Summer Atlas, Part 2
Our summer was mild, not so humid and not so hot. That meant I could paint outside on the north porch more often. My knees were bothering me, so it was more comfortable to sit rather than stand as I usually do. I was out of ideas, so I began these three pieces by moving the brush in a continuous line until there was no more paint. Then like a child who likes coloring I filled in shapes. I had to use the smallest round brushes and it took so long. That’s how the title came to mind, “Solstice to Lughnasa”. The Solstice is my favorite time of year – it’s so grand, and brings to mind my son and favorite pastimes like making Arnica tincture. It’s a restful time, there’s not much to do in the garden but to await the first harvest of Lughnasa. These three artworks capture the sense of celebration I imbue into the paper.
“Solstice to Lughnasa 1, 2 & 3” in process in the outdoor studio by Kathleen O’Brien
“Solstice to Lughnasa 1″, 9×12”, watercolor, drawing, Columbine petals, collage by Kathleen O’Brien
“Solstice to Lughnasa 2″, 9×12”, watercolor, drawing, rose petals, collage by Kathleen O’Brien
“Solstice to Lughnasa 3″, 9×12”, watercolor, drawing, Poppy petals, collage by Kathleen O’Brien
The next two collages were inspired by friends visiting on their way to an adventure out west. “Travel Plan” began journal-like with two layers of description of thoughts and feelings as I traveled with them in spirit. Unfortunately I didn’t copy those words, but I did for the next one, “Summer Journey”.
“Travel Plan”, 9×12″, watercolor, drawing, collage by Kathleen O’Brien
“Summer Journey”, 9×12″, watercolor, drawing, collage by Kathleen O’Brien
“Little bugs milkweed as tall as me – fragrance wafts in when its DARK, in, under and around the RED party lights await deck dancers spiralized zucchini emerald basil what makes this all so perfect is the refreshing AIR pollinated by good Libra conversation – a bit of Gemini and Virgo dashed in living on our own terms breathing prayer Gratitude for all the abundance of beauty peace gentleness birdsong this I send OUT from my center to anyone who needs this right Now need only be Open to receive this small token of care Heart Beat Drumbeat this center has expanded rings that extend beyond the dimensions It’s easy to experience this Be Open AND have your shields ready Always Remember to say Thank You.”
“Summer Journey”, 9×12″, detail, watercolor, drawing, collage by Kathleen O’Brien