Myfrenchkitchen

Posted on July 17, 2007August 23, 2007 by Myfrenchkitchen

Chanel, and a river runs through it

While I was still acting out as Forest Gump on the run a while ago, I also made a quick stop by the perfume shop while speeding along to who knows where. That is of course the day Hartman left on his business trip. Normally it doesn’t bother me and I use the time for some good old fashioned selfish indulgence into whatever takes my fancy. This time though, caught my mood off guard and drove me to extremes. I sought solace in the arms of Coco Chanel and Hermes no less. On top of my sadness and depression I had now successfully added the load of guilt. I picked up speed

For the week I was alone, I struggled with my conscience, having spent this obscene amount on perfume and tried my best to blame it on my impulsive nature, which is true after all…still, it doesn’t justify an excuse. So, being born both impulsive and ingenious, I arrived at a solution to the problem. The problem of my guilt that is.

On Hartman’s arrival back in Paris, we had this glorious magical summer’s day. I sent him a message telling him to be home at 18:00. We have a date. He was not to be late. Now, send a man a message like that and see what happens…?

Oh, you want to know about the date? Well, imagine this…I have a basket at the ready, filled with his favorite goodies like peaches wrapped in prosciutto, scallops with orange and a saffron mayonnaise, a cold champagne, a baguette to dip into rich seductive olive oil and fleur de sel…I have ordered and received my golden exuberant sunshine. The river Loire is 2 minutes walking from our front door, the water rushing by, heightening the sensation of summer madness, sun, and bare skin…..and me, enveloped in Coco Chanel.

I am home. I have no guilt. I love my Chanel. I have a happy husband. And through it all runs a river.

All the sketches were done where we lounged by the Loire(except for Chanel)..in watercolor, pen or pencil on Fabriano sketchpads. (I apologize for the off-perspective of Chanel..it was done in the speediest of time, I didn’t check!)

36 comments:

