Daily Painting - The Secret Tree

"The Secret Tree"
12" x 12" x 1.5" (30 x 30 x 4 cm)
Mixed Media
Gold Paint, Gold Leaf & Acrylic on Canvas
Click Here to See if This Painting is Still Available for Purchase

I finally felt like returning to painting. I had a marathon day of painting yesterday but I didn't get the chance to do any photos before I lost the natural light. I started around 7 new paintings so I should be able to go back to posting a painting a day.

I feel that this painting reflects my current emotions. The dark colors are due to mourning the loss of my friend. The brights and golds are probably from my frequent memories recently of his good nature. I have titled this one "The Secret Tree" simply because that is what kept coming to mind while I was painting it and also once it was finished. So I guess this painting kind of titled itself. :)

Until tomorrow.... Peace and happiness

Quote

I love quotes! So I may add one or two every now and then. Here is one I found interesting that showed up on my iGoogle page this morning.


One should absorb the colour of life, but one should never remember its details. Details are always vulgar.
- Oscar Wilde

Painting - That Day, Against the Sky

Painting - That Day, Against the Sky
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"That Day, Against the Sky"
20" x 30" (51 x 76 cm)
Acrylic on canvas
(Up for Auction! Click Here to See if It's Still Available!)

Usually I can finish a painting this size in a day but this one took me several days to complete. Mostly because the cold and damp weather is causing my paints to dry slower. I noticed they now have an acrylic paint that dries slower, like oil paints. I rarely paint with oils any more for exactly this reason so I don't think I will be trying those new acrylics. I prefer to paint very quickly, This prevents me from getting "stuck" on the details and allows me to stay loose.

I was listening to my favorite CD and watching the sun go down. I knew I had to incorporate that brilliant sky into the painting and the mood the music inspired.

About the Daily Paintings...

If you check my daily paintings you probably already know I have missed several days this week. A beloved friend lost his battle with cancer late last week and I have found it difficult to resume painting. I will start posting daily again as soon as I am able.

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Eight

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Eight
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Twenty-Eight"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89 x 6.35 cm)
Watercolor on paper

This mini painting was created completely with a pouring method. I love to pour watercolors and am working on a larger painting currently using this method in parts of it. This tiny painting was a practice run to see how certain colors would blend.

Daily Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Seven

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Seven
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Twenty-Seven"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89 x 6.35 cm)
Watercolor on paper

Click Here to See Whats Available
(Sometimes paintings are listed here several days before they are listed - if the painting is not listed please email me.)

Hand Pulled Print - Primitive

Hand Pulled Print - Primitive
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Primitive"
7" x 5" (18 x 13 cm)
Linoleum Block Print (Lino)
Series III - 1 of 1

Click Here to See Whats Available on eBay
(Sometimes paintings are listed here several days before they are listed - if the painting is not listed please email me.)

My daily painting today is not a painting at all, it is a lino block print instead. I started this theme several years ago when I was still in college (no I will not tell how long ago that was lol). This is similar to the idea I had then. My intention was to keep this primitive. If you are not familiar with lino block prints, it is simply a linoleum block that is hand carved and then a print is "pulled" from that carving. Most of the time it requires several steps of carving to complete a print. This one was kept fairly simple by using only two colors of ink.

Painting - Study of a Landscape in Miniature

Painting - Study of a Landscape in Miniature
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Study of a Landscape in Miniature"
6" x 4" OSWOA (15.24 x 10.16 cm)
Acrylic on canvas panel

Click Here to See What is Available on eBay

I try to paint (and blog) at least one painting each day. I almost didn't today. My friend Jeff lost his battle with cancer this morning. This may not be my best or even "one of" but still, this one is in honor of you Jeff. You will be missed.

Abstract Landscape - Winter Begins

Abstract Landscape - Winter Begins
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Winter Begins"
48" x 24" (122 x 61 cm)
Acrylic on canvas

Buy this painting - Available at the New York Art Exchange

I have used the field behind my mothers home many times as reference for paintings. Of course, I can't resist changing them to suit my mood so they all look different but this is the first time I have painted the scene during the bleak months. There is some sort of proud beauty about the trees and land at this time of year. As if nature has bared her soul to those willing to notice.

