9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Painted at Granville Arts Festival
This week, my oral history project took me to the home of a most fascinating woman. Her garden is called a 'recycled garden' -- bringing to mind bits of this, that and the other thing. But not at all! Her garden would be more aptly named 'a history garden' .... since every bit of her family's old farm implements, windows, chimney pieces, the town's old bricks, millstones, fireplace pieces, old benches and the like have all been 'recycled' into the most cozy, clever and incredibly beautiful garden. The interviewee loves hydrangeas, and when we visited her garden, they were in full bloom and in many varieties. What a glorious site.
My own hydrangea is in full bloom now and between the visit last week and my own garden, I had to paint these beautiful shrubs. I 'sponged' in the hydrangea blossoms before I left for the festival, and worked from memory on the leaves and bits of detail during the show. When the heat and humidity are over 90F, that paint sure doesn't work like it does in the studio! LOL But it was fun and I was glad to have something to work on in between visitors and visits to other booths.
Please see: http://viewfromtheoak.blogspot.com for festival info.
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Showing posts with label North Carolina. Show all posts
Showing posts with label North Carolina. Show all posts
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Monday, February 1, 2010
Blue Sentinels - Lin Frye
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
Oh yes, I am enjoying the snow --! And with the cold we're having, I'm enjoying the ice too (but less so!). The college is closed today as are most of the schools in the area. There just was not sufficient ice melt yesterday to render the roads safe.
We had a 'warmish' afternoon yesterday - enough to make our way to the garage and unearth the snow shovel and scrape the porches and steps. Our neighbor came by with his huge tractor and plow and graciously cleared our driveway (it's a mighty long one! LOL) and then went down the road to clear enough of it so that a car could get to the secondary road. We live 15 miles from a major roadway, so being able to get anywhere really does require the help of our friends.
We walked about the property taking more photos. This was the first 'siginficant' snow in a few years (other than an inch or so) - so it really was a major event for us.
I was having a hard time painting yesterday - distracted probably - or too busy gazing out of the windows! LOL But these cluster of trees caught in the early morning snowfall the other day really helped me focus. I painted these same trees several years ago during a snowfall (http://www.flickr.com/photos/linfrye/3324833079/) only that view was from the daytime. I tried in vain to capture the moonlight through the trees last evening - but my 'snap and go' camera just couldn't 'see' such subtlety.
It's supposed to rain today and if it does, the snow will certainly be gone so I'm going to enjoy it while it's around. However, there's another 'chance' of the white stuff next weekend ... Woooo WHooo ...
Stay safe!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Oxford Snow - View from my Window - Lin Frye
9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP
BRRRRRRRRRRRR! The snow finished falling yesterday, and the extremely cold temperatures have frozen the mounds in place. We have yet to make it to the garage - 10 feet from the house -- to reach the snow shovel. The steps are a solid mass of 8" ice ... and from the looks of things on the front porch, the cats didn't make it much further than below the steps. The sun never made it out yestersday, but as I'm typing, the first rays of yellow are making their way above the treeline. But it's mighty cold.
We're grateful to still have power - and so we've been snuggly warm and using the housebound time to acquaint ourselves with the new computer, cook, rest, and basically use the day as a 'found object' to truly do very little. I managed to paint this from a photo I took through the upstairs window early yesterday morning.
We've yet to see a car go by on the road, and since we live on a private street, there is no plowing of it unless we do it. I suppose today will be the day we attempt to shovel ourselves out. From the news last night, most everything is shut down - stores, many churches, airport, buses. Major roads have been plowed and salted, but since we live 15 miles from a major road, it's a 'do-it'yourself' with the neighbors kind of thing for us.
The storm kept us once more from our scheduled trip to visit my daughter for my granddaughter's first birthday -- and an exchange of Christmas gifts (that trip rescheduled due to a death in the family).... at the rate we're going, we'll have Christmas in July to be sure! LOL
Stay warm and safe whever you are!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Arches 140#CP
BRRRRRRRRRRRR! The snow finished falling yesterday, and the extremely cold temperatures have frozen the mounds in place. We have yet to make it to the garage - 10 feet from the house -- to reach the snow shovel. The steps are a solid mass of 8" ice ... and from the looks of things on the front porch, the cats didn't make it much further than below the steps. The sun never made it out yestersday, but as I'm typing, the first rays of yellow are making their way above the treeline. But it's mighty cold.
We're grateful to still have power - and so we've been snuggly warm and using the housebound time to acquaint ourselves with the new computer, cook, rest, and basically use the day as a 'found object' to truly do very little. I managed to paint this from a photo I took through the upstairs window early yesterday morning.
