tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74458267582503150152012-02-15T10:34:52.066-08:00Follow along as I share a little about me, and a lot about my artwork!Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.comBlogger2141100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-85935502902790511942012-02-15T10:34:00.001-08:002012-02-15T10:34:42.835-08:00

"Just living is not enough....One must have sunshine, freedom and a little flower."         ~Hans Christian Anderson Chrysanthemum's - A Bowl Of Pure Happiness     Laura Leeder, Watercolor, Feb.2012 This painting is finally finished.  I took over a week to study it and made a few small adjustments.  I must confess that glazing all those layers of yellow, orange, and red was

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-64655069395256422522012-02-06T08:19:00.000-08:002012-02-09T06:47:46.913-08:00

Second Annual Art Trot Silent Auction Fundraiser for the Therapeutic Riding Program, Creston,BC Donated to Silent Auction to be held this  Friday & Saturday. @Maple Leaf, Creston,BC     By Laura Leeder, 2011 I have donated the above watercolor painting.  This study, is one of many maple leaves I collected this fall, while out walking.   Image size is apx. 6"

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-29894950458251435332012-02-01T10:39:00.000-08:002012-02-01T12:56:42.802-08:00

"There are days when you need someone who just wants to be your sunshine and not the air you breath."     ~Robert Brault February is HEART month and I'm celebrating! With every painting, print or set of notecards you buy, now through the month of February, you'll receive a free gift. It's my way of saying "thank you" and wishing you  a healthy & happy, heart month. This

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-39767098176625982902012-01-31T07:37:00.000-08:002012-01-31T07:37:59.941-08:00

"Nothing spurs creativity more than a deadline."  ~ Mary E. Whitehill The Images Art Show represents a group of well known artists residing here in the Creston Valley.  This group of professional artist's have been holding an annual 2-3 day show and sale every fall, for many years now.  Each year the group invites a guest artist to participate in this show. I received an invitation

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-91619802809164543692012-01-25T09:30:00.000-08:002012-01-25T09:30:51.226-08:00

Part of Treasury #11 - Valentine's Day Cards Curated by Miyuki Heart's Desire Notecards, Multi Pack Of 6 Blank Notecards By Laura Leeder     "Side by side or miles apart, dear friends are always close to the heart." What a pleasant surprise to find my notecard "Heart's Desire", featured in a Treasury on Etsy this week. Treasury #11

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-39453352819383204462012-01-21T08:24:00.000-08:002012-01-21T08:24:19.035-08:00

"The charm of the season – and the day in particular – is to be found in the union of the two complementaries blue and orange."  ~ Charles Burchfield ©Chrysanthemum's, watercolor in progress, Jan. 21, 2012    By Laura Leeder These mum's are beginning to take shape.  I am continuing to develop the front and back right mum. Using both warm and cool values of various reds and pinks, I

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-83378107446185809972012-01-19T07:46:00.000-08:002012-01-19T07:46:28.617-08:00

"I like to first create an underpainting to set up the rhythm of lights and darks."    ~ Amanda Jones ©Chrysanthemum's, watercolor in progress, Jan 19, 2012    By Laura Leeder Working slowly on the flowers, I've started with an underpainting of a lite value of New Gamboge, a warm yellow.  Followed by a 2nd glaze, slightly darker.  Several more lite

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-66673237044126734562012-01-17T07:39:00.000-08:002012-01-17T07:39:48.022-08:00

"Visualize this thing that you want, see it, feel it, believe in it. Make your mental blue print, and begin to build."  ~Robert Collier ©On the easel....floral painting, Jan 17, 2012    Laura Leeder This small bowl of Chrysanthemum's sat on my desk for several weeks last fall.  Each morning when I entered the studio, my heart did a flip as these

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-27280793906829313172012-01-14T08:18:00.000-08:002012-01-14T08:18:04.151-08:00

"Even in the smallest and humblest garden, a sturdy hydrangea at once proclaims the place as the abode of a real gardener rather than a mere purchaser of plants to cover the landscape."   - Washington Park Arbortum Bulletin, 2006 ©Pink Perfection, Watercolor, 4.5"x5"    Laura Leeder Hydrangeas, big, beautiful, mop head blossoms. I can recall many a

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-50068124758202671292012-01-11T08:37:00.000-08:002012-01-11T08:37:42.121-08:00

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched.  They must be felt with the heart."     ~Helen Keller Completed Mandala Painting © Dance of Joy, Watercolor, Jan.2012     By Laura Leeder Wow! This painting pulsates with color!    I can almost hear the drums in the background, as the "hearts glow" and move to the beat.   I

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-55309785221847796012012-01-07T17:55:00.000-08:002012-01-08T08:36:09.368-08:00

"Among the things you can give and still keep are your word, a smile, and a grateful heart."       ~ Zig Ziglar (1926-)  Step 1 ©Watercolor Painting In Progress, Jan. 7, 2012    Laura Leeder    Another decorative art (Mandala) design.  With February right around the corner....this pattern of hearts seemed a good choice.  I'm using transparent

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-62616603522046549592012-01-03T06:36:00.000-08:002012-01-03T08:12:23.595-08:00

"We have been friends together, in sunshine and in shade."   ~Caroline Sheridan Norton © Best of Friends, Watercolor, Jan. 2, 2012      By Laura Leeder My first completed painting of the New Year! I have spent the last few days trying to finish up all of my "works in progress".   As a result, this small painting is finally completed!   I really enjoyed the use of complimentary

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-43614736086972253542011-12-31T07:20:00.000-08:002011-12-31T08:07:44.378-08:00

