Two illustrations and more to come

There is magic if you believe.

There are stories that continue to play in my mind. Some begin with great potential that could invoke the imagination of the small reader. I write these little waves of inspirations on small pieces of paper. They clutter the corners of my art table as visual reminders that writing should occur soon. I have reworked my original Andy the Ant story again. It has been reworked through the years since it was first created 7 years ago. It started off as a story about etiquette and has transformed into a story of playtime and friends. I like where it is going. It has potential to be a series of stories with vibrant illustrations full of flowers, fantastical friends, curious insects, and nautical amphibians.
Illustration began as an after thought to the main event, my manuscript. This journey has metamorphosed into the opposite. Illustration is the main event for me with writing as a second. I love the creations that I can bring to life. Art really does mimic reality. Illustration enhances the verbal experience and offers a catalyst of imagination that forbids limitations. Reading begins with the interpretation of illustration. Every blank canvas offers possibilities that are endless. Colors can blend or stand on their own to translate an emotion or invoke a memory. Presented here are two new pieces that I have finally finished scanning and editing. Each piece offers diversity and emotion. The story line is left to the mind's translation and what emotion it resonates with. For me, hope is endless and fruitful as it begs for new beginnings and friendly relationships with only eternity to limit the time it is given.

Sparky Cat and Blue:Friendship

Sad bear

I recently decided to draw a teddy bear. He was cute and adorable; the perfect teddy bear. Something needed to change. When looking through my portfolio, many of my pictures reflect my optimistic personality. Yes, I am one of those happy people who try to look for the best in others. I love to look for happiness and use colors that reflect joy. It often translates in my art. recognizing this, I decided to make a sad illustration
My son was recently sad over a flower that had wilted from heat and the absence of water. Inspiration struck. I pulled out some 9x12 cold press and began to draw my sad teddy bear. A frown has many features to it. It isn't just about the mouth. The eyes really are the light of the soul. I began to bring his frown to his eyes and forehead. After that was done, the mouth just fell right into that sad place. It conveys the moment when beauty fades and you are left with a transformed flower. The petals begin to shed as the stem begins to droop. I am using gouache for this little guy. I have 4 shades of brown that I am blending to create the depth. This is another spot illustration. I am just starting to lay down base colors. I will continue to show the progression as I paint this piece.

Sad Bear