Friday, June 25, 2010

Painting: Hollyhocks



I took the photos from which to paint these hollyhocks almost a year ago on a neighborhood walk. I have never chosen flowers as the subject of a painting, but when I started painting again a few years ago I was excited about tackling new subjects. And, this particular one made it to my nesting list. Not exactly baby apparel I know, but this painting was something I had in mind for Scarlett's room and I am desperate to get some things finished for her so she does not become the forgotten middle child when her little sister arrives!


So, hooray! I finished the painting! Every painting is instructive (my sister and I talk about "laps in the pool") and this one was a bit surprising too. I actually roughed in the layout last December and thought I could finish it in a couple hours. I thought it shouldn't be that difficult because it was just flowers--not a portrait or anything. 


Well, turns out that flowers are much more complex than I realized. I invested many more hours. But I also am more fond of this painting than I thought. I was thinking of it as "decorator" painting to fill a spot in a room as opposed to a serious composition but I like how it turned out! And I also really like it in Scarlett's room. A bunch of vibrant pink hollyhocks is about as girly as it gets--fun for my little girl's room.


This painting is 20x16--a much more comfortable scale. The flowers are about life size, which I love to do.

I wasn't sure about framing... I wanted something with more of a cottage than a formal feel. I ended up buying a pretty basic frame with a strange black and brown finish on sale at Michael's and using a can of Krylon to paint it robin's egg blue ("Blue Ocean Breeze" actually). I think it works. And it was a great price! And, it was instant DIY gratification.


I have a couple other things in mind for Scarlett's walls. This went smoothly enough that I'm motivated! I'll get her room finished yet.


6 comments:

Tasha Horsley said...

your hollyhocks are AMAZING!!! I would definitly hang something like that in my house. Ava's room is my most girly place, so probably in there. :) It is just the prettiest painting. I am so impressed at your talent! I have painted before as well, and it isn't easy. Scarlett has a treasure for sure!!

Amy @ OurScoop said...

I can not get over you!! This is gorgeous!! You are amazing! I loved it when you lived across the street and I could see through your window that beautiful huge red canvas you painted which hung above your couch. How would it be to be so talented?

Heidi said...

I think you did a great job! The colors are so pretty, and the blue frame helps it to stand out.

Glory said...

Beautiful job! Hollyhocks are such special and gorgeous flowers and you captured them beautifully!

Sandra Henderson said...

You are very talented! I am new to your blog, but sure hope you do a tutorial with your next painting! I'd love to watch the process! The little dress below is beatuiful! It's ALL amazing! where do you live? I couldnt' find it easily, but will keep reading older posts.

Anonymous said...

These look like the hollyhocks in my garden. I adore this painting! Such beautiful colors. Makes my heart sing!

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