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Symphony of Petals – Painting of the Week
The Rich, Velvety Magic of Gouache
Petals layer upon each other, and color layers beneath them. Symphony of Petals does both. I found myself challenged to paint this vibrant garden arrangement once again. Though originally envisioned with classic red, white and blue, the palette evolved. With the addition of deep violets and soft pinks, the painting now speaks to me on a much deeper level—evoking themes of love and sacrifice. It feels incredibly fitting as we head into Memorial Day weekend, and I hope you all have a wonderful, reflective holiday.
Working with gouache for this piece was a delightful surprise; with a little patience, it proved to be the absolute perfect medium for capturing the delicate nature of Petunias. The paint’s naturally velvety texture adds a dramatic, glowing richness to the finished piece.
In this arrangement, the red geraniums reflect beautifully against the white petals, allowing the pink, violet and burgundies to connect. Meanwhile, a backdrop of muted grey-greens and vibrant yellow greens contrast richly with the pinks, bringing out the true intensity of the blossoms.
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