Buoys and Lobster Pots in Nova Scotia

The honor system speaks of a simpler way of life in Nova Scotia. If you need some wooden buoys or lobster pots for a day of fishing, just take what you want and leave the money in the white bucket.

This scene is so colorful and delightful, it makes a  unique seascape painting.

• The original watercolor painting has been sold. Let me know if you would like to order a print of Buoys and Lobster Pots or have one painted just for you. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day!

Autumn Blaze Painting Demonstration - original landscape oil painting

The autumn landscape is such an inspiration in New England! Today, I got out one of the many canvases stashed in my supply room and got to work.

A rocky stream surrounded by brilliant foliage is the goal for this 16x20 inch painting. I will work in broad impressionistic strokes to convey the vigor and energy that comes with the autumn air and the bubbling mountain stream.
Click on images to see them larger.

Autumn Oak Leaves - watercolor painting

Beautiful russet oak leaves are set off by the deep forest behind them. A ray of sunlight lights up the sprig of leaves and acorns still clinging to the branch. 

People sometimes ask how I decide what color to use for the background. In this case, I used a deep blue. Blue is the complement, or opposite color on the color wheel, to orange. Since this russet color is a variation of orange, deep blue is its opposite. When placed next to each other, complementary colors look brighter than they otherwise would appear. This helps to "light up" the leaves showing off the beauty of their color and helping to create the appearance of sunlight upon them.

• The original painting is sold. You can find more of my autumn leaf paintings in my Etsy shop. Thanks for stopping by!

Harbor in Nova Scotia - watercolor seascape painting

Two boats sit quietly in a harbor on the island of Nova Scotia.

The overcast day lends a muted quality to this painting which is set off by the bright colors of the boat house and the red boat. In the lower right hand corner, a few lobster pots stand ready for the next time they will be needed.

• The original has been sold, but you can find more of my seascapes in my Original Art Shop. Thanks for stopping by today!

Black-capped Chickadee in Autumn

A little chickadee alights on a maple tree, it's leaves full of autumn color.

He seems to be turning around to see who is looking at him. These tiny birds are very friendly and a favorite visitor to the bird feeder for many people.

• The original watercolor is sold. You might like to check out my bird paintings currently for sale in my Etsy shop. Or let me know if you'd like one painted just for you!