There are "in progress" photos of this painting in earlier posts. I wanted to keep the naked feel of the field so I was hesitant about including the tree on the left but in the end that little tree won out and is now there for good. It is the only item in the entire painting done with a brush. I didn't really realize this fact until I was almost finished. I used scrapers, old credit cards, palette knives, painting knives, fingers, towels and rags but I didn't use a brush until I added that tree. Somehow I feel that is symbolic but I'm still not sure how. lol

Small Watercolor Painting - Tree Twenty-Six Abstract Landscape

Small Watercolor Painting - Tree Twenty-Six Abstract Landscape
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Tree Twenty-Six Abstract Landscape"
6" x 4" (15.24 x 10.16 cm)
Watercolor on textured watercolor paper

I am not crazy about today's daily painting but I decided a while ago to share one painting a day even if I don't like them. This is a new watercolor paper I was experimenting with and I have been using it for a couple of days now... I have decided I do not like it. One of the things I love about watercolors is its unpredictable "flows". This paper is textured in lines and that prevents the color from flowing the way I want it too. Instead of not having enough control my problem is the opposite. I like the paint to do its own thing and this paper traps the color between its ridges. So back to my usual paper I go. The art supply companies I buy from should be happy as the paper I usually use is more expensive anyway. lol

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Five

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Five
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Twenty-Five"
2.5" x 3.5" ACEO (6.35 x 8.89 cm)
Watercolor on paper

Bid or Buy this Painting

I tried a different watercolor paper than I usually use when I painted this one. I am not sure I like it. It definitely is different. It amazes me how different brands of paper can be so different. It seems in no other medium is the support so important. The paper becomes part of the painting with watercolor. I will try this paper again. Probably several times before I make up my mind.

Ramblings again... Painting Light

I always have to stop and laugh when I read something like this "the common thread in all my paintings is the light. Which direction does it come from? The way light falls on a subject defines my style...". Well, you get the idea. Maybe I am wrong but this seems to "talk down" to the people who really matter in the world of art. Those who love art! If you are an artist who has considered adding such as this to your statement (yes, yes I know all about "the painter of light" - not impressed with that use of phrase either) please think about this. ALL painting is about light. Without light... well, there simply isn't a painting. Even a non-representational abstract uses light. The light source being more obvious to a viewer doesn't change this. The fact is, if you can't master the use of light in your paintings, no matter your style or subject, you still have a long way to go.

Personally, I think this trend to use the "I paint light" phrase is due to the expectation placed on artists to write an artists statement. Lets face it, most visual artists are well, visual. Writing a two paragraph statement can become a week long torture!

What I want to know is this... who made up all these "art" rules anyway? I have a bone to pick with them. lol

Watercolor Landscape - Splendidly

Watercolor Landscape - Splendidly
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Splendidly"
36 x 26 cm (14-1/8" x 10-1/4")
Watercolor on paper

Bid on this Painting

I finally decided to complete a larger painting (as opposed to miniature) on the theme I have been painting. I am also working on one on a full sheet but that one will take a few more days as I work on several paintings at a time and this one will have many, many layers.

For a change I think the title actually "fits". :)

Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Four

Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Four
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Twenty-Four"
10 1/4" x 14 1/8" (26 x 36 cm)
Watercolor on paper

Bid on this painting

I painted this one on 300lb watercolor paper. All the previous trees I have painted in watercolor recently have been on 140lb watercolor paper. I usually prefer 300lb paper on larger scale paintings as it can take much more manipulation without damage and doesn't buckle easily. Because of the way I work I prefer not to stretch the paper although sometimes I do if really, really needed.

This one is a perfect example of how different monitors can display colors differently. On my other computer the colors appear correct but on the one I am using to post this the yellow appears more beige and darker than on the original.

Small Watercolor Painting - Purple Tree

Small Watercolor Painting - Purple Tree
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Purple Tree"
6" x 4" OSWOA (15.24cm x 10.16cm)
Watercolor on paper


This mini painting is very representational of my emotions recently.

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Three

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Three
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Twenty-three"
2.5" x 3.5" ACEO (6.35cm x 8.89cm)
Watercolor on paper

Small Watercolor Painting - Reflections

Small Watercolor Painting - Reflections
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Reflections"
4" x 6" OSWOA (10.16cm x 15.24cm)
Watercolor on paper

My first painting for the year. I always try to get the colors as close as possible but on my monitor the blue is not exactly correct. It is a much deeper color and this appears brighter. I probably need to recalibrate my monitor again but I forgotten how to do that and I don't remember where I placed the directions. lol As they say... I would probably lose my head if it wasn't attached.

I have started reading a book by Robert Henri. So you can probably expect to read some ramblings and a few quotes (I love quotes) from that. I have only read a few pages so far and it is already interesting. He was definately an opinionated man when it came to art but then aren't we all. :)

Happy New Year Everyone! Until the next post... Peace and Happiness!

