The kids and I talked about leaves falling, drifting, twirling and blowing with a gust of wind. They each choose a description and put their leaves in motion!

On black construction paper, step-by-step:
After choosing and drawing a single leaf, each student created their own stencil by cutting the leaf out and tracing it to create an interesting composition. They were encouraged to overlap, turn the leaves in different directions, and let a leaf or two go off the page. Keeping the tip of the glue bottle on the paper, the compositions were outlined with glue (Crayola washable school glue dries nice and clear - leaving a black outline.). The glue was allowed to dry (overnight at least) before we went in with oil pastels, mixing and blending 'neighbors' on the color wheel. Our final step included looking for ways to include light and dark values.
Enjoy!

The kids and I have been exploring the wonderful world of color!

In our Fall I session of 'Color Explosion', we started out by drawing buildings as if they were stacked on a hillside - inspired by images of super colorful cities around the world. We talked about overlapping and shapes becoming smaller as they get further away. Each student added their own unique details to the architecture.

We then dove into color using liquid watercolors (SO vibrant!). We tried to limit our color palette and we used repetition by repeating the same color in different places around the painting. Viola!

This painting is about being overwhelmed - and not staying in that state.

It could be too much paperwork, being too busy, too many decisions, too much to accomplish, too many expectations, too many emotions, too much fear, too many mistakes, too many worries...

The blooms in the image are intentionally placed at the top of the composition. They are pushing to get their heads above water. They reach up for a deep breath (symbolized by the circles at the top).

The image reminds me that Peace, Wisdom and Perspective are available. The Giver of Life offers fresh, life-giving air.

The flowers in the painting won't drown. In fact, they are thriving!
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Then Jesus said, "Come to me all who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yolk upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. For my yolk is easy and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:28

"I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid." - John 14:27

'The Fabs' (4 long time friends)
wanted to give their beloved 'Honey'
(one of the Fab's moms)
a special retirement gift.

Honey loves white tulips. The 5 blooms in the bouquet represent each of the women. When Honey was described as "a very lovely person with a bright warm smile and a huge heart", a golden joy-filled background came to mind. 


Celebrating friendship and the love for a Mama - I love it! Happy retirement Honey!

Honey's reaction to her gift. :)

If you've got special someone in mind - I'm in! Contact me and we'll talk about ideas and pricing.