tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35678217737520271562024-03-22T09:15:47.680-07:00Brenda SwensonWatercolor: Teachings, Tools, and TechniquesBrenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.comBlogger93125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-30264471388994274202023-09-02T11:01:00.003-07:002023-09-02T13:07:12.356-07:00Welcome<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;"><b>If you're checking into my blog for the first time - Welcome! </b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;"><b>You'll find a wealth of information, inspiration and tutorials in the pages to follow.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpWCbutT6LUNFhnkRE9Nib_HxG0l65kVDtQdGU706Km7rKz82xvStuwVm2XMxZBkb3sfH_ze6N2pKxm-bK7hvnXthL39rgOhCxfp2NhDrahvDPtOv0ZhIKp69kvjaC9EZhyoLGpL6fSGn51KD1vI5ZtTQfAUi0ysmjuZy9wRv0eUuNoAmQHUjkxsZLAzc/s1669/IMG_1083.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1669" data-original-width="1609" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpWCbutT6LUNFhnkRE9Nib_HxG0l65kVDtQdGU706Km7rKz82xvStuwVm2XMxZBkb3sfH_ze6N2pKxm-bK7hvnXthL39rgOhCxfp2NhDrahvDPtOv0ZhIKp69kvjaC9EZhyoLGpL6fSGn51KD1vI5ZtTQfAUi0ysmjuZy9wRv0eUuNoAmQHUjkxsZLAzc/s320/IMG_1083.JPG" width="308" /></a></div>Over many, many years I built a wealth of instructional information for my followers. </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Sharing, inspiring and encouraging others has been a motivating force in my </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77); font-family: helvetica;">life. </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;">The community that came out of the blog was life changing. </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77); color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;">You walked beside me through some of life's toughest trials (son's cancer and the death of parents) and celebrated my achievements. Thank you! </span></div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77); color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77); color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(68, 68, 68);">I'm no longer adding new content but I'm leaving my blog up. Why? </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77);">This blog remains for the good people out there who appreciate and honor what this is - A teaching and sharing tool. </span></span></div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77); font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77); font-family: helvetica;">Unfortunately</span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">, the increase of internet theft (and trolls) got out of control. </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Artwork was being lifted at a alarming speed and used to profit others. My lessons were used by "lazy teachers" for profit without permission. I got tired of filling copyright infringement reports and fighting to protect what was my intellectual content.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Going forward:</b> New </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77); font-family: helvetica;">art tips, </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); font-family: helvetica;">inspiration, instruction, material reviews </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">will come in the form of a monthly newsletter. </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">To sign up visit my website </span><a href="http://swensonsart.net/" style="font-family: helvetica; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">www.SwensonsArt.net</a><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61);"> </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> At the top of my website you'll see <u>Email Newsletter</u>. Enter your information and click SUBMIT. You'll automatically receive my monthly newsletter. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I can always reach me by email through my website.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div><span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77);">Be kind and be creative,</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77);">Brenda</span></span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><span face=""Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, sans-serif" style="background-color: #999999; caret-color: rgb(51, 102, 255); font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: x-small;">© Copyright 2023 Brenda Swenson retains copyrights to all images (artwork and reference photographs). All images on this site are property of Brenda Swenson and may not be used in any way for commercial, financial or personal use without written consent. Brenda Swenson retains all rights to republication (printed and digital) and anything but personal viewing of artworks.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span></span></div><div><br /></div>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-27458123059544634302021-02-08T14:03:00.000-08:002021-02-08T14:03:59.839-08:00Art of Letting Go<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Again, I turn to my sketchbook as a tool for comfort and healing. I’m more comfortable<br /> with writing then I use to be…but images are my first choice of communication. In my sketch I’m able to express myself in ways words won't do.</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Last week my mother passed away suddenly in her home. She was 84 years and one day. The cutting reality is, I will never see her again on this earth. I worry my memory will fade. Sketching with pencil, pen or brush is a powerful tool. I find comfort. In a sketch I honor her memory...an act of love…time spent alone with her. My eyes carefully studying every angle and subtlety in her facial features. When I am done her image is forever burned into my mind...and then I find rest.</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDavrvYPu-OxO-OlsMB6Gk8wL-Wq15eYnIyCiVKMKWJgvpaBiSHeA7it6zGbwZcEXtfcL-YBGC3wnUF6qsrwWKpwroIubobtSBvkRUTdiqxRrxfIlbA0VKCyB-64wQLrkdZK2WU6RIhgs/s425/Screen+Shot+2021-02-08+at+1.48.36+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="425" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDavrvYPu-OxO-OlsMB6Gk8wL-Wq15eYnIyCiVKMKWJgvpaBiSHeA7it6zGbwZcEXtfcL-YBGC3wnUF6qsrwWKpwroIubobtSBvkRUTdiqxRrxfIlbA0VKCyB-64wQLrkdZK2WU6RIhgs/w400-h399/Screen+Shot+2021-02-08+at+1.48.36+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I found a photo of my mom that felt unposed and real. The photo was taken many years ago before illness and age left its mark and changed her (mentally and physically). Studying her face was comforting. About halfway into my sketch something was off. I tried to find the answer in the photo, but it wasn't there. I wasn't able to capture the essence that was her. Over many days I would glance at my sketch trying to see what I had missed. And then I realized, the answer was in my own face. So, I photographed my face at the same angle. Through my image I was able to finish the sketch. A piece of her is in me. My reflection, my mannerisms…my love of all things creative.</span><p></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Trying to hang on to someone is like holding onto a rope that was slipping through my hands. The tighter I held on, the more painful it became… so I let go. </span><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">The process of drawing my mother was healing. I grew in the process of understanding. The realization that part of her remains in me. </span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Even during these never ending days and months (thanks to COVID-19) I am creative, productive and hopeful for tomorrow. </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">Anything that stops growing begins to die and I'm still growing </span><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">because I am </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica;">alive!</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">Be well and creative,</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;">Brenda</span></p>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-84297867276274652822021-01-17T09:42:00.006-08:002021-05-20T15:30:32.500-07:00Video is here! GLOWING WATERCOLORS<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 48px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">It's Finally Here!</span></b></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 28.1px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">.......VIDEO RELEASE!!!!!</span></b></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 24px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b></b><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswW7sB91rdnZg5TNcyqYHGUgT9qYgEFTG9oYXOAwPSbwir9TgI_x72vQHzvwveWhh_y1odxxJXaxNS2MuB1-C5ZLaFvjlgBds6pS2ig7wwLxE-SfEl4uIUEIMnrkM30RXQnNu7L688Ws/s2395/Screen+Shot+2021-01-18+at+8.17.09+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="2395" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswW7sB91rdnZg5TNcyqYHGUgT9qYgEFTG9oYXOAwPSbwir9TgI_x72vQHzvwveWhh_y1odxxJXaxNS2MuB1-C5ZLaFvjlgBds6pS2ig7wwLxE-SfEl4uIUEIMnrkM30RXQnNu7L688Ws/w640-h168/Screen+Shot+2021-01-18+at+8.17.09+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0c343d; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Negative painting is the technique explored and demonstrated. It's just like being in one of my workshops...without traveling!</span></span><span style="color: #0c343d; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></h3><div><span style="color: #0c343d; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://ccpvideos.com/products/bs3d?utm_source=EM-4910" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2012" data-original-width="1282" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEeFkZU9M9cJ-QGqmkydOt1D3QQ-qX1b5wIiZerNJn9HkV6ymE2C7hRjXc2vIipn3NiARf3TeWsbNJWnzpqClLFJ2kS0AEFWlncCJPs5ipCJT2KbwwL_ru4XpgJaJ3Aljh69yPrlLd9Q/w255-h400/BS3d_SWENSON_DVDCover_2000x.jpg.webp" width="255" /></a></div><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: x-large;"><br /><b>Here’s some of what you’ll discover: </b></span><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Developing your composition with layers of color </b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Unravel the mystery of paint</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Painting around a subject to find definition</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Apply transparent glazes to create shapes and depth of color</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Develop your skills when painting wet into wet, under-paintings, and wet passages</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Experience Brenda creating paintings that glow — now you’ll know how, too!</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Demystify negative painting (and paint with more confidence!)</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>NEVER struggle with color again … you’ll know just what to do!</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Proper design for this type of painting</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Capture light like never before (yes, with watercolor!)</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Create depth and interest (Brenda shows you how!)</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Positively accentuate the negative (negative space that is!)</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Uncover the characteristics of paint (you’ll be surprised at what you DON’T know!)</b></span></li></ul><ul><li style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><b>Ooops … oh well, find the humor in it and move on…</b></span></li></ul></div></div><p style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 29px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">See a short video, in-depth video description, purchase options: <a href="https://ccpvideos.com/products/bs3d?utm_source=EM-4910">Glowing Watercolors: Available in DVD or Download</a></span></p><p style="font-family: Times; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Hope you enjoy!</span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Brenda</span></p>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-81607659874503703402021-01-10T11:22:00.000-08:002021-01-10T11:22:43.496-08:00Pull the Plug or Continue<span style="color: #0c343d;">These are dark and troubling times for the human heart…we are a hurting nation and world. </span><div><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;">Before the horrid events of Wednesday I was formulating what was going to be my last blog post. Why? With the creation of Zoom, Facebook Live and other platforms people now have other ways to learn and be inspired. I wasn’t sure if you needed what I was sharing anymore and thought my blog had run its course. Since most people receive my posts via email I’m not getting the same kind of feedback on my blog in comments section. When an anonymous person (troll) wrote a personal attack in the comments. I thought, that's enough. </span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;">Wednesday morning I was painting on location when the alert came over my phone… attack on the Capitol. I absolutely lost it. I started crying and I couldn’t stop. After an hour I still couldn’t regain my composure. I couldn’t paint so I packed up and went home. Everything built up inside came flowing out in tears that wouldn’t stop. After a day I ended up posting something on Facebook in an attempt to find hope. I said, “Hope deferred makes a heart sick…I don't have any answers I just know 2020 was a disaster and 2021 is off to a lousy start. Looking for hope in a sick world and society”. </span><span style="color: #0c343d;">I’m not alone in how I feel nor am I comfortable showing my vulnerable side to the world (trolls attack the weak underbelly). The pandemic has amplified the feeling of being alone. I struggled to reach out to say I hurt and need help to see a brighter day will come.