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Two

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-Two
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Twenty-two"
2.5" x 3.5" ACEO (6.35cm x 8.89cm)
Watercolor on paper

The latest in my obsession with trees. This one was painted wet-on-wet.

On the Easel - Abstract Landscape Painting in Progress

Here are the latest developments in the painting.

I added two trees and some grass. Sorry about the photo. I got a late start today and had to use the flash so there is a glare.

I signed the painting but I am still unsure if it is finished. I am thinking about changing the shadows at the base of the trees and/or maybe adding more trees on the opposite end of the field. It would be easy to overwork this one though so I am going to hold off on making any more changes at least until tomorrow. Maybe longer. And as usual, a title as yet eludes me.

Whats in a Name?

I am not always very good at communicating with words. As a matter of fact, it can be quite a struggle for me. I have thought about this fact quite a lot. Especially after a particularly embarrassing miscommunication or days of agonizing over the title of a painting. I believe this to be due to several factors. 1.) I am a visual artist and as such tend to be more of a visual person. 2.) I am very hard of hearing (almost deaf in fact) and 3.) I tend to think in images rather than words (probably due to reason #1 & 2 combined??).

Recently this is really driving me crazy! I am having a terrible time trying to name my paintings and I am getting really frustrated. So many times when I name a painting I feel it doesn't really "fit". The title should be an extension of the painting right?

I have even tried listing words that come to mind when I think of the painting. This is not really working. I think maybe the reason is because the words end up being manufactured as I think in pictures not sound. Probably the most honest name for any of my paintings would be something like "picture in my head #10,929" lol . But even that doesn't convey the emotion or thought pattern I meant to portray.

It is all very frustrating.

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Study of Bamboo One

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Study of Bamboo One
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Study of Bamboo One"
Miniature 2.5" x 2.5"
Watercolor on paper

I painted these miniature studies of bamboo purposely using only one stroke of the brush for each detail.

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Study of Bamboo One

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Study of Bamboo One
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Study of Bamboo One"
Miniature 2.5" x 2.5"
Watercolor on paper

I painted these miniature studies of bamboo purposely using only one stroke of the brush for each detail.

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Study of Bamboo Two

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Study of Bamboo Two
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Study of Bamboo Two"
Miniature 2.5" x 2.5"
Watercolor on paper

On the Easel - Abstract Landscape Painting in Progress (Part One)

I had already worked on this painting some before I decided to share its progress. In this 1st photo I had already applied about 5 - 7 layers of paint. This painting measures 40" x 24". When I paint in acrylics I use any tool needed to get the paint to do what I want. So far in this painting I have used brushes, fingers, rags and old credit cards.


As you can see this photo was taken at an angle in order to get the whole length. The lighting wasn't great today and I was using my daylight lamps so the colors may be a little more off than usual.

I then added in the background treeline. This was also several more layers and I ended up with a lot of paint on me instead of the canvas. lol

I will add more photos as I progress so be sure to check back.

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-One

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty-One
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Twenty-One"
Miniature 2.5" x 2.5" (6.35cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on paper

This square miniature size is sometimes hard to work in. That is one of the reasons I choose it. It forces me to concentrate on developing the objects with as few brush strokes as possible. I wanted to study an individual limb in this one. Although not one of my favorites I did succeed a bit in creating the movement of the tree limb with only minimal strokes of paint.

Miniature Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty

Miniature Painting - Abstract Tree Twenty
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Twenty"
2.5" x 2.5" (6.35cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on paper

I really like how this one turned out. I will probably use this one in another painting.

Small Watercolor Painting - Early Morning

Small Watercolor Painting - Early Morning
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Early Morning"
6" x 4" OSWOA (15.24cm x 10.16cm)
Watercolor on paper

This one is a little different than what I usually paint but that is the point of creating studies in small formats. I enjoyed this one and I thought it turned out "happy".

Miniature Painting - Abstract Tree Nineteen

Miniature Painting - Abstract Tree Nineteen
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Nineteen"
4" x 6" OSWOA (10.16cm x 15.24cm)
Watercolor on paper

#19 in my "obsession with trees in abstract" series of studies.

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Study

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Study
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

Abstract Study of Boats on a Canal
4" x 6" OSWOA (10.16cm x 15.24cm)
Watercolor on paper

I have felt really rotten today. I am grateful however, as I had a fairly good day yesterday so I had the opportunity to spend some time with my family. Meniere's is a real pain to live with. So I think maybe todays study reflects some of the vertigo I have been dealing with today. lol I actually like it though. I love painting loosely in watercolors. This one was done using a photo as reference as there aren't any canals such as this around here. I found the composition really interesting and thought I would give it a try.