We've yet to see a car go by on the road, and since we live on a private street, there is no plowing of it unless we do it. I suppose today will be the day we attempt to shovel ourselves out. From the news last night, most everything is shut down - stores, many churches, airport, buses. Major roads have been plowed and salted, but since we live 15 miles from a major road, it's a 'do-it'yourself' with the neighbors kind of thing for us.
The storm kept us once more from our scheduled trip to visit my daughter for my granddaughter's first birthday -- and an exchange of Christmas gifts (that trip rescheduled due to a death in the family).... at the rate we're going, we'll have Christmas in July to be sure! LOL
Stay warm and safe whever you are!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Sundown in the Pines - Lin Frye
Daily Practice
Journal
As we reached the top of the drive other evening when C and I went for our walk (followed by the cats -- with Pepper BEGINNING to come with us), the sun was just beginning to set behind the mass of pines. The sun's rays caught ONE pine in particular, lighting it up like it were lit by flame. I snapped a few photos, and tried to capture that incredible glow here.
Rain most of the day yesterday, a soft gentle showering so needed by our plants. I ache for those worried, frightened and fighting the fires in California and offer my heartfelt prayers.
May those awful fires be contained today, lives and homes and wildlife saved .....
Be well.
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Journal
As we reached the top of the drive other evening when C and I went for our walk (followed by the cats -- with Pepper BEGINNING to come with us), the sun was just beginning to set behind the mass of pines. The sun's rays caught ONE pine in particular, lighting it up like it were lit by flame. I snapped a few photos, and tried to capture that incredible glow here.
Rain most of the day yesterday, a soft gentle showering so needed by our plants. I ache for those worried, frightened and fighting the fires in California and offer my heartfelt prayers.
May those awful fires be contained today, lives and homes and wildlife saved .....
Be well.
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Monday, August 31, 2009
Fall's Comin' - Lin Frye
Daily Practice
Journal
This image was painted from a photo reference I've had for a long time. The photo shows roses in bloom on a summer's day, and I've altered the painting for fall light and colors, and the goldenrods and grasses which are now blooming along the roads' edges.
We took a short drive around the countryside yesterday, looking at how the season has begun to change more of the landscape. Here and there spots of tree leaf color - scarlet, orange, pure gold -- surprised us among the dimming greens and yellows of the trees. Our temps yesterday were in the 80s; today, we're supposed to have rain and only reach 70F .... I would imagine that many of the trees will begin changing colors in earnest after a few days of cooler temperatures and the rain we've been waiting for.
Another busy week ahead, hopefully more evenly dispersed among the hours ....
Have a good week!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Journal
This image was painted from a photo reference I've had for a long time. The photo shows roses in bloom on a summer's day, and I've altered the painting for fall light and colors, and the goldenrods and grasses which are now blooming along the roads' edges.
We took a short drive around the countryside yesterday, looking at how the season has begun to change more of the landscape. Here and there spots of tree leaf color - scarlet, orange, pure gold -- surprised us among the dimming greens and yellows of the trees. Our temps yesterday were in the 80s; today, we're supposed to have rain and only reach 70F .... I would imagine that many of the trees will begin changing colors in earnest after a few days of cooler temperatures and the rain we've been waiting for.
Another busy week ahead, hopefully more evenly dispersed among the hours ....
Have a good week!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Roadside Grasses - Lin Frye
Daily Practice
Journal
I have always been fascinated by wildflowers --- in fact, my foray into botany began by wondering about the names of those flowers and weeds I saw growing along the roadsides. My curiosity lead me to take my first botany class, and I've been 'hooked' ever since.
This time of year when lawnmowers tend to leave a patch or two along the ditches, the multitude of grasses and flowers grow up in profusion in colors that announce the season - sepia, sienna, brown, gold, yellow, tapioca, yellow, green. My drives around rural North Carolina find more and more to observe and enjoy. This painting was done from memory of those drives. I was trying to capture that tangle of color and the dominence of one or two of the tallest grass varieties ... all against the fall sky. I love this time of year.
Today we rest. I didn't catch the news last night and can't tell whether the sun is trying to come out or we're in for a bit of rain. Regardless, chores are basically behind us and today will be a quiet one as we gear up for another busy week.
Happy Sunday!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Journal
I have always been fascinated by wildflowers --- in fact, my foray into botany began by wondering about the names of those flowers and weeds I saw growing along the roadsides. My curiosity lead me to take my first botany class, and I've been 'hooked' ever since.