Our Awareness of the seasons becomes more acute as we grow older.  When the barrenness of winter disappears with spring, the sweet essence of the blossoming buds and leaves on both flowers and trees, awakens our senses. Then summer arrives, and we welcome the warmth of the sun and the longer days.  Our gratitude for the beauty of nature is enhanced when fall transforms the greenery of summer

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-79062833803088150822011-12-23T07:42:00.000-08:002011-12-24T07:31:42.148-08:00

"Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas."      ~Calvin Coolidge, 1927 © Star of Wonder, Watercolor by Laura Leeder Many thanks to all of you have visited my blog this past year.  Your comments and words of encouragement have kept me motivated!    "May

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-60745874289059219392011-12-16T07:39:00.000-08:002011-12-16T07:39:08.744-08:00

"I do my best work and have the most fun when I'm not sure exactly where I'm heading. The process of discovery is exhilarating."   Jill Cohen ©A Season Of Joy, Decorative Art (Mandala)    Artist Laura Leeder Has it been over a week since my last post?  How time flies..... I have been very busy in the last few days.  A little bit of painting, but, mostly....a whole lot

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-6617126254367220522011-12-06T07:16:00.001-08:002011-12-07T06:55:18.614-08:00

"The beauty is to create from simplicity a complex object that still looks simple but powerful."      ~Mona Youssef ©Pears, A Watercolor Painting In Progress    Laura Leeder, Dec. 7, 2011 Using DS Manganese Blue Hue, Ultramarine Blue and Amethyst Genuine, I've deepened the background colors.  I've chosen not to separate the upper portion of the painting from the table edge after

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-50146731351767124122011-12-04T08:36:00.000-08:002011-12-04T08:36:24.876-08:00

"Each painting is a kind of discovery, a discovery of new forms, color relation, or balance in composition. With every painting completed, the artist may change his viewpoint to suit the discoveries made, making his vision many-sided."       ~Robert Colquhoun © Pears, Watercolor Painting In Progress     Laura Leeder, Dec. 4, 2011 I managed to squeeze in a small amount of

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-82524029691474530602011-12-02T09:29:00.000-08:002011-12-02T09:29:29.419-08:00

"Your vision, rather than just your seeing, displays a thousand or more possible paintings in the simplest things."     ~Andrew Baker ©Pears, Watercolor Painting In Progress    Laura Leeder, Dec. 2, 2011 This simple still life of pears and a flower is a pleasant variation from my usual still life compositions.  Although simple, it doesn't necessarily mean it will be easier.

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-37405186183650038642011-11-30T08:05:00.000-08:002011-11-30T08:05:44.700-08:00

"In this world you've a soul for a compass;  And a heart for a pair of wings There's a star on the far horizon; Rising bright in an azure sky For the rest of the time that you're given; Why walk when you can fly?"   ~Mary Chapin Carpenter ©Destinys Guide - Watercolor, Size:10" x 10.5"    Laura Leeder, Nov.28, 2011 This decorative design is called a Mandala.  The pattern for

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-14967670388482311682011-11-27T07:34:00.000-08:002011-11-27T07:34:40.632-08:00

"Ideals are like stars, you will not succeed in touching them with your hands, but like the seafaring man on the desert of waters, you choose them as your guide, and following them, you reach your destiny."    - Carl Schurz ©A Star Mandala, Watercolor In-Progress    Laura Leeder, Nov 25, 2011 Here is the almost finished Star.  I was unable to photograph the finished

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-27941467868545661752011-11-26T07:42:00.000-08:002011-11-26T07:42:39.774-08:00

"There wouldn't be a sky full of stars if we were all meant to wish on the same one."      - Frances Clark Step 1 © A Star Mandala, Watercolor In Progress, Nov. 2011    Laura Leeder In my last post I indicated that I usually have 3 to 4 paintings on the go.....I may work on all of them for short periods each day until one or two are completed.  I then start another and

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-72178083482067720752011-11-16T07:55:00.000-08:002011-11-16T07:55:10.461-08:00

"When a painting problem crops up, don't rush to fix it. You probably already know one way to fix it, but wait for something else to show up... invite the muses to bring you a new solution."     ~ Carole Katchen ©Hydrangea Blossoms, WC Painting In Progress    Laura Leeder, Nov.16, 2011 I have been working mostly on the right blossom, at first glance it might not look any

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-72498589546614874952011-11-12T09:04:00.000-08:002011-11-12T09:04:13.473-08:00

"To improve a painting, you must be willing to make mistakes, even big ones."      ~Earl Grenville Killeen ©Hydrangea Blossoms, Unfinished Watercolor Painting    Laura Leeder, Nov.2011 I set this painting aside some time ago, as I did not like the way it was progressing.  It was a "still life" with "no life".  I was so excited to paint these vibrant pink blossoms....yet the

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-11737108520223904872011-11-06T18:26:00.000-08:002011-11-06T18:26:36.489-08:00

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."     ~Albert Camus                                                                   ©Autumn Leaves, Watercolor, Size: 9"x9"    Laura Leeder Splashing, charging, flicking colors.... spraying water and dropping salt....all techniques, I used in this small painting of maple leaves.  What fun!  And such a nice break from my usual

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-23961284814728515382011-11-06T16:11:00.000-08:002011-11-06T16:11:10.393-08:00

"I love looking for things to paint, and I love painting, and I love framing them and seeing them in a gallery, but more than anything, I love to sell them!"        ~Jack Hambleton Oh, how true!  I couldn't agree more..... ©Photo by Win Dinn, Nov.4, 2011 The Artisan & Crafter's  Market that I participated in, on Friday afternoon turned out to be a colorful and pleasant 