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Eighteen

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Eighteen
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Eighteen"
4" x 6" OSWOA (10.16cm x 15.24cm)
Watercolor on paper

Not a Christmas theme but I did get one done on Christmas! Merry Christmas everyone!

Small Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Seventeen

Small Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Seventeen
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Seventeen"
4" x 6" OSWOA (10.16cm x 15.24cm)
Watercolor on paper

For everyone who celebrates Christmas "MERRY CHRISTMAS!"
For everyone who celebrates other winter holidays "HAPPY HOLIDAYS!"
Peace and happiness to everyone!

Small Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Sixteen

Small Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Sixteen
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Sixteen"
4" x 6" OSWOA (10.16cm x 15.24cm)
Watercolor on paper

Perhaps my obsession with painting trees will slow down some, or maybe not. Either way, here is the latest.

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Fifteen

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Fifteen
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Fifteen"
2.5" x 2.5" Miniature (6.35cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on paper

This one turned out appearing fairly simple and stark but I liked it so I left it. I have felt rotten the last few days (I just can't seem to get rid of this cold!) so I am really surprised the paintings are turning out with bright and sometimes cheerful colors. Between the rain and feeling rotten I kind of expected them to start getting dark.

It warmed up here for a couple of days but now it is cold again. :(
I'm starting to wish for spring already!

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Fourteen

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Fourteen
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Fourteen"
6" x 4" OSWOA (15.24cm x 10.16cm)
Watercolor on paper

#14 in my "Obsession with Trees" portion of my Smallworks Series. Today I will be working on a painting quite a bit larger than this one. The plan is that it will be on a full sheet of watercolor paper.

I spent the day Christmas shopping with my sister yesterday and I didn't work on any other paintings other than the one I posted. I love spending time with my sisters. I am lucky in the fact we have always gotten along well with one another. They are my best friends. So I knew I wouldn't be getting much work done yesterday as once we get together that is out the window. lol

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Thirteen

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Thirteen
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Thirteen"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO ( 8.89cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on paper

I have always tried to hide my own efforts and wished my works to have the lightness and joyousness of a springtime which never lets anyone suspect the labours it cost.
-- Henri Matisse

Ramblings... on developing your own style

Artists are told they should develop their own personal style. Unless you copy someone else's work exactly (and yes, I know there are those who are good at doing just that) well then in my opinion that is kind of a stupid statement. If you pick up a pencil, brush, glue etc. ... You have your own style. It may not be what you want it to be. And it probably isn't what it will be in say 5 years or so but if it is... well, I hate to break it to you but you are stagnated. (If that's the case may I suggest a few creativity exercises?) But usually when this sort of thing is said what they really mean is paint the same way and the same subjects over and over. And over, and over and over. I have always had a problem with this. Maybe it is because I have such varied interests. So, from time to time my style changes some, a little or a lot, and I paint many different subjects. So what if it can't be said I am a "landscape artist", a "portrait artist", or so on or so on?? I paint what I want to paint, what I am moved to paint. In other words, I paint from my heart. If, according to some, that makes the way I paint "incorrect" (puhlease!!) then so be it. This may sound a little harsh, but I don't paint for anyone other than myself anyway. Don't misunderstand me, I, like many, many artists, have an ego and I love it when someone likes my work. But its still not why I paint. The only reason I really know this about myself is because... well, when I wasn't displaying or sharing my artwork at all, guess what? I still painted. A lot. All the time really. Then, as now I just painted because I felt compelled to. Who knows why. I have thousands of paintings floating around in my head just waiting for their turn and believe me, it will keep me awake at night if I don't do something about it!. Some of them may never get painted. :( Unless, of course, they improve medical technology really quickly and I get to live to be 200 or so. Maybe not even then. lol

So, I will just keep painting, and painting, and painting. Many subjects, my own style(s) lol. If you are an artist, you should too. Let's take our creative efforts back to where they should be. Art should never be just about marketing.

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twelve

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Twelve
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Twelve"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on paper

I have been so busy lately that I have only finished these small paintings. I have, however, done several of them. Here's the next one of my obsession with trees.

Have no fear of perfection, you'll never reach it.
-----Salvador Dali

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Eleven: Willow by the River

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Eleven: Willow by the River
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Eleven: Willow by the River"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on paper

Imagination is more important than knowledge...

