One of the things I LOVE about being an artist is that I am on a continuous adventure of discovering! When I started painting on Pirates Alley, I painted angels on wood pieces because I was painting right next to the St. Louis Cathedral. I was looking for things that would “sell”. It has taken me a long time to realize, that people are drawn to what I love and even to my process as an artist. People often remark about how they would love to be doing what I am doing. I am blessed and am so happy to be able to share and inspire others to start painting.
During this past year, I started working more with texture. I have tried a number of things over the years, however I have found that using a caulk as a first step in some of my paintings has gotten positive responses from my audience. So here you will see how this first step looks. Step 2 is to actually paint using acrylic paint usually. And I may go back 2 or 3 times, until the paint looks as I want it to look. Step 3 involves spraying with a glossy varnish. The colors become more vibrant and finished with this varnish. Voila!! Beautiful!
I have also used an epoxy resin as the final step in some of my paintings. This product also adds a very professional look—a glasslike finish. Everyone wants to touch it!!
I've also enjoyed taking classes from established painters. This picture of Shelby Keefes class in Lafayette was enjoyable and I learned a lot! Online classes include many on youtube.com as well as Craftsy.com and of course the Plein Air convention this year.
