When life is chaotic I refresh and reset by slowing down. I take time to appreciate the small things. For example, after all the overcast smoky days from the fires in Canada, I am no longer taking a beautiful clear blue sky for granted. I also literally stop and smell the flowers. As you know from my artwork, I love flowers. In our yard we have several hibiscus plants. These large beautiful flowers have blooms that last only a day or two. Such brief beauty, but stunning.
Hibiscus and White tansy August 29, 2023 © Pamela Loewen
People always ask me where I get my ideas. Much of my inspiration comes from nature. Look at this beautiful Stokes’ aster. Lovely shades of white with delicate textures. Quiet beauty.
Stokes’ Aster July 25, 2023 © Pamela Loewen
For those of you wondering, I am not a gardener. My husband and daughter have the green thumbs. We also have excellent landscapers who help us keep things looking beautiful on our property. Below are my daughter’s yellow roses I get to enjoy as I walk out to take care of my chickens.
On a trip to Lititz, PA last year I found a lovely photo in an art gallery. It reminded me of the highly detailed still life paintings by the Dutch Masters. I bought it and brought it home. It is printed on an unusual paper that gives it a special vibrancy.
Photograph by Jennifer Cavalcante
I also love buying beautiful calendars. Old calendars often become visual references on my design walls. Below is Deb Stoner’s 2020 “In the Garden” calendar hanging in my new studio space. I love her work.
Botanical Portraits by Deb Stoner 2020
Because I have been away from my studio for so long, I decided to create a series of small studies. Inspired by the things I have shared in this post, I wanted to explore using dark backgrounds with my flower figures.
Small Still Life Study #1 Grey pieced composition roughly 12” by 12”
© Pamela Loewen
Small Still Life Study #2 Chocolate pieced composition roughly 12” by 12”
© Pamela Loewen
After not creating for several months, it feels great to sew again. So far this week I have spent four days in my new studio space and that makes me very happy.
What makes you happy?