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-59435570832777518222011-10-31T10:02:00.000-07:002011-10-31T10:02:15.501-07:00

This week promises to be a busy one for me, as I get ready for this upcoming Artisan Market. This will be my first time participating in such a venture....looking forward to it! I am putting together a selection of gift cards and prints to sell and as the weeks progress, perhaps a few small paintings that celebrate the season as well. If you live near-by or are visiting the

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-61728551971392863242011-10-27T07:20:00.000-07:002011-10-27T07:20:40.523-07:00

"There is a harmony in autumn, and a luster in its sky, which through the summer is not heard or seen, as if it could not be, as if it had not been!"    ~Percy Bysshe Shelley ©Autumn Colors, painting in progress, Oct 26, 2011    By Laura Leeder I worked on this painting a bit more yesterday. Mostly on the back leaves, which are almost finished. I have dropped colors onto

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-84059136000448958052011-10-24T13:19:00.000-07:002011-10-24T13:19:12.497-07:00

"How beautifully leaves grow old. How full of light and color are their last days."   ~John Burroughs ©Autumn colors, painting in progress, Oct 24, 2011    By Laura Leeder Since my last post, I have completely emptyed out my studio.  The room has been repainted...the windows, doors and furniture all received a thourough cleaning. I have been sorting through boxes, paper,

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-43975745795271383302011-10-14T16:32:00.000-07:002011-10-14T16:32:37.457-07:00

"Surely the apple is the noblest of fruits."    -- Henry David Thoreau, Wild Apples ©Apple Lace, Watercolor, Oct.2011    Laura Leeder While most of the apples have been harvested in the surrounding orchards; there are still a few tree's here and there with apples yet to be picked. This one, I picked from the ground beneath a tree laden with fruit.   Not sure of the variety,

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-2358866684264286452011-10-11T08:26:00.000-07:002011-10-11T08:26:03.593-07:00

"Creativity depends on a number of things: experience, including knowledge and technical skills; talent; an ability to think in new ways; and the capacity to push through uncreative dry spells."    ~Teresa Amabile Healthy Pleasures, Watercolor - Sold By Laura Leeder The above quote is so true.  Every now and again, I go through a period in my painting where I wreck

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-46156680794659593612011-10-04T08:41:00.000-07:002011-10-04T10:03:14.244-07:00

"To gain confidence, constant practice is essential. Just as a musician needs to practice regularly to retain his touch, the watercolourist needs to be constantly in touch with the medium."   ~Robert Lovett MAPLE LEAF STUDY In Watercolor                         Maple Leaf Study                    Watercolor - 6"x7.25"                          Laura Leeder CLICK HERE for

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-62169658632538221762011-10-01T11:56:00.000-07:002011-10-01T11:56:30.717-07:00

"Success has to do with deliberate practice. Practice must be focused, determined, and in an environment where there's feedback."  ~Malcolm Gladwell Step 1 ©Maple Leaf Study In Watercolor, Oct.1, 2011    Laura Leeder Step 2 ©Maple Leaf Study In Watercolor, Oct. 1, 2011    By Laura Leeder I cannot recall ever painting maple leaves.  Hard to believe isn't it?  With all the

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-4645206413205252952011-09-28T15:20:00.000-07:002011-09-28T15:20:26.164-07:00

"You can accelerate your development by giving yourself a fresh set of challenges, or the same set viewed from a different angle, every day. Explore a different path – if it's a dead end, explore another."   -Paul Foxton © "Peach With A Twist" - Watercolor - Size: 7.25"x8.5"       By Laura Leeder, Sept. 28, 2011 CLICK HERE for painting purchase information. Here is the

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-20973498637769794022011-09-26T13:19:00.000-07:002011-09-26T13:19:28.522-07:00

"My Mama always said you've got to put the past behind you before you can move on."  - the movie Forrest Gump Step 1 ©Peach Study, by Laura Leeder, Sept. 2011 Step 2 Not every painting is a success, as was the case with "cherries and lace" from my last post.  The more I worked on it...the less I liked it.  So, I decided not to work on it any further.  It has

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-44858810659993838142011-09-10T09:02:00.000-07:002011-09-10T09:02:52.580-07:00

"Color is the fruit of life."  ~Guillaume Apollinaire ©Watercolor In Progress, September 2011    Laura Leeder Cherries and lace, so much fun to paint!  I use both warm and cool reds and pinks to develop the cherries. Colors used in the background are from the Daniel Smith - Primatek line....they are quite granular, giving an interesting texture and sheen. Have an awesome day,

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-27680355352510094532011-09-08T14:54:00.000-07:002011-09-08T14:54:06.119-07:00

"Thanks for this day, for all birds safe in their nests, for whatever this is, for life."     ~Barbara Kingsolver ©Laura's Beach, Kootenay Lake, Sept.5th, 2011    By Laura Leeder  ©Laura's Beach, Kootenay Lake, Sept.5th, 2011    By Laura Leeder Ivor & I have had a great time exploring Kootenay Lake over the summer.  These are images from a beautiful &

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-80621275326976630432011-08-19T08:38:00.000-07:002011-08-19T08:39:24.270-07:00

"Change shakes us up, and we can thank our Muse for it... we are driven by change to create, to excel, and to become better humans, perhaps even more sensitive humans!"   -Max Elliott ©"Summer Blues", Watercolor By Laura Leeder The closing of our local gallery this June (Painted Turtle) was a catalyist that forced me to think about my immediate future as an Artist.  I took most

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-90329867082619956352011-08-17T12:01:00.000-07:002011-08-17T12:01:51.811-07:00

