Spring Beauty

Spring Beauty

Inspired by my love of spring ephemeral flowers! I found this little patch of Spring Beauty on a hike to Malanaphy Springs just outside of my my home in Decorah Iowa.

4” x 5.5” x 1/2”

Mixed media- acrylic paint, colored pencil, and carving on aspen board.

My process began by layering gesso on aspen boards. On this black surface, I made an observational drawing of the arrangement with a carving tool. Next, I brought the image to life with acrylic paint and colored pencil. My final step was to scratch fine details into the painting with an x-acto knife.

All of my paintings are finished with an archival varnish to ensure longevity.

I recommend putting the painting in a space without direct sunlight to ensure color preservation.