More than ever we need each other. On that dark day Facebook became my lifeline with words of comfort, encouragement and a pep talk. We each have a gift. Some are: comforters, cheerleaders, listeners, prayer partner, a bakers, a writers…? We can’t be all things to all people but we can be something. </span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;">So many people came through for me on that day and I’m extremely grateful. I’d like to highlight one comment in particular (though all touched my heart). </span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;">Here’s what he wrote: </span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;"><i>“Never, ever let this happen. To allow the acts of some to influence your ability to want to make art. Art is the beauty of the world and it (the beauty) still exists. You suck it up cupcake and get back to work and post more. I did both yesterday and today. There are people out here in this electronic land that we are conversing on right now that depend on you and I to help them deal with stupidity. You have been given a gift by the good Lord. Use it for what it was intended. I love ya buddy. Go to work, now”. ~Tom </i></span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;">I took Tom’s advice and got back to work. I finished the painting began that dreadful Wednesday morning…</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDox5UyWZODNsV9kKIDMbQdiYKK_lwJ1lhbCP6EhdC5HNtxH2xyxpUUE0Jdw2VHueO4GMR8lSLQIBuOE8-_axZPEu4lUhtK7Q1pk6PluEDxuOuU_k3hTLj4mkKU3xUSb9eiZfHbqPJVIw/s2048/Screen+Shot+2021-01-10+at+10.51.11+AM.png" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1355" data-original-width="2048" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDox5UyWZODNsV9kKIDMbQdiYKK_lwJ1lhbCP6EhdC5HNtxH2xyxpUUE0Jdw2VHueO4GMR8lSLQIBuOE8-_axZPEu4lUhtK7Q1pk6PluEDxuOuU_k3hTLj4mkKU3xUSb9eiZfHbqPJVIw/w640-h424/Screen+Shot+2021-01-10+at+10.51.11+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #0c343d;">
I’ve also come to the understanding that my lessons (art and life lessons) on my blog does matter. I can’t be all things to all people but I can do this. </span><div><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;">Be well and creative, </span></div><div><span style="color: #0c343d;">Brenda
</span></div></div>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com115tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-71351827564105521202020-11-07T13:16:00.001-08:002020-11-07T13:16:27.508-08:00His Teachings Changed My Life<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic0KYHLISyfv7tp_8iv9xpKGYiw-rA24tpr6zHZ93rHJaveod8In4SkMpSZ8vZzX-wXKexMkzmQmlE_r51veCqpdvCk_uw3Vk1G6rk2Atna4KpQFMKvoSyOhwPqISSxRdH82Nshjmhlis/s734/Collage+sm.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="537" data-original-width="734" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic0KYHLISyfv7tp_8iv9xpKGYiw-rA24tpr6zHZ93rHJaveod8In4SkMpSZ8vZzX-wXKexMkzmQmlE_r51veCqpdvCk_uw3Vk1G6rk2Atna4KpQFMKvoSyOhwPqISSxRdH82Nshjmhlis/w640-h468/Collage+sm.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><b>Gerald “Jerry” Brommer, enthusiasm for painting and teaching changed my life.</b></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">I met him in the mid 90’s, early in my painting life. Many can attest to him as a loved teacher for 26 years, in the Lutheran schools, but I came to know him in the realm of a watercolor workshop instructor. His love of teaching, watercolor and nurturing style came together to create the man I knew. A kind, thoughtful person who loved God, Georgia and his students. Always careful with his words and spoke kindly of others. He was a prolific painter, compassionate teacher, encourager and when needed…a gentle nudge.</span></div><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6il-WIZSYD2WPi4j1wF64zcl34weJthY8QAYy88NoWIOz4NDe3e2gcfEgqPJ48NyX3EKFoQkvhzOWnEquT334Fxugoo2YSFbvu-S1Mu5dZcKmMvNYC-yCWepEg74ska1GVVFsJsXhyphenhyphenus/s502/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+12.04.37+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="502" data-original-width="428" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6il-WIZSYD2WPi4j1wF64zcl34weJthY8QAYy88NoWIOz4NDe3e2gcfEgqPJ48NyX3EKFoQkvhzOWnEquT334Fxugoo2YSFbvu-S1Mu5dZcKmMvNYC-yCWepEg74ska1GVVFsJsXhyphenhyphenus/w341-h400/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+12.04.37+PM.png" width="341" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">Painting, art shows and students filled his life with joy and energy. Into his 80s he was<br /> still teaching 18 workshops a year. A schedule people half his age couldn’t do. But with Georgia beside him he could do anything. In 2008 Jerry and Georgia decided it was time to stop teaching European workshops. He was 81 years old. But they wanted to visit Europe one more time. No teaching. Just a small group of art friends traveling, sketching and enjoying each others company. For two weeks we traveled from Prague to Berlin. One night during dinner he saw me playing with paper napkin rings fashioning an elaborate caterpillar. The next night he tossed a napkin ring my way and said “no more worms, make me something magnificent”. Never one to back down from a challenge. I proceeded to fashion him a crown of napkin rings and placed it on his head. It read,“ <b>Sir Gerlad the Magnificent</b>” (yes, Gerald is spelled wrong. Read my sketch to find out why). He played along with a giggle and a smile and proceeded to wear the crown through dinner. He never took himself too seriously.</span><p></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2MNmhE9YYx_VMpaqMNrgMQhyLEVLPcFaOgrjAiuc98RFakDpWpUKS2yH6kibTq-s2fC3CdKxsvVbAinQERG1wkttnS4xt73QMI2NBIAZjuRtBMv9iJWdtLMNtz8FIrI5d7dxlDqgNd6I/s635/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+12.20.36+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="635" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2MNmhE9YYx_VMpaqMNrgMQhyLEVLPcFaOgrjAiuc98RFakDpWpUKS2yH6kibTq-s2fC3CdKxsvVbAinQERG1wkttnS4xt73QMI2NBIAZjuRtBMv9iJWdtLMNtz8FIrI5d7dxlDqgNd6I/w400-h320/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+12.20.36+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">Jerry is one of the greatest people I have known. His contagious enthusiasm for life, teaching and painting guided me. I was a student beyond watercolor. I was a student of his teaching skills as well: how he handled a demo, a class, a person, a critique… his voice still guides me. We honor our teachers not by copying them but sharing their enthusiasm and carrying their message. In my workshops I always talk about him. I hope and pray my actions reflect this dear man: through my paintings, how I teach and in my life.</span><p></p>
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<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">COVID-19 has taken Jerry from us. Rest well my friend. You have earned it. </span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 16px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">Love,</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;">Brenda</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(32, 18, 77); color: #20124d;">Here's a wonderful interview with Jerry on YouTube. Joe Miller (Cheap Joe's) and Jerry were good friends. <a href="https://youtu.be/I7HUOBVwolA">Video</a></span></p></div>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-55112422479786692532020-06-19T10:54:00.001-07:002020-06-21T11:13:06.384-07:00Waiting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">Who knew waiting would take soooooo long! For months we've been living in limbo complements of COVID-19. Waiting to see loved ones, waiting to work, waiting to get my hair cut. At first waiting sounded so easy.<br /><br />The first month I had a few low down, miserable days. I lacked energy and focus. That unnerved me. Many artists' I've spoken to have expressed a very similar feeling. I was comforted in knowing I wasn't alone. I learned to be patient with myself and didn't force creativity. I still went to the studio every day and did something no matter how small. Little by little energy and focus returned. Being home for months has given me the opportunity to physically recharge and find new focus in my work. By not adding additional stress to my life I found a new rhythm and joy in the studio. And then the emails, messages and phone calls started coming. People asking, pleading and even telling me what I needed to do (to make confinement easier on them). I was overwhelmed with requests from individual and associations to teach on:, Zoom, Craftsy and Facebook Live. They'd say: It's easy. You can do it. We need you. You owe it to the art community. Gee whiz! That's a lot of pressure to put on somebody. Don't get me wrong. Teaching is one of the greatest joys in my life. But at this moment teaching online is not for me. I might feel differently down the road but right now, the answer is, no thank you.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1gUT04hfUNBFN0PFwiHOpziCF13QXLDbPKP17mWgVDkS_wC00alIgb0704tddrVxYGwpCIEnFgm6SxD42N9f8Qg3vjsfUx15WoC1yyoK8uZahnCMFrfg59OLXpKvME7VboYoLMMCo7do/s1600/eZy+Watermark_19-06-2020_06-15-37AM.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="610" data-original-width="720" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1gUT04hfUNBFN0PFwiHOpziCF13QXLDbPKP17mWgVDkS_wC00alIgb0704tddrVxYGwpCIEnFgm6SxD42N9f8Qg3vjsfUx15WoC1yyoK8uZahnCMFrfg59OLXpKvME7VboYoLMMCo7do/s320/eZy+Watermark_19-06-2020_06-15-37AM.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #0c343d;">Last year I taught 15 workshops in 10 months (nationwide and abroad). It
was exciting, fast paced, rewarding and admittedly exhausting (at
times). The last few months has given me time to recharge and focus. I've been
painting more, walking a lot, writing, calling friends and family and
cooking more (to my husbands delight). I've started painting outdoors again! I can't tell you how much this is done to lift my spirits. This week I painted the Lavender Fields of Highland Springs Ranch, Cherry Valley, CA.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="Apple-converted-space"></span> It feels like a blessing and a privilege to be doing what I love.<span class="Apple-converted-space"></span> Masks are not required in the field but many people came close to watch me paint. I felt better wearing a mask. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;">In many ways it's been a busy time for me. I judged an international exhibition, wrote an article for Watercolor Artists' Magazine (June issue), participated in two major exhibitions: <a href="https://www.watercolors.org/2020-exhibition-gallery">Transparent Watercolor Society of America</a> and<a href="https://www.californiaartclub.org/exhibition/109th-annual-gold-medal-exhibition/"> <span style="color: cyan;">California Art Club Gold Medal Exhibition</span></a>, completed numerous larger paintings and even sold three pieces. I also have a really big project in the works! I can't give details, but it involves instructional videos with Creative Catalyst Productions. <a href="https://ccpvideos.com/blogs/news/interview-with-brenda-swenson">Pre-release sign up and interview</a><br /><br />What does my workshop and show schedule look like in the future? Good question! I update my <a href="http://www.swensonsart.net/">WEBSITE</a> regularly. Please know my Blog (this site) and Website are two completely different sources of information.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><br />What am I waiting for? To be with those I care about: family, friends, fellow artists' and students. I long to share meals together, attend shows & receptions, teach workshops and travel. But until I feel it's safe for everyone to be gathering again, I'll be waiting.<br /><br />Be well, Be safe, Be creative,<br />Brenda</span>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-53392618238181526802020-06-07T15:42:00.000-07:002020-06-08T08:16:04.952-07:00Use Your Words<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I communicate with images but sometimes words are needed to express the full range of emotions or experience. Most people are familiar with my travel journals but only a few have seen my personal illustrated journals. Why is that? Within these journals I am vulnerable and emotionally raw. When life gets terribly mournful, cruel, full of hate, sorrow, grief, fear…I go to the books to paint and write what I can’t expressed fully otherwise. I use images and words as a tool to take the turmoil within me to unravel my feelings. The pages are not intended to be seen by others. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4O7DPo-aDK3lQI4VqXLUVcqhqm0QbRaLg1Q18yzt6gZh3LZWSrK-XmHPIWJtY3NfY1CPFQVFyskkTj3kFypB1hCrNMi6u0lmHDoRQX9XSetkBz7EFb_3oQHDoJrvdr-i0yFgqBh-jz2I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-06-07+at+3.26.31+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="1094" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4O7DPo-aDK3lQI4VqXLUVcqhqm0QbRaLg1Q18yzt6gZh3LZWSrK-XmHPIWJtY3NfY1CPFQVFyskkTj3kFypB1hCrNMi6u0lmHDoRQX9XSetkBz7EFb_3oQHDoJrvdr-i0yFgqBh-jz2I/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-06-07+at+3.26.31+PM.png" width="400" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you've been in one of my illustrated journal workshops you'll recall I don’t pass around original books…EVER. I’m careful to tuck them away when I leave my desk. However, I make copies of books that contain content that is appropriate for a workshop setting (travel, garden, cooking…). On the final day of the workshop I share how I’ve used the illustrated journal as a place of refuge and healing. I believe the purpose of art is more than decorating homes, museums or galleries. It must feed and restore the soul of the one who creates it. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We’re a hurting nation and world!! So many emotions we don’t know how to process. COVID-19, isolation, loneliness, unemployment, police brutality, death, riots, social injustice… I’ve seen a lot in my life but I’ve never felt or experienced what I am seeing and feeling today.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2BFvYa3pQcMSMO4FnFhd2DLxl87m0ZBAH2HZ-u88AZm1BIYL0MwrUM85T_1446xToOGJ-EQCL1Fu-4ICSfzwfqQ3iI3-xq29XMbacPhCCZCWiNOmxy-rdqTC8SvPzPkJ2oCI96ggpWjk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-06-07+at+3.06.47+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="852" data-original-width="794" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2BFvYa3pQcMSMO4FnFhd2DLxl87m0ZBAH2HZ-u88AZm1BIYL0MwrUM85T_1446xToOGJ-EQCL1Fu-4ICSfzwfqQ3iI3-xq29XMbacPhCCZCWiNOmxy-rdqTC8SvPzPkJ2oCI96ggpWjk/s320/Screen+Shot+2020-06-07+at+3.06.47+PM.png" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I rarely share on this level…it makes me uneasy. So why do it? Sometimes we have to take a risk for the sake of others. We each have gifts/talents/skills and opportunities to use them. What we do with them is up to us. As for me…I use my ability to teach through example. Try to use your images and words as a tool to take the turmoil within you to unravel your feelings. Ask questions, get angry, seek empathy in a face…and healing. You may not find answers. But when you take emotions and put them on paper something will happen inside you… the emotions will no longer fester and poison you. You’ll be able to think clearer and find peace.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Martin Luther King Jr.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Be well, be creative and seek peace,</span></span></div>
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Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-90828585387834364392020-01-22T12:18:00.003-08:002020-01-22T12:18:54.197-08:00Extra Time Doesn't Exist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguE5tQSRW60aGhLvOCzdRUZi43GosQdfuJ9GRZXDorR6LQb_WJQGXvFevqltZAh5U8UGP8Q6hc9Eh9ms9o89t_r6qNgxNpvt_8NWGwRjl7b83xtw2dKSF7w18JyRKtproWhHcgsbwprq4/s1600/Birds2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="963" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguE5tQSRW60aGhLvOCzdRUZi43GosQdfuJ9GRZXDorR6LQb_WJQGXvFevqltZAh5U8UGP8Q6hc9Eh9ms9o89t_r6qNgxNpvt_8NWGwRjl7b83xtw2dKSF7w18JyRKtproWhHcgsbwprq4/s320/Birds2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Every day has 24 hours. Time always runs out at the end of the day. We’re never going to have EXTRA time. It doesn't exist! Laundry will need folding, dishes washed, yard work, grocery shopping… Trust me these things will be there tomorrow.</span></b></span></div>
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Some days family comes first...I know this all too well. Sorrow and loss has visited our family many times. What I’m talking about is moments in the day we waste. What do you mindlessly give your time to? Is it scrolling through social media, sleeping in, shopping… ? <br />
