D is for Daffodils and Dragonfly - A Painting a Day

A to Z Challenge

For today's challenge I selected daffodils and dragonflies. I love daffodils and have used them many times in drawing demonstrations. While I was writing my novel, Night Watch, I discovered dragonflies and found out many good things connected to them, including that it is a symbol of change. I also learned that dragonfly colors come from reflected and refracted light, so the pretty little flying creatures might get associated with color magic and illusion.

"Daffodils and Dragonfly" - pastel painting ©Mary Montague Sikes

I decided to work in pastel on Canson paper for this piece. Although pastels are a favorite medium of mine, I discovered it was difficult to work fast with them for this project. The painting I created is 18" x 12" and unlike the acrylic pieces on gallery wrapped canvas, it must have a frame for proper display.

The painting a day project for this challenge is fun, but it's taking much more time than writing a blog. So far, I haven't gotten to visit many of the participants. I'm sorry and hope to do better. Maybe on Sunday...