Lin said…: RONNELL!! WHAT A PERFECTLY FANTASTICALLY DESIGNED DAY – SPIRIT – SKETCHES — THE WORKS! Your writing has me mesmerized, dreamy, liquid with ideas, inspiration, visions!! BRAVA, mia cara!! BRAVA! for the soul behind all of this .. and so much more!!; July 17, 2007 6:05 PM
Sandy said…: Ronell..I just shake my head and wonder how you merge both a wonderfully exciting story with your beautiful paintings. YOu can see me but I’m applauding. I’ve missed your posts!!!YOu know how it is when you happen upon a great book and it is so wonderful, you put it down and sigh..you don’t want to continue…because you don’t want it to end. I just got that feeling reading/looking at this…My goal is someday to be able to do what you do!!! wow..p.s. thanks for your comment and I do hope you join in show and tell. It is easy, no theme. Just go and leave a comment with your link on my show and tell for the day and I’ll pick up that link and put it on the front page right in my post…; July 17, 2007 6:22 PM
Deborah said…: Fabulous! Fantastic! and on so Fun! A great adventure at home. I will be in Paris for 2 days at the very end of Sept. and then 2 days in mid Oct. I would love if we could meet!; July 17, 2007 6:57 PM
Teri C said…: More fabuous paintings. You are such an inspiration to us all. How did we ever survive during your absence!You REALLY made a perfect day for us also by sharing the wonder of it all! Thanks.; July 17, 2007 7:05 PM
Sandy said…: Oh Ronell, You are BACK BABY – Lordy I feel like I have had a mini vacation (shopping and all) through your account and the lovely watercolors, sing with life!! Simply Glorious! Your Chanel was a gift for Hubby!!; July 17, 2007 7:35 PM
Bonny said…: What a fabulously romantic date to have with your husband!!! And right there on the Loire! Can you say ‘green’ with envy??? That’s me, I’m green from head to toe.I’m glad you’re back too, and you made such an entrance with afantastic post and wonderful sketches!Big hug from Canada,
Bonny; July 17, 2007 8:32 PM
Claudia said…: So good that you’re back again creating and painting things!! And so well done!! I enjoyed both the story and the paintings! (And the sketch of the flowers in the “thank-you”-post is marvellous, too!); July 17, 2007 9:52 PM
Emma Pod said…: Beautiful drawings/paintings! I’m glad you’ve had some time to just
“be”. Enjoy that expensive perfume and the rest of summer!; July 17, 2007 9:56 PM
Regula Scheifele said…: Wonderful story, wonderful paintings… I LOVE the Chanel bottle!
Good to have you back!; July 17, 2007 11:32 PM
shirley said…: Everyone spectacular! So glad to see your wonderful paintings. I LOVE the bright colors and crave your loose style! Thanks for sharing all of it!; July 17, 2007 11:51 PM
Tami said…: Gosh, I love visiting your blog!!! Not only is your artwork stunning, your self disclosure is just too real! One would be inclined to say, “shame on you!” but you are just too brilliant and funny!!!; July 18, 2007 1:04 AM
martha said…: Fantabulous! Story and sketches, all divine.; July 18, 2007 2:54 AM
Nancy Van Blaricom said…: Way to go … you seduce Hartman with your lovely new fragrance and delicious goodies from your basket… why feel guilty, it’s a win win situation!Your paintings are lovely. I was really inpressed with your basket and the perfume … excellent. Also, I think the flowers from the last post are awesome. You have such a nice touch with your watercolors.Soooo happy to see you back posting again …; July 18, 2007 3:41 AM
Jana Bouc said…: Wow, what glorious, sensual paintings and writing! I like all the pics but especially the last picture with the softly oozly watercolors. Gorgeous! When my (now ex-) husband went away I always ended up buying kitchen appliances. Maybe that’s why we’re divorced and you’re still married–you buy perfume and make aphrodesiacal foods and I buy a new blender?; July 18, 2007 6:10 AM
Irene said…: You are an inspiration. Glad you are back; July 18, 2007 7:28 AM
mARTa said…: Decadent! You are like a good novel with pictures! I’m wearing my Coco Chanel tomorrow in your honor!; July 18, 2007 7:34 AM
Africantapestry said…: Thank you for all the enthusiastic comments….it is good to be back!I missed it all – everybody’s work, the comments, the humor…I’ve come to recognize everyone by his/her own style of commenting…that’s so great!
Deborah: I would love to meet…let me know your dates and Casey and me can meet you in Paris and spend some time, or if you want to see our area, you are of course more than welcome!
Thanks
Ronell; July 18, 2007 8:46 AM
caseytoussaint said…: Ronell – wow – once the dam is broken it all comes flooding out! It looks like you’ve been storing up all this poetry and color for a few weeks – these just shimmer with light. It looks like the good weather is here now – let’s hope it holds!; July 18, 2007 9:28 AM
andrea joseph’s sketchblog said…: Where to start??!
I LOVE this post. The words and pictures. Brilliant. Your story was wonderful. And boy, these drawings tell me your on a roll again (no pressure though!). My faves? Wel I just can’t decide…maybe the perfume…maybe the basket (such great composition on that one BTW…nope I love them all! GREAT work Ronell.; July 18, 2007 11:41 AM
Laureline said…: Oh, how charming!! I love the story and the paintings and I love perfume, too! Maybe we can check out a perfume boutique or two in Paris–if not in September, then in November!
So glad you’re feelig better.; July 18, 2007 2:50 PM
juj said…: Oh Ronell – it’s SO great to have you back. I’ve missed your loose carefree paintings, filled with color and life. And your words. Your sometimes wry, sometimes funny, always honest words.; July 18, 2007 3:33 PM
suzanne said…: Wowee…great post! Here’s to self-idulgence. I’m glad you bought the perfume…I’m sure it made your evening that much more magical.; July 18, 2007 5:37 PM
Robyn said…: What brilliant, gorgeous form you are in Ronell. The paintings are wonderful – perfect illustrations of your delightful confessions. I’m wondering if I walk through a cloud of Coco, I too could come out the other side of this summer slump – not to mention giving HWEM shock of his life 😉 Brava!; July 18, 2007 5:44 PM
Lynn said…: Thanks, Ronell, for showing us how to live the good life. I love the paintings.; July 18, 2007 8:28 PM
Carole said…: Ooh, it’s good to see you painting again! What a wonderful way to assuage your guilt. Sounds idyllic!; July 18, 2007 9:45 PM
Jenny said…: All of this from a perfume purchase?! Maybe it would help if I started sniffing from the pretty bottles on my dresser. *lol*Love your artwork and your guilt-ridden tale. All wonderful.; July 18, 2007 10:19 PM
gabi campanario said…: hi ronell, you manage to marry words and pictures in a beautiful way. i’m so envious! thanks for telling us about this wonderful day; July 18, 2007 10:42 PM
altWhat a wonderful way to welcome your husband home. I plan on trying your fun and romantic ideas. Now, I have never tried Coco Chanel but i am going to check it out too.: Your sketches are lovely, free, fresh and delight. They must be a reflection of your personality.; July 18, 2007 11:40 PM
Serena said…: What a wonderful day and beautifully illustrated also. I can’t pick a favourite out of the sketches. Great to see you back and great post, Ronell ~; July 19, 2007 8:55 AM
jen said…: lovely lovely bright colours, my favourite is the basket so full of life!; July 19, 2007 12:35 PM
hfm said…: The Loire, the Channel, your husband, your humour and your watercolours – gorgeous!; July 19, 2007 3:03 PM
Brenda Y said…: You ARE back and with a HUGE flourish!! Love the art – so free and fresh and the story is absolutely wonderful. I’ll have to keep it in mind the next time I go on a “splurge.” 🙂; July 19, 2007 3:59 PM
Lindsay said…: What a great idea!!!!!!!!!Makes me want to do a picnic in the bed room too!!!ehehehe
Lovely sketches Ronell! I’d say you were unstuck!; July 19, 2007 10:20 PM
Africantapestry said…: Thank you for all your deligtful comments!
Ronell; July 19, 2007 11:20 PM
Tonniece said…: Welcome back Ronell. As you see you were greatly missed.
Love your musings and art.; July 21, 2007 7:31 PM
phthaloblu said…: Oh my, you are creative in just about everything, aren’t you? lol! I’m sure it made your husband happy! I just love your paintings, so loose and colorful. And don’t feel guilty about Chanel. There is something about real perfume… I think it’s that musky fragrance… sooooo much better than cologne. Indulge and be happy!