“Steam rises from a cup of tea and we are wrapped in history, inhaling ancient times and lands, comfort of ages in our hands.” Volunteers with Museum Curator, Tammy Hardwick (far right)                 ©Creston Museum Old Fashioned Tea and Art Show    Laura Leeder, August 13, 2011       Creston Museum Volunteers  (servers)                   ©Creston Museum Old Fashioned Tea and Art

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-16758335398733084462011-08-12T09:23:00.000-07:002011-08-12T09:23:21.717-07:00

"Steam rises from a cup of tea and we are wrapped in history, inhaling ancient times and lands, comfort of ages in our hands."   ~Faith Greenbowl    A Creston Museum Teacup ©"Miss Magnolia"- from the "Teacup Series" of Watercolor Paintings    By Laura Leeder, 2011  The Creston Museum's Old Fashioned Tea is this Saturday, August 13th.  If you haven't made your reservation yet, you can 

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-73544544214290863002011-08-10T16:26:00.000-07:002011-08-10T16:26:06.333-07:00

"Every now and then go away, have a little relaxation, for when you come back to your work your judgement will be surer.  Go some distance away because then the work appears smaller and more of it can be taken in at a glance and a lack of harmony and proportion is more readily seen."     ~Leonardo da Vinci The Batkes'-Katie (our niece), Rose (my sister),my husband Ivor (holding Kenya), Perry (

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-31839499566367425862011-07-14T12:08:00.000-07:002011-07-14T12:08:03.694-07:00

"My paintings are my camera on my world."  ~Jane Freeman A Creston Museum Teacup                     ©Laura Leeder, July 2011, Watercolor In Progress   As I was packing up the teacups to return to the Creston Museum, this one begged me to paint it.  I had just purchased several geranium plants on sale and thought a simple cluster of these white and lilac petals would be perfect

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-76025592142228746512011-07-01T08:30:00.000-07:002011-07-01T08:30:32.909-07:00

Then followed that beautiful season... Summer.... Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light; and the landscape lay as if new created in all the freshness of childhood.      -- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow                           ©Laura Leeder, July 2011   Summer is here and that means spending time outdoors, soaking up the sun, and enjoying all that mother nature has

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-4948698995837215642011-06-29T11:37:00.000-07:002011-06-29T11:37:00.429-07:00

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves."   ~John Muir ©On the Eastshore of Kootenay Lake, BC   Laura Leeder, June 29, 2011  I spent the last few days camping along Kootenay Lake.  While

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-80172146918454835112011-06-19T16:29:00.000-07:002011-06-19T16:29:56.318-07:00

©Wedgewood Manor Country Inn, Crawford Bay, BC     Photo by Laura Leeder As part of the 16th Annual Creston Valley and Eastshore ARTWALK , I will be exhibiting some of my watercolor paintings at this beautiful Country Inn. Artwalk runs from June 17 - Sept 5, 2011.  Maps of all the venues showcasing Artists can be picked up at the Chamber of Commerce in Creston and throughout

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-28297718896075174232011-06-10T08:54:00.000-07:002011-06-10T08:54:04.814-07:00

"The promise of these fragrant flowers, the fruit that ’neath these blossoms lies... Once hung, they say, in Eden’s bowers, and tempted Eve in Paradise."        -Walter Learned ©Ambrosia - A Taste Of BC, Watercolor, June 2011    Laura Leeder This small watercolor painting(8"x10") of an apple and apple blossoms is finished.  It has already travelled to Cranbrook where it has

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-3246443388884510262011-06-06T09:17:00.000-07:002011-06-06T09:17:46.929-07:00

"I think that if you shake the tree, you ought to be around when the fruit falls to pick it up."     - Mary Cassatt Step 4 ©Laura Leeder, Watercolor In Progress, June 2011 After a weekend away from the studio, I am ready to get back to work and hopefully complete this painting of an apple and it's blossoms.  The leaves are almost complete. Still more to do on the apple blossoms

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-57250980843356997612011-06-05T11:24:00.000-07:002011-06-05T11:24:22.225-07:00

"Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after."     ~Henry David Thoreau ©Moyie Lake, BC   June 4, 2011    Laura Leeder We've had a long, cool and wet spring here in the Creston Valley, so when the forecast promised to be clear and sunny, we jumped at the opportunity to get our boat out on the water. This was our first trip to Moyie

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-30691666630083733822011-06-04T07:43:00.000-07:002011-06-04T07:43:36.688-07:00

Today is the Creston Valley Rotary Club's WineArt Event.  This year it's being held in the newly renovated  Creston and District Community Complex.  The art portion of the event is being hosted by the Painted Turtle Gallery.    My painting: "Guardians Of The Grape" will be on exhibit. ©Laura Leeder, Watercolor Title:  Guardians Of The Grape Retail:  $375.00 plus tax Size:  20" x

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-2615004380829706282011-06-01T13:00:00.000-07:002011-06-01T13:00:52.284-07:00

"Thought is the blossom, language the bud, action the fruit behind."         - Ralph Waldo Emerson Step 3 ©Laura Leeder, Apple with Apple Blossoms, Watercolor In Progress, Yesterday was perfect weather for working outdoors in the yard.....so I only spent a short time in the studio. I have made some progress painting the apple leaves and blossoms...I will continue to

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-78148981227855299642011-05-30T09:03:00.000-07:002011-05-30T09:03:43.533-07:00

"All day in the green sunny orchard , when May was a marvel of bloom, I followed the busy bee-lovers, down paths that were sweet with perfume."       - Margaret E. Sangster       Step 1             ©Laura Leeder, Watercolor In Progress, May 2011       Step 2                       ©Laura Leeder, Watercolor In Progress   I have been wanting to include apple

