Post-Nest Work

"Winter Stroll" ~ just finished her tonight!   She's painted on an 8×8" canvas and I was so happy that she came out just as I imagined.  Some paintings come easy, but this one was a bit of a struggle.  I wonder why it's like that sometimes?

Here's the original sketch {inset} and the canvas with the collage mostly done:

Not exactly following the 3-second rule with my collage, but I enjoy the process just as much when I contemplate things for awhile.  The 3 second rule = don't think about paper selection or placement for more than 3 seconds…just keep moving.   Which is great advice, and really fun when I follow it.  But I naturally think about things too much ~ it seems to be my default position.  Go with what you know, right?  :o)

This next one was started while I was still at Art Nest.  Just had to finish up her "hair & makeup" once I got home.
The next girl was mostly done before I left for Utah, but she just needed a little something.  I made the hearts next to her into balloons & now she feels complete.
Still with me?  Kinda long post tonight ~ I've been saving up!  Just two more to go.  A girl serving up a cupcake {painted on a 5×5" canvas}…

I like the sides on this little one too.  I usually just go for black edges, but decided to cover the whole thing this time.

And lastly, probably inspired by my friend who's getting married this summer, a hopeful bride…

I want to do a few touch-ups on the edges of the canvas & add a couple more details here and there before they go off into the world.  But soon they'll all be in my Etsy shop! 

One of the many things I took home from Art Nest was the resolve to get my work out there this year.  I've always had trouble parting with my originals.  But Kelly Rae said something that really hit home for me:  by letting it go you make room for new work to come in.  That resonated and now I'm excited and hopeful that my work will find it's audience!   ♥