Personal Art Blog

Sharing the lessons I teach at the Artist Guild and the personal discoveries in my art.

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Mr Beaver at Home



Mr Beaver at Home
6x8in oil on canvas NFS

I was invited to join a small group of artists who
participate together in a monthly challenge.







The DB Challenge
They are:
Diana Moses Botkin    http://dianamosesbotkin.blogspot.com/
Suzanne Berry              http://suzanneberry.blogspot.com/
Vicki Ross                   http://vickiandrandyrossart.blogspot.com/
All are fabulous artists and I felt honored to be asked.

The guidelines  - It should be FUN!
But Diana also wrote, it should be a chance to play, explore and learn something
without the thought of marketability of the painting pleasing anyone but
ourselves. That drew me in.

I admit I laughed when I read the challenge for my first month.
So will you... it is  "Rodents."
Anyone who has been following my blog knows I have
just completed a series of bird nests so is it any wonder
my rodent of choice has a huge nest. Tree branches and
trunks replace twigs and grasses.
This was from a photo I took in Colorado near Lake Dillon.

Below are the other member's paintings.
Some really skillful and creative imagery going on here.
I am hoping being in their company will
challenge me to come up with some creative results myself.
I encourage you to look at their excellent blogs.





“Of Mice and Lego Men"
Oil on hardboard, 5"x7"
©2013 Diana Moses Botkin


"Pink Squirrel"
16" x 12" pastel














"Really?"
12"x16" Oil on linen
©2013 Suzanne Berry  




13 comments:

  1. Your subject of choice for that challenge is off course, wait for it, nests. =)
    I think it is a great way for you to connect what you did and where you are going. In a way the subject isn't that important for you, the fracturing is, the way you express yourself. It looks lovely by the way.
    I have a few more in me, but it is time to start looking for new adventures and challenges. I have finished 17 nest paintings and it has been a fun journey, all thanks to you.

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  2. Really makes me think I should start doing something new and not obvious, great inspiration and great works !

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  3. I didn't know beavers were rodents! Learn something new everyday. Love your piece and those of the other challenge participants!

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  4. Wonderful painting, Julie! A fun challenge which you did beautifully...love the beaver!

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  5. Mr. Beaver is so busy building that nest! What interesting creatures. You've captured their energy well in this piece, Julie. Thank you for joining in the fun for our monthly Challenge!

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  6. How much fun for you. They are truly varied and talented artists. You created a painting that is a special moment in time. Very nice.

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  7. We have no beavers ... a landscape that enchants, water and trees, and the beaver reigning on its habitat.
    A very original art work, like those of Bloggers
      that you present today. Thanks, dear Julie!

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  8. Way to go Julie! Toad 'ya it'd be OK! We're a wild 'n crazee group. Can't wait to finish the book contract I've been doing so I can explore your fractal technique!

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  9. you know....I did not know a beaver is a rodent. Good for you! I learned something new --and I love your painting. Beavers are absolutely cool!

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  10. I just started following Diane, so this will be fun to see how you all approach the challenges. It is off to a good start, lol

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  11. Looks like a lot of fun was had by all

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  12. An excellent group and this beaver dam is woven together so much like your nests- perfect! I like the blur in the water too- just the lovely extra touch one expects of your work.

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  13. forgive my lateness Julie! i so love your answer to the challenge, beautifully done. so looking forward to seeing your work there.

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I love that you are taking the time to comment and thank you for it. I am sure other readers will enjoy them too. If you cannot comment through this format then email me at juliefordoliver@gmail.com
Cheers,
Julie