"Butterflies Are Free"
This piece is a result of an online workshop called "Animalitos" by artist, Tracy Verdugo. These types of paintings are really a challenge for me. Usually I have an idea of where I'm going when I start a painting, but these are really intuitive paintings. It starts out with bright colors of inks and paints, using symbols and marks that have meaning. You can see below how this started out.
Then the idea is to pick out some shapes or forms in the piece....turn it upside down, sideways, etc. to "see" what might be there. When I was making my marks and symbols, I used a wing stencil. I began to think that it might make for a pretty butterfly wing. I honestly couldn't see anything else, which is a major challenge for me in doing this type of work!
So I began blocking out the form of the butterfly. As soon as I started that, I knew it needed some kind of flower to land on, so I added more beautiful inks in orange and red. When that dried, I started blocking out some shapes on the wings and flower with india ink and a tiny, tiny brush. Below is a close up of the finished piece.
The lesson I keep learning in doing these types of paintings is to enjoy the process without worrying about the outcome. Sort of goes with my intention of living in the moment and enjoying the adventure. It's crazy what happens when you have no expectations and just let it go!
I am contemplating pouring resin over it so the colors pop even more! I named the piece "Butterflies Are Free", but I'm not committed to that yet, since this is fresh off the easel. I may need to think about it a little more, but couldn't wait to share the process with you!
This little piece is done on an 8X8 gallery wrapped canvas. It is available. Please contact me with question, comments, or if you are interested in purchasing. I always love to hear from you!
