BUDS 6"x6" oil on canvas

This painting was done last Monday but this is my first chance to post it. Sorry about the lack of activity on my blog but life has a way of intruding in my art. I'm sure most artists have the same problem. Our area is ranked number 4 in the country this year for worst allergies so no plein air painting for me. Not much gardening either. Things should be improving soon so I can once again enjoy the great outdoors and play in the dirt.

PEONY

This is a closeup view of a larger (9"x12") painting I did last week. I know that isn't very large but I seem to have time issues right now, as in not enough. It is peony time in OH and I am lucky to have a few varieties
growing in my yard. I believe the weeds are actually winning in the garden this year. Too many days of rain and cold weather for me to venture out, but it didn't stop the weeds.

KUMQUATS 6"x6" oil on canvas

Kumquats are one of my favorite painting subjects and are perfect for small canvases. I am in the process of trying to learn photoshop but it seems very complicated to me. I think a class might be in order. Right now I am using Picasa for cropping and posting. It is easy to use but somewhat limited in adjustments.

BEGONIA STUDY 6"x6" oil on canvas

This is an angel wing begonia. They grow very well in my shady garden but I have to hang them out of reach of the many deer who jump our fence. The only plant they don't seem to like is coleus. I have tried all the popular deer deterents but nothing works.