Albert Einstein

Miniature ACEO Watercolor Painting - Study of a Peacock in Abstract

Miniature ACEO Watercolor Painting - Study of a Peacock in Abstract
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Study of a Peacock in Abstract"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on paper

Daily Painting - Stormy Beach in Abstract

Miniature ACEO Watercolor Painting - Stormy Beach in Abstract
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Stormy Beach in Abstract"
2.5" x 3.5" Miniature, ACEO (6.35cm x 8.89cm)
Watercolor on Paper

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Wildflowers One

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Wildflowers One
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Wildflowers One"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on paper

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Ten

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Ten
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Ten"
2.5" x 3.5" ACEO (6.35cm x 8.89cm)
Watercolor on paper

Study of a tree in abstract.

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Landscape Study in Abstract

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Landscape Study in Abstract
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Landscape Study in Abstract One"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on Paper

Another winter landscape. This time I kept this one more abstract. My intent was to give the impression of a frozen lake with only a few brush strokes.

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Wildflowers

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Wildflowers
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Wildflowers Two"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on Paper

Watercolor Painting - Tree Nine: Winter Scene

Watercolor Painting - Tree Nine: Winter Scene
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Tree Nine: Winter Scene"
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89cm x 6.35cm)
Smallworks Series
Watercolor on paper

I have three small paintings to add today. All three are watercolors. This is the only ACEO size though. This painting was so peaceful to create. It just kind of painted itself!

Watercolor - Red Flower

Small Watercolor Painting - Red Flower
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Red Flower"
6" x 4" OSWOA (15.24cm x 10.16cm)
Smallworks Series
Watercolor on paper

Watercolor - The Blue Forrest

Small Watercolor Painting - The Blue Forrest
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"The Blue Forest"
4" x 6" OSWOA (10.16cm x 15.24cm)
Smallworks Series
Watercolor on paper

I usually paint in layers. This one definitely has the layers. There are probably seven or eight layers minimum in this tiny painting. In larger paintings I may add many more but that is a lot for a small painting.

Miniature Painting - One Red Tree

Miniature Painting - One Red Tree
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"One Red Tree"
6" x 4" OSWOA (15.24cm x 10.16cm)
Watercolor on paper

Although my painting style is usually much more abstract than this, I really like this one.

I love working with watercolors. The unpredictability of the medium is so thrilling. The bloom on the right side turned out in the perfect area I think. Many watercolor artists try to control blooms, meaning prevent them, but I think they add character when they happen. I welcome the unexpected in this wonderful medium.

ACEO Painting - Abstract Tree Eight with Bird

ACEO Painting - Abstract Tree Eight with Bird
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Eight with Bird"
2.5" x 3.5" ACEO (6.35cm x 8.89cm)
Watercolor on paper

A quick little painting. I am not totally satisfied with the bird. I wanted him a little more abstract than he is but the tree turned out much looser.

Daily Painting - Untitled Winter Landscape

ACEO Miniature Painting - Untitled Winter Landscape
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

Untitled Winter Landscape
3.5" x 2.5" ACEO (8.89cm x 6.35cm)
Watercolor on Paper

This one is one of several studies for a larger landscape. I like the way this one turned out and am planning on using elements from this tiny painting in a larger composition.

I spoke too soon about not getting much in the way of snow and ice. We now have ice here. lol Brrrrr it's cold here!

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Seven

Mini Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Seven
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Seven
2.5" x 3.5" ACEO (6.35cm x 8.89cm)
Watercolor on paper

My latest somewhat abstract study of a tree. This painting is much "tighter" than I meant for it to be. I like the color of the foreground in this one and the hard line created between the foreground and the background horizon line. While this one is ok, I still feel it should have been looser.

It has been storming and raining here for more than two days now. When the weather is nasty like this it really affects my work. I try to ignore it but so far I haven't succeeded. I sooo wish it would stop raining now!

Miniature ACEO Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Six

Miniature Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Six
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Six: Ice Storm"
2.5" x 3.5" ACEO (6.35cm x 8.89cm)
Watercolor on paper

Well, I thought my mini obsession with winter scenes was over... but I guess not. Here is my latest ACEO of trees during an ice storm. This one was created just for fun, not as a study.

Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Five

Watercolor Painting - Abstract Tree Five
Originally uploaded by Benita S.

"Abstract Tree Five"
Watercolor on paper
3.5" x 2.5" (8.89cm x 6.35cm)

Since this painting is so small, I had to use a very tiny brush to drop the colors onto the paper. Otherwise, they would blend too much and turn into "mud". I thought the background turned out quite interesting.