Boat Reflection

"Boat Reflection" 5 by 7, Pastel Painting

I have to start by thanking Kathleen Young for allowing me to use her photograph as a reference for this painting. Thank you Kathleen! I can't tell you how long I've been wanting to paint this picture. Those reflections are so intriguing! I used to be so intimidated to even try to paint reflections, but I've been finding that I really enjoy painting them. I like the challenge.

I have to also say that I've been lacking confidence in my painting abilities lately and I think I've figured out why. I've been going weeks at a time without painting because of school and other obligations. By the time I get back into the studio, I feel like I've completely lost it. So, I've decided that I have to paint everyday or at least every other day to keep the creativity going. Even, if it's just for a few minutes. And honestly I feel the most like my authentic self when I'm painting. There's nothing I would rather be doing! :)

So anyway, I hope you're all keeping dry. We've gotten several inches of rain in the past couple of days and they're calling for more! Great weather for painting! :)

Creativity Boot Camp Day 12

"Smooth Sailing" 5 by 7, Pastel Painting

The word prompt for day 12 of Creativity Boot Camp was "Smooth." Water first came to mind, and then I thought of this picture that I took from a ferry boat on my way to Mackinac Island last summer. It worked perfectly!

I'm slightly disappointed by the scan of this painting. It just didn't pick up the subtle colors very well. There is a lot of soft purple and pink the sky and water that you can't really see from this scan. Oh well, you get the idea.

I used mostly soft pastels for this painting, and just touches of pastel pencil for the sail boat. I absolutely love painting skies and water, especially together. It's been quite some time since I have, and my love for it was rekindled with this painting! :)

Just one more painting to go for Creativity Boot Camp!