around the house

 This is pretty much what an easy day around the house looks like here. Starts with a walk to look for "treasures"and inspiration for new patterns. Some take naps, others refuse. And once this little guy is out for the night, my paints come out.

today in my painting space

A few things in the works. The hand is the first painting of my self portrait series. I've done sketches throughout the years but never in paint. I'm enjoying working on it, going back to my sketches and seeing where I was at that time in my life is like looking at old photos.

Urban Nature

Urban Nature
I've had this idea in mind of how to capture the beginning of urban land. I wondered what that must look like.
Not just the process of constructing the land or houses, but rather the first actual sign of that space being inhabited.
Since moving out to a small city surrounded by farmland I've found life, and our creation of urban space pretty humorous.
I wondered how to capture this idea, picturing graffitied trains passing through wide open fields,
but I didn't want it to be something so transient.  I just happened to come across this spot, but I think this photo voiced my expression.

Prints and More

I've added new work to my shop and have been feeling green earth-tones. Also, I'm now offering archival prints! They look amazing, printed on 140 lb. textured paper that look so much like the originals on watercolor paper.

I have been interested in dandelions and whales lately. I started out my ocean series with this monk seal swimming through black coral, as requested by my aunt Liz. After making her one I painted this second one with slight differences to add to my shop. I've always loved seals. 

Gathering 

Wandering Seal

Green Tea Feather

Birthday Wishlist

It's my 25th Birthday! Enjoy with 25% off original watercolors & illustrations in my shop all week long! Just enter the coupon code BIRTHDAY25 when checking out for my bday discount. You can check out my shop here at River Luna. 

You know those little things in life that just make you feel special? Like your favorite mug that brightens up your morning everyday. These are a few very carefully selected items...that I think are just wonderfully special, not to mention the great fact that they are all handmade! 

Straight from my birthday wishlist, enjoy!

I'd LOVE to someday own one of these beautifully handmade sketching books to do my work in.
I find myself looking these up often.  You can find more of her craft here at Susan Green Books.

The clean lines and perfect pop of color make this purse perfect for everyday use.
Sometimes all you need are some sunny colors to keep you productive and
motivated through those sleepy fall and winter seasons.
Long Leather Strap Fabric Purse - from Olula Se Casa

This artist makes the most adorable little animal totems, and accessories.  I love so many of her items,
it's hard to choose just one. I've always loved foxes. I thought they were mystical ever since I was 7,
when I looked out my bedroom window to find a little fox sitting and staring back at me.
It came back two other times, climbing up onto the neighbors roof to peer into my 2nd story
 apartment bedroom window. It was a surprise considering I lived in San Diego.
Which makes me  love this little fox even more, as the artist, Danielle Pedersen is from my home town.
You can find her animal totems and much more at her Etsy Shop, HandyMaiden.

If you need some inspiration to get organized, picture this adorable jar sconce on your wall.
I love the look of paintbrushes, flowers, or herbs growing from the outdoorsy looking jar.
Perfect for the nature lover. You can find these at GettingWeddy, on Etsy.

These bangles are gorgeous! Sterling silver with a 14k gold dot.
I ordered three of them, and wear them everyday.
They're light and sturdy, with a slight bend so you're able to slip them on and off,
but have a perfect fit that's not oversized. Plus, Michelle is a total sweetheart!
She has many more lovely designs that you can find at MichelleChangJewlery, on Etsy.

Woodland Treasures

I've added a few new feathery paintings to the collection. You can find all of them here at my River Luna etsy shop.

Driftwood Feathers 

Mountain Pieces 

Lhasa Feathers

Grand Opening of River Luna!

Luck Feather - Original Painting

Pyramid Feather - Original Painting

Native Chevron Feathers - Original Watercolor

Autumn Reflections - Original Watercolor

I'm very excited to announce the Grand Opening of my new shop, River Luna! In my shop you can find all of the original art work I post here, and much more. Along with my larger paintings and illustrations, I've been wanting to provide original artwork that's affordable for everyone. It's something I don't come across often, so I've created a collection of single feathers, each an original painting with unique detailed designs. They look great framed and hung on their own, or in a group. Each feather is $15 dollars each! You can see the whole collection here at my shop: www.etsy.com/shop/riverluna

Meet Lhasa

I have a new painting partner!  This is our kitten Lhasa, our newest addition to the family.  It's only her third day here and she's already getting along with our Boston Terrier, Dharma.  Her favorite place to sleep is on my lap while I paint at my desk.  I haven't had a cat since I was 10,  I forgot how cuddly they are. 

I don't know if it's the time of the year, but Riv and I keep finding blue jay feathers everywhere. It's inspired me to start a new collection of feathers. They're all different colors and shapes and will be painted with unique designs. They'll be available in my etsy shop within a few days. Some will be simple others more detailed, but all will be no more than $15 each. 

It's supposed to rain all week, and I'm loving this fall weather. It leaves me a lot more free time to paint.