Celebration!!

Celebration,  8x12" watercolor and mixed media on paper

© Helen Read 

ready to mat and frame 

A couple months ago, in the dead of winter, I visited a conservatory which was in full bloom with tropical plants.  It was like walking into a little piece of the tropics when we had snow on the ground outside!  One of the first plants that caught my attention was this one.  It was in full bloom with these starbursts of tiny flowers, some of which had not yet opened.  They reminded me of fireworks!  They seemed to a small celebration unto themselves!  

This painting harkens back to a more abstract approach, and one that uses the contrasts of darks and lights.  It also features some metallic paints to further enhance its color.