Two daughters, two trips. And look at the coincidence in the fact that the names of both cities translate, roughly, as 'royal mountain!' I'm sure that means something. Somehow. Somewhere.
K and I leave early tomorrow morning and return Sunday night. I'll wager there aren't lots of rocks and water scenarios in Montreal, though there is the Saint Lawrence river so qui sait?
We've had a very nonwatery period here---a whole week of record-breaking heat (several 100F days) and no rain in sight. I'm trying not to succumb to PTSD--- the memories of our recent, prolonged and intense drought are , however, powerful.
And apropos of nothing watery, here is an ink and watercolor rendering of cardoons from my front garden:
8 1/2" x 11", dip pen and Higgins russet ink and Schmincke watercolors on 140lb CP Acquerello Italia paper.
For those of you interested in learning all about ink and wash techniques, please check out my dear friend Cathy (Kate) Johnson's website and Cafe Press store. She's published over 30 art instructional books and is now offering a whole slew of fantastic cds on ink and wash, plein air sketching, and other mediums and methods! There's no better source for art instruction than generous, ubertalented Kate! See you in Montreal!
Cardoons! I've never heard of them. Just looked it up. I do recognise those flowers, but it's considered a weed in Australia apparently.
Posted by: quirkyartist | July 02, 2008 at 03:04 AM
Why, thank you, you good people! Lucy, cardoons and artichokes are kissing cousins. Marly, I want to see you! Let's make a plan. And, yes, I found fountains. Steph, wouldn't it be fun to paint together for a weekend? Kate, you're my hero. My other buddies---you're the tops!
Posted by: Laura | June 17, 2008 at 08:24 PM
OH, this just makes me SMILE. You're SUCH a virtuoso with the watercolor brush, laura! I wish you could tutor me for a weekend so I could get a jump start on travel sketching! Seriously!!!
Posted by: steph | June 17, 2008 at 02:53 AM
Laura -- what a magnificent painting! I love the russet ink with the watercolor -- it doesn't overwhelm the eye like black ink would. Fantastic!
Posted by: Linda M | June 16, 2008 at 02:58 PM
What a travelling person you are!
I live these, they are rather like artichokes, I think that range of coulours may be one of my favourites... gorgeous, as ever.
Posted by: Lucy | June 15, 2008 at 11:21 AM
The cardoons are wonderful. Great colors and brushwork.
Posted by: Laurel Neustadter | June 14, 2008 at 07:27 AM