This time of year when lawnmowers tend to leave a patch or two along the ditches, the multitude of grasses and flowers grow up in profusion in colors that announce the season - sepia, sienna, brown, gold, yellow, tapioca, yellow, green. My drives around rural North Carolina find more and more to observe and enjoy. This painting was done from memory of those drives. I was trying to capture that tangle of color and the dominence of one or two of the tallest grass varieties ... all against the fall sky. I love this time of year.
Today we rest. I didn't catch the news last night and can't tell whether the sun is trying to come out or we're in for a bit of rain. Regardless, chores are basically behind us and today will be a quiet one as we gear up for another busy week.
Happy Sunday!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Pond at Summer's End - Lin Frye
Daily Practice
Journal
The light this time of year shows the season's changing. The sun is lower in the sky, daylight ends over an hour earlier than in June, and there's a fading of leaf color that tinges everything a kind of yellow. The vibrant greens of summer are almost gone.
This painting, done from a photograph, was altered to reflect what I see of the pond near our home --- yellowing grasses, more brown stems and weeds along the roadsides, thinnng of tree canopies, a cooler light.
Thank you for your kindest and most generous comments yesterday. Your generosity is deeply appreciated.
Tropical Storm Danny has passed our coastline, but there's a bit of rain in the forecast from another front coming through. We do need the rain, and temperatures are predicted to be MUCH cooler next week --- 20 degrees cooler! That will certainly be turning our leaves yellow far quicker than the monthlong passing of time!
Hope your Saturday is all it can be!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Journal
The light this time of year shows the season's changing. The sun is lower in the sky, daylight ends over an hour earlier than in June, and there's a fading of leaf color that tinges everything a kind of yellow. The vibrant greens of summer are almost gone.
This painting, done from a photograph, was altered to reflect what I see of the pond near our home --- yellowing grasses, more brown stems and weeds along the roadsides, thinnng of tree canopies, a cooler light.
Thank you for your kindest and most generous comments yesterday. Your generosity is deeply appreciated.
Tropical Storm Danny has passed our coastline, but there's a bit of rain in the forecast from another front coming through. We do need the rain, and temperatures are predicted to be MUCH cooler next week --- 20 degrees cooler! That will certainly be turning our leaves yellow far quicker than the monthlong passing of time!
Hope your Saturday is all it can be!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Friday, August 28, 2009
Muscadine Grapes--Lin Frye
Daily Practice
Journal
During our walks around the neighborhood, C and I try to notice some of the changing aspects of the natural world all around us. This year, we found the muscadine vines that drape many of our roadside trees, just FILLED with grapes.
The vines have been there a long time, but in the 15 years we've lived here, I can't recall seeing such a quantity of grapes. They've just begun to ripen too - and standing beneath them, I can spot every color from a yellow-green, to red-gold, to purple to almost black. Tasty too, I might add! LOL
In the years prior to this when I spent more time collecting wild edibles, I remember using Euell Gibbon's books as references for recipes. He has a wonderful pie recipe using wild grapes that truly tastes like a cherry pie. I've made jelly and juice before as well, and I've crafted those long, flexible vines into terrific baskets.
This year, though, my jam cabinet is full and I think I'll just enjoy the grapes out of hand during our walks -- an incentive, I think, to walk a bit further! LOL
The trip yesterday -- FABULOUS! The food -- out of this world! The company - so very enjoyable! We went to Elodie Farms again (http://www.elodiefarms.com) - a farm I love and have visited for their porch dinners, to have the grands feed the goats, and for so many of our plein air outings. This was the first time many of our Arboretum guests have been to a goat farm and have been exposed to the idea of agri-tourism. To say they enjoyed themselves it is truly an understatement. We've been asked to make this trip an annual event!! Educational and Fun!
Local food, farm tours, and the like are so much becoming a sustainable way for folks to remain on the land. I wholeheartedly support them and encourage our students to think how to diversify their love of the land and being out of doors when they begin their own green business. Yesteday's meal consisted of eggs, tomatoes, goat cheese, herbs -- all grown at Elodie. Their freshness and richness could not be denied!
We're in for some rain today, though Hurricane Danny is supposed to stay off our coastline. We do need the rain and the cloudy sky makes the day even more restive.
Have a great day!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Journal
During our walks around the neighborhood, C and I try to notice some of the changing aspects of the natural world all around us. This year, we found the muscadine vines that drape many of our roadside trees, just FILLED with grapes.
