This painting is not completely finished (It's based on an earlier journal page, and I need to do more work on the hair detail), but I wanted to share it for both Inspire Me Thursday's "Kitchen" topic and Illustration Friday's "Garden" topic.
The background has at least eight layers, several of which are built with washes of paint that I sprinkled with salt. This is a great technique for creating pattern and texture. When the salt dries, I rub it off to find the small dots and stars that are left where the salt has lifted the paint. This method works really well if you build several very thin glaze layers - in person, the background of this painting has such beautiful depth and texture.
The garden connection is both visual and conceptual. For a long time, I have been focusing on making positive changes in my life that will give me space to express myself more genuinely. That means aligning my life with my most important values - individuality, creativity, family, learning, and sharing. I think of these values as the seeds I must plant to grow my own beautiful life-garden... and so, I am currently in the process of becoming a certified life coach.
I have always been a believer in big dreams, and I love working with people to help them find constructive and viable ways to create a vision and then turn it into reality. I've been doing this for almost 24 years as a teacher, and now I want to share my passion outside a school setting. I have recently launched a blog where I offer motivational articles and weekly challenges, and within the next few months, I will be offering personal, creativity, and career coaching, tele-seminars and live workshops.
Please accept my invitation to stop by Wings 4 You Coaching and participate in my Weekly Wings challenges. I'd love to have you along on the journey!
Very lovely!
Posted by: Lisa | March 09, 2008 at 02:45 PM
She;s beautiful and that's a great idea with the salt... Good luck in your journey to becoming a life coach...
Posted by: Crafty Green Poet | March 09, 2008 at 03:06 PM
Your art piece is beautiful and I only wish I could see it in person. The depth you describe I'm sure would take my breath away. The picture here already does.
Your website is fantastic! Congrats so much on it's birth. I'll be visiting it frequently and will help pass the word.
Hugs,
a.
Posted by: andrea | March 09, 2008 at 05:42 PM
Love it! Love it! The luminosity of this piece is wonderful.
Posted by: Karly | March 09, 2008 at 06:14 PM
Very pleasing patterns and texture. Interesting, knowing expression helps to draw the viewer in. Nice work.
Posted by: vandyke | March 09, 2008 at 07:17 PM
Really nice work, Carla. Good luck with your new venture.
Posted by: Digital Scott | March 09, 2008 at 10:24 PM
Carla, this is gorgeous. Wonderful color and detail. The expression of the face beautifully reflects all the emotions I imagine you must be feeling as you embark upon this journey. Best of luck, you are sure to make a positive impact on many, many lives!
Posted by: melanie | March 09, 2008 at 10:50 PM
the way she stare is mysterious. i like the background, and the hair, even though it isnt finished yet.
Posted by: mangosteenskin | March 09, 2008 at 11:41 PM
lovely. your art is taking on another dimension. do you see it?
Posted by: AscenderRisesAbove | March 10, 2008 at 10:15 AM
This piece just makes my heart smile! Best wishes to you!
Posted by: Pattie Mosca | March 10, 2008 at 10:21 AM