Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Winter and great news

"Winter" watercolor on 260lb Arches by Carrie Waller
Hi Everyone,

I'm a day delayed in my post because it's Thanksgiving break at our house and yesterday we took the day off:)  I'm so glad that the boys are home all week.  We also have family coming into town tomorrow.  We are excited at our house:)  Let the pie making commence!!!

I'm sharing my latest painting.  This is a painting of my Grandmother, which she will not be fond of because she'll want to know why she has trees coming out of her head, ha:)  I took this photo of her on our last visit before she moved out of her home of 60 years.  She was standing behind the storm door in her house coat bidding her farewells.  I titled it Winter because it is the Winter of her life and  the Winter of her time living at her home in Goreville, IL.  The trees in the reflection and snippets of the property that you can see are very reminiscent and have a lot of meaning for me.  Having said all that, painting portraits is not in my wheel house and I have a lot to learn.  What I wouldn't have given to have Crystal Cook over my shoulder during this process.

I also have some great news.  All 4 of my entries in to the Randy Higbee 6" Squared show have made the cut and are heading to Cal-i-forn-i-a.  If only I could go with them:))  I'm ecstatic to be participating in this show for the 3rd time.

Hope you all have a fabulous Turkey Day (for all my US friends).  For the rest of you, you just don't know what you're missing:))  I'll save you a plate, come on by!!!

Carrie

13 comments:

  1. Congrats on the show in California! That's exciting! And a good excuse to go to on a little trip?
    The portrait is great! Everybody who knows your grandmother is going to love it. I know it's hard to present a portrait to the actual subject of the portrait. They are the most critical viewers of all. But she will love it because you did it, and the affection that you have for her shows in the artwork!

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  2. Thank you so much Katherine:) I appreciate your kind words:)

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  3. Wow! Carrie!! This is an amazing portrait of your beautiful Grandmother!! The reflection is perfect!!! Congratulations and Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!!

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  4. Hi Carrie. I think this is a brilliantly done painting. It is NOT an easy subject by any stretch of the imagination! The thinner, softer, grayed tones are just perfect for this painting. Your work is always stunning, but I believe you have moved outside your "comfort zone" with this, and done a superb job! BRAVO!!!

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  5. Wow this is wonderful. Did you use something over the paper to mute it or is it all paint. Love it.
    Linda

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  6. Wonderful news about the show, Carrie. And, so well-deserved. I think the portrait of your grandmother is so poignant. She might not understand the symbolism of the trees coming out of her reflection of her face but it makes a very strong statement about the beauty of her age and wisdom.
    Blessings to you and yours this Thanksgiving Day and always.

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  7. What a beautiful portrait! Your grandmother reminds me a little of the Queen, LOL! I think you are a natural at portraits. I love that you also have the reflections in the window of the trees. It really does add to the intrigue. And congratulations on the show. I really hope you do well! :-)

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  8. P. S. I didn't mention Thanksgiving because I am feeling just a little left out! I wish I could join you, it sounds a lot of fun. Enjoy your time with your family! :-)

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  9. Carrie this turned out absolutely GORGEOUS!! You are excellent at portraiture! The subtle greys and warm skin tones are amazing. I am in love with this, the imagery, is so vivid and perfect. A hundred bravo's to you!! Outstanding. I expect to see this on the cover of a watercolor magazine one day. :)))

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  10. Enhorabuena Carrie, es preciosa y de una sutileza sin igual.
    Un abrazo y feliz dia de Accion de Gracias.

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  11. Congratulations, Carrie! . . . and have a Happy Thanksgiving!

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  12. Congratulations on your beautiful paintings, Carrie! All of them are fabulous...no wondering why all were accepted!

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