Slow for turtles

I drove through the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge today. I love that place! Not too many birds there yet since the wetlands are dry from the summer sun. But I was not alone at the refuge.

When I peered into the water, over the cattails and nettles, I could see the turtles sunning themselves on the exposed branches and roots. They stretched their necks out like old women hiding double chins. But you have to slow down and really look for them before you can be charmed by their vanity.

A white Suburban drove impatiently behind me and finally passed when I was able to pull off to the side of the gravel road. Inside, with the windows closed, were a father and his young daughter. They drove quickly through the refuge. I'm sure that they missed the turtles.

But, if you go there, you'll be sure to slow down and look for them, won't you? Old ladies with their chins lifted to the sun to minimize wrinkles and jowls. Turtles are great!

Modern Portraits

Georges Rouault (1871--1958) had a distincitve way of painting portraits. Whenever I see one of his pieces in a museum, I admire the bold lines, the graphic style. It seems to me that he strokes the thick black lines while making a face at the critics who would judge him.

Though my lines are not so distinctive, not so thick, nor so black as his, there is something of Rouault's spirit in my painting of Mom.

Another chance with Mom

Mom is patient and gracious and sat for me again today. This time: pastel!

Model: Mom

It's been great having Mom visit this week. She was a willing model today in the studio so I pulled out my watercolors and did this little painting.

She's so beautiful!

Mount Vision Pastels

I splurged. A nice big brown box of pastels from Dakota Art Pastels arrived with the entire set of Mount Vision pastels inside. Just like Christmas it was, opening each box and looking at the colors.

Now I just have to carve out to the time to use them. And I will!

New at O'Connor's

Come to O'Connor's to see "Considering Kelp" hanging with the latest "Artists' Choice" by Eight+. The new artwork on the walls just shines with light and color. I hope you'll get over to see it!

Frye Art Museum

I was excited to finally go to the Frye Art Museum. I knew of the great paintings in their huge collection and at long last I would see them.

I was disappointed to see so few of their good paintings. Why? They had a large puppet exhibit (which did not interest me at all) and took out many of their regular things to show it.

But, next month, I think I just might have to go again. A new exhibit of American modern works will hang. I want to see that! Would you like to join me?

Saddlebag Island

18 x 24

As I watched the sun set, it amazed me to note how the bright light carved a "U" shape in the land surfaces. I don't recommend staring at the sun, but this phenomenon fascinated me and I couldn't help but look at it!

I feel like I've spent enough time thinking about and painting the water to process most of my feelings about falling in last month. Life events take us to unexpected places. Don't you agree?

From Dictionary.com:

Serendipity.

1.	an aptitude for making desirable discoveries by accident.

Mackaye Harbor, Lopez Island

18 x 24

Tern, Tern, Tern

18 x 24

Wait for it ................... here!