The vines have been there a long time, but in the 15 years we've lived here, I can't recall seeing such a quantity of grapes. They've just begun to ripen too - and standing beneath them, I can spot every color from a yellow-green, to red-gold, to purple to almost black. Tasty too, I might add! LOL
In the years prior to this when I spent more time collecting wild edibles, I remember using Euell Gibbon's books as references for recipes. He has a wonderful pie recipe using wild grapes that truly tastes like a cherry pie. I've made jelly and juice before as well, and I've crafted those long, flexible vines into terrific baskets.
This year, though, my jam cabinet is full and I think I'll just enjoy the grapes out of hand during our walks -- an incentive, I think, to walk a bit further! LOL
The trip yesterday -- FABULOUS! The food -- out of this world! The company - so very enjoyable! We went to Elodie Farms again (http://www.elodiefarms.com) - a farm I love and have visited for their porch dinners, to have the grands feed the goats, and for so many of our plein air outings. This was the first time many of our Arboretum guests have been to a goat farm and have been exposed to the idea of agri-tourism. To say they enjoyed themselves it is truly an understatement. We've been asked to make this trip an annual event!! Educational and Fun!
Local food, farm tours, and the like are so much becoming a sustainable way for folks to remain on the land. I wholeheartedly support them and encourage our students to think how to diversify their love of the land and being out of doors when they begin their own green business. Yesteday's meal consisted of eggs, tomatoes, goat cheese, herbs -- all grown at Elodie. Their freshness and richness could not be denied!
We're in for some rain today, though Hurricane Danny is supposed to stay off our coastline. We do need the rain and the cloudy sky makes the day even more restive.
Have a great day!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Lycoris - Naked Ladies - Surprise Lily--Lin Frye
Daily Practice
Journal
Grace. Yesterday was simply one of those days of tranquility, quiet and the space of time that allows one to recuperate a time of intense activity and frenzy. Because of all the
hours we've all worked and the pace of activity, we took a much needed respite and enjoyed a few minutes away from the phones and computers to sit at Cold Stone and enjoy an endulgence of ice cream! With 90F degree weather, creamy, cold, sweet ice cream topped by all kinds of decadent candies, it was absolutely joy and a true moment of grace.
Throughout the Arboretum, these 'surprise lilies' are popping out all over. Lycoris belongs to the amaryllis family and are native to southern Japan. They grow from 3" bulbs and while the foliage shows in late winter, the flowers wait until August to surprise us. One flower stalk (without leave at all), ususally appears for every 10 leaves produced earlier in the winter. The plant does especially well in areas with wet springs and dry, drought-ish summers. Lycoris are easy to grow, and do well in full sun to part shade and average soil types. The bulbs can be divided after blooming.
Today, we take 2 vans of guests two hours north to visit a wonderful goat farm. We'll tour the farm, learn more about Agri-tourism in our state, sample the goat cheese, have a quiet lunch, then proceed to an ornamental grass arborteum. It's going to be another hot day, but we've traveled with many of these returning Arboretum guests, and so we're looking foward to enjoying the day together as we learn more about North Carolina and the green industry.
May today be a day of respite and grace for you too.
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Journal
Grace. Yesterday was simply one of those days of tranquility, quiet and the space of time that allows one to recuperate a time of intense activity and frenzy. Because of all the
hours we've all worked and the pace of activity, we took a much needed respite and enjoyed a few minutes away from the phones and computers to sit at Cold Stone and enjoy an endulgence of ice cream! With 90F degree weather, creamy, cold, sweet ice cream topped by all kinds of decadent candies, it was absolutely joy and a true moment of grace.
Throughout the Arboretum, these 'surprise lilies' are popping out all over. Lycoris belongs to the amaryllis family and are native to southern Japan. They grow from 3" bulbs and while the foliage shows in late winter, the flowers wait until August to surprise us. One flower stalk (without leave at all), ususally appears for every 10 leaves produced earlier in the winter. The plant does especially well in areas with wet springs and dry, drought-ish summers. Lycoris are easy to grow, and do well in full sun to part shade and average soil types. The bulbs can be divided after blooming.
Today, we take 2 vans of guests two hours north to visit a wonderful goat farm. We'll tour the farm, learn more about Agri-tourism in our state, sample the goat cheese, have a quiet lunch, then proceed to an ornamental grass arborteum. It's going to be another hot day, but we've traveled with many of these returning Arboretum guests, and so we're looking foward to enjoying the day together as we learn more about North Carolina and the green industry.
May today be a day of respite and grace for you too.
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Cauliflower--Lin Frye
Daily Practice
Journal
Though we don't have any growing in any of our gardens, I thought I'd try an impressionistic approach to cauliflower ... I loved playing with the richer paints and splashing colors around. I can't really determine if this actually LOOKS much like cauliflower, but it was fun to paint!
