lavender painting

Sometimes you can't help but feel excited when you begin and painting, and this was one of those. I painted after a 2 week vacation and I was energized to be back in my studio. I always get a kick out of tackling these big square paintings and if they work they're a thrill to do.

This photo shows the early stages of under painting. To the right of my easel is my Ipad. On this I have my color plan and reference photos that I'm working from.

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It had been years since I'd painted lavender and at this time of year it looks so good in my garden I felt compelled to do it, the tulips laid on the table cloth added so much interest and direction for the eye.

I finished it after about 2 weeks, but then realized I wanted to manipulate the red drape behind the lavender. A small change, but a strong improvement.

The first time I finished it .

(spot the difference)

Arrangement of six tulips
36X36
Acrylic on wood

(detail)  Sometimes seeing a detail really shows the color.