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-34356222248565543222011-05-26T11:50:00.000-07:002011-05-28T07:54:31.081-07:00

"Inspiration comes from nature itself. I am enamored of nature, and that admiration has only increased as I age."   (Benjamin Eisenstat) ©Apple Blossoms, Laura Leeder, May 2011 As a Still-Life and Floral Artist, living in a rich agricultural area, my inspiration for a painting often comes from the surrounding landscape.   And right now....the valley is at it's very best.  The

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-76291105265445674262011-05-25T07:14:00.000-07:002011-05-28T07:03:37.351-07:00

"There is no trouble so great or grave that cannot be much diminished by a nice cup of tea."   -Bernard-Paul Heroux        On Friday, May 20th, I delivered a selection of Prints and Gift Cards featuring the "Teacup Series" to the Creston Museum.  They are now available for purchase  through the Museum Gift Shop.   The original watercolor paintings will be on exhibit during the

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-1833576243845173132011-05-16T12:04:00.000-07:002011-05-16T12:04:51.072-07:00

"In an age when everyone is constantly busy and short of time, what could be more enjoyable than taking time to indulge in what was once part of everyday life, but has now become a luxury  -- afternoon tea."       -LESLEY MACKLEY, The Book of Afternoon Tea   A Creston Museum Teacup ©Lord Aynsley, Watercolor, Size: 5"x7"    Laura Leeder After a very busy week, working outdoors, I

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-44554369815801622912011-05-09T07:44:00.000-07:002011-05-09T07:44:02.632-07:00

"If you've never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in spring bloom, maybe your soul has never been in bloom."   ~Terri Guillemets © A Spring Performance, Watercolor, Size:  17.25"x 22.25"     Laura Leeder It has been an unusually cool & wet spring here in the Creston Valley.  The bulbs poppped their heads up several weeks ago and have sat waiting for

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-47360416937935899892011-05-02T12:04:00.000-07:002011-05-02T12:04:00.415-07:00

"In the spring I have counted one hundred and thirty-six different kinds of weather inside of four and twenty hours."   ~Mark Twain On Saturday, a friend and I, drove to Castelgar to deliver new artwork to the Kootenay Museum & Gallery.  We stopped at the summit of the Creston-Salmo pass to take these pictures. @At the top of Salmo Pass, April 30, 2011     Laura Leeder

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-39793761239669846102011-04-27T12:10:00.000-07:002011-04-27T12:10:52.517-07:00

"A dominant colour possesses tremendous power in making a painting unique."  -Mary Bassi "A certain blue enters your soul. A certain red has an effect on your blood-pressure."   -Henri Matisse A Creston Museum Teacup ©Laura Leeder, April 2011, Watercolor In Progress I spent only a short time on this painting yesterday.  I removed the miskit that protected the flowers, on the cup

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-4458933944360012172011-04-26T09:34:00.000-07:002011-04-26T09:34:32.820-07:00

"Each painting has a promise implicit in its beginnings – make the finished work fulfill that promise."      -Michael Nevin A Creston Museum Teacup                         ©Laura Leeder, April 2011, Watercolor In Progress    Step 1                                     ©Laura Leeder, April 2011, Watercolor In Progress Step 2 It was a great weekend...warm

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-28591696969081024712011-04-22T09:34:00.000-07:002011-04-22T09:34:52.410-07:00

"For everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven."    Ecclesiastes                       © A Tribute To Spring, Watercolor   SOLD     Laura Leeder   It has been a very busy week.....and it feels strange not to be posting the progress of another teacup painting!   A break was needed to take care of the marketing side...... I spent a day in

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-90965825027898587012011-04-19T15:09:00.000-07:002011-04-19T15:09:58.993-07:00

Tea -"One sip of this will bathe the drooping spirits in delight beyond the bliss of dreams."          - Milton “The lyric sound of laughter,  fills all the April hills, with the joy-song of the crocus & the mirth of daffodils.”          -Clinton Scollard ©Spring Break, Watercolor, Size: 8x10"    Artist Laura Leeder After a few hours spent clearing winters' debris from the flower

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-6249480611634294922011-04-17T09:39:00.000-07:002011-04-17T09:39:48.508-07:00

"Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything that is beautiful; for beauty is God's handwriting - a wayside sacrament. Welcome it in every fair face, in every fair sky, in every fair flower, and thank God for it as a cup of blessing."    ~Ralph Waldo Emerson "Never yet was a springtime, when the buds forgot to bloom."   -Margaret Elizabeth Sangster ©Laura Leeder, April 2011,

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-37148855009150435642011-04-16T11:06:00.000-07:002011-04-16T11:06:18.731-07:00

"We are cups, constantly and quietly being filled. The trick is knowing how to tip ourselves over and let the beautiful stuff out."  -Ray Bradbury ©Laura Leeder, April 2011, Watercolor In Progress I've selected another spring green teacup for this next teacup painting.  The edge of the cup and the saucer both have a delicate curved shape that compliments the curves of these white crocus. 

