Author Archives: esanford

New Art, New Class & More!

Here’s Symbiosis III, my latest natural abstraction! Can you guess the inspiration? I’m fascinated by the branching patterns and relational connections in nature, especially in the forest. If you’re unfamiliar with Suzanne Simard’s amazing research on the “wood-wide web,” this podcast episode is a great place to start: https://onbeing.org/programs/suzanne-simard-forests-are-wired-for-wisdom/

I’m delighted to be offering weekly classes again! Hope you can join us on Wednesdays starting March 23 from 10am – noon at the Franklin Recreation Center for Painting in Water Media. Watercolor, acrylic, and ink are some of the media we’ll be exploring, and Among the Trees combines all 3. Find the details here: https://apm.activecommunities.com/wcpr/Activity_Search/painting-in-water-media/17489

This is Tales of the Understory, Part 3; it’s a watercolor sculpture in a shadow box frame. On March 19, you’ll have the chance to create your own if you join me at Cheekwood for Watercolors in 3D: Layered Nature Scenes. All supplies are included, even the frame! Learn more about the workshop here: https://cheekwood.org/learn/adult/

Mystery Technique #112

Curious about the techniques used here? You can learn more next month if you’ve signed up for email updates!

ANSWER TO MYSTERY TECHNIQUE #111:

Vinyl is the key to this mystery! I started by getting the whole piece of paper wet, then mixed diluted watercolors on the surface before placing a sheet of clear vinyl on top. By partially lifting the vinyl several times, I was able to trap different sizes and shapes of air bubbles underneath. As the water slowly evaporated, watercolor pigment became more concentrated and darkened the edges of the bubbles.

New Workshops & Walks!

Curious about how I create my watercolor sculptures? Then sign up for Watercolors in 3D: Layered Nature Scenes on March 19 at Cheekwood, and learn how to make your own! We’ll meet from 1-4pm, and all supplies are included. This is the first time I’ve offered this workshop, so reserve your spot soon before it sells out! You can find more information here: https://cheekwood.org/learn/adult/

Nature can also be your inspiration for abstract painting, and you can explore the possibilities by joining us for Natural Abstractions on February 19 at the Franklin Recreation Center! You’ll find all the details here: https://apm.activecommunities.com/wcpr/Activity_Search/natural-abstractions/17084

Spending time surrounded by nature can reduce stress and promote well being, as you can discover for yourself by joining us for a relaxing Forest Bathing Walk at Beaman Park! The next walk is February 26 from 1-2:30pm, and your $12 payment includes a donation to the park. To register, call 615-862-8580 or email beamanpark@nashville.gov