Spring Beauty

Spring Beauty

Spring Beauty, mixed media on gallery wrapped canvas

Spring Beauty, mixed media on gallery wrapped canvas

Inspired by all the spring flowers blooming in the local nurseries I felt I must capture this feeling on canvas. I haven't painted florals in a while, but this one was inside my head waiting to come out. My own garden was in much need of some tender loving care, so after I finished this piece I actually started the spring clean up in my own backyard.  Amazing what inspires you to begin a task.

This painting began the usual way, with a textured canvas and acrylic paints. But, then I picked up some oil pastels from our local Blick art supplies store (I'd been swooning over them for a while). I painted the canvas with acrylic paints and applied the oil pastels over certain areas to really "pop" the piece.  

Base layers applied in acrylic

Base layers applied in acrylic

Final layers applied with oil pastels

Final layers applied with oil pastels

So, now you can guess that I am in love with using oil pastels over acrylic. I love to experiment and play with new painting "tools". This is one I'm truly going to enjoy exploring. 

If you love this painting, the original is available along with reproductions on paper, canvas, and many other products. Here are just a few of the ways you can enjoy this painting in your home.  For more information on any of these products, just click on the image to visit my Fine Art America shop.

Thanks so much for taking time to view my art, and for your continued support friends. Until next time. 

Blessings my friends, your artist Mary

There is nothing more difficult for a truly creative painter than to paint a rose, because before he can do so he has first to forget all the roses that were ever painted.
— Henry Matisse

 

 

Two Wandering Roses

My paintings are inspired by nature and everyday life.  A stroll through my garden one morning prompted this painting, "Two Wandering Roses". In my back garden I have climbing roses on a trellis built by my husband many years ago.  The roses are now as high as the roof, as if reaching for the sun.  This painting depicts my antique Louis Philippe climbing rose.  

Two Wandering Roses

Two Wandering Roses

This painting comes custom framed and matted, ready to hang.    It also looks fabulous as art transformed into functional decor.   I think you'll find this comfy pillow would brighten any space and bring a smile to your face. 

Two Wandering Roses pillow by Mary Mirabal

Two Wandering Roses pillow by Mary Mirabal

Two Wandering Roses tote bag by Mary Mirabal

Two Wandering Roses tote bag by Mary Mirabal

Tote bags are another great way to accessorize with art.   Simply click on the bag above to see available sizes and additional designs.  They are very roomy and perfect for your every day travels.  

There is nothing more difficult for a truly creative painter than to paint a rose, because before he can do so he has first to forget all the roses that were ever painted.
— Henri Matisse

Thank you so much for stopping by to visit friends.  I hope you enjoy my work, and if you do please share my site with your friends.  The more the merrier!!  Take care and be sure to take time to smell the roses.  ~ Mary