Inspiration in D.C.

While in Washington D.C. I was able to visit the National Gallery of Art and the National Portrait Gallery which were both beautiful and enormous museums. I really enjoyed seeing the Vermeer paintings at the National Gallery and there was a beautiful portrait by Cezanne of his father reading the paper. Inspired me to do more portraits. It was also fun to the Hope campaign poster of Obama... it is a really beautiful piece of artwork when you see it in person. I had no idea it was a collage with layers of patterned paper and ink. I have always been intrigued by collage and printmaking and want to do more of it! We also went to the Botanic Gardens where I took a million photos! So, there was not a lack of inspiration on my trip! Now I just need to get back to work!

My Great Uncle Bruce

This is a picture of my great uncle Bruce and an example of his incredible skills as an artist.  This man is a hero and an inspiration to my family nearly 65 years after his death during WWII.  He was an incredible son to my great-grandmother and a wonderful brother to his three sisters.  He worked as a commercial artist before enlisting and left our family with beautiful paintings, drawings, ads and letters that will be cherished for many more years.  His life was a short 26 years but he left a legacy through his art, his letters and his love and dedication for his country. He loved his family, his three sisters and his mother, and I think by serving and protecting his country, he felt he was serving and protecting them.  His sisters, in a way, have done their part by telling his story and keeping his memory alive.  I am inspired by his work and incredible ability, but more than that, his loyalty to his family and to fighting the good fight.  

Art Studio Inspiration

I am always wanting my art studio to be more functional, beautiful and inspirational. Organizing my studio is forever on my to-do list. Here are a couple photos to inspire me to work on it.

Both images from decor8's flickrstream