Rocky Mountain Society of Botanical Artists

So glad Spring has arrived! This beautiful painting by Dorothy DePaulo is called "Bees in the Blossoms" and certainly reflects my attitude toward the season, as I am so ready for blue skies, warm weather, beautiful blossoms and of course, bees busily at work. And it leads me to remind you that there is a very special Chapter meeting on the 29th of May (See Events Scheduled for details) where you'll be treated to a number of great demos and exercises using colored pencil, the medium for this image. The meeting consists of two parts.

First, I'll be demonstrating the very pigment rich colored pencils, Caran d'Ache, for you on a variety of papers, and you'll have the opportunity to work along with me. There are some great handouts also, and samples for each person who attends, courtesy of Caran d'Ache. Also, there's a door prize they have generously provided.

Next, Dorothy and Heidi Snyder will demonstrate colored pencil on Mylar. Such a great technique! You'll have the opportunity to work along with them too, learning by doing. And of course, there's food! So, if you're interested, please sign up now. Contact Susi Olson for a reservation. The class is limited to 20 people and it is first come, first served.

Take a look at this week's links for inspiration and fun. Remember, we're botanical artists, and that means we should cultivate our skills as often as we garden this time of the year. Wandering online is a little addictive, but these links should give you some good advice, good ideas or good fun, and you don't have to spend an hour looking for them.

I've added a link, in Organization Links, to the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. The Museum is celebrating 50 years of conservation, education, and art. Their Art Institute offers a Certificate in Nature Illustration. Wander around the site a bit and discover the images that typify desert life. The palette of colors is so unique.

Here are a few ways you can help your RMSBA to grow:
     Suggest a venue for exhibition.
     Volunteer to serve on a committee.
     Invite an artist friend to a meeting.
     Offer to teach a mini-workshop at a meeting.
     Send your bio and images for your own gallery page.
     Contribute images that I can use on the blog.
     Send your thoughts and musings and fun facts and important facts to me for posting.

Probably enough rambling for today! Hope to see you at the meeting on the 29th. Remember to register early to insure your spot in the workshops.

Now, get out there and paint!

Libby, AKA the BlogMeister!