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-32691178920577854012011-04-14T08:13:00.000-07:002011-04-14T08:13:05.912-07:00

"Steam rises from a cup of tea and we are wrapped in history, inhaling ancient times and lands, comfort of ages in our hands."      -Faith Greenbowl      A Creston Museum Teacup                     ©Lady Aynsley, Watercolor, Size:  5"x7"    Laura Leeder I went on-line in search of this teacup's pattern name, hoping to use that in the title of this painting.  Well, I spent far too much time

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-65233226913328592442011-04-12T09:47:00.000-07:002011-04-12T09:47:39.415-07:00

"Every moment in planning saves three or four in execution."  -Crawford Greenwalt ©Laura Leeder, April 2011, Watercolor In Progress I did very little on this one yesterday,  as I wasn't in the mood to tackle the pattern.  Instead, I started a new sketch and transferred it to w/c paper....I will start working on it today and continue with this one. There are 3 major challenges

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-32102709213655749182011-04-10T12:52:00.000-07:002011-04-10T12:52:18.251-07:00

"Feeling the wind on your face, and hearing the song of the birds, and watching the sun move across the land is to know there is no greater job than to be free to paint."    -Andrew Hamilton ©Laura Leeder, April 8, 2011, Watercolor In Progress

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-52587423156891025002011-04-07T10:16:00.000-07:002011-04-07T10:19:43.610-07:00

"As the centerpiece of a cherished ritual, it's a talisman against the chill of winter, a respite from the ho-hum routine of the day."          ~Sarah Engler, "Tea Up," Real Simple magazine, February 2006                                 © "Miss Ambrosia", Watercolor, Size: 8.25"x9.75"     Laura Leeder, April 2011   I came across this teacup, while browsing at Homesense in

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-4141490368114233892011-04-04T17:48:00.000-07:002011-04-04T17:48:50.261-07:00

"The first day of spring is one thing, and the first spring day is another. The difference between them is sometimes as great as a month."  ~Henry Van Dyke ©Laura Leeder, April 2011, Painting In Progress Give someone a Daisy and watch their face lite up. Daisys are little discs of sunshine and happiness.  Each petal offering a promise of love and hope.   And right now..... I am

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-59457617320519004772011-04-02T10:17:00.000-07:002011-04-02T10:51:58.468-07:00

© Miss Magnolia, Watercolor By Laura Leeder     A Creston Museum Teacup I am so pleased to be featured on the Painted Turtle Gallerys Blog right now! Artist and Gallery owner Win Dinn talks about my current watercolor painting project:  a "Teacup Series" for the Creston Museums upcoming "Old Fashioned Tea" this summer.   Miss Ettiquette-one of my original teacup paintings is on

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-10172896797738589742011-04-01T12:24:00.000-07:002011-04-02T10:18:35.190-07:00

"Allow yourself to enjoy the journey. Everything you draw or paint does not have to be a finished masterpiece."   -Michele Cooper ©Laura Leeder, April 1, Watercolor In Progress Step 1:  I almost always start by painting in my background first.  I just find it easier to judge all my other values against it. ©Laura Leeder, April 1, Watercolor In Progress

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-80229196316787552012011-03-31T09:06:00.000-07:002011-03-31T09:06:54.642-07:00

"Tea beckons us to enjoy quality time with friends and loved ones, and especially to rediscover the art of relaxed conversation."  - Dorthea Johnson © "Ethels' Teacup - A Family Treasure", Watercolor, Size: 7.25"x9.5"      Laura Leeder, March 2011 This painting is finally finished!  Overall, I am pleased with the results.       The teacup is part of my friend Claudia's china

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-91074979428184947142011-03-29T09:38:00.000-07:002011-03-29T09:38:48.788-07:00

"To gain confidence, constant practice is essential. Just as a musician needs to practice regularly to retain his touch, the watercolourist needs to be constantly in touch with the medium."  -Robert Lovett "Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere."    ~Chinese Proverb           ©Laura Leeder, March 2011, Watercolor In Progress   I avoided working on this

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-68524616206621365572011-03-26T09:04:00.000-07:002011-03-26T09:04:06.301-07:00

"Working in a studio environment with a still life, portrait or figure gives you a great deal of control in the design. You can carefully plan the position and movement of the subject, adding and subtracting elements as needed."  -Sidney Hermel ©Laura Leeder, March 2011, Watercolor in progress I am continuing to glaze lite to medium value washes on both the cup and the rose.  

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-78921349637399438512011-03-25T07:57:00.000-07:002011-03-25T07:57:16.832-07:00

"I never could have done what I have done without the habits of punctuality, order, and diligence, without the determination to concentrate myself on one subject at a time..."         -Charles Dickens                         © Laura Leeder, March 2011, Watercolor in progress   Yesterday, I concentrated on the rose.  I didn't like the shape of the petals on the right side, so I

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-6241106680889765812011-03-24T09:03:00.000-07:002011-03-24T09:03:18.382-07:00

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom."   -Anais Nin This is a perfect example of why I love watercolors!  Look at the beautiful translucent quality! This is a result of glazing transparent paints, starting with light, clear washes and slowly building values. Color's used are: Daniel Smith-Q.Gold, Burnt Sienna

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-56034879388191156342011-03-24T08:53:00.000-07:002011-03-24T08:53:52.050-07:00

"Art gives us the opportunity to escape the mundanity and ugliness of life and enter into an extraordinary world of imagination, creativity and beauty."  -Hap Hagood © "Ancient Beauties", Watercolor, Size:  24"x28"      Laura Leeder "Oh, beauty, ever ancient and ever new."   -Saint Augustine This painting is now on display at "ArtWorks" Gallery in Sandpoint, Idaho.  As part

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-46751810794305347762011-03-22T08:30:00.000-07:002011-03-22T08:55:00.061-07:00

If you are visiting Sandpoint, stop by the gallery and check out our “Joyful Exhibit” celebrating a world of bold, bright color. Also on display:  Petalicus One   (You must come in to see this!) An inventive collaborative effort realized by 26 members of theco-operative gallery, original concept by Julie Ellis                                                      PLUS....Wildlife Photographer

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-18351287894775578082011-03-17T07:58:00.000-07:002011-03-17T07:58:18.841-07:00

