Still Life Adventure... homage to Matisse

   Sometimes you just need a break from your normal routine! I recently painted these two still lifes for a fundraiser silent art auction. I wanted to paint something fun, bright and colorful and this is what I came up with...
   I painted the objects from observation then inserted Matisse inspired backgrounds behind to spice things up a bit. The process was enjoyable and I definitely felt like a child again creating the colorful backgrounds. These paintings were done in acrylic paint, I have a feeling that I will be working more in acrylic in the future because it will enable me to work really large, not having to worry about framing like I do with my pastel work. 
   side note: bell peppers are my most favorite vegetable to paint...great shapes!

"Peppered Color," acrylic on canvas, 10 x 10 inches

"Lemon Slice Matisse," acrylic on canvas, 10 x 10 inches