Negative Painting

In this case "negative" is not a bad word!

These are negative ink wash paintings of oak leaves that I collected while on a hike.
What is negative painting? Negative painting is painting outside of the subject. Sort of like painting the "air" around the leaf.
What is ink wash? Ink wash is in this case is India ink and water applied with a bamboo brush. I really like the contrast and this type of painting technique seems to exaggerate the shape of the leaf. Cool effect.

It is interesting to note the different shapes. Oak leaves especially reminds me of people. Some are tall and skinny (like the bottom leaf and my dad), some top heavy (like the top leaf), and some bottom heavy. They're all wonderfully made each with their own characteristics. I love them all. I wouldn't want them to look the same. No way.

Some other good negatives? Negative bills, negative aches and pains, negative worries, negative debt, a negative criminal record, a negative biopsy....

Here's wishing you good negatives this Holiday Season!

Arrowhead Lake Tinley Trails

This is beautiful Arrowhead Lake, tucked away in the middle of the fast paced Palos area and part of the Tinley Creek Trail system. I love the fact that I can get a Walgreen, McDonald's, and Speedway Gas on every one block then turn to the next block and be in another world, in deep forest or lush meadows, even this lakeside retreat. Many people fish in this lake and it is surrounded by paved trails, perfect for bikers, joggers, and nature lovers.

On this particular day I heard many frogs trilling in the distance and a very persistent cardinal chirping fast and loud! What's the matter crazy cardinal?

This picture is really beautiful and would make for a great abstract painting. At the very edge of the lake grows water plants while multi-colored autumn leaves float by. I love the deep purple, orange, yellow and burgundy hues. So much fun!

It's Coming!

Yes that's right, I can smell it in the air. That distinctive swirl of leaves, the dance which releases an earthy aroma and the playful sounds of leaf "tag" fills the air. Who doesn't get excited over Autumn? I can actually see some change start at the tips of some branches even though the official start of autumn is still a month away. People in the North are probably enjoying even more color change than Chicago right now, because Autumn arrives earlier for them. I love Autumn, it's my favorite season by far. So here is a little watercolor pencil and ink tree to enjoy in order to hold you over until you can start to see the color change in your area. Let's celebrate Autumn, it comes and goes too fast!