New Painting New Series Elegance White Iris OIl

White Iris

Elegance

Oil on stretched, wrapped canvas

12 x 16 x 1.5

Every year about this time, no matter how mild or how harsh the weather has been, I begin to long for signs of spring.  The days become longer and more pleasant - more sunshine, warmer days, bluer skies - and to me the most enjoyable - flowers seem to appear out of nowhere.  Crocus and Hyacinth, daffodils and tulips -  even the dandy lions and violets can be a welcome sight, depending on the kind of winter it's been.  Among my favorites are the beautiful iris - there are so many varieties, so many colors and color combinations.  And of course, the iris was a favorite of my mom's so there is a sentimental connection for me there as well.  This painting was done from a photograph taken in my garden during the late spring when flowers are at their most beautiful.   Each year I take hundreds of them, keeping in mind the long, dreary winter days ahead.  If I happen to miss a bloom or bud, I can always count on my photographer husband to share one of his. 

Most of my floral paintings are close ups of single or perhaps two or three blooms, rather than than panoramic paintings of gardens.  Don't know why, it is just the way I am wired, probably.  Looking closely at things may simply be a result of nearsightedness, but the idea of exploring the intricate beauty of a flower petal has always appealed to me.  I admire the work of Georgia O'Keefe, and even though my style is nothing at all like hers, we do seem to look at things in the same way.  The result for me is a painting that is realistic in style, yet somewhat abstract in composition. 

"Elegance" is one of a new series of floral paintings.  I love the 12 x 16 inch format and especially the deep canvas.  It is a dramatic statement, as the painting is extended to the sides, top and bottom of the canvas and it is displayed without a frame. 

This painting has now been sold, but watch this space for others available soon.  And remember,  spring always comes, eventually...