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I’m as guilty as the next person.I was better at finding reasons why I wasn't living my dream </span></b></span><b><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">then putting energy into making it happen. So what was the problem? Simply put…ME! It’s easier to make excuses than taking responsibility and making it happen. The honest-to-goodness truth is I had to change my thinking. I didn’t value my time. I’m not alone here…its common thinking among women to see what we do for others as more valuable than ourselves. What we fail to see is creativity is the core of who we are.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It all sound so easy but where do you begin? 5 minutes is a start! Start small and enjoy the little jewels you create. Keep your expectations realistic. Don't expect to do a masterpiece if you only have 20 minutes. Sketchbooks are a great place to build confidence. </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I made a short video to help show what I mean. See 3 separate examples of what can be achieved with limited time and supplies. With a bird as my inspiration I show design, shadow and color. Each sketch is on a different surface. </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Click on image to see the video or visit this link </span></b></span>https://youtu.be/ffD-nTCD0DY </div>
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We make the choices of how we spend our time…PERIOD. What are you waiting for? </span></b></span><b><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. Proverb 13:12</span></b></div>
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<b>If you'd like to learn from me in person please visit my <a href="https://swensonsart.net/workshops">Workshop Schedule</a> for 2020. I know this isn't possible for many people to attend workshops. My blog and YouTube channel is especially for you. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="font-size: 16px;">Brenda</b><b> </b></span></span>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-80898222120459534122019-10-23T12:18:00.001-07:002019-10-25T09:14:30.565-07:00Don't Blend In<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Last weekend I visited three exhibits: the National Watercolor Society, Watercolor West and California Art Club. I was humbled and awe struck. It left me thinking, how can I stand out in a world where skill and originality is unparalleled to another time in history?</span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The next day I drove to Ventura to visit family. I traveled along the old 118 through Moorpark. I’ve driven this road hundreds of times.The drive takes a little longer but I enjoy the view. I like seeing what crops are growing in the field, produce stands and flowers. I was treated to large fields of bright orange marigolds. It’s stunning to see a field of bright orange. To my surprise in the middle of the field was a single sunflower standing alone…it took my breathe away.</span></b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbB-UQzEmCk-XNSJIMu0Hi9IKIIpEGVibOXpiMzmckErNJlrdb5ADQTg912EyELGDqYSrxwsX255no-b3oeotaLvAo7799kXTS5ybW0jJ_e5AxmnHI6NfLJAPuiw7hDVHB9yemIzp8VRM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-10-23+at+11.45.26+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="720" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbB-UQzEmCk-XNSJIMu0Hi9IKIIpEGVibOXpiMzmckErNJlrdb5ADQTg912EyELGDqYSrxwsX255no-b3oeotaLvAo7799kXTS5ybW0jJ_e5AxmnHI6NfLJAPuiw7hDVHB9yemIzp8VRM/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-10-23+at+11.45.26+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It got me thinking. There’s lots of clones and copy cats in the art world. Our job is to be the best at showing the world who we are. So how do I stand out in a field? </span></b></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49zlze_FKhQl7NsrfG5rYGVuwlfIgCiKpqIrx0rB__4GDznw-fR3hQLo_3R3rHFTQWuy-rumFt4azQKd8_VhLWlQorp6MNsXC9mnBTjwlAt1eda98yAEpXoRPFqf8dWNsx4NA8ipHVmU/s1600/IMG_5469+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49zlze_FKhQl7NsrfG5rYGVuwlfIgCiKpqIrx0rB__4GDznw-fR3hQLo_3R3rHFTQWuy-rumFt4azQKd8_VhLWlQorp6MNsXC9mnBTjwlAt1eda98yAEpXoRPFqf8dWNsx4NA8ipHVmU/s320/IMG_5469+2.jpg" width="253" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">*Focus on my own work</span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">*Build skills</span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">*Be myself</span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">*Paint what I know</span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">*Find subjects that make my heart sing... </span></b></span></span><b style="color: #0c343d;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">share that with the world. </span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;">and Don't Blend In!</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: #0c343d;">Happy Painting!</span><br /><span style="color: #0c343d;">Brenda</span></span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">© Copyright 2019, Brenda Swenson retains copyrights to all artwork. All images on this site are property of Brenda Swenson and may not be used in any way for commercial, financial or personal without prior written consent. All Rights Reserved for republication (printed, digital or painted) and anything but personal viewing of artworks on this site. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></span></b></span></span>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-28717672084421509262019-07-19T12:14:00.000-07:002019-07-20T07:59:32.054-07:00Sketches and Memories of Belgium<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhE_A1qi-QezvyBC90EVXsJiPa7lIH8OEGnhGDIDMJECpSvcT-o_7uCrGzGs1u7cAbIv9U32rqnE0AdLslVjzPriPN4xNC-Zv_Kek4Gx2a4q-uotseGUNSYlC_JEIsaRISz_W4w6vUi1Y/s1600/IMG_3429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="720" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhE_A1qi-QezvyBC90EVXsJiPa7lIH8OEGnhGDIDMJECpSvcT-o_7uCrGzGs1u7cAbIv9U32rqnE0AdLslVjzPriPN4xNC-Zv_Kek4Gx2a4q-uotseGUNSYlC_JEIsaRISz_W4w6vUi1Y/s320/IMG_3429.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #0c343d;">In early June I traveled to Belgium. I was scheduled to teach two workshops with French Escapade…but first a little playtime! Two friends joined me in Brussels, Phyllis from California <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOINI0xgvHLRuPOd9PzpKtFkgLE0YGzgniBV2zsuab3rmtrXI1-dv73VaF8NtNZ6RPQo7fjal6T5iB3etRC6pwluanx5YN36iX0DGyyoxqyfxF2Zo1_F8gvcYJ6wGXf57F5guOuvvSYAs/s1600/IMG_2694.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="624" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOINI0xgvHLRuPOd9PzpKtFkgLE0YGzgniBV2zsuab3rmtrXI1-dv73VaF8NtNZ6RPQo7fjal6T5iB3etRC6pwluanx5YN36iX0DGyyoxqyfxF2Zo1_F8gvcYJ6wGXf57F5guOuvvSYAs/s200/IMG_2694.jpg" width="200" /></a>and Cris from Brazil. Our days in Brussels was lovely. Each day we ventured out to sight see and sketch. It rained a little but usually in early morning or during the night. The days were cool and pleasant. I was prepared for cooler weather and usually wore a light down jacket, scarf and sketching gloves. We had a wonderful time taking in the sights. We stayed at the ibis Hotel in Brussels. It was centrally located and a easy walk to the cathedrals, museums and sights. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgCf4Duj9fEQJGgoMocjTKQP5NoVN9b_JUivHugdnQoClPeNBk-Yf8FZAwRhzh7HONnoptW4N28AAzj4c7UgE43Cd07gERuZaUxgeVd0dukrsrzo3Diw-Cg6eDixW15fdO7oiv9MebiVc/s1600/IMG_3403.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgCf4Duj9fEQJGgoMocjTKQP5NoVN9b_JUivHugdnQoClPeNBk-Yf8FZAwRhzh7HONnoptW4N28AAzj4c7UgE43Cd07gERuZaUxgeVd0dukrsrzo3Diw-Cg6eDixW15fdO7oiv9MebiVc/s320/IMG_3403.jpg" width="244" /></a>It came time for my workshops. We met up with Jackie Grandchamps and Valerie Sals, the owners of <a href="https://frenchescapade.com/">French Escapade</a> and our guides. After a 90 minute drive we arrived at our destination, our home away from home. We were 20 minutes from the historic center of Brugge (or Bruges). After 4 days in a busy city I was delighted to be in the country side with it’s green pastures, sheep, cattle, horses, chicken and one noisy peacock! What is a peacock doing in Belgium? </span></div>
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><br />The day we visited the windmill in Damme everything was perfect. The day saw bright and sunny but not too hot. I had a cool breeze on my back and the windmill blades were rotating against the blue sky with large billowing clouds. I'm always on the look-out for interesting shadows. Imagine my delight when I saw the blade of the windmill wrapping the tower. It begged to be painted! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"> </span><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br />Belgium is very green and with that comes wet weather. I came prepared with a lightweight raincoat, umbrella and rain boots. Little did I know how quickly things would change. By the end of the week </span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">Europe was in the grips of a heatwave. The </span><span style="color: #990000;">hot</span><span style="color: #0c343d;"> air came from the Sahara. Belgium, Germany and France were hit hard with severe heat warnings…ugh. I had plenty of clothes for cold rainy days but very little for the sweltering heat. </span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;">Time to buy new hats!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">I created a YouTube video titled, <b>Sketchbook Tour: Belgium</b>. Sketches of Brussels, Damme, Brugge, De Haan... Inside you'll see the lessons I taught and my commentary. At the end I show the supplies I used (sketchbooks, palette, paint, pens, ink...).If you have a problem viewing the video on my blog click here to see it on my YouTube Channel. <a href="https://youtu.be/OcZ0B8Qdbxw">VIDEO HERE</a> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNp8UZzG3YvVUstvbduK522K4Loz5OPD-LIP0RjErNTUa32Dsogg78ZSbDx5DOSmYCmUFjuAavBzFxBYQodI-1JFjhQR0eYUfVU-zMXo796fQA84Jzx92a9m7Qe5rFT3dXWKOzda9MZKY/s1600/eZy+Watermark_10-07-2019_03-53-01PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="504" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNp8UZzG3YvVUstvbduK522K4Loz5OPD-LIP0RjErNTUa32Dsogg78ZSbDx5DOSmYCmUFjuAavBzFxBYQodI-1JFjhQR0eYUfVU-zMXo796fQA84Jzx92a9m7Qe5rFT3dXWKOzda9MZKY/s200/eZy+Watermark_10-07-2019_03-53-01PM.jpeg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #0c343d;"> Since I've been home I did this small piece called “The Lace Maker of Brugge”. I enjoyed watching this woman sitting in her doorway making bobbin lace. In the upper left-hand corner you can see the lace I purchased from her. It took her more than 15 hours! She is obviously an older woman but her hands were young, pretty and agile.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;">I will carry memories of Belgium in my heart. So many people worked to make this workshop special: French Escapade and our hosts at the hotel...especially Monique! A BIG thank you to my students for sharing my love of travel and sketching on location.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"> Happy Sketching!<br />Brenda</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdm1CpULdGLf4RHJsJnG10nStgoL4irRAUzBMVKHGa2m8PWrAsqXnw-ELr91Ki7YdzI7FESleeuBN6LG4TR3-L_XUxEwDNjYUj6CxJ3rGhf8vetCB2uSqawhmdL4PgEKfjPPuwpjhbT8/s1600/1Group.jpeg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdm1CpULdGLf4RHJsJnG10nStgoL4irRAUzBMVKHGa2m8PWrAsqXnw-ELr91Ki7YdzI7FESleeuBN6LG4TR3-L_XUxEwDNjYUj6CxJ3rGhf8vetCB2uSqawhmdL4PgEKfjPPuwpjhbT8/s640/1Group.jpeg" /></a> <br />
<b>First Workshop Group June 12-19 </b><br />
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<b>Second Workshop Group June 19-26 </b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #0c343d;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></b>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-5901035309478120032019-07-06T15:46:00.000-07:002019-07-08T08:36:35.581-07:00Mixing Believable Greens<br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">One color that gets a lot of people in trouble is green. Tube green to be exact. Any tube of green by itself isn’t believable. Every tree, shrub or flowering plant is going to shift in greens from warm to cool, pure to grayed…and so on. A landscape is going to shift in greens too. Warmer yellow-greens in the foreground and cooler blue-greens as you go back. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">How do you make believable greens? One word…PRACTICE. It’s not that hard. I recommend you start by keeping a book for color mixing only. I call these my color bibles. I’ve built many reference books over the years. Combinations I refer to again and again. Greens, triads…and so on.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Mixing paint on the paper (not on the palette) will give you the most interesting greens. Why? You’ll have more variations. I’m sharing greens I made using the current colors on my palette. All of the colors listed below are <a href="https://www.cheapjoes.com/daniel-smith-extra-fine-watercolors.html">Daniel Smith Watercolors</a> with the exception of Burnt Sienna which is Winsor Newton. I’ve label all the paint swatches with abbreviations. If you're not familiar with color index code, don't worry. The first letter P means pigment, the next letter is pigment color family (R=red, B=blue…and so on) and the final number is the number issued by the ASTM (American Society for Testing Materials).</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: small;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61);">Mixing paint on dry paper</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Abbreviation (HYM), <b>Paint Name (Hansa Yellow Medium)</b>, Color Index Code (PY97)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">HYM=<b>Hansa Yellow Medium,</b> PY97</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">RSL=<b>Raw Sienna Light,</b> PY42</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">PYD=<b>Permanent Yellow Deep,</b> PY110</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">GG=<b>Green Gold,</b> PY 150, PY 3, PG 36</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">QG=<b>Quinacridone Gold,</b> PO 48 PY, 150</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">MBH=<b>Manganese Blue Hue </b>PB15</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">FU=<b>French Ultramarine,</b> PB29</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">PT=<b>Phthalo Turquoise, </b>PB15:3, PG36</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">BS=<b>Burnt Sienna,</b> PR101</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">LB=<b>Lunar Black, </b>PBk11</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaSQzMhAsQFVr3ISxeaoT7oU3VQgCy0A0No1lP-A0gX_DuH7STiiIPAOrMK0a3pEQfJgcZS_SkNeVNcw68tXMUfE2Oa3W9FoBiPHldsVV7Ek26kaE3f9tsZ0koGMX6ZPB2pFWztJ-Tb9E/s1600/greens+text.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1573" data-original-width="995" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaSQzMhAsQFVr3ISxeaoT7oU3VQgCy0A0No1lP-A0gX_DuH7STiiIPAOrMK0a3pEQfJgcZS_SkNeVNcw68tXMUfE2Oa3W9FoBiPHldsVV7Ek26kaE3f9tsZ0koGMX6ZPB2pFWztJ-Tb9E/s640/greens+text.jpeg" width="403" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: small;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Last week images were taken from my blog without </span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: small;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">permission. </span></span><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Watermarks © have become an </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: small;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: xx-small; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">unpleasant necessity.</span></span></span></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: "helvetica neue";"><span style="color: #0c343d;">How many green combinations can you identify in my sketch? Some greens are very </span></span><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue";"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61);">yellow and other are more blue, grayed... </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue";"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61);">Hint: If a green area goes dull add a touch of Quinacridone Rose or Magenta when the pigment is still damp to liven it up.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Happy Painting!</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;">Brenda</span></span><br />
