February at last, longer days are arriving

Dear Michele

My daffodils are blooming, a sure sign February is arriving. The month of friendship and love. (Did you know it is also Sesame Street Elmo’s birthday, Feb 3rd? I only am aware because it's our grandson’s favorite program. :-)

Of course, Valentine’s Day will be here mid-month, so be sure to give all your lovelies a squeeze and maybe some chocolate too. Take care of yourself too. Mindfulness and daily meditation time, walking, and eating well work for me - when I find the time. You may view my 4 minute Landscape Meditation on YouTube.

Above the Bay, 24"x36", is one of the 12 paintings in this meditation video.

February is also National Art Month so take yourself out to one of the many exhibits in my town or yours. Notice what imagery and colors give you enjoyment. Learning your own sensibilities will guide you in your successful selection of art for your home and work space. You may email me for prices on paintings, which will include shipping, or order prints directly from my website.

On My Easel

After my focus on family over the holidays, it is time for me to get back to the studio and create some new paintings. These 2 Iris paintings and others will be displayed on my website soon.

Iris Study 3, 9" x 12", oil on canvas panel

Wild Iris, 18"x18" oil on canvas

Late last spring, on one of our coastal walks, Richard and I came upon a mass of wild iris. They were short with delicate violet blooms. I knelt on the ground to take pictures with the ocean in the background. I am easily lured by the combination of wildflowers and coastline. My winter series (now in progress) is inspired by this scene.

In May, ACCI Gallery in Berkeley will celebrate spring flowers with their show “Bold Botanicals.” Some of my floral landscapes will be included in the exhibit.

Tip for Artists: The Temperatures of Colors

You may have heard the advice that warm sunlight will make for cool shadows and cool sunlight will make for warm shadows. Why does this happen? The objects casting the shadows block out some of the sunlight thus changing the temperature to a cooler or warmer shade. On a misty or foggy morning, the light will be cool and the shadows warmer. Mid-day, when the sky is clear and blue, the sky will be reflected in the ground plane creating cool light and the shadows will be warmer.

Coastal Light, an 18x24 painting available at Luna Sea Gallery in Pescadero CA.

Cool light, warm shadows.

During the golden hour, which refers to the hour just before sunset, the light is warm and everything has a golden glow. The shadows at this time will be cool. Color temperature is relative. A red violet is cooler than orange, but warm next to a blue or blue violet. Play with this idea in your paintings. It is fun to explore the relative temperatures of colors.

Prints

Paintings

With both rain and Valentine's Day on the horizon, I wish you a relaxing remainder of this winter. And a gentle passage into spring next month.

Once again, I am grateful for all your support,

Michele

Instagram (michele.hausman.art.) ... My YouTube Channel ... My website: HausmanStudio.com

Represented by Strictly Mission and Wisteria Art & Antiques (both in Soquel, CA) as well as Luna Sea in Pescadero and ACCI Gallery in Berkeley.

You can also explore and purchase my art on my website, at HausmanStudio.com.