Butterflies in the Garden

 

The gardens at the Overland Park Arboretum are full of butterflies - and it was a joy to paint them for their very first plein air event!  A wedding reception was taking place in the background, and the music wafted up from the terrace as I worked. The temperature was perfect and only gentle breezes stirred the air. Both of my daughters participated, and Mom walked the garden, finding benches in the shade to rest.  Their paintings are beautiful, and all will be on display until November 1st at the Long House.  What a lovely way to spend an afternoon!  Painting number 4624 in 4624 days. 

Day in Bentonsport

I've never been to this part of Iowa, and I love finding this historic village nestled by the Des Moines River.  So charming, I started this one before the rain in a hurry to get the panel covered.  I could hear the rain start before I could see it hitting the other side of town.  I grabbed my gear and rain coat and dashed to the gazebo!  Making it before the downpour, I settled in to finish the masses.  About half way done, I worked on values and chroma until bringing it to a finish.  I shared this gazebo with another artist - Troy, who sang early Beatles songs that I did not know, trying to get me to sing harmony!  It was a lovely day spent by the River, with many Amish families in town for a picnic outing.  Painting number 4229 in 4229 days. 

Macken Park Inked

Macken Park is such a beautiful place to paint!  My first time here, the Arts in the Park festival was in full swing.  Music, magic, sasparilla and art filled the day - and the plein air artists were painting it all!  I took my ink and had three different sizes of paper stamped - I never know what size I'll use until I decide on my subject.  After scouting (and shopping) Michaela and I landed in almost the same spot.  A very hot day, it was comfortable in the shade.  Music serenaded us as live musicians played.  I really love to paint in such an environment.  Visiting as I worked, the time flew by and I finished early.  Festivals are so much fun to capture in ink!  So much energy and life, just an American slice of summer!  Painting number 1966 in 1966 days. Icing on the cake?  I won this plein air event with this painting and now it will hang at the North Kansas City Parks and Rec!

Arts in the Park Plein Air Winner
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