And yes, it is frightening to try and execute something so foreign to me, and exhilarating as each new piece takes form, and surprises and delights me as magical forms take place and whimsy drops in to add her handiwork. I showed this to my son, David, and he said he cannot wait to see what it becomes; me too!

Recognize the Subject?

I painted this picture for my neighbor, Alexis, for her birthday. It was so much fun to put my paints to use again. Although, I have so many mosaic creations sitting in my subconscious demanding to be made that sadly this may be the last painting I do for awhile.

Pretty in Pink

This mosaic was inspired by two adorable sisters: Madeline (5) and Bella (3). Madeline loves pink, and Bella believes pink needs dark blue to make it work. Bella has the more sophisticated, artsy viewpoint, but being a lover of pink myself; I think Madeline is dead on. I made the base and top first, then I created the sides. I was trying for a lacy look for the sides. The piece is very sparkly and feminine. Here is to Madeline and Bella!

The Finished Work

The frame with the key screams for this mosaic; does it not? I love the distressed look to the frame and the rich brown color. I used some of my amber glass and copper coated smalti to add a richness to this rustic scene. I want to walk through the gateway, explore the garden, and sit with a book to read under the tree. This has been a fun summer with lots of mosaics that I have created and still more in the works. I am working on one right now that is completely different from anything I have ever done. It is a tribute to Audrey Hepburn is all that I am saying, but I will post it soon. Enjoy the lazy days of summer!

Enchanted Garden Gateway

I have been drawn to entryways lately, and the sense of mystery that lays beyond the entry. When I found this picture frame, I knew I was going to explore a new direction. I wanted to keep the color scheme warm and rich, so the choice to put a tree in the center was dead on. Here is the work in progress, obviously. After all, it has been awhile since I have shown my work in progress, so I thought I would show how I worked on glass and protected the frame when needed.