My Favorite Paintings of 2013

Happy New Year and Thank You so much for helping to make 2013
the most amazing year of my entire art career.

 Java was such a help this past year and trust me, Java loves art!

This past year has been overwhelming to say the least. I have found myself working harder than ever but most importantly, exploring territories that are far out of my safe zone.

 "Cake Batter Ice Cream" 36x48 acrylic on canvas

There were countless forms of  inspiration which influenced many of my projects but as challenging as it can be, sometimes it helps to have a bit of a push or a show of confidence. Though I'm not at all intimidated by a blank canvas, it's that new project or idea from a designer, a friend and even my family, to try something new.

 

"Retail Therapy" 12x12 acrylic on paper

I've always, and still am, so in love with cooler colors. Colors that remind me of the coast, I assume in large part is due to growing up on Amelia Island. These colors of teals and blues inspired by the sea, will usually always play a dominate role in my work.

 "Fireflies" 48x60 acrylic on canvas

 "Basket of Kisses" 16x16 acrylic on canvas

 "Sea Salt" 36x36 acrylic on canvas

 .....With that said, thanks to that "push" I spoke of earlier, I did explore new directions this past year. The land of warmth, sunshine and what I like to simply call, "romance."

 "Sugar and Spice" 48x48 acrylic on canvas

Thanks to an online exhibit I participated in earlier in the year hosted by a dear friend and creator of the blog
Arsty Forager, I began experimenting with pinks.

 "Lipstick Love" 24x24 acrylic on canvas

At first it was challenge but I did get the hang of it and as you can see, some of these paintings have become my very favorites of the year.
 

 "My Favorite Earrings" 12x12 acrylic on paper

Though I do plan on keeping my brushes freindly with the warmer happy colors of corals, pinks and reds, moody blues,  periwinkle and grays will never leave my palette much less my heart.

 "Starlight" 54x72 acrylic on canvas

I'm hoping that in 2014 I will push myself even more by exploring new territory of both land and sea as bringing the two together can indeed create such a beautiful work of art.

"Lavender Lullabies"  30x30 acrylic on canvas

Thank you for joining me on this never ending and ever colorful journey. Here's to a full year of exploration!