Dandelions

Dandelions

 

24" x 24"

oil on linen canvas

[click image to enlarge]

The inspiration for this painting came from a photograph of Grant on Morgan Holbrook's blog. The photo also had great light contrasts.

 

He enjoys being outdoors and exploring nature. I love the sunshine contrasts in the original photograph and his little boy jeans.

 

It is a nearly iconic scene from childhood - picking a dandelion and then blowing away the seed cloud.

Sarah Croft also did a painting on this subject that I have enjoyed.

 

This painting is done on the first canvas that I have made, after a technique suggested by Dan Schultz and described on his website. [He also painted a wonderful childhood scene with a similar lighting contrast on a little boy]

 

The linen canvas was glued to a smoothed OSB panel and then prepared with a coat of gesso, followed by a colored ground coat. It was sanded between coats and I love the tight, smoother surface this created.

 

[The previous paintings were all done on stretched cotton canvas]

 

 

The painting is also shown framed below. I may try a frame with a more antique gold finish later.

 

Strider

Strider

12" x 16"

oil on canvas

 

A Strider is bicycle for the very young. It does not have pedals or a drive chain. So it is a play bicycle that one can walk around. Small and shiny.

It was easily Gwennie's favorite Christmas present. It did not matter to her that it was also NOT her present, however she quickly appropriated it and played with it much of the day - including the owner's helmet.

Grant was good-natured about it, or didn't dare cross her. She can be very determined.

I Can Ride

I Can Ride Fast

Campbell

 16" x 20"

oil on canvas
[click on image to enlarge]

The sheer joy of being able to ride a bicycle without training wheels is one of childhood's early milestones. 

Campbell's success is apparent.

With her Mediterranean complexion and beautiful hair she is also a whirlwind of energy and emotions.

Life will always be interesting near Campbell.

Framed

This is primarily a back lit scene, however to give some detail especially in Campbell's face I have also cast some artistic reflected light on the subject.
Campbell viewed the painting and said "the girl is beautiful. [and it's me]"
I agree