"There's a dear little plant that grows in our isle, Twas St Patrick himself, sure, that set it; And the sun on his labor with pleasure did smile, And with dew from his eye often wet it. It thrives through the bog, through the brake, and the mireland; And he called it the dear little shamrock of Ireland..."   -Andrew Cherry ©"St.Paddy's Tea", Watercolor, Size: 5 1/4"x8 1/4"  

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-16580512260849678422011-03-16T09:23:00.000-07:002011-03-16T09:23:43.736-07:00

"As the centerpiece of a cherished ritual, it's a talisman against the chill of winter, a respite from the ho-hum routine of the day."    ~Sarah Engler                             ©"Miss Primrose", Watercolor, 5"x7"      Laura Leeder, March 2011   Another teacup by "Phoenix China" , TF & S Ltd., England  (Thomas Forester & Sons) I chose this one for it's pretty "spring"

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-42079534675631555472011-03-15T08:52:00.000-07:002011-03-15T16:19:47.299-07:00

"Cultivate patience in your heart and you will improve. Learn to see well and your hand will become sure."       -Charles Philip Brooks ©Laura Leeder, March 2011, Watercolor Painting In Progress Patience is certianly required in painting in this small format and attempting to do so realistically.  This is another of the Creston Museum's teacups and the size of this painting is

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-50354192181233216482011-03-11T09:21:00.000-08:002011-03-11T09:21:36.222-08:00

"With repetition, the alternate approaches become clear, options open."      -Robert Genn ©Laura Leeder, March 2011, Watercolor Painting In Progress This is the first time that I have painted in a "series".  I could never understand how someone could paint the same thing over and over again.  After completing 3 teacup paintings, I was beginning to wonder how I was going to complete another one

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-63236676791839582462011-03-10T08:02:00.000-08:002011-03-10T08:02:56.361-08:00

"Each cup of tea represents an imaginary voyage."   ~Catherine Douzel                       ©"Miss Daisy", Watercolor, 5"x7"     Laura Leeder, March 2011   The 3rd teacup in the museum series is completed.  I tried to find the name of this pattern (V2250), but was unsuccessful.  The china mark on the bottom was first used in the 1930's by E. Brain & Co Ltd,  Foley China Works

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-13498993452139647362011-03-08T09:52:00.000-08:002011-03-08T09:52:22.914-08:00

"When the color achieves richness, the form attains its fullness also." -Paul Cezanne                             ©Laura Leeder, March 2011, Watercolor in progress   As you can see, I am making progress.  Developing the pattern on the front of the cup...need to strengthen the values overall.    A better part of my morning has been spent responding to emails.  I have a few

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-3558842187789242592011-03-07T08:36:00.000-08:002011-03-07T08:36:13.295-08:00

“I shall become a master in this art only after a great deal of practice.”      - Erich Fromm                           ©Laura Leeder, Feb.2011, Watercolor in progress   Working on the 3rd of the Creston Museum Teacups. I spent a good part of yesterday afternoon, photographing a few more cups in various formats.     All of my photographing is done outdoors on sunny days.  I

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-19474856888800262912011-03-05T11:32:00.000-08:002011-03-05T11:32:00.638-08:00

"O, wind, If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?"  ~Percy Bysshe Shelley                             ©Photo Courtesy Artist Laura Leeder   Spring's Greeting?  I thought I'd share this photo taken yesterday morning from my back deck.  I awoke to a fresh fall of snow....the sun is just barely peeking through.  It was easy to enjoy this scene as I know it won't last for long. 

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-86257460240785743122011-03-03T08:24:00.000-08:002011-03-03T08:24:39.731-08:00

"Tea ... is one of those rare treasures, enjoyed throughout the world, that actually benefits one's health."    -Kit Chow, All the Tea in China ©Miss Phoenix, Watercolor, 5"x7"    Laura Leeder, February 2011 This teacup is described as a 1930s French style cup and saucer.  The burnt orange and yellow flowers are hand painted. This teacup was made by "Phoenix China" ,  TF & S

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-15378619236610535312011-02-28T06:43:00.000-08:002011-02-28T06:43:50.272-08:00

"Not enjoyment, and not sorrow, is our destined end or way; / But to act, that each  to-morrow / Finds us further than to-day."   -Henry Wadsworth Longfellow ©Laura Leeder, Feb.2011, Watercolor in progress   It occured to me this morning as I was preparing this post that these small paintings of teacups are excellent lessons in honing my observation skills.  Not to mention

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-37726652933328517142011-02-26T07:29:00.000-08:002011-02-26T07:29:47.150-08:00

"You don't get into the mood to create – it's discipline."  -Twyla Tharp ©Laura Leeder, Feb.2011, Watercolor in progress Working on the 2nd of the Creston Museum Teacups.  This is another small one....the size is 5"x7".  I think that I will select two more to paint this size, and then take a break from this format for a while. I took advantage of the sun's presence yesterday

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-29863571919037721392011-02-25T10:03:00.000-08:002011-02-25T15:05:56.069-08:00

"You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me."      ~C.S. Lewis ©Miss Magnolia, Watercolor, 5"x7"    Laura Leeder, February 2011 This little painting is finished!  It is the 1st, of the Creston Museum Teacup's, to be painted, as part of my "Teacup Series".  Initially, I had planned to complete 8-12 of these 5"x7" paintings.  I may re-consider

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-59613792593759223122011-02-24T08:03:00.000-08:002011-02-24T08:03:00.062-08:00

