Original Watercolor Painting and Gratitude

It was a great weekend filled with friends, family, and fun. The sun is out and the water in the ocean has an aqua/blue cast. I even had the opportunity to sell one of my paintings. That was nice . . .

After walking around the neighborhood I finished off this little watercolor. Summer is ending not as many butterflies flying around the house. So I put one in this painting.

Etsy Update:
I was notified I was included in the following treasury, it is filled with talented artist’s and artisans from the Etsy community: It’s nice to be included and be part of a larger community.

Treasury by Scarfooldesigns:
Title: Green and Pink for Fall Click title for details.

Original Abstract Watercolor and Ink Painting

My Asian influenced paintings I like to call “Asian Inspired with a California Twist.” Many artists have been influenced by the calligraphy, pictographs, and composition of Chinese brush painting.

When I combine watercolor and ink, it has a little bit of an eastern flavor but without a doubt my western roots are lodged in the subject matter. It’s said simple calligraphy can tell much about the artist. You can see more details in my Etsy Shop.

ACEO Original Ink Mini Zen Painting

This ACEO (2 1/2" X 3 1/2")is another respectful nod to the Asian brush art forms with a California twist.... I love the organic qualities of ink and paper. The little gold like flecks give this mini painting texture and warmth.

The surface of this painting is "rice paper" inorder to protect the paper and bring out the ink it's mounted with a cellulose adhesive. (It's like wallpaper paste.) The tricky part is not destroying the paper. See available art in my Etsy Shop.

Original Painting Acrylic Impressionist Red Floral

It’s fun walking around San Juan Capistrano, California. The town has a California Mission, antique shops, and the Los Rios Historic District.

Los Rios Street is a combination of cottages, quaint restaurants, colorful people and adobe structures. The street is filled with beauty, history, and charm... The floral subjects of my latest painting called to me. It’s nice when something warm and joyful pops up on a sunny walk. Click details for more information...

Etsy Updates:
These Etsy Shop owners selected my watercolor and ink paintings for their Etsy Treasury. You'll also see other fine artists, artisans, and vintage selections within their treasury. It's fun take a peek. Just click the headings...

Auntjancan Treasury:
A selection of fine art.

Baruchslulaby Treasury:
If you are looking for the color blue this is the place.

MaresFabrics Treasury:
It's a lovely combination of art, craft, photos, vintage, jewelry, and fun.

Original Watercolor and Ink Landscape Painting by JC Strong

This is an original watercolor and ink painting posted in my shop yesterday. It's actually cliffs near my home. I used mainly ink. It has an Asian inspired influence.

I think it has something to do with the calligraphic strokes and the way the ink loads in the brushes. My acrylic paintings take a totally different look. I like the diversity in styles and medium.

I attended the Sawdust Art Festival and Art A Fair. Both venues have some wonderful artist's and their work.

At the Art A Fair, I saw some fantastic examples of Chinese brush painting in a small format by "Debbie's Art Studio." Her work was peaceful, organic and expressive. All done in a small format.

If you're in So. California stop by Laguna Beach, and you'll see some wonderful art this summer.

Art Inspiration, Dog Art and Halloween

I went to my local art supply store and all the Halloween items were out. I had no icons of the holiday, so I did a watercolor memory of “Maddie” and turned it into a greeting card.

One year all the dogs in the neighborhood dressed up for Halloween. My neighbor's dog Maddie has such a sad face, she always looks like she has a tear in her eye but she’s a love able happy dog.

So now my Halloween tradition is I keep a supply of doggy treats for the four legged trick or treaters . . it’s all in fun and a joy to see . Inspiration and humor comes from everywhere! Hmm, I wonder what art historians would think of my "Halloween Dog Art." Just kidding... You can see this card in my Etsy Shop.

Artist's Giving Back

Today I’m highlighting an Etsy Treasury that is devoted to artists’ and their Charities. You’ll see a variety of handmade items and fine art. The artist donates a portion of the sale to their respective organization. Everyone has a cause close to their heart it’s nice to know people are trying to make a difference. Etsy Treasury "Beauty in Charity"

Original California Fall Landscape and Art Ideas

I was in San Juan Capistrano looking just enjoying a meal with friends and found this tree with personality. Some trees send out good vibes. It was almost saying “look at me, look at me . . . ” I stood back, it reminded me of one of Charles Burchfield’s trees . . . Mr. Burchfield’s work is amazing it has a “haunting” quality . . .

Is my tree haunted? I don’t think so but it had the ability to stand out. I love trees with "pizazz" and the tree had "it" in the little parking lot behind the Italian Restaurant.

Do icons of art and art history stay in our memory to become artworks at a later date? Do certain trees, flowers, and people have attributes that compel us to put them on paper or canvas? I think they do but I’ll keep thinking about these questions as I continue with my work...

See this work and others in my Etsy Shop....

Original Painting Watercolor Flower Mum Turquoise

This is another respectful nod to the Asian brush art forms with a California twist.... I love the organic qualities of watercolor combined with ink.

During this time, I was listening to some Blues’ music. Music and Art are a great combination. Wow, a fantasy blue mum and listening to Etta James, what could be better?

I guess for some people the "blues" can make you sad but for me it's a mellow experience. Painting as well as a good blues singer can sing, is something to strive for in this life time... You can see this painting in my Etsy Shop.

News flash Nekosjewelry Etsy Shop added this painting to their first Etsy Treasury.

Original Abstract Landscape "Warm Sky" and Art History

While working on this painting, I felt close to the artist Milton Avery.
Mr. Avery’s abstract landscapes were intuitive with bold colors that had a "representational" feel. According to Widipedia “Milton Avery was often thought of as the American Matisse.”

Beside the art history influences this abstract/impressionist landscape's heart is color. The sky and figure are relaxing in a warm sun. I painted blocks of orange and blue with the mixed neutrals in the sky...You can see more details regarding the artwork in my Etsy Shop . . .