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Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-7682402617345347492019-03-19T09:50:00.001-07:002019-03-21T06:12:00.271-07:00Pulling In The Reins<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1cnEAAPkqMqsaGd_A6GN6utplLi1EyuFV4dMSGOmf1QAusOHgz9UKJLOZLXlW9voIL6yGtcNsb4hY9ce-RYn5Ag2szAfd2UGD5OfUZpLhPZsmvlayOH_3DcqF_zBvmoJYaKTLogberw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-03-19+at+9.39.32+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="590" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1cnEAAPkqMqsaGd_A6GN6utplLi1EyuFV4dMSGOmf1QAusOHgz9UKJLOZLXlW9voIL6yGtcNsb4hY9ce-RYn5Ag2szAfd2UGD5OfUZpLhPZsmvlayOH_3DcqF_zBvmoJYaKTLogberw/s320/Screen+Shot+2019-03-19+at+9.39.32+AM.png" width="280" /></a><span style="color: #0c343d;">Since I was 8 years old I’ve wanted to be an artist. When I told a step-parent my dream I was told find something else. At that moment the small seed of hope that lived within me was crushed. I wasn’t good enough.<br /><br />In my mid-20’s I gathered courage and registered for classes at Pasadena City College. The same year my youngest son began 1st grade. I was studying illustration, painting and design. He studied crayons, paper and paste.<br />Within a few years I found watercolor. Unfortunately, my first class was discouraging. The teacher was more interested in socializing with her “favorites” and her only words to me were criticism. I didn’t try watercolor again for 3 years. When I found the right teacher my world opened up!!! Her name was Verna Wells. I learned that the best teacher not only instructs but encourages and nurtures the seed with each student.<br /><br />As my skills grew my paintings started to be recognized. I was asked to teach a weekly class and I’ve never looked back. That was more than 20 years ago. Teaching has become a mission of mine. I’ve tried to show every person who came through my door (a workshop) that they were valued and had something unique and wonderful to offer. The rewards have come in many forms: letters, notes, private conversations and cherished friendships. The most profound reward has come in knowing…I am enough. The seed that was crushed as a child is now a tree. <br /><br />All living things on earth need time to rest, gather strength and rejuvenate. God created season’s for a reason. During the dormant months we may not see growth on the surface but beneath things are happening. I feel a need to push my roots deeper and grow stronger. Growth takes time and energy.<br />I have so many things I have yet to explore and my head it exploding with ideas…but I lack the time and energy to do it. If I desire something I need to make changes. <br /><br />What I'm trying to tell you? I’m pulling in the reins. This year I have 15 workshops and next year I have 9. Somewhere between 6 and 8 will be the perfect number. Do I want to stop teaching? No. Teaching is the core of who I am....I love it. But, I plan on being more selective of when and where I teach and the number of workshops each year. Instead of running at full speed I am bringing my teaching schedule down to a gentle trot. I’m excited for what the future holds. <br /><br />My current workshop schedule is on my <a href="http://www.swensonsart.net/events.html">website</a> and all sessions have a wait list. I’ll be posting my 2020 workshop schedule in a month or so.<br /><br />Gotta run for now. I need to pack for a flight. Tomorrow I’ll be doing a demonstration for the <a href="https://www.californiawatercolor.org/">California Watercolor Society</a>, followed by a 3-day workshop starting the following day.<br /><br />Happy Painting!<br />Brenda</span>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-62328419585065931602019-02-27T08:30:00.001-08:002019-02-28T08:34:39.046-08:00Framing Art Without Glass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Lately I’ve been looking into framing options. I don’t always want to use a mat, glass/acrylic. I am entering more shows that have oils and acrylics. These show do not have the same standards as watercolor societies and do not require a mat or glass/acrylic.<br /><br />A word of WARNING…Most watercolor societies DO NOT allow a painting with any kind of varnish in a show. If you decide to explore these options you may not be able to enter the painting in a desired show…do your homework first!</span></span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisz9yvdRONu7fnnNMcr4XloEUT9jxlBxd6ln1jMbSjiV_ODAyCdyK8P9BYS_orBG04FjYMKYJAqdqUQ89_tFoUEJujwp7h6zo4VKW_40E_Qd2aDzj7_1epmpRAqOmb81hd4q8KoVGaRHs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-02-27+at+6.49.04+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="1164" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisz9yvdRONu7fnnNMcr4XloEUT9jxlBxd6ln1jMbSjiV_ODAyCdyK8P9BYS_orBG04FjYMKYJAqdqUQ89_tFoUEJujwp7h6zo4VKW_40E_Qd2aDzj7_1epmpRAqOmb81hd4q8KoVGaRHs/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-02-27+at+6.49.04+AM.png" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><a href="https://www.cheapjoes.com/ampersand-claybords.html">CLAYBORD</a><br />After reading an article in Watercolor Artists Magazine I realized Claybord might have more possibilities that I thought. The product is made by Ampersand and has been around for a while. Claybord comes in a couple different surfaces.<br /><br />Let me show you what I learned. I did two small pieces to explore the surface. I used the 5 x 7 Claybord, Textured. I used my inexpensive brushes since the surface felt rougher then watercolor paper. And the surface isn’t absorbent so I didn’t need a brush that held a lot of water.</span></span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">The
rooftop scene in Santa Barbara was done by wetting the Claybord first
and letting the paint float on the surface in the same fashion as wet
into wet. The surface does not absorb like watercolor paper and it takes
longer for the surface to completely dry. It has interesting qualities
that I like. </span></span></span></b></span></span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"> </span></span></span></b>With the Persimmons I left a lot of the Claybord untouched and let the white of the Claybord exposed. I like how the paint moved on the surface and the colors remained bright. The surface has very little absorbency so the paint remains on the surface. It was easy to glaze on and get the results I wanted. I specially like how easy it was to lift paint and reclaim whites.</span></span></span></b></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzvZZ7GiWTVIMc36AWepdXUxxQsk83eaC5_ovhNsp9XOUdegAcgKy3I_bk97M__r9qYuR3upz-C9pjsbtCx6Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2qQoM2SZZ0u3988yxyoGYtivSWJ9JjiXotOeKpOSXNDNgqE8KMzdLSLQARvu_iCiSWqM9ep03LYym9lCewwPwHAxBqGnQVGX9jlK31-w6GEuJjsBTWjI_nd1rZ_ho2JJCMXMq7fA3IIQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-02-26+at+7.22.47+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="451" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2qQoM2SZZ0u3988yxyoGYtivSWJ9JjiXotOeKpOSXNDNgqE8KMzdLSLQARvu_iCiSWqM9ep03LYym9lCewwPwHAxBqGnQVGX9jlK31-w6GEuJjsBTWjI_nd1rZ_ho2JJCMXMq7fA3IIQ/s200/Screen+Shot+2019-02-26+at+7.22.47+PM.png" width="166" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><a href="https://www.krylon.com/products/uvresistant-clear-coating/">KRYLON UV - RESISTANT VARNISH</a> (Matte or Glossy)</span></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">It’s important to seal the surface so the image has a barrier from the elements (dirt, smoke…) and light. I used KRYLON UV-Resistant, Acrylic Coating. I applied 3 or 4 coats. Let thoroughly dry between coats.</span></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"> In the video below you can see a side by side comparison of the matte and glossy finish. </span></span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">You can stop here or go one step further. My painting “Kettles & Cups” (below) has the addition of Dorland’s Wax. Read below…</span></span></span></b></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOui_EosQYq9j1L53kaokabz8wzAtXpLl5qloKWYWA25NWHSahwl4r_a5Llhubp1f9vRfGvtuWtfgWbNUPIIMiUho1NnebI2gLKkhYm3p9Ucd3izkvd9j-R1hhJjwb1bXCeCta5x47_4I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-02-26+at+7.22.28+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="381" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOui_EosQYq9j1L53kaokabz8wzAtXpLl5qloKWYWA25NWHSahwl4r_a5Llhubp1f9vRfGvtuWtfgWbNUPIIMiUho1NnebI2gLKkhYm3p9Ucd3izkvd9j-R1hhJjwb1bXCeCta5x47_4I/s200/Screen+Shot+2019-02-26+at+7.22.28+PM.png" width="200" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><a href="https://www.cheapjoes.com/dorland-s-wax-medium.html">DORLAND’S WAX</a><br />When I want a special finish I use Dorland’s Wax. It is non-yellowing and adds a soft glow to the surface.</span></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br />Step #1 Seal surface of painting with a couple light coats of UV-Resistant acrylic varnish<br />Step #2 Scoop out a small amount of wax with a lint free cloth and apply it in a circular motion. As soon as your cloth "drags", scoop out more wax.<br />Step #3 Allow coat to dry 24 hours.<br />Step #4 Using a clean, dry and lint free cloth, buff the surface. You'll see a very slight sheen. <br />Step #5 Apply a second coat, let dry 24 hours and buff to a slight sheen.</span></span></span></b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxXUDRf3_onHkiDo6848VLMslC42i-gBCciZ4nCxF8fNKhy4lo1_MwV0ew2Fpodl9U1BEA_UQE_vWz2BAYqhVb9M9fEFLwJ0KWzMvEuNchZOQoF31cUK11PjL5Crto3ZyZ2pEcYhJMmc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-02-26+at+1.31.46+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="575" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxXUDRf3_onHkiDo6848VLMslC42i-gBCciZ4nCxF8fNKhy4lo1_MwV0ew2Fpodl9U1BEA_UQE_vWz2BAYqhVb9M9fEFLwJ0KWzMvEuNchZOQoF31cUK11PjL5Crto3ZyZ2pEcYhJMmc/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-02-26+at+1.31.46+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>Kettles & Cups</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br />There's a lot of information available on the internet when it comes to researching products. I won’t pretend to know it all but I can share what I’ve learned along the way.</span></span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLneGusucoG3Cop4DMMHd-ZXVVgarCZExsUYsimI5ZTdRjNd0L99g_xPYiptYSh5YEoNcAGRN44D3eP0oyzJrghTxjT2saa9I14JipfHqkYJjNVfVBZWjaMmM-3iaOOIUOiB_M7K-UJxc/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="892" data-original-width="742" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLneGusucoG3Cop4DMMHd-ZXVVgarCZExsUYsimI5ZTdRjNd0L99g_xPYiptYSh5YEoNcAGRN44D3eP0oyzJrghTxjT2saa9I14JipfHqkYJjNVfVBZWjaMmM-3iaOOIUOiB_M7K-UJxc/s200/1.png" width="166" /></a><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"> ***</span></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Have you seen the <a href="https://www.artistsnetwork.com/store/watercolor-artist-april-2019-print-edition?utm_source=googleshop&utm_medium=shopping&utm_campaign=channeladvisor&CAWELAID=120350330000021392&gclid=Cj0KCQiAh9njBRCYARIsALJhQkHwTnhD1bT4Mlo1ZR_wWE5s-XggEcQ-OZLYAuDA7tHTdtldkmeWmsIaAtYHEALw_wcB">April issue of Watercolor Artist Magazine</a>? I have an article called "All Toned Up". You'll see my demonstration that became the painting above, "Kettles & Cups". Hope you check out the issue and read my complete article.</span></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">The painting was selected to be in the <a href="http://www.californiaartclub.org/exhibitions/annual-gold-medal-juried-exhibition">California Art Club, Gold Medal Exhibition</a>. Opening reception this weekend. I've been busy!</span></span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br />Happy Painting!</span></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Brenda </span></span></span></b></span>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-45105281556090313912019-01-14T18:21:00.001-08:002019-01-16T06:14:44.294-08:00Ink Testing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2P43hRmjkeKjWgzwtBZ7kkRG2qXsKCsavx43kBAjc2MbvmY17mFf3NMCoYQzN1OoqBYhyphenhyphenP7o5Wr7e-IgnkOPNoYVNPaWarsHwmgq9kxmNzDmm3Y-lFjOWCGxSFlA0SocpwFDMsIhy-DI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-01-14+at+5.01.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="576" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2P43hRmjkeKjWgzwtBZ7kkRG2qXsKCsavx43kBAjc2MbvmY17mFf3NMCoYQzN1OoqBYhyphenhyphenP7o5Wr7e-IgnkOPNoYVNPaWarsHwmgq9kxmNzDmm3Y-lFjOWCGxSFlA0SocpwFDMsIhy-DI/s320/Screen+Shot+2019-01-14+at+5.01.39+PM.png" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ink Swatches to Test</td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I have sketched with ink for years. About 10 years ago I switched over to fountain pens because of the varied sizes of pens in my hands and the multitude of nibs available. I like the variety of lines that can be created with nibs of different widths and materials. I’ve enjoyed using fine, extra fine, medium, broad, italic, flex, music nib and more. But let’s save this topic for another day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">When it comes to ink color I like anything but…black. The brands and colors I like come in bottles. I like light grey, brown and sepia tones. I have a few water soluble inks but I mostly use waterproof ink. </span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I’ve read discussions on Facebook about different inks and how they react to sunlight, archival quality and whether they’re waterproof, semi waterproof or water soluble. As you know…If you ask a question on a public forum you'll get many opinions but not necessarily the correct answer. I did a little reseach on my own and found it challenging to find the information. I was searching for the lightfast and archival qualities of the inks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">Lightfast:</span> Not prone to discolor or fade when exposed to light.<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">Archival:</span> pH neutral and acid free.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRUi3oU2veVe7VeqHUJpejiYZ86Zij9MzKUw8Fmmmx_b_nie-KFh_4ykYRLn2efTwY3oep2HXgTKPbR9DLJSnBpYLGHh_wmuCoar3r7syZcysB4z-SWEyq5OMEwdGBCnItBbxuCdyA9w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-01-14+at+5.00.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="483" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRUi3oU2veVe7VeqHUJpejiYZ86Zij9MzKUw8Fmmmx_b_nie-KFh_4ykYRLn2efTwY3oep2HXgTKPbR9DLJSnBpYLGHh_wmuCoar3r7syZcysB4z-SWEyq5OMEwdGBCnItBbxuCdyA9w/s320/Screen+Shot+2019-01-14+at+5.00.02+PM.png" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Materials Needed</td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">I decided to do my own tests.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-kerning: none;">To start with, I made swatches of ink on 4"x 2" inch cards of 140lbs cold press (not) watercolor paper. When dry I covered half the swatch with another piece of watercolor paper. I put the swatches in a plastic sleeve and taped against a window for 30 days. These tests were done during the summer, 2018.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">I made a short video showing the results of my tests. One of my favorites didn't pass the test...but I was pleasantly surprised by many others. Hope you find this information helpful. To be clear Lightfast: not prone to discolor or fade when exposed to light. Archival: Is pH neutral and acid-free. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">One of my favorite waterproof inks (water resistant) is the De Atramentis, Document ink. They have a wide assortment of colors</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> that can be mixed.</span>The <a href="https://www.gouletpens.com/pages/search-results?q=de%20atramentis%20document&limit=24&offset=24">De Atramentis Document Ink</a> can be found at Goulet Pens.com. </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">I like mixing the Brown and Red and then lighten a little with the <a href="https://www.gouletpens.com/products/de-atramentis-dilution-liquid-for-documents-250ml?variant=11884637749291">De Atramentis Document Solution</a>. Perfect sepia color!</span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">To see all the results check out this short video by clicking on the image below or following this link: </span><a href="https://youtu.be/B7foXfiEGAE" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Ink Testing Video</a><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Happy Sketching!</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Brenda</span></div>