If I 'were' growing this in my garden, I'd have planted the seeds earlier this month. Here in NC zone 7 a and b, the long, warmer days of fall make it a good time to plant and harvest cauliflower.
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Journal
Though we don't have any growing in any of our gardens, I thought I'd try an impressionistic approach to cauliflower ... I loved playing with the richer paints and splashing colors around. I can't really determine if this actually LOOKS much like cauliflower, but it was fun to paint!
If I 'were' growing this in my garden, I'd have planted the seeds earlier this month. Here in NC zone 7 a and b, the long, warmer days of fall make it a good time to plant and harvest cauliflower.
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Sunday, July 12, 2009
SUNFLOWERS
Daily Practice
Journal
Mercy, yesterday was one of those days we expected to do a bit of work and wound up spending the entire day at chores ... productive - but oh my do these ol' bones feel it! LOL
We visited one of our farmer's markets - and again were met with crowds of folks. It truly does my heart good to see so many people taking advantage of the wonderful goods and produce that our local farmers and niche farmers are producing. We picked up more corn, beans, cheese from my favorite goat farmer, tomatoes (mine are just on the cusp of redness!), and these bright, cheerful sunflowers!
I remember the year I grew a field of them -- so tall, filling my plot with shining sun -- until we had a summer squall, and those beautiful flowers, like my corn, had to be STAKED in order to stand straight! Can you imagine staking a FIELD of sunflowers!! LOL I don't think I knew about shorter varieties back then! Anyway, I had to have these pretties to paint.
At home, I sliced tomatoes for the dehydrator - the hum of that machine is a constant summer song in our kitchen. Made bruschetta for lunch (dreaming of Italy), then trimmed all the trees and shrubs in front of the house, and watered. Worked on sunflowers a bit, and as these were drying, made blueberry, banana and pistachio ice box cake for C's jam today, blueberry muffins, and blueberry baskets (like mini coffee cakes). Worked on the sunflowers a bit more, took a much needed 20 minute nap, then worked on dinner, made applesauce from the first apples off our tres, roasted the corn and watched the news. Took a small walk and then hit the bed. Whew ... what a day! Fun and tasty - but a bit too busy! Still, today should be far more relaxing since most all chores are done.
The skies threaten rain, and joints and sinuses would be much at ease if it would just fall ...but with only a 30% chance of it refreshing our thirsty plants, it's unlikely... so I'll be out with the watering buckets this morning.
Hope YOUR day is relaxing! (and mine too-- LOL)!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Journal
Mercy, yesterday was one of those days we expected to do a bit of work and wound up spending the entire day at chores ... productive - but oh my do these ol' bones feel it! LOL
We visited one of our farmer's markets - and again were met with crowds of folks. It truly does my heart good to see so many people taking advantage of the wonderful goods and produce that our local farmers and niche farmers are producing. We picked up more corn, beans, cheese from my favorite goat farmer, tomatoes (mine are just on the cusp of redness!), and these bright, cheerful sunflowers!
I remember the year I grew a field of them -- so tall, filling my plot with shining sun -- until we had a summer squall, and those beautiful flowers, like my corn, had to be STAKED in order to stand straight! Can you imagine staking a FIELD of sunflowers!! LOL I don't think I knew about shorter varieties back then! Anyway, I had to have these pretties to paint.
At home, I sliced tomatoes for the dehydrator - the hum of that machine is a constant summer song in our kitchen. Made bruschetta for lunch (dreaming of Italy), then trimmed all the trees and shrubs in front of the house, and watered. Worked on sunflowers a bit, and as these were drying, made blueberry, banana and pistachio ice box cake for C's jam today, blueberry muffins, and blueberry baskets (like mini coffee cakes). Worked on the sunflowers a bit more, took a much needed 20 minute nap, then worked on dinner, made applesauce from the first apples off our tres, roasted the corn and watched the news. Took a small walk and then hit the bed. Whew ... what a day! Fun and tasty - but a bit too busy! Still, today should be far more relaxing since most all chores are done.
The skies threaten rain, and joints and sinuses would be much at ease if it would just fall ...but with only a 30% chance of it refreshing our thirsty plants, it's unlikely... so I'll be out with the watering buckets this morning.
Hope YOUR day is relaxing! (and mine too-- LOL)!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Sundown over the Sea Oats
Daily Practice
Journal
My workday ended very late last evening and so I arrived at the B&B pretty tired. I splashed around a bit of paint with unsuccessful results, and hoped that today was much shorter.
