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When I left "Impressions of Fall" it wasn't completed, however I didn't know what I wanted to do with it so, I let it sit for a couple of days (see blog entry)  I had only put on 5 leaves and didn't know where I wanted to go with it from there, however I knew the 5 leaves were not enough.  Last night I decided to add more leaves in a random pattern, so I put them on in many different directions and am now happy with it.  I have picked a great frame for it.  I will frame it and add it to my works section as soon as the painting returns from having prints made.

The painting is not realistic, not abstract either;  I really don't know what category it falls in, but I am sure having fun stepping out of my comfort zone.  Today I plan to paint an abstract type painting of a nearby rock climbing area.  I will post it when I have finished it.

I always set my paintings somewhere that I can look at them throughout the day to decide if I need to add something before I declare them finished.  I put this painting, "Rhapsody", aside and after viewing it throughout the afternoon I felt it needed some darker areas.  I added another wash of blue to darken those areas and add a little "punch" to the painting.  Am I finished with this piece?  I'm still not sure but will give it another day and see what I decide.

I have always wanted to try some abstract painting, however, I have been reluctant to do so because it is out of the norm for me.  I guess I tend to play it too safe most of the time.  I am always intrigued by abstract paintings and like many of the paintings I see at art exhibitions.  Like any other style, there are wonderful abstract paintings, as well as those that leave a lot to be desired.  My daughter, Nicole, does wonderful abstract work.  You are probably thinking I am prejudiced, but I think I am fairly objective concerning her results.  I wish I had a photo of one of her pieces to share.

I decided to step out of my comfort zone this week and take a risk and give this style a try.  I had a lot of fun doing these paintings and hope to do more.  I won't give up my Shattered Reality series, nor will I quit painting representational works, however I am looking forward to expanding my selections.  This painting, "Impressions of Fall", incorporates the stamping of real leaves and the use of a little black webbing spray.

I love the drive along the Columbia River when going from Spokane, where I live, to Portland, Oregon.  The scenery gets more beautiful the farther west that you drive, and nearing Portland is the stunning Multnomah Falls.

My daughter rooms with a budding photographer who was offered a showing of her work in a restaurant in West Seattle.  I offered to mat the photos for framing and was delighted with a black and white photo of the bridge at Multnomah Falls.  I wanted to paint the view because it featured the bridge so well.  Photos I have taken the past have always featured the Falls in its entirety with little focus on the bridge.  Aimee graciously allowed me to use her photo as a reference and I just completed the painting.

I thoroughly enjoyed painting this view of the bridge.  I sent it off today to get giclees and note cards printed and ordered a wonderful frame for it.  I look forward to posting on my web site when all is ready.