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Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-26942966278714491512018-10-15T17:56:00.002-07:002019-07-19T12:24:54.604-07:00Sketchbook Tour of Tuscany<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEietTK1uhC2mGUMTPy8psfYdKimtRhXoLex6TKK_wX8I4LGtd5wUaKZ9rnt9yZgyAuaZbvx7B1Vhwd1vJ13uciI6VuMZLeN6L8eWOXIeN95twhsT6DYN-I7IzVv8o-OuLStQrIlj2QYYTE/s1600/IMG_6425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="1440" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEietTK1uhC2mGUMTPy8psfYdKimtRhXoLex6TKK_wX8I4LGtd5wUaKZ9rnt9yZgyAuaZbvx7B1Vhwd1vJ13uciI6VuMZLeN6L8eWOXIeN95twhsT6DYN-I7IzVv8o-OuLStQrIlj2QYYTE/s640/IMG_6425.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82MYpPwX6960P8qoYbLKOPpZaL_-4TS3n_bAZkwujidgomD39aiItiM3NJAg7sUdqASiGhbzVqILi6OC24p_IDb7sZ-qQ1ju7KTiq5TNNsdNm8GkmxWAdikqIq3Ppa7e0wX9jWl1Rl0U/s1600/42088810_2118382088196707_4211848795375271936_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82MYpPwX6960P8qoYbLKOPpZaL_-4TS3n_bAZkwujidgomD39aiItiM3NJAg7sUdqASiGhbzVqILi6OC24p_IDb7sZ-qQ1ju7KTiq5TNNsdNm8GkmxWAdikqIq3Ppa7e0wX9jWl1Rl0U/s1600/42088810_2118382088196707_4211848795375271936_n.jpg" /></a><span style="color: #0c343d;">I arrived in Florence four days before my workshop. I used the time to get over jet lag, explore, sketch, sightsee and shop. My favorite way to discover a city is on foot....walking. I like to sketch, sit in cafe with a cappuccino, shop in enjoy gelato. It's easy for me to walk all day and not feel tired. I'm often surprised to see how far I've walked by the end of the day. Six to eight miles is the average. I enjoy finding unexpected views when I wander. </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d;">I want to FEEL the city...to </span><span style="color: #0c343d;">smell, hear, see and absorb everything. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">I left my sketchbag in the hotel room to travel lighter. It's easy to tuck in small spaces and go unnoticed when only sketching with a pen and the sketchbook. Florence was surprisingly hot and humid. The idea of sketching inside a church or museum was appealing. </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d;"> </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d;">Especially during the hottest time of the day.</span><span style="color: #0c343d;"> Inside was cool with lots of places to sit.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">The amazing French Escapade </span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;">Guides and Owners</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61);">Three days later I met up with the people in my first workshop and my tour guides. The workshop was hosted by <a href="https://frenchescapade.com/painting-tours-teacher-swenson-italy/?doing_wp_cron=1539649487.4210760593414306640625#1479274917182-1a1554f3-9658">French Escapade</a>. We traveled by van to our home location. We drove in a long road with the vineyard on one side and an olive grove on the other. The air was filled with fresh smells and it was beautiful! Gone was the hustle and bustle of the city.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">We sketched hill towns, small villages, Tuscan countryside and historic cities. Each day was rich with history, beauty and culture. The evenings were filled with good food, lively conversations, shared stories and lots of laughter. It was fun to watch friendships develop. I had an interesting mix of women from different countries: Norway, England, Australia, Guatemala, Canada and the US.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Iu-SF01kiV0/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Iu-SF01kiV0?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="color: #0c343d;"></span><span style="color: #0c343d;">To see my finished sketches<span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d;"> </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d;">and hear my thoughts behind the images c</span>lick on the video here.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">There's nothing like an extended time to focus on nothing but creativity! No house cleaning, grocery shopping, appointments, yard work, bills to pay, errands or cooking. When my only concern is </span><span style="color: #0c343d;">sketching and teaching my mind is free to reach deeper areas of creativity.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61);">The first time I visited Italy I didn't sketch at all. I know that's hard to believe! But that was many years ago. I was traveling with 5 family members. No matter how well intending people are, it's no fun to sketch when people are waiting for you to get done. Since that first trip I have taught eight workshops in Tuscany, three in France, one in Spain and next year Belgium. Not bad for bad for a small-town girl!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61);">Next year I have workshops all across the US and two in Belgium. To see my schedule and workshop locations please visit: <a href="http://www.swensonsart.net/events.html">Workshops 2019</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61);">Happy Sketching! </span></span><span style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d;">Brenda</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjANdEpZz5EIV1pnn2_xTTS7GBAAuvQrvD1O4HtmtOkPwUKNczhDi6uFX-pZ6ijciR6uvMfBhnqhYSind-op0HsrAG9hC_q2Bny4X1y5Ur_TTMgT3kfp0rM4urNFhO8E5HKfRKCANXsLYA/s1600/IMG_7027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="675" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjANdEpZz5EIV1pnn2_xTTS7GBAAuvQrvD1O4HtmtOkPwUKNczhDi6uFX-pZ6ijciR6uvMfBhnqhYSind-op0HsrAG9hC_q2Bny4X1y5Ur_TTMgT3kfp0rM4urNFhO8E5HKfRKCANXsLYA/s200/IMG_7027.jpg" width="200" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA1WBJZhKHsnO5129XYz20x2MQ_s8XdLMVbS3U3CUJGenhafopUm0LNaqSr5ZwVnb787ykDlZULsW136X6wHE9vxwrJEODY4R7IhyLzDOmTRGDjdRvnukDFvA1L56T89Fu8OlFTiS0QnE/s1600/IMG_7501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="837" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA1WBJZhKHsnO5129XYz20x2MQ_s8XdLMVbS3U3CUJGenhafopUm0LNaqSr5ZwVnb787ykDlZULsW136X6wHE9vxwrJEODY4R7IhyLzDOmTRGDjdRvnukDFvA1L56T89Fu8OlFTiS0QnE/s200/IMG_7501.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Og_rsnXqHe5qqlraq39Okpg8ZyOwEJSkm17_nJqIUyMvGj4arZ-X6_Z0goYVw7bz7N_5rSi9qpJTVZ6YYp3isTXZvJk2CAzNbMSt9PEMjHkzpfzaBJY2YAJm3J7wo2QFltFupkPX4to/s1600/IMG_1659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="810" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Og_rsnXqHe5qqlraq39Okpg8ZyOwEJSkm17_nJqIUyMvGj4arZ-X6_Z0goYVw7bz7N_5rSi9qpJTVZ6YYp3isTXZvJk2CAzNbMSt9PEMjHkzpfzaBJY2YAJm3J7wo2QFltFupkPX4to/s200/IMG_1659.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-31587621576524379712018-08-14T21:41:00.002-07:002018-08-14T21:41:14.283-07:00Fountain Pens: The Beginning<b style="color: #0c343d;">I have been sketching for 20+ years. Drawing with pen requires I spend more time looking and observing. When I put the pen to paper I do it with a greater sense of awareness. I spend more time looking at my subject. Since I can’t erase I slow down and pay more attention to how I’m holding the pen, the pressure, the speed, the ink flow… All of these things mean I’m more involved with the experience. I draw slower and with a greater awareness. </b><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><br />About 7 years ago I wanted a pen that would do more than simply get the job done. I’d grown tired of cheap pens and wanted something that was enjoyable to hold, look at and responsive to my touch when sketching. I started exploring fountain pens. Little did I know how big the fountain pen world was...I was lost! So many new terms, filling mechanisms, ink, nibs… That's when I stumbled upon <a href="https://www.gouletpens.com/">Goulet Pens</a>. At last I was able to make sense of all the terms, option, nibs, inks... The company is amazing, website is great, technical support, videos, how to, tips and great prices! <br /><br />At his point I’ve got to say, I love sketching with fountain pens BUT I'm hesitant to recommend specific brands when asked. It's difficult to know a person's skill level, if they’re hard on things, personal style, price range…and nib size. Goulet Pens are some of the best folks I know for: information, tutorials, videos...and purchasing pens.</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b> If you're new to the pen world or even if you've been around for a while I think you'll find this video very helpful, I did! <a href="https://youtu.be/rUkEeJN-PyA">Fountain Pen Nib Size Overview</a> </b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikaSEkdx5J-BMO_-xGTWo-rs_49JfSnRXzADDKNHhYP3HUNElAh3IikPdTjROLrBI1SwpKcxIOGg5QrriZJLR7oyFPFyEtOb2hIg6xCC0Lr2HsVRrxBDpfeuistplD-rg5Xf_F7_s1rkk/s1600/IMG_5186+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="211" data-original-width="1600" height="83" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikaSEkdx5J-BMO_-xGTWo-rs_49JfSnRXzADDKNHhYP3HUNElAh3IikPdTjROLrBI1SwpKcxIOGg5QrriZJLR7oyFPFyEtOb2hIg6xCC0Lr2HsVRrxBDpfeuistplD-rg5Xf_F7_s1rkk/s640/IMG_5186+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>My first fountain pen was a <a href="https://www.gouletpens.com/collections/lamy-safari-fountain-pens">LAMY Safari</a>. At $30.00 these pens are great starter pens and won’t break the bank. You can even buy replaceable nibs. Last time I looked <a href="https://www.gouletpens.com/collections/lamy-nibs/products/lamy-steel-nib-silver?variant=11884860735531">LAMY replaceable nibs</a> were $15.00. You use ink cartridges or bottled ink. You’ll need the cartridge adapter for bottled ink. It's a good pen to learn with and you’ll also learn how to care for a fountain pen. Yes…fountain pens require care. </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2GFVqE4PiNi8IC5WtPq8Qp3KEBRRCNRqRBFKRs8HWdEBzMTFdCGhEiI0Vo9mKArxIiXRE5gmjRW0bZBVWMSWPVkRNyRwzHLKSPdwd29pdQyFsSHIju6NxbfC-7rTefOekgmCspeEQQts/s1600/Namiki+Falcon+copy.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="214" data-original-width="1600" height="83" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2GFVqE4PiNi8IC5WtPq8Qp3KEBRRCNRqRBFKRs8HWdEBzMTFdCGhEiI0Vo9mKArxIiXRE5gmjRW0bZBVWMSWPVkRNyRwzHLKSPdwd29pdQyFsSHIju6NxbfC-7rTefOekgmCspeEQQts/s640/Namiki+Falcon+copy.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>My next fountain pen was a step up. The <a href="https://www.gouletpens.com/collections/pilot-falcon-fountain-pens">Pilot Falcon</a> (previously known as the Namiki Falcon) is an iconic pen. It’s most famous for its 14k gold soft nib, which provides line variation with your writing/sketching pressure. The pen is wonderfully responsive and gives line width variation. </b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKt7uCkxFlQK0zbgIhuCvlxbdF4md0Ljf-shhQFwudNYMnODO1sd1dB0-Kwt9pdIJ6myp6UFXIanFlHBmjETAdKDFHD6Dl_N8WGkK_k-Um6IeAaTaZO5Ey3iniXo-ElfKeyzRYnmpsFQ0/s1600/temp+4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKt7uCkxFlQK0zbgIhuCvlxbdF4md0Ljf-shhQFwudNYMnODO1sd1dB0-Kwt9pdIJ6myp6UFXIanFlHBmjETAdKDFHD6Dl_N8WGkK_k-Um6IeAaTaZO5Ey3iniXo-ElfKeyzRYnmpsFQ0/s320/temp+4.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Sketch of my LAMY Safari and Pilot Falcon</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>When (and if) you decide to move up in the fountain pen world you’ll want to view this video. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lShhpHfApg&feature=youtu.be">Top 5 Entry-Level Gold Nib Pens</a> <br /><br />And then I was in Italy…Florence to be exact.<br />I was scheduled to teach two workshops in Lucca. Before the workshop I spent a fews days in Florence sketching and painting. I was staying at a hotel just walk across the Ponti Vecchio on the right hand side at the first street. My room over looked a sign that said, PINART. Now </b></span><b style="color: #0c343d;">seriously, did you think I would pass without going in? Once inside, I met Federico Pineder, the shopkeeper. He was friendly, knowledgeable and let me try a few many pens. </b><b style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); color: #0c343d;">If you’re ever in Florence be sure to visit <a href="http://www.pinart.it/">PINART</a>. </b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuuOmtowbTTWliSLPeD-tRfRQvadEI0B2ZdXk3Yt54p6KVoBkj-GeRVEtB3Pb8O0bOUdtC4BCv3CCYQp4iXss7UfQXEfjutUQ4cHpcun-bcCuHe9bmC-WIEhcZB1Vphzv8pVlUnsuJuc/s1600/IMG_5700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1259" data-original-width="848" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuuOmtowbTTWliSLPeD-tRfRQvadEI0B2ZdXk3Yt54p6KVoBkj-GeRVEtB3Pb8O0bOUdtC4BCv3CCYQp4iXss7UfQXEfjutUQ4cHpcun-bcCuHe9bmC-WIEhcZB1Vphzv8pVlUnsuJuc/s320/IMG_5700.jpg" width="215" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>Did I buy a pen that day? Of course...a beautiful Visconti, Rembrandt, pearl white. And that's the beginning of another story...</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>Happy Sketching!</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>Brenda</b></span><br />
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Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-67548909482684754932018-08-08T11:32:00.000-07:002018-08-08T12:57:18.622-07:00Art Theft<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>I feel an apology coming on… but I didn't do anything wrong. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>The last two weeks have been miserable. I’ve spent a lot of time trying to reclaim my artwork. Most people know better than download or print images off websites, blogs, Facebook… But some people do it knowing they’ll never get caught and others do it for personal gain. Whatever the reasons are and whether or not someone gets caught…wrong is wrong! </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>In the last two weeks I've had 9 images stolen off my blog. And these are the ones I know about! </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>A website stole 7 images from my blog. The website said: “Elegant Negative Paintings by Brenda Swenson”. They offered free downloads of my art. What people didn’t know is this..they would be downloading more than a free painting. They would be downloading a virus! I was horrified! After a lot of work and filing countless reports for copyright violations the 7 paintings were removed.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Two weeks ago I was emailed by a so called teacher in Long Beach, CA named Moira. She was going to teach her students my approach to negative painting… She thought I'd be flattered she had printed my artwork to share with her students. What? I asked, why she printed my artwork? She has a copyright posted on her website. She obviously doesn’t want people taking her artwork. Why is it okay for her to download and print mine? She was pissed off that I questioned her. The conversation went downhill after that.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>She had never met me in person, attended a demo, a workshop, watched my DVD, read one of my books. And she was going to teach my technique? Really????? She attached a photo of her prep-demo. She was using Cadmium Red Light, Sap Green, Lamp Black, Raw Sienna and Ultramarine. She had no idea what she was doing. Why would I want her to associate my name with something that she was doing all wrong?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>My blog has always been a teaching tool. A way to share knowledge, experience, tools, techniques…and life experiences. It’s my connection to a bigger community of artists’, students and friends. I love the conversations I have with you and the opportunity to share the gift of creativity. Just because I shared this information “FREELY” doesn't mean anybody has the right to take it from the site! My lessons and my artwork are to remain on my blog. Not to be downloaded and/or printed. I thought having my signature on my artwork and/or having my copyright posted at the top of my blog would deter people. I was wrong….</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>I have never wanted to put a watermark over my artwork. (1) a watermark looked like I was paranoid and (2) I don't like the look of a watermark over art. Unfortunately this will change.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>It’s NOT OK to download images or print images from my blog, website, Facebook, Instagram…period. If I have offended any of my followers I am sorry. If the tone of my post or my language seems harsh please know I’ve been through a lot of angst in the last couple weeks. It makes me very sad…</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Brenda</b></span></span></div>
Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com68tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-59619674392627729732018-07-13T13:30:00.004-07:002019-02-01T08:00:13.091-08:00Part 5 A Friend for Boone<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><b>Handsome Boy</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>I left off at...Come out, come out wherever you are!</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6m6zC2Oohn6RijhohXSRph4111TRn7CxmyqORwIXw839bEDIu-t6U-ItNn4Mfpn4JS8OVeHc8kiCYBV4QX7t-3hxKH1XbR92j0z024unfjgHrc7lwSrPEvhoCgQTH453xnKIRQZgaFY/s1600/IMG_E1736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b></b></span></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>I was in Santa Fe teaching a workshop. Everyday I called home. This time I could tell something was going on. Mike said, he was worried about Boone being lonely. So what did he do? He went to our veterinary office (TLC Animal Clinic) and asked if they had a kitten that needed a home. As it turned out they had a young male kitten the same age as Boone. The clinic received this kitten three months ago and…he was feral! While living at the at the clinic he became acquainted with people and being touched. He spent 3 months in a cage. I know that sounds sad but before the clinic stepped in he has going to be euthanized. Now they felt he was tame enough to be placed in a home. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Mike brought him home. I asked him how it went? Mike said, he cried the entire way and darted under the bed. He hasn’t come out yet. </b></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><b>Best of Friends!</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>When I returned home from Santa Fe my first impression of him wasn't the best. I'm accustom to picking up our cats but every time I picked him up I was left with scratches down my arms. He was very skittish and had a wild streak. I had to change my approach with this kitten or I was going to have a problem. I had to remember how far he had come from being feral and give him enough space to feel safe. I spent a lot of time coaxing him with toys and treats…he began to settle in. After a few days I decided to name him. I called him, Lync. Why you ask? The little guy is taunt like in wild lynx cat. And he is part of a bigger chain of cats that have come through our home. So far we have rescued 16.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Watching Boone inner act with Lync was…surprising. At first I thought he was just being a spoiled brat. He wouldn’t share toys, pounced on Lync constantly and even attacked! Poor Lync had no clue what was going on. I was getting worried </b></span></span><b style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">about leaving them alone…not good. As it turned out, our spending extra time with Lync, to help him adjust had made Boone jealous. Once we figured it out, peace was restored in our house.</b></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>The good news…In time Lync settled down. He fills safe, happy, playful...He still doesn’t like to be picked up. I’m okay with that. Lync has an athletic streak and loves to jump and twist in the air, a sweet personality, like to chase toys, back rubs, play in the sink…and eats like a horse! Boone loves his friend, too! </b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMbIOCP2rylOrSIOlxS-uk_QdWeo8LbpcqZMb_Vjlh8OT0n9UnUD5nIoWXw4gvhxn5Ji5RtZDqkbERmEfDGsLownfFxnZyhd_Oh5zSfruorWJ2YPxqZVevx0VJ56-BKhESBNYXO4LsMiU/s1600/IMG_1982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="976" data-original-width="1080" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMbIOCP2rylOrSIOlxS-uk_QdWeo8LbpcqZMb_Vjlh8OT0n9UnUD5nIoWXw4gvhxn5Ji5RtZDqkbERmEfDGsLownfFxnZyhd_Oh5zSfruorWJ2YPxqZVevx0VJ56-BKhESBNYXO4LsMiU/s320/IMG_1982.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>A short video of the boys at play. Boone is a couple months older now and less bossy. You can see how he wanted to be the center of attention! Today they are</b></span><b style="caret-color: rgb(12, 52, 61);"> the best of friends!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>If you’ve missed earlier parts of this story please read:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/01/becoming-boonepart-1.html"><b>Part 1: Becoming Boone</b></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/02/becoming-boone-part-2.html"><b>Part 2: Bring Him Home </b></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/03/boone-part-3-long-road-home.html"><b>Part 3: The Long Road Home</b></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/05/boone-part-4-theres-no-place-like-home.html"><b>Part 4: There’s No Place Like Home</b></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Next week I'll be sharing a fun and creative post on sketching!</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Happy Sketching!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Brenda</b></span></div>
Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-43004628141745432332018-06-18T10:36:00.000-07:002018-06-18T10:36:48.976-07:00Watercolor Artist Magazine<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Double Page Opener</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Forgive me for a shameless plug BUT I'm so excited I have to share. I'm featured in the current issue of Watercolor Artist magazine! A full 8 pages!!! Can you feel the ground shake? No, it's not a earthquake. It's me jumping up and down with joy!</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Not only is the artwork mine but I also wrote the article. So it's a double winner. Most of my life I've felt very inadequate when it came to writing. Since I've begun to share my artwork and writing with you (my blog followers) it has helped me to build confidence. I'm far from a fast writer (probably takes me twice as long) but now I can get my thoughts into words. Thank you for being encouraging followers and cheerleaders along the way.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Would you like a copy of Watercolor Artist magazine August issue? Here's a link:</span> <a href="https://www.artistsnetwork.com/store/featured-products/magazine/watercolor-artist-august-2018-print-edition">Watercolor Artist</a></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Happy Sketching!</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Brenda</b></span><br />
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<br />Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-35363181431841939572018-05-07T13:03:00.001-07:002019-02-01T07:58:59.734-08:00Boone Part 4, There's No Place Like Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>The journey that began 8 days earlier and covered 2400 miles was finally over…we </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>were home! It was time to get Boone acquainted with his new home. There was one problem though (actually two). We had two other kitties at home and they were not eager to welcome a new family member. Our concern was magnified by his lack of fear and limited vision. We decided to keep him upstairs and separated from Joy & Zion. He had come a long ways in 8 days but he still had a respiratory infection, ear problems…</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Once we got settled it was time for him to get a check-up with our veterinarian at TLC Animal Clinic and Hospital. We were eager to hear how he was recovering. To our relief no more respiratory infection, dehydration, ear mites and his foot had healed and good weight gain. He was still struggling with a yeast infection in both ears that required more medications! </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>He was becoming a healthy young male kitten (7 months old) and needed to be neutered. The vet recommended we have his blind eye removed at the same time. We had become accustom to Boone’s blind eye…but remove it?! The surgery would bring additional pain and trauma to his young life. When we first found Boone the eye was partially closed, weeping and irritated. We thought it looked pretty good now. She seemed to think it cause him irritation and asked us to give it some serious thought. </b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3sZSFOu7CVRHzScRWzabaMJxwdI1abgGPidLlp0Y1jE7c5969MvIW6Yr1rO7TZvmP54MHx4KzrvPiSPV5_pV-tgI8XG_2rCEzBvMk_aPalnetTe9UhF4PmgpXOZ5j0UGoBlXCUIBQTsY/s1600/IMG_0595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="799" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3sZSFOu7CVRHzScRWzabaMJxwdI1abgGPidLlp0Y1jE7c5969MvIW6Yr1rO7TZvmP54MHx4KzrvPiSPV5_pV-tgI8XG_2rCEzBvMk_aPalnetTe9UhF4PmgpXOZ5j0UGoBlXCUIBQTsY/s320/IMG_0595.jpg" width="236" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>We returned to the clinic with Boone two weeks later. Mike and I remained firm in our decision DO NOT remove the eye! While he was under anesthesia to be neutered they found an abscess on his chin that required a drain. He came home that evening groggy, confused, sore, with a drain in his chin…and two eyes.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>All the while life was moving forward. I was going to my STUDIO each day, Mike was working in the yard or the garage. Boone loved to be around people. He was acting more and more like a healthy young kitten, full of energy and eager to play. His favorite game was fetch. We would toss paper balls and he would carry them back to us again and again and again. Every chance we got we’d go upstairs to visit, play, brush, feed…just to keep him company. He just wanted to be near us.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>A couple weeks later I had a workshop in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Mike was going to join me for a few days so I got a sitter to watch over our home, water the yard, care for our kitties and wild birds in our backyard. Mike loves to feed birds of every kind: finches, sparrows, mourning doves, hummingbirds… We enjoyed a few days in Santa Fe checking out Canyon Road, restaurants and galleries… before long it was time for him to fly home and for me to get ready for my workshops. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>During my two weeks in Santa Fe we would talk on the phone at the end of each day. I would tell him about my students, where we painted and sights. He would tell be about home, family and kitties. About a week into my trip Mike says to me, “At 2am it came to me…Boone needs a friend”. I said, what? I come to find out Mike woke up in the middle of the night thinking about Boone. So far, our hopes of getting the downstairs kitties and Boone together hadn’t materialized and now Mike was worried about Boone being lonely. So what did he do? He went to the TLC Animal Clinic and asked about the kittens that needed to be adopted. As it turned out they had a young male kitten the same age as Boone and in need of a home. Before the vet intervened he was slated to be euthanized. When they took him in he was 3 months old and feral. After living at the vets office for 4 months and being around people he was tame enough to be placed in a home. I asked, did you bring him home? Mike said, yes. I asked how’s it going? Mike said, he hasn’t come out from under the bed yet. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">...Stay tuned for Part 5: A Friend for Boone</span></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">If you missed any of Boone's story you can read more here:</span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><a href="https://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/01/becoming-boonepart-1.html">Part 1: Becoming Boone</a></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><a href="https://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/02/becoming-boone-part-2.html">Part 2: Bring Him Home </a></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><a href="https://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/03/boone-part-3-long-road-home.html">Part 3: The Long Road Home</a></span></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Brenda</b></span></span></div>
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Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-80382860983189035952018-03-12T09:55:00.000-07:002019-02-01T08:00:54.663-08:00Boone Part #3, The Long Road Home<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>I am a native Californian born and raised. I have traveled a lot teaching workshops in the U.S. and overseas but I have never driven across America! On the other hand my husband Mike has seen much of America on a motorcycle. The journey that started in Boone North Carolina would now take us to Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and bring us home to California. We would be traveling 2,400+ miles is 5 days.</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>We traded in our compact car for something more comfortable. Next stop? Pick up supplies for the trip. Water and snacks for us. Boone’s shopping list was longer: </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Ice chest (Boone’s 3 medications: antibiotics, eye ointment, pills)</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Cat food (wet & dry)</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Towel (to cover back seat)</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Wet cloths (for messes)</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Cat Carrier (to carry Boone in hotels)</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>…and more toys!</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>I would be riding shotgun with Boone on my lap (or he’d be napping in the backseat). Mike would be at the wheel pointing us towards home.</b></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Boone Riding Shotgun on my Lap</b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>The 1st Day, we covered a lot of miles from Tennessee to Arkansas. Boone was a great traveling companion. He didn't get excited at all, in fact he slept most of the day. During our rest stops he’d get his medication and eat. He was beginning to feel more energetic which created its own problem. At night he wanted to jump and play with us. He had a laceration on his back foot in one of the soft pads. The paw kept bleeding. We had to clean the wound every time he got in the litter box.</b></span></span></div>