This was sketched from a photo reference over the weekend, and to me represents all that I love about the beach ... beautiful wide open skies, the dancing of sea oats, the sandy dunes.... Though I didn't paint them in, a few sea gull would be nice as I 'hear' them whenever I think of the ocean. And oh, can I smell that salt air!
At my own home, 200 miles from the beach, I've grown RIVER oats - similiar in form and structure but a different species. River oats are found in the natural areas around fresh water - such as creeks, streams and rivers. Their seed heads aren't as full as sea oats, but like the sea oats, both hold down the soil and help with erosion. My river oats tend to be a bit 'weedy' in that they propagate freely around the garden and the birds seem to enjoy the seeds ... that is, when the cats arent' chasing them!
Our rain has stopped and we're expecting hot temperatures again. The weeds are having their way again - encouraged by the rain and the humidity ... sigh. Sure makes me wonder WHY we just don't ENJOY them instead of trying to control the nuisances! LOL (Don't let my green industry members hear me even THINK that! LOL)
Have a great day!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Venice
Travel Journal
Sketched in Venice
Painted in NC
Taking the time to sketch while enjoying Venice was exceedingly difficult. I did manage a sketch, however, but couldn't get it painted until I got back to North Carolina.
This view was one of the first we saw in Venice .. and, gardener that I am, wished Icould get behind those iron gates to see what was there!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Sketched in Venice
Painted in NC
Taking the time to sketch while enjoying Venice was exceedingly difficult. I did manage a sketch, however, but couldn't get it painted until I got back to North Carolina.
This view was one of the first we saw in Venice .. and, gardener that I am, wished Icould get behind those iron gates to see what was there!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Courtyard La Romita
Travel Journal
Plein Air
La Romita, Italy
So you see, it was very very difficult to concentrate on painting with so many friends coming to visit, so many sights to see, so much to do, so many gelatos to eat, so many photos to shoot...... sigh! LOL
This watercolor was done the last day we were at La Romita. So many of us sat in that wonderful Courtyard and painted the flowers and pots that we saw daily.
I saw many of these olive jars when I was in Sicily four years ago - and my sketches of them then (just prior to picking up a pencil to finally begin the process of learning how to draw!), are so funny ....! So I was glad to redeem myself with a better (not great) attempt at another olive jar! LOL As I was sketching, Karlyn asked me if I was going to include our ubiquitous laundy -- so there it is in all its muted glory! LOL
Our trip is winding down by now, and I hope you've enjoyed hearing about it as much as I've enjoyed sharing and reliving it. It's hard to believe it's been over a week since I've been home. I told Rebecca over breakfast this morning that I was missing Italy. All she could do was laugh!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Plein Air
La Romita, Italy
So you see, it was very very difficult to concentrate on painting with so many friends coming to visit, so many sights to see, so much to do, so many gelatos to eat, so many photos to shoot...... sigh! LOL
This watercolor was done the last day we were at La Romita. So many of us sat in that wonderful Courtyard and painted the flowers and pots that we saw daily.
I saw many of these olive jars when I was in Sicily four years ago - and my sketches of them then (just prior to picking up a pencil to finally begin the process of learning how to draw!), are so funny ....! So I was glad to redeem myself with a better (not great) attempt at another olive jar! LOL As I was sketching, Karlyn asked me if I was going to include our ubiquitous laundy -- so there it is in all its muted glory! LOL
Our trip is winding down by now, and I hope you've enjoyed hearing about it as much as I've enjoyed sharing and reliving it. It's hard to believe it's been over a week since I've been home. I told Rebecca over breakfast this morning that I was missing Italy. All she could do was laugh!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Monday, June 8, 2009
The Garden at Stroncone
Sketched Plein Air
Painted in Studio
9" x 12" Arches CP #140
There is much to tell about Venice with a most incredible surprise I'll share tomorrow...I've been itching to tell this part of the story, but I truly need to dash off to the office.
Meanwhile, back to Tuscany.
I sat just inside the street limits to paint this garden - located just outside the ancient city walls. Behind me, the sounds of children laughing, teachers instructing, bells ringing kept me company as I sketched. It was a soft, beautiful morning! People passed me as I sat between two vehicles for safety! But I cannot look at this without hearing the merry sounds of those schoolchildren!
I sketched this and again struggled with perspective - painted a bit of it on site - then packed up my gear and continued exploring this amazing stone city. I gave the piece a lot more light (photo posted earlier) and softened that grey wall of the old town limits.
