In my September blog post, I showed you many examples of artwork inspired by relationships with people, animals and place. Two of the photos I shared then, are now small pieces of art. The first step in my work process, was to do a lot of editing. I limited the number of fabric choices, I removed unnecessary details, and I altered the placement of some of the background values.
In Winter Stroll, the original reference photo had more stuff behind the figures, including a speed limit sign and a more obvious curb. I removed these, but felt that the composition was better with the street light left in. If I were to create this image in a much larger size, I think that the 15 mi speed limit sign would add to the idea of the relaxed pace of these walkers and dogs.
Sisters was a gamble with color changes. Would these girls wear the new colors that a selected? I wanted to capture the original feeling of the photo, but add something a little special to keep your interest.
Bea and Teddy is all about the light and shadows. I used exagerated original colors, and simplified the far backgroud rhythm and the shadow bits in the road and grass. Here’s the photo for comparison.
Cranberry Pancakes- Put one c. of fresh cranberries in a covered glass bowl and microwave for 2 minutes. Add 1/3 c. oats and 2/3 c. water, cover, and microwave for 2.5 minutes. Let cool, and stir in 2 T. each peanut oil and honey, 1/2 c. yogurt, and 2 eggs. Add 7/8 c. oat flour, 1/2 t. cinnamon, 1 t. baking powder, and 1/2 t. salt. Mix well. Add water if too sticky. Cook on griddle at 350 degrees. Eat hot or cold.