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<b style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErMVd2lzv3oYE1rISlEyoMmmb1o3d-nvm-fHCtkakuOXnm-k6ZF6hWMi8aAsYuwzOV1L2kjBwG6wJmn6v6KjjY3awBGNfdib3WFB1cbdihUjTyuA0TzC8DlEOpo16vqwLYZUKsbnDm4c/s1600/IMG_0369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="652" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErMVd2lzv3oYE1rISlEyoMmmb1o3d-nvm-fHCtkakuOXnm-k6ZF6hWMi8aAsYuwzOV1L2kjBwG6wJmn6v6KjjY3awBGNfdib3WFB1cbdihUjTyuA0TzC8DlEOpo16vqwLYZUKsbnDm4c/s200/IMG_0369.jpg" width="144" /></a></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Waiting Out the Storm</b></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xp53Aiu0I3OicPDuUtkxSRomcmhCNqD32t3txNnthGyxBfR74vzJB2I_tVUljYcW3T5ZJXGXosilREF6tZHNoEA-15G_9YsePbkwyECfMUQw6XnMrPrmGpQHuE51XAvo-TllfrwIqbI/s1600/IMG_0345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><b></b></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Day 2, was more exciting. Our destination was Oklahoma. Our plan was to get to the North-West corner of the state before a big storm hit. The last couple hours the sky changed drastically. We arrived at the hotel just before the storm hit. We carried in our suitcases, Boone and his litter box. Mike and I decided to eat dinner at a tiny café across the street. As we were eating the winds we're blowing so hard the windows were shaking and it was raining hard. I said something to the waitress and she said you haven't </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>seen anything yet…the worst of the storm will be here in about 10 minutes. Since we had finished dinner and had a long wait before we could leave we ordered dessert. The storm provided quite a show. The wind was carrying the rain sideways beating against the windows, you could feel the air pressure building, lightening lit up the sky, the wind blew construction signs down the street, people were running into the building to get out of the storm and the road was flooded. I could barely see our hotel through the rain. I had a frightening thought…it this a tornado?! All I could think about was our safety and the kitten we left across the street. Did we come this far for this? Thankfully the storm never built enough strength to become a tornado! </b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Tired Little Traveler</b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Day 3, Destination Santa Fe, New Mexico! Up to this point we didn't have any problem finding a pet friendly hotel. But today was different. I spent hours on my phone looking for a hotel that would except Boone and still be a place I would stay in. I was starting to feel disheartened and ready to give up hopes of staying the night in my favorite town. To my delight I found the perfect place…<a href="https://www.innonthealameda.com/">The Inn on Alameda</a>. They were pet friendly, beautifully decorated, clean, perfectly located, wonderful breakfast buffet and they even had pet food bowls in the room. Once we got Boone settled we went for a walk to stretch our legs. We headed over to the plaza, looked inside a couple galleries and found out it was the biggest art week of the year! All the galleries were open late, many of the artists’ represented were at the galleries and lots of art receptions going on. I spent the night in artist’s heaven! </b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SXDj4QkBVxDCjUY7wtHp204ALTYwvL8pCdcg-ZEhBiTO4zk06fBLVaXDgYU4DlUuquWolu21MLwm6iDSJtqcv08zn3NP8qCKU3zuGkUU_jZwQZxN1aatGJqj7qohhLsGwP2b_8vOuQQ/s1600/IMG_0503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="675" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SXDj4QkBVxDCjUY7wtHp204ALTYwvL8pCdcg-ZEhBiTO4zk06fBLVaXDgYU4DlUuquWolu21MLwm6iDSJtqcv08zn3NP8qCKU3zuGkUU_jZwQZxN1aatGJqj7qohhLsGwP2b_8vOuQQ/s200/IMG_0503.jpg" width="150" /></a><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(12, 52, 61); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Day 4, Today is my birthday! What could be more wonderful than waking up with a soft kitten, a hot cup of coffee and a relaxing breakfast with Mike? We strolled up Canyon Road and I sketched before it was time to hit the road…again. We left Santa Fe and headed for Flagstaff, Arizona. After 8 hours of driving we checked into another hotel, carried in Boone and all his paraphernalia (food, litter box, cat bed, ice chest…). My sister and husband live in Flagstaff so I had the joy of having dinner and birthday cake with family.</b><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Day 5, California here we come!</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>”If you want to hear God laugh, tell Him your plans”. Just over a week ago I had different plans. Little did I know that a tiny kitten with a heart as big as Texas and a purr as loud as thunder would create a detour in my life. </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>It all came down to choices. Boone made the first choice to seek help. It was risky for a fragile, partially blind, sick kitten to leave his shelter. But he crawled out from under the trailer in the parking lot and ran to Mike and poured out affection and purrs on Mike’s ankle in a desperate attempt. He begged to be touched, for someone to care…to be wanted. We made the choice not to turn away. We sought help for him locally and when they turned us away the choice rested with us. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>The decision to take on this kitten was filled with unknowns. Little did we know how much it would require of us! </b></span></span><b style="color: #0c343d; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Was he a burden or hardship? </b><b style="color: #0c343d; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Past experiences has taught me a lot... hardship isn’t a bad thing…quite the opposite. Something happened in my heart as we drove across the country. For the first time in a couple years Mike and I were working together for something or someone else. Boone gave us a common purpose…to love without expectation, to care without a return, to love without knowing an outcome…to be still and quiet together. Mike and I needed this time together. Boone wasn't a burden, he was the gift!</b></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Brenda</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>If you missed earlier posts you can read the story here:</b></span></span><br />
<a href="http://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/01/becoming-boonepart-1.html?m=0"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Part #1 Becoming Boone</span></b></a><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><a href="http://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/02/becoming-boone-part-2.html?m=0">Part #2 Bring Him Home</a></b></span></div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Part #3 The Long Road Home (this post)</span></b><br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Part #4...more to come!</b></span></span></div>
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Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-80543886593889158102018-02-18T13:44:00.004-08:002019-02-01T08:01:39.305-08:00Becoming Boone, Part #2<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<b><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>--- Bring Him Home ---</i></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqjISqS5Z63Mi7ipRQgp9kGcn_TUPPokGPMkPLW17UcAkExHddF3MIJvxDqNb_R86bgDSUJsMOJmZ3E-09qvzA_YOZZ_ZhuGdVNt-UIP24D1MbQ89b8elGBni0USmBE3s9hnC3qnzwX20/s1600/IMG_0195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="675" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqjISqS5Z63Mi7ipRQgp9kGcn_TUPPokGPMkPLW17UcAkExHddF3MIJvxDqNb_R86bgDSUJsMOJmZ3E-09qvzA_YOZZ_ZhuGdVNt-UIP24D1MbQ89b8elGBni0USmBE3s9hnC3qnzwX20/s320/IMG_0195.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>What were we going to do? We had a sick kitten, family waiting in Tennessee and a plane flight home to California in 4 days. I called my son in Tennessee and said we had a “small” delay and we’re running a few hours behind…and by the way do you have a 24 hour animal hospital near you?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Next we drove to the nearest pet supply store and got a litter box, food, water, bowls, flea drops, flea comb, a couple toys. Mike rearranged our suitcases, workshop supplies and sketch bag in the back seat. I now had a litter box at my feet, food and water bowls on the floor…and an exhausted little creature searching the car for a place to…do his business! Obviously he didn’t know what a litter box was. Let’s say he caught on quick (I was only slightly soiled in the experience). Now we had windows open for fresh air, handy wipes for clean up and cruising down the road. A few miles down the road my son called with the number of an emergency animal clinic in his town. We had a new destination!</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>We arrived at the Knoxville Pet Emergency Clinic a couple hours later. I felt a huge sense of relief…we would have some answers. We filled out papers, gave them our payment info and sat in the waiting area. We were called into an examination room and a tech came in to take his vitals. She wasn’t the most gentle person and I could see he was afraid. When the tech left the room Mike bundled him up and restored the kitten’s sense of safety. About 15 minutes later the veterinarian, Christine Kline came in the examination room. She had a gentle manner, scratched his chin and got acquainted gently. We told her where we found him, our concerns, travel situation. She needed to do tests before we could discuss the future. She bundled him in a towel and took him to the back room for blood tests, dilate his damaged eye, an exam….and we waited.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-kerning: none;">She estimated him at being 6 months old and very small for his age. There was good news and bad news. The good news: he did </span><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">NOT</span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> have FeLeuk or FIV (cat diseases). There was hope for the little kitten! The bad news: he was dehydrated, had a respiratory infection, ear mites, fleas, laceration on his foot and permanently blind in his right eye. She followed up with…he’s a sweet kitten and will get better. We reminded her or our situation and living across the U.S. She gave us the name of a shelter in the area. Mike and I looked at each other and didn’t like the idea. We had already been down that path earlier in the day. If we found a place that would accept him it was very likely he would be euthanized. Who would want to adopt him in his current health? And we were getting attached. She asked if we wished to have him treated? We said yes. She wrote out 3 prescriptions: Drops for his ears, ointment to sooth his damaged eye and antibiotics for his respiratory infection. </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>We went to the waiting area to pay our bill and pick up his medicine. As we sat their Mike and I talked. We tried to make sense of the situation we had gotten ourselves into. The kitten was on our lap purring loudly and so very happy. We had one more question for the veterinarian. What paper work do we need to take the kitten home with us on the plane? She said it would take two weeks for him to be well enough to fly due to his respiratory infection. </b></span></span><b style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">TWO WEEKS?!!! </b></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>He would also need all his shots for the required health certificate. We had a flight to catch in four days and I had a workshop to teach in 10 days! I felt like we hit another road block.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>All three of us got back in the car. I called the hotel and asked, are you pet friendly? The answer was yes. So we headed to the hotel, checked in, carried in our suitcases, litter box, cat food and a the kitten. I got cleaned up. too. Clean clothes felt good. We were half a day late but we arrived in time to have dinner with my son and family.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>For the next three days we visited with family and took in the sights of Knoxville, TN: zoo, national park, downtown…but at night we returned to the little guy waiting for us. Each day he got stronger and stronger. The medicine was doing its work! The stronger he got the bigger his personality got…he was so cute!</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>There was a large uncomfortable question looming over us. What were we going to do when it came time to fly home? On the second morning Mike woke up and said, do you have a solution yet? I said no, do you? With a cute smile he said, yes. We’re gonna drive home.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>All the sudden what looked like a problem became a new and wonderful adventure that would take us all the way across the United States with a little kitten in the back seat… Two days later we traded in our rental car for something more comfortable, loaded up our suitcases, litter box, cat food, dishes…and headed towards home. On this day I named him Boone…the city where the adventure began.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Part 3… The Long Road Home.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>If you missed <a href="http://brendaswenson.blogspot.com/2018/01/becoming-boonepart-1.html?m=0">Part 1 click here</a></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Happy Travel,</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Brenda</b></span></span></div>
Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-38215853622091056992018-01-29T09:41:00.000-08:002019-02-01T08:02:54.897-08:00Becoming Boone...Part #1<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Each of us have a story to tell…</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Last summer I taught a workshop at Cheap Joe's Art Stuff in Boone, North Carolina. It’s one of my favorite places to teach for many reasons. The people are warm and friendly, the country is beautiful and I get to spend time with a very dear friend, Joe Miller (the one and only Cheap Joe). I had the best week ever! One of those weeks we hope for as teachers. My students were eager to learn, positive, nurturing to their class mates, funny, creative…and above all, inspiring women. I came away with a full heart.</span></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaAuwETS56Mv0ylnGGy9HIoUjIrjEhapS5N8bhRKOBwJKGstpwhnjJyCDhZXUWzLJDNPxyYwcZPUEiKCQc0p_5Gt7qVmw33nz8wWv5KhITB90UD7XKxqXk8_E0T8Mi-FuYWTRLjQWrpzo/s1600/IMG_2905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="1440" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaAuwETS56Mv0ylnGGy9HIoUjIrjEhapS5N8bhRKOBwJKGstpwhnjJyCDhZXUWzLJDNPxyYwcZPUEiKCQc0p_5Gt7qVmw33nz8wWv5KhITB90UD7XKxqXk8_E0T8Mi-FuYWTRLjQWrpzo/s320/IMG_2905.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">The next day Mike and I packed up and started our drive to Tennessee. We planned on arriving in Knoxville within a few hours and would join our son and family for dinner. About 100 miles into the trip we stop to have lunch at a sandwich shop along the interstate. We sat outside in the warm Tennessee air. Within seconds a small kitten appeared. He had been hiding under a boat trailer in the parking lot. He ran to my husband and wrapped his little body around his ankle. It was obvious the kitten was alone and not cared for and blind in one eye. I was very concerned about touching him because he was obviously sick. But Mike was already petting, scratching and comforting the kitten. He was starved to be touched. His desire to be touched was greater than his want for food. </span></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgowvCj0T3s8kS9b7O6-zB_Pkyl-sTzaASXGoYWvho_VF1LKGsMux119hkIKuaDTRODkojEvT5N_uKJ78_UACTKXhh60gTCl1gVYq3Rc1dtzZ23QO5yQ1Ub6pcob19vGSnFfN9io45LcNE/s1600/IMG_0193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1300" data-original-width="1600" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgowvCj0T3s8kS9b7O6-zB_Pkyl-sTzaASXGoYWvho_VF1LKGsMux119hkIKuaDTRODkojEvT5N_uKJ78_UACTKXhh60gTCl1gVYq3Rc1dtzZ23QO5yQ1Ub6pcob19vGSnFfN9io45LcNE/s320/IMG_0193.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">I started making phone calls looking for a facility that could help him. I found a humane society and animal shelter. I picked up the kitten and we got in the car and I waited for all hell to break loose!!! The odd thing is the little kitten didn’t get excited at all…he just wanted to lay his head on my feet. I’ve never had a cat not go wild in a car! We drove 30 minutes to the nearest animal shelter. They turned us away. Why? Because we weren't residence of that county. No kidding! But the kitten was found in their county. Didn’t that matter? No! They gave us another number to call. That shelter turned us away too. They already had 400 cats that needed homes. At this point we were sitting in the car trying to figure out what to do. And now the little kitten needed to go potty. I got out of the car and put him on a little plot of grass in the shade. Immediately a sad sick cat came out of the bushes towards us. Oh NO! People were leaving sick and abandoned animals outside the shelter! </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">What were we going to do? We had a sick kitten, family waiting in Tennessee and a plane flight home to California in 4 days. I called my son in Tennessee and said we had a “small” delay and we’re running a few hours behind…and by the way do you have a 24 hour animal hospital near you?</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Next we drove to the nearest pet supply store and got a litter box, food, water, bowls, flea drops, flea comb, a couple toys.</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">And this is where his story begins…The story of Becoming Boone. </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Be sure not to miss Part 2...it's my favorite! Add your email address to the "Subscribe" box, it's located in the right column, on the top.</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Happy Adventures!</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Brenda & Boone</span></b></span></div>
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Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-8818766520456801762017-11-29T08:37:00.003-08:002023-09-03T07:51:26.364-07:00Negative Painting - Poinsettias<div style="color: #0c343d; font-size: 11px;">