I think what has impressed me so much about Italy was the sheer numbers of planters and pots that softened every dwelling - roses, pansies, geraniums, callas --- all massed in whatever space was available. This was definitely bringing nature home!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Painted in Studio
9" x 12" Arches CP #140
There is much to tell about Venice with a most incredible surprise I'll share tomorrow...I've been itching to tell this part of the story, but I truly need to dash off to the office.
Meanwhile, back to Tuscany.
I sat just inside the street limits to paint this garden - located just outside the ancient city walls. Behind me, the sounds of children laughing, teachers instructing, bells ringing kept me company as I sketched. It was a soft, beautiful morning! People passed me as I sat between two vehicles for safety! But I cannot look at this without hearing the merry sounds of those schoolchildren!
I sketched this and again struggled with perspective - painted a bit of it on site - then packed up my gear and continued exploring this amazing stone city. I gave the piece a lot more light (photo posted earlier) and softened that grey wall of the old town limits.
I think what has impressed me so much about Italy was the sheer numbers of planters and pots that softened every dwelling - roses, pansies, geraniums, callas --- all massed in whatever space was available. This was definitely bringing nature home!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Wine Bottles and Flowers LaRomita
Travel Sketchbook
Plein Air
La Romita, Terni, Italy
I had to try to capture that magnificent courtyard garden at La Romita!! The view of these flowers and garden structures were captivating!! I sketched this plein air while sitting in the courtyard and painted it plein air with finishing touches in the studio. It's a little lighter in person than scanned.
I just LOVE those old wine bottles!!! I believe they were specially made for La Romita.
Charles and I went to a small jazz festival yesterday. Oxford has built an amphitheatre at its new athletic park, and we spent several hours there yesterday walking the incredibly well-maintained trails, listening to music and enjoying the coolness of an overcast day. Mighty relaxing!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Plein Air
La Romita, Terni, Italy
I had to try to capture that magnificent courtyard garden at La Romita!! The view of these flowers and garden structures were captivating!! I sketched this plein air while sitting in the courtyard and painted it plein air with finishing touches in the studio. It's a little lighter in person than scanned.
I just LOVE those old wine bottles!!! I believe they were specially made for La Romita.
Charles and I went to a small jazz festival yesterday. Oxford has built an amphitheatre at its new athletic park, and we spent several hours there yesterday walking the incredibly well-maintained trails, listening to music and enjoying the coolness of an overcast day. Mighty relaxing!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Friday, May 29, 2009
Google Maps Practice Sketch at Airport
I'm home!!!
Italy was fabulous and I'll be adding those 'nature' images as appropriate ... I have some photos on my blog if you're interested:
http://viewfromtheoak.blogspot.com or
http://www.flickr.com/photos/linfrye
As I was scanning some of my journal pages I found this one and thought I'd post it before I begin posting those from the trip.
I found this site using Google Maps (I can't recall at the moment where in Italy it was, but it was from the street scene view along the coast of Northern Italy. I sketched it while waiting to leave for Italy, and painted it at RDU while waiting for my plane ... so it could be said I was practicing for the trip! LOL
Right now, it's 10 pm Italy time, 4:00 EDT .. and my poor body isn't sure whether it should sleep or eat ... ! I think a nap is in order.
Funny thing, too. I ran a few errands and the elderberries now in blossom here were also in blossom in Tuscany. I LOVED seeing all the plants in Tuscany that we have here in North Carolina!
Floral connections for sure!
Lin Frye
North Carolina (and wishing it could still be Italy!!!)
Italy was fabulous and I'll be adding those 'nature' images as appropriate ... I have some photos on my blog if you're interested:
http://viewfromtheoak.blogspot.com or
http://www.flickr.com/photos/linfrye
As I was scanning some of my journal pages I found this one and thought I'd post it before I begin posting those from the trip.
I found this site using Google Maps (I can't recall at the moment where in Italy it was, but it was from the street scene view along the coast of Northern Italy. I sketched it while waiting to leave for Italy, and painted it at RDU while waiting for my plane ... so it could be said I was practicing for the trip! LOL
Right now, it's 10 pm Italy time, 4:00 EDT .. and my poor body isn't sure whether it should sleep or eat ... ! I think a nap is in order.
Funny thing, too. I ran a few errands and the elderberries now in blossom here were also in blossom in Tuscany. I LOVED seeing all the plants in Tuscany that we have here in North Carolina!
Floral connections for sure!
Lin Frye
North Carolina (and wishing it could still be Italy!!!)
