"For You!" 12" X 11" pastel

                                                                               
I wasn't able to finish this one before Christmas so I chose colors that might do well at another "event." This painting was done on U-Art paper #400. It's rougher than the #800 I used the first time I painted on U-Art. I've admired the wrapped present still lifes I've seen many artists paint like Carol Marine, Nancy Franke and Karen Appleton. They all use oils, but I was curious to see how the subject would translate in pastel.

My best wishes to all of you and your loved ones for a blessed new year. I hope our wishes for a peaceful world, good health and a stable economy will be realized. Thank you for the interest in and support of my artistic efforts this past year. Being able to connect with all of you is a great gift and immeasurable joy for me. Happy New Year!

"Tiny Beauty II" 6" X 8" Pastel SOLD

                                                                     
I couldn't resist another ornament for this series. I forgot to mention in my post "Tiny Beauty I" I painted on a paper sold by Dakota Pastels. It's Wallis paper that has been adhered to a sturdy, archival conservation board about the weight of matboard.  It's great to work on and comes in white or the Belgian Grey. I think it's a little expensive - a 6" X 8" board works out to $4.00 apiece, but that's just my opinion. It's a great surface though.

Available at:  http://www.dailypaintworks.com/Artists/carol-flatt-1045

"Tiny Beauty I" 6" X 8" Pastel SOLD

Well, I am officially in the spirit of the season now! The last few days I've been working here and there on this piece, and it has brought me so much joy. I just had tons of fun with it.

First, I think the subject matter was uplifting to me. Lots of fond memories passed through my mind of Christmases as a child decorating the tree and just the enjoyment of the traditions we had. It was a very nice way to step into the holiday activity.

To work with the varied and bright colors was a pleasure! I had an excuse to use the brightest red in the box, the boldest yellow and the deepest blue!

The process was liberating. Soft edges, blurred shadows and textured surfaces were exciting to play with. I had the final say as to how I wished the scene to be.

I finished this painting today in the company of the nicest friend anyone could have. We christened her new studio with tea and Biscotti (it was early morning so the wine will have to wait) and two hours of visiting and painting.

So I am officially, wholeheartedly head over heels into this magical, wonderful, amazing and meaningful time of year. I hope you are as well.

Available at DailyPaintworks at:  http://www.dailypaintworks.com/Artists/carol-flatt-1045