I am excited to showcase my latest collection of small oil sketches, featuring a few specimens of a bountiful harvest of garden vegetables and the intriguing beauty of bracket fungus. As an artist, I find inspiration in the simple pleasures of life, and what better way to celebrate the changing seasons than by capturing the vibrant colors and textures of garden vegetables? From plump tomatoes to crisp carrots and leafy greens, these everyday treasures hold a special place in our hearts and on our plates. Through my small oil sketches, I aim to convey the essence of these vegetables, their unique shapes, and the rich hues that make them so visually appealing.

In addition to garden vegetables, I have also been captivated by the intricate beauty of bracket fungus that was discovered on a recent nature walk. These fascinating organisms can be found growing on trees, adding a touch of natural artistry to the forest landscape. With their varied shapes, patterns, and earthy tones, bracket fungi offer a unique subject for exploration. Through my small oil sketches, I strive to capture the delicate details and the sense of wonder they evoke.

The Artistic Process: Experimenting with different methods such as oils is a stark contrast from my usual detailed watercolor techniques, and I am enjoying the creative stretch in handling them. Working in small format alla prima and allows me to approach these sketches as exercises, honing my skills and deepening my understanding of light, color, and composition in a fresh medium. Each brushstroke becomes an opportunity to capture the essence of the subject, infusing it with life and vibrancy. Through these 5″ x 7′ practice pieces, working on acrylic primed museum board for a toothy yet smooth surface, I am able to experiment with brushwork, texture, and the interplay of light and shadow with wet on wet brushstrokes, creating a more immediate and spontaneous artistic experience.

By taking the time to observe and appreciate the simple objects that often go unnoticed, we can find inspiration and a renewed sense of wonder. The garden vegetables and bracket fungus featured in these small oil sketches remind us of the beauty that surrounds us in our everyday lives. They serve as a reminder to slow down, appreciate nature’s gifts, and find joy in the ordinary.

Thank you for joining me on this artistic journey, where we have explored the beauty of garden vegetables and bracket fungus through small oil sketches. I hope these paintings have inspired you to appreciate the wonders of everyday subjects and to find your own creative expression, perhaps even encouraged you to try something new while we appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.