Monday, January 26, 2009

Life's A Beach


Life's A Beach was inspired by a photo I took years ago of my youngest daughter with her father. Originally, they were at pool side at our home in Arizona but I decided to change the setting to a beach scene. This is a piece I have been wanting to do for a long time as I just love the looks on both of their faces. I think this was one of those priceless moments that I was fortunate enough to catch on camera. I finally got up the nerve to start this piece this month. Have to say I have always been somewhat intimidated of doing art with people involved, especially when it's your own family and not a fictitious person! LOL!!! Still, I thought I'd give it a try. This piece measures 26x30 and is machine appliqued and quilted. The figures were painted with textile paints and appliqued. The clouds and edges of the water were made from heat distressed plastics. I tried to pay close attention to the highlights and shading, especially trying to capture the shadows coming off the phone and tea pot. All in all, I think this piece came out pretty good and I am slowly overcoming my fear of doing people. Now my oldest daughter would like to know when I am going to do one of her. Oh and Youngest has already called dibs on this one. I suppose that's a good sign.

4 comments:

Mandi said...

That's really nice, Barb. I love the shadows!

Robin said...

It turned out beautifully...no more excuses in the future:)
Was it easier to paint the people vs. using fabric to shade?
Robin

Anonymous said...

Beautiful piece! Isn't it nice to be rewarded for diving in and just doing the work?

Barb Forrister said...

Hi,

Thank you! It was easier to paint than to shade with fabric, I think it's because the blending is easier to accomplish with paint. And I am happier for having taken the plunge.