Rainy Weather + Trying New Things

If you know me well, you know I live for the rain--so I'm happy to report the rain has returned to Portland, Oregon. This is why I live here, and I welcome the morale boost of fall. Particularly this fall. We could all use a boost, right? 

Another thing you probably know about me is that my art consists of weird dogs, funky robots and assorted fun subjects. Florals, not so much. 

In September, I did a 7-Day Florals Challenge with @makeitindesign over on Instagram. I'm not great at the 30-day challenges. I start with the best of intentions and then use the motivation to do my own thing.

Since these design challenges are just for fun, I allow myself the grace to simply learn something whether I complete them or not. Deadlines are my thing in real life--so I try not to impose more of them on myself for fun. This time I completed 6 of 7 days, and I consider that a win! ::thumbs up::

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I enjoyed the lily the most:

Lily

 But I learned the most on chrysanthemum day:

Chrysanthemum

I got lost in the details of the chrysanthemums. I didn't even post them initially. I thought there was too much left to do, so I tabled it. When I revisited my design with fresh eyes a week later, I really loved it! There are still some gaps in color and a few clean-ups...but as a whole, I was really drawn to the style and colors I used.

Conversely, my least favorite of the remaining designs (I won't call it out) is the one that received the most positive feedback:

Mariposa

Scabiosa

Sunflower

Chinese Meadow Rue

As I hoped, I learned a lot about my style and about myself. I'm happy I can do traditional floral design upon request--but my personal creative itch will always get scratched with weird dogs and funky robots.
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I miss seeing everyone in person and look forward to art shows and rainy outings again soon!

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