Flower Painting Tips for May Day

'Garden Memories'          5x7        pastel         ©Karen Margulis
click here to bid on ebay opening bid $25

May Day is May 1st. It  is celebrated in many places around the world. The traditions and stories surrounding May Day vary from place to place. There is, however, one thing that is similar in most celebrations - the use of FLOWERS!  So today I decided to share some of my flower paintings.  I am still doing spring cleaning and tackled the 'Wildflower' box today.  It got me thinking about flowers and capturing their vibrant colors with pastels. Here is one of my favorite tips:

Pay attention to what surrounds your flowers. 

It will have an impact on the vibrancy of the flowers.

• If all of your colors are bright and vibrant and bold nothing will stand out as special. Everything will cry out for attention. Pay attention to the flower's surroundings!

• Be sure to have some areas of dull or grayed color to help the vibrant colors stand out.

• Consider using the complement of the flower color next to it to help create some visual excitement.

• If you've used your boldest brightest pastel and it still doesn't 'pop' surround it with a dull color.

• If you can't get your light flowers to look light or bright enough, try surrounding it with a darker color to make the lights lighter.

'Garden Surprise'         5x7      pastel
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If you would like a closer look at today's paintings visit my Ebay store. I am offering these little paintings for sale by auction with great opening bids. Some are studies, demos or plein air paintings and all are looking for their home!