Y is for Yardwork and Pastels

'Daisies in My Garden'          8x10           pastel        ©Karen Margulis
click here to purchase $125

Years ago before I got busy with children and work I had beautiful garden beds in my yard.  Neglect had taken it's toll and when I decided last year to revive my gardens I had my work cut out for me.
So the last few weekends I have been out pulling weeds and getting things back in shape.

My goal now that I paint is to create gardens that beg to be painted.  I am planting some of my favorite flowers ....daisies, coneflowers, black-eyed susans and sunflowers!  The plants I put in last summer are all coming back in nicely so I am encouraged. I am seeing many similarities in gardening and pastel painting. For one thing both are very much hands on and you get your hands dirty!

Another similarity, I am finding is that plants are like pastels.....you can't just have a few.  Going to the Nursery is a dangerous thing. I see rows of flowers that remind me of a box of pristine pastels.  I want every color!  But now that I have been painting I have to try to remember that designing the garden is like designing a painting.  I want to be sure to balance the color with neutrals and to strive for color harmony.  But I don't want it too manicured!  Here is my dream garden.....

'Living The Good Life'          18x24         pastel 

I know it will take time to get things the way I want but I am enjoying the journey and having fun being back in the dirt again!