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<span style="color: #274e13;">Cameras are a wonderful tool but it's important to remember photographs are simply a springboard. I don’t rely too heavily on them. The sooner I respond to what’s happening on the paper and quit looking at the photo the better off I’ll be…especially with the technique of negative painting.</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #274e13;">1: DRAWING </span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #274e13;">I start by drawing the poinsettias with a 2B pencil on Arches 140lb cold press paper. I'm especially aware of the space and shapes between the flowers and leaves (negative space). I want shape and size variety. I draw enough to get the general shapes, but not too much. I intentionally leave areas understated so I'll have opportunities for negative shapes to develop in the painting process. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><b>MOTHER COLORS</b><br />I use transparent paint to build up glazes. I limit my underpainting to 3 </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ASqFDYsEetGFRsg8Z7vowcqJQ6n9hK9DCeTum2CGRVkYpUuqQisYfIi6p3tI5Zisouw5CAkoG4LY31nnyoU9Lo0-1dwz9t7TkPtuGM74dQv_nDXVe62YYYnd8gB47hbFb4CPCeHXPks/s1600/%25235+Mother+Colors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="795" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ASqFDYsEetGFRsg8Z7vowcqJQ6n9hK9DCeTum2CGRVkYpUuqQisYfIi6p3tI5Zisouw5CAkoG4LY31nnyoU9Lo0-1dwz9t7TkPtuGM74dQv_nDXVe62YYYnd8gB47hbFb4CPCeHXPks/s200/%25235+Mother+Colors.jpg" width="176" /></a><span style="color: #274e13;">colors. To determine which 3 colors I will use I make numerous color swatches. The paints need to be the same consistency (whole milk) to encourage ample mixing on the paper. I'm looking for interesting combinations (how they mix when wet, range of colors, range of values and do they relate to my subject). The 3 paint colors I selected I call my Mother Colors: New Gamboge (NG), Quinacridone Rose (QR), and Phthalo Blue GS (PB GS).</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrw8FFk_kXaLrkN27wH2IKIFiK2dQsUjeH9vHQcJ21pzLQ2TN3u6WrRHk_jkew3AmQNPOS_-CdrrDAu1XOpk3Ygaj0W7rVJx0gwD98mMOlrn0VZBSOuUZEwubcv_CEukcPHdn_LuVBhU/s1600/2+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="599" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrw8FFk_kXaLrkN27wH2IKIFiK2dQsUjeH9vHQcJ21pzLQ2TN3u6WrRHk_jkew3AmQNPOS_-CdrrDAu1XOpk3Ygaj0W7rVJx0gwD98mMOlrn0VZBSOuUZEwubcv_CEukcPHdn_LuVBhU/s320/2+AM.png" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>2: UNDERPAINTING</b><br />I wet the watercolor paper with clean water and introduce the 3 paint colors separately into the wet surface. I paint at an angle to encourage mixing as the paint moves. I don’t overwork the surface with a paint brush but encourage the paint to mix and mingle on the paper. I leave a third of the paper untouched with paint. As it dries the paint will continue to move and hopefully a small amount of light/whites will remain. Let throughly dry naturally (without a hair dryer).</span></div>
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>3: START GLAZING</b><br />I continue with my Mother Colors (original 3 colors) and I pull French </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhboZ8rpmEgqtW3X-4EwPbldJ2Zqgdd9Xxa9W0s9L-K_KKsw_ZOhFbxqZBf6MniCNZBx5Cj6Sru1ZDH4sl35BqYMzbXk04-IE8Qh8YMNCp-saXhzygalDt55xNgr6Rm4BUfz3sLxE6eQCY/s1600/3+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="595" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhboZ8rpmEgqtW3X-4EwPbldJ2Zqgdd9Xxa9W0s9L-K_KKsw_ZOhFbxqZBf6MniCNZBx5Cj6Sru1ZDH4sl35BqYMzbXk04-IE8Qh8YMNCp-saXhzygalDt55xNgr6Rm4BUfz3sLxE6eQCY/s320/3+AM.png" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #274e13;">Ultramarine into the mixing area of my palette. When I bring a new color into the mix it touches one of the original Mother Colors. Why? Having a new color touch one of the original 3 colors creates harmony in the glazing process. When I begin glazing I'll paint over some of the poinsettia petals, leaves and background at the same time. I start in the upper left hand corner and work clockwise. I paint hard edges against the petals I want to save and soften as I pull away. As I work clockwise around the main poinsettia I vary my colors slightly with the Mother Colors and French Ultramarine. Let throughly dry.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRhnUk6gorGivbJBtxkz0TcOm_HfX9IHS0HFmfM7wte91faA6vmICNtPTI0UoNFxVZQ_bqCUotdh0RK11MbC_y5LwWR0cn1U0U-MtiOH66Ypvfq8xUd7Q3ckJ3QbO0oytexCi34n5Ro4/s1600/%25239+Greens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="900" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRhnUk6gorGivbJBtxkz0TcOm_HfX9IHS0HFmfM7wte91faA6vmICNtPTI0UoNFxVZQ_bqCUotdh0RK11MbC_y5LwWR0cn1U0U-MtiOH66Ypvfq8xUd7Q3ckJ3QbO0oytexCi34n5Ro4/s320/%25239+Greens.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>4: GLAZING CONTINUED - GREENS</b><br />Periodically I wipe off my palette especially if the mixing area has become a neutralized mixture. Mud, neutrals or grays are wonderful and every painter should know how to mix them. But know when you want them and how these grays work to make other colors more lively.<br /><br />I pull out fresh paint into the center of my palette. I have the Mother Colors (NG, QR, PB), French Ultramarine and the new addition of Hansa Yellow Light. Starting on the left side directly below the poinsettia and working counter clockwise. I use a mixture of French Ultramarine & </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaviT0Sq5cFlkGiQkNYVT87PKSyfGjpu-KYwye13iQr6a4RzZus90ZucG2_oSpYqgsuk2MPw6EVfUo9flxSNr_tnI-rFEfa9uhRztv3QGERcjk-1S6ZMuh5sO-fGXPNmFgWD6gN4g-YHU/s1600/4+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="597" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaviT0Sq5cFlkGiQkNYVT87PKSyfGjpu-KYwye13iQr6a4RzZus90ZucG2_oSpYqgsuk2MPw6EVfUo9flxSNr_tnI-rFEfa9uhRztv3QGERcjk-1S6ZMuh5sO-fGXPNmFgWD6gN4g-YHU/s320/4+AM.png" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #274e13;">Quinacridone Rose. I carve out shapes with hard edges against the petals. As I move across the lower section I want my colors to move from purples into the greens. With each brush load I slightly shift the green. Below the center poinsettia is a cooler green and pushes towards the blues. As I move across the lower section (left to right) I carve out more petal shapes. Above the far right poinsettia the greens are much warmer and have more Hansa Yellow Light. The small negative shapes in the center of each flower is a dark mixture of French Ultramarine & Quinacridone Rose. Let throughly dry.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrJs6efoCaHKz1D-a9eh2WdyOHJH16NNg1vLxjDf61thm7o8NNGs1gwZ41nVNetQFqqv3KJ4Vqsp5qFm3LKPm7_cACeVh7KB7lgdvOkjbChyphenhyphengWITWkJfvWaC-fczTjlPGT4VA_87sQWE/s1600/5AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="783" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbrJs6efoCaHKz1D-a9eh2WdyOHJH16NNg1vLxjDf61thm7o8NNGs1gwZ41nVNetQFqqv3KJ4Vqsp5qFm3LKPm7_cACeVh7KB7lgdvOkjbChyphenhyphengWITWkJfvWaC-fczTjlPGT4VA_87sQWE/s400/5AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #274e13;"><b>FINAL STAGE: DARKEST DARKS, SMALLEST SHAPES & DETAILS</b><br />As the poinsettia turns from the light I have a variety of shadows. Form shadows have soft edges and cast shadows have hard edges. The shadows on the petals are a darker value of Quinacridone Rose with a touch of French Ultramarine as it turns from the light. When I need to soften the edge of a form shadow I use clean water on the edge before the paint has a chance to dry. The leaves beneath the center poinsettia is the darkest passage of negative painting. I use a mixture of Phthalo Blue GS & New Gamboge, before the paint has a chance to loose its shine I drop a little Quinacridone Rose into the passage. The unexpected warmth brings life to the dark greens. A few touches of color in the center of the poinsettia and it’s finished.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hope you’ve enjoyed this short demonstration. I used the <a href="https://www.cheapjoes.com/daniel-smith-extra-fine-watercolor-essentials-set.html">Daniel Smith Essentials Set</a><b>. </b>The set consists of six tubes of paints. A warm and cool: red, blue and yellow. The colors are VERY transparent (exception of Hansa Yellow Light which is semi-transparent). </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy Painting!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: large;">Brenda</span></span>Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3567821773752027156.post-10750922185174655282017-10-23T12:57:00.005-07:002023-09-03T07:51:34.489-07:00Walnut Ink & Watercolor<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Arial; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Autumn brings with it a beautiful array of colors and textures. At our Farmer’s Market a </span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">new crop of persimmons are available in a variety of shapes and colors. I came home with a bag full and put them in a favorite dish. I loved how the contrast of colors and textures played off of each other: orange-red against blue-green. Smooth against rough.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">When Daniel Smith Artists’ Materials asked if I’d like to try their Walnut Ink. I was eager to give it a try. I am particularly fond of inks with warm tones. The idea of drawing the persimmons with walnut ink was appealing. Before the bottle arrived I did a little research on their website. I thought walnut ink would fade. I was wrong. Here is what I found.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i>“DANIEL SMITH Walnut Ink is lightfast, non-acidic, transparent, and low staining. It’s finely pigmented, sepia-colored, water-based ink made from walnut husks. It's great for all types of drawing styles and calligraphy, and works beautifully with a dip pen or brush. With a brush, DANIEL SMITH Walnut Ink handles like a transparent watercolor with good layering, and lifting capabilities in darker washes. The rich color resembles traditional walnut-based inks, but will not fade.” </i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwt079AJtfSq2_UtN0-EOW43YppXmS5hieUeB2bAhUJyXGCI1aP-I6WtOTk69NyxNJf2UE2C8anXXOSTI3semDNa0Cq8V6Xu3MvHpFM7meSoZvesHSuqMRjSwLbakRpOBFJCz7-hja0Cw/s1600/IMG_1604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1293" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwt079AJtfSq2_UtN0-EOW43YppXmS5hieUeB2bAhUJyXGCI1aP-I6WtOTk69NyxNJf2UE2C8anXXOSTI3semDNa0Cq8V6Xu3MvHpFM7meSoZvesHSuqMRjSwLbakRpOBFJCz7-hja0Cw/s320/IMG_1604.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Step 1</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-kerning: none;">Watercolor Paper is Bockingford cold press 140lb. My favorite technique for drawing is </span><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">continual line contour.</span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> I keep my pen on the paper for the majority of the drawing. I am using a bamboo reed pen…Why? I enjoy line variation.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Helpful hint: Before you begin drawing soak the tip of the bamboo reed pen in 3 inches of water for 20 minutes. The pen will have an increased ability to hold ink.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXizFtR92sF-tTRKQQRlBx8VYQdOvhrOMGCT_F3XpLeJAtXm0wf3050iFzRF7HAcTkOc6T20zhmJxomIndovVqUKJOnAw-rh7l6-m0KKvcuSkkZu-tOe_ZCDgeS0eGfpDFOSYKE3L2k-A/s1600/IMG_1605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1278" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXizFtR92sF-tTRKQQRlBx8VYQdOvhrOMGCT_F3XpLeJAtXm0wf3050iFzRF7HAcTkOc6T20zhmJxomIndovVqUKJOnAw-rh7l6-m0KKvcuSkkZu-tOe_ZCDgeS0eGfpDFOSYKE3L2k-A/s320/IMG_1605.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; text-decoration: underline;">Step 2</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">I start by pulling fresh color into the center of my palette. I work on a dry surface and mix the colors on the paper. You’ll noticed the Walnut Ink moves…I like that. If I touch the line gently it will move a little and more if I scrub the line with my brush the more it moves. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">The persimmons are a mixture of Hansa Yellow Medium, Anthraquonoid Scarlet & Quinacridone Burnt Orange. The </span></span><span style="color: #20124d;">Leaf and stems are Quinacridone Gold & French Ultramarine.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLN61r6WY2FY6vO4gNnhRPacp9iQpF7EK2A7TzIcweypFCFsGr67hucmggLdjtDKO0BRqBEPxntZuVyHbU7xtDuUHPPFqujIGpC1J81abAWp0M4Cau-VbXaNoCC8fYU2nadyr3ENVd9Po/s1600/IMG_1607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1285" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLN61r6WY2FY6vO4gNnhRPacp9iQpF7EK2A7TzIcweypFCFsGr67hucmggLdjtDKO0BRqBEPxntZuVyHbU7xtDuUHPPFqujIGpC1J81abAWp0M4Cau-VbXaNoCC8fYU2nadyr3ENVd9Po/s320/IMG_1607.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Step 3</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">The plate is painted with Cobalt Teal Blue. I intentionally disrupted the details on the plate with my brush. I want the lines to defuse. I don’t want the lines to be in sharp focus especially since the majority of the plate will be effected by shadows from the persimmons.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmHYnGWxsb7GAyH6L0Vvf8lUhUTLpE2UZOg2GcUbjf41Reo_nXUZPi2vknGLS_aZedemqCYGmXN4kXnRhvKtT1vSYh_4srejWvUo7qv6Im-zGyKLkOmz99z-z3XsNMzVastBPa5BJiDc/s1600/IMG_1608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1288" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmHYnGWxsb7GAyH6L0Vvf8lUhUTLpE2UZOg2GcUbjf41Reo_nXUZPi2vknGLS_aZedemqCYGmXN4kXnRhvKtT1vSYh_4srejWvUo7qv6Im-zGyKLkOmz99z-z3XsNMzVastBPa5BJiDc/s320/IMG_1608.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Step 4</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-kerning: none;">Shadows are my favorite subject! The presence of light defines form and gives life to a subject. I begin my making two puddles of paint on my palette: 1. Quinacridone Burnt Orange & Quinacridone Rose 2. Imperial Purple. I start by painting the </span><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">form shadows</span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> on the persimmons with Quinacridone Burnt Orange & Quinacridone Rose and quickly move into the </span><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">cast shadows</span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> on the plate with Imperial Purple. I want a soft transition between the objects and the colors.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Step 5</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">The final stage I use Imperial Purple in the background. Before the passage has lost its shine I touch a small amount of Phthalo Turquoise into the area. Final touches are added to the foliage area.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09tjWN65cYm9idTsTu285hvHUpCGhr-pSu73ijTl7_zlomomiPujv4k3Wiz0Dbz4V3pmeScyD62yFGruIExvgNjE69-5Njt5dU7FgTPo3Ea36I5iKyf_hKXukHhaakIroJxU4PXO_L8c/s1600/IMG_1614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1276" height="537" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09tjWN65cYm9idTsTu285hvHUpCGhr-pSu73ijTl7_zlomomiPujv4k3Wiz0Dbz4V3pmeScyD62yFGruIExvgNjE69-5Njt5dU7FgTPo3Ea36I5iKyf_hKXukHhaakIroJxU4PXO_L8c/s640/IMG_1614.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7aj17tjuH4snXHnGbF4UT9UPq45_eTMpoa1YMGsf8-RrH8ntC4nGRGdrgjtzakVPQFxVmb11U8eB9rhiJAUnefitvjZhws3eBQW5D5wCj6p-LvN_7ISb1WOIv77CxUl2UDVmXpqlHe8M/s1600/2017+Dot+Card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="723" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7aj17tjuH4snXHnGbF4UT9UPq45_eTMpoa1YMGsf8-RrH8ntC4nGRGdrgjtzakVPQFxVmb11U8eB9rhiJAUnefitvjZhws3eBQW5D5wCj6p-LvN_7ISb1WOIv77CxUl2UDVmXpqlHe8M/s320/2017+Dot+Card.jpg" width="142" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">My Daniel Smith dot card has a white X on the colors I used for this piece. </span></span><span style="color: #20124d;">All the materials used in this demonstration are listed below. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d;">Ink: </span><a href="https://www.cheapjoes.com/daniel-smith-walnut-ink.html">Walnut Ink</a> (new bottle same ink)<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d;">Pen: </span><a href="https://www.cheapjoes.com/yasutomo-combination-bamboo-pen-and-brush.html">Bamboo Reed</a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Watercolors: <a href="https://www.cheapjoes.com/catalogsearch/result/index/no_cache/1/?brand=24244&dir=asc&mode=list&order=brand&q=Daniel+smith+watercolors">Daniel Smith Watercolors</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #20124d;">Watercolor Paper: </span><a href="https://www.cheapjoes.com/bockingford-watercolor-paper.html" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Bockingford 140lb cold press</a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Happy Painting!</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>Brenda</i></span></div>
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Brenda Swensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16209414092057484378noreply@blogger.com6