"Observation and study are necessary to achieve mastery of light and form."      -Andrew Loomis ©Laura Leeder, Feb.2011, Watercolor in progress This Teacup is starting to take shape.  The size of this piece is 5"x7" and trying to block in the design and develop believable shadows on the plate is more complicated than I had anticipated! If I can achieve a likeness, I will be

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-61806120862294710452011-02-23T07:10:00.000-08:002011-02-23T07:10:17.814-08:00

"We see the brightness of a new page where everything yet can happen."     -Rainer Maria Rilke ©Laura Leeder, Feb.2011, Watercolor in progress..... This is the 1st of several of the Creston Museum Teacups that I will be painting a likeness of. Not much to see at this point, however, I alway's like to show the start of a watercolor....as this is the stage that is full of

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-2232259433308621912011-02-16T17:07:00.000-08:002011-02-16T17:07:36.508-08:00

"A Proper Tea is much nicer than a Very Nearly Tea, which is one you forget about afterwards."     ~A.A. Milne                       ©Miss Etiquette, Watercolor, 10.5"x11.75"    Laura Leeder, 2011 Tea Etiquette Tips.....     -It is considered rude to stir one's tea in wide circular motions. Proper etiquette requires the teaspoon to be held at the six o'clock position to begin.

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-1438872181955887302011-02-14T12:47:00.000-08:002011-02-14T12:47:44.532-08:00

"A cup of tea to say thank you  ...  For all the things you've done, And wishes that the day will bring ... You happiness and fun..                             Happy Valentine's Day!"                               ©Heart's Desire, Watercolor, 8.5" x 10.5"    Laura Leeder, 2011     I came across this teacup two week's ago, when I was shopping at Winner's.  (My favorite place

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-14712881992660658692011-02-13T09:50:00.000-08:002011-02-13T09:50:50.298-08:00

"When I am halfway there with a painting, it can occasionally be thrilling... But it happens very rarely; usually it's agony... I go to great pains to mask the agony. But the struggle is there. It's the invisible enemy."    -Richard Diebenkorn        ©Laura Leeder, February 2011, paintings in progress Okay, I'm not really planning to trash any of these......I'm hoping to end up with a

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-48935047524302372762011-02-08T07:59:00.000-08:002011-02-08T07:59:10.518-08:00

"There is one thing one has to have: either a soul that is cheerful by nature, or a soul made cheerful by work, love, art, and knowledge."      -Friedrich Nietzsche Teacup #4 in the Series ©2011, Laura Leeder, Watercolor It's All In The Details!  A saying I use quite a lot.  And that's the stage this painting is in.  Studying it overall and adjusting values where needed. 

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-81801408110015771712011-02-05T07:51:00.000-08:002011-02-05T07:51:16.863-08:00

"What would it be like if you lived each day, each breath, as a work of art in progress? Imagine that you are a Masterpiece unfolding, every second of every day, a work of art taking form with every breath."   -Thomas Crum #4 in the Teacup Series                   ©2011, Laura Leeder, Watercolor     This painting is slowly taking shape.  I am pleased with the overall feel of

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-74558109931789027202011-02-03T07:45:00.000-08:002011-02-03T07:45:53.285-08:00

"Sometimes there are rare golden moments, moments of bliss and dreamlike poetry... That's what gives me my passion and the fuel I need to continue moving paint across a fresh, waiting canvas."  -Eric Frantz                                                                                                                                               ©2011, Laura Leeder, Watercolor

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-89232059707581128542011-01-29T10:16:00.000-08:002011-01-29T10:16:15.016-08:00

"If I struggle with a painting, and find the wisdom at the time to know I'm struggling, it is because my inner child has been neglected. When I invite my inner child back into 'the picture' my struggling dissolves."    -Jim Pescott This quote say's it all!  I was not going to post this painting again until I felt it was finished.  However, I got stuck on it....I sometimes hit a block when I'm 

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-11537630968493192062011-01-23T08:11:00.000-08:002011-01-23T08:11:49.990-08:00

"Each painting has a promise implicit in its beginnings – make the finished work fulfill that promise."    -Michael Nevin I felt compelled to paint this set-up again, only slightly larger.  I've also made a few slight changes to the drawing....  ©Laura Leeder, Watercolor, Size:  9 1/4"x11 1/2" Painting #3 in the "Teacup Series" We'll see where this one takes me, I'll post it again when it is

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-19154608623066548592011-01-22T14:54:00.000-08:002011-01-22T14:54:11.141-08:00

"There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea."   ~Henry James ©"Portrait Of A Lady", Watercolor, Jan 2011    By Laura Leeder The 2nd in my teacup series.  After a short trip to Kelowna, I am back in the studio today and managed to finish this painting.  Luck was with me, as the sun came out for a few brief moments,

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-73708332649161701512011-01-11T08:44:00.000-08:002011-01-11T08:44:50.883-08:00

"Let the beauty of what you love be what you do. There are a thousand ways to kneel and kiss the earth."  -Rumi Work in progress....very nearly done! ©Jan 2011, Laura Leeder, Watercolor     Size:  7 1/4 x 9 1/2 "Take an object. Do something to it. Do something else to it. Do something else to it."   -Jasper Johns The small size of this painting is preventing me from exploring

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7445826758250315015.post-36386028382997290522011-01-05T16:42:00.000-08:002011-01-05T16:42:49.980-08:00

"The simplicity of form, the drama of rich, intense colour, the joy of challenge, and the challenge of endurance... The piece, when it is over, is not what is made, but how it is made."   -Andrew Kuntz                       ©Jan 2011, Laura Leeder, Watercolor I have not gotten as far along as I would have liked; between household chores and other sketching....this little

Laura Leedernoreply@blogger.com0