The Lotus Collection

There is something mysterious about a Lotus.

Free floating in the water, yet secured below.

Saturated, inviting petals in vibrant color...

During a trip to Longwood Gardens (near Philadelphia) I fell in love with this bloom all over again.

Measuring approx. 3' x 2' this is my largest painting to date, and my second piece after my summer watercolor class with Larry Lombardo. (I continue weekly classes with him)

I decided to make it a series. I am on my next lotus now... hopefully to finish within the next couple of weeks.

Where The Watercolor Began

I had a romantic desire to paint most of my life (or at least as long as I can remember).

It took me until the age of 31 (summer 2007) to actually begin.

While sitting in a waiting room I picked up a Mt. Gretna summer calender of events. Larry Lombardo NWS, BWS, PWS-sgg was to teach an 8 week course in watercolor. I knew this was my chance.

All of the students painted the same subject, both in color, and a black and white study. I was hooked!!!

Winner of Kakkis Everylife Foundation Art Contest

Before ending 2009, an artist friend of mine (check out her blog...Art by Kathy Michels) told me of a contest the Kakkis Foundation was having for artists with rare diseases. Having Fibromyalgia, I entered the contest with three of my watercolor paintings.

Never expecting to win...I received an email in February that I was a Special Merit Winner. I won a cool Flip video camera!

As an emerging watercolor artist, this highlighted my journey. (may not seem like much, but it was truly a blessing from God...affirming the gift he has chose for me. And being able to document my life with my new hubby)

The painting, which I titled "Grandma's Honeymoon" is a black and white watercolor of my grandma overlooking Niagra Falls on her second honeymoon. My grandfather's brother and wife are also in the painting. (Grandpa was taking the photo) I color washed over Grandma to ensure her focus and priority.