Sparkles. 10x10

I have to admit to a very shallow desire of wishing that I had a daughter strictly in terms of being able to dress her! I realize that I would probably not get to do so for very long, but don't burst my bubble. While I have been attending soccer or basketball games, and band concerts, some of you have been watching twirls and leaps with sparkles. Wouldn't trade my boys for the world, but in terms of cute outfits girls win hands down! I have to live vicariously through my friends, and by painting as many cute little girls as possible. Best, Lydia

Garden Bounty. 8x10

I planted yellow squash and eggplant this year, the plants are healthy and vibrant with blooms, but no fruit. I read online that its probable that they just aren't pollinating on their own, and that if I used an artist brush that I could transfer the pollen between the male and female blooms, female are the ones that have a tiny fruit at the base of the blossom. I'll let you know if it works out! These were from Jimmy Lowes our local vegetable stand type store. Best, Lydia

figure drawing

Figure drawing Saturday. I took some charcoal along and used newsprint which was refreshing compared to my previous attempts with oil paint. I love to draw people and working with the figure ever challenging. My goal is always to say what I can with as little as possible in terms of line and shadow.

Lydia

fishy. Lydia Host Daily painting 6x6

I painted this fish when I painted the larger one...he is just as dour. Last night I taught my last 'art with a twist' class, and it was so much fun. There was a Lady who turned fifty this year and wasn't all that happy about it. She decided she would do fifty things that she'd always wanted to try this year to cheer her up...my class was one of them! Stay cool, Lydia

chit chat.

I think its fun to paint an almost monochromatic painting every once in a while. Just trying to capture the colors that are reflected from white china and linens. There is a coffee shop in Venice beach called' Coffee and Sympathy', and I have always admired that name. I always think of it when I paint coffee cups, I mean....what more do we want from friends? Best, Lydia

fruity nude

I painted this over an old fruit painting. I find that the more layers of paint that a painting has...the better! Maybe that is why a toned canvas is a good idea, and underpainting always makes things fly. I had fun painting boats on Tuesday, but haven't finished either of the two that I started. Best, Lydia

From the garden. Lydia Host daily painting a day 8x10

I just loved how these tomatoes were still half green...what? you can't see that? Oh, its because I didn't capture it! I like the way they look anyway.

I am making an effort to get into a good routine for the summer months, back to some daily 'nap time painting'. I am taking one last class to finish my degree, and so I am not sure how that will effect my dailies, but I will try to keep you abreast of my progress.

Hope its not too hot where you are.

Best,

Lydia