Monday, May 11, 2009
Sketchbooks for Italy
I spent a bit of time yesterday adding a few things to my hand-made spiral sketchbook for Italy -- some photos, my itinerary, a few charms, copies of some of my 'Italian practice sketches.' I've interspersed writing paper between the watercolor paper so that I can keep a written journal along with my sketches.
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Sunday, May 10, 2009
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY - LARKSPUR
Daily Practice
Plein Air
Happy Mother's Day to all Moms -- moms of children, moms of animals, moms who are caretakers, teachers, moms who are those, male and female, find themselves or who choose to be in the role of 'Mom' -- today in North America -- we honor you for the work you do, the ever important role you play in the lives of those you touch and care for .... may your day be filled with every blessing and love!
Larkspur, also known as Delphinium, according to the Teleflore website: Derived from the Greek word "delphis," meaning dolphin, delphinium are also commonly known as larkspur. Other names include Lark's Heel, Lark's Claw and Knight's Spur. Used by Native Americans and European settlers to make blue dye, it's believed that the most ancient use of delphinium flowers was for driving away scorpions.
The July birth flower, these lush, dolphin-shaped flowers symbolize an open heart and ardent attachment and convey a feeling of lightness and levity.
We planted two of these flower clusters several weeks ago, and this weekend, I sat beside them as they opened to paint their delicate pinky/lavender. They danced in the gentle breezes and gave full meaning to 'lightness!'
I hope your day, MOMS, is filled with love and lightness and the joy of levity!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Plein Air
Happy Mother's Day to all Moms -- moms of children, moms of animals, moms who are caretakers, teachers, moms who are those, male and female, find themselves or who choose to be in the role of 'Mom' -- today in North America -- we honor you for the work you do, the ever important role you play in the lives of those you touch and care for .... may your day be filled with every blessing and love!
Larkspur, also known as Delphinium, according to the Teleflore website: Derived from the Greek word "delphis," meaning dolphin, delphinium are also commonly known as larkspur. Other names include Lark's Heel, Lark's Claw and Knight's Spur. Used by Native Americans and European settlers to make blue dye, it's believed that the most ancient use of delphinium flowers was for driving away scorpions.
The July birth flower, these lush, dolphin-shaped flowers symbolize an open heart and ardent attachment and convey a feeling of lightness and levity.
We planted two of these flower clusters several weeks ago, and this weekend, I sat beside them as they opened to paint their delicate pinky/lavender. They danced in the gentle breezes and gave full meaning to 'lightness!'
I hope your day, MOMS, is filled with love and lightness and the joy of levity!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
Friday, May 8, 2009
Our Skies this Week
Daily Practice
We've been playing the game of 'sun and storm' this week .... we'd wake up to torrential rains, thunder and lightning, stiff winds, then a few hours later, we'd have sunshine, high humidity, and clear skies. A few hours later, the storms will roll in again ....with tornado warnings, slanty sun followed by purple/black clouds. The words for the week have been 'sky watching!!!'
I'm home at last and ready to google some Italy maps, THINK about what to pack, and tidy up a few loose ends. My plane leaves on Wednesday, so I'm going to have a few days to catch up on sleep, painting, and my family before I cross the pond. I truly need to unwind a bit before the excitement of the trip...
Thank you all for your most kind comments this week. I hope to catch up on your artwork in the next few days ...! I've missed the wee bit of leisure during the week to be inspired by the incredible artwork created by YOU!
We're in for storms again. I have a bit of running around to do -- my Euros have arrived, I owe the library a book or two, and I MUST decide which shoes are most comfy so I have to do a bit of walking to do! LOL
Stay dry and safe!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
We've been playing the game of 'sun and storm' this week .... we'd wake up to torrential rains, thunder and lightning, stiff winds, then a few hours later, we'd have sunshine, high humidity, and clear skies. A few hours later, the storms will roll in again ....with tornado warnings, slanty sun followed by purple/black clouds. The words for the week have been 'sky watching!!!'
I'm home at last and ready to google some Italy maps, THINK about what to pack, and tidy up a few loose ends. My plane leaves on Wednesday, so I'm going to have a few days to catch up on sleep, painting, and my family before I cross the pond. I truly need to unwind a bit before the excitement of the trip...
Thank you all for your most kind comments this week. I hope to catch up on your artwork in the next few days ...! I've missed the wee bit of leisure during the week to be inspired by the incredible artwork created by YOU!
We're in for storms again. I have a bit of running around to do -- my Euros have arrived, I owe the library a book or two, and I MUST decide which shoes are most comfy so I have to do a bit of walking to do! LOL
Stay dry and safe!
Lin Frye
North Carolina
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