Posted on July 17, 2007August 23, 2007 by Myfrenchkitchen

A thank you

When the going gets tough, the tough runs away….or something like that. That was me the past few weeks. Not that I had such rough going and not that I’m that tough either. But that’s just how it was. I ran away. Sarah(biteyourowntail mentioned the book Women who run with wolves (Clarissa Pikola Estes). I couldn’t wait to dig out my copy and read it again. It is a great book. Pequete(Pequete’s art journal) also advised reading Living out Loud(Ker Smith). Will have to get it, it sounds like good reading.
Luckily life stayed true to itself and my wheel started turning upwards. And luckily I have people in my life who helped push it. Some with faces I see every day, some further away and then some whose faces I have yet to see.

A thank you to Hartman who so patiently puts up with all my whims and goes even a step further…descending at 11:30 at night down to the river with a torch to find me a frog for my fountain. My frog was missing.
A thank you to those who make me laugh when I get too serious.
A thank you to everybody who left and still leave a few words of encouragement on my blog.
A thank you to those who not only leave a comment, but also take the time out of their busy summer activities and work and blogging, to send an email with some nice thoughts.
A thank you to those unknown faces who make a loyal stop at my blog regularly, to those who are new, to those who say nice words when my art sometimes just simply sucks, to those who laugh at a joke that’s not really funny, to those who read my sometimes boring words, to those who care and to those who are feeling drained themselves, but still find the spirit to encourage. To those who advise books to read, fun things to do and send recipes to indulge in.
A thank you to Casey down the road in Amboise, who always cares and often stops for a coffee.
A thank you to all, whom I’ve come to know through your art and your words and your actions.

12 comments:

Teri C said…: It is SO good to have you back. I have missed your wonderful paintings, you sense of humor and just youbeing you!; July 17, 2007 3:47 PM
brian nelson said…: You have done an awesome job with these flowers! I love them. Being discouraged, myself, they have brightened my day! Thanks for sharing!; July 17, 2007 4:10 PM
caseytoussaint said…: You do the same and more for all of us. This is a wonderful comeback – I was just wondering this morning what you’d be putting together to post! Hope to see you soon. (this week?); July 17, 2007 4:36 PM
Robyn said…: Back with sunflowers – what a return! Lovely, loose watercolour as usual. Great to have you back, Ronell. We need your inspiration.; July 17, 2007 5:57 PM
Lin said…: AND RIGHT BACK ATCHA, MIA CARA … RIGHT BACK!; July 17, 2007 6:17 PM
Sandy said…: and a thank you to you for giving us great visuals and superb imagings to keep us going on some very long and tedious days.I came across a book by the way with the most wonderful illustrations and they reminded me of you. It is a cookbook called “A Glorious Harvest) written by Henrietta Green. The illustrator is Lynne Robinson and OMG her work is gorgeous and really really reminds me of your style. Have you ever heard of it.; July 17, 2007 6:25 PM
soulcomfort said…: Great colors and free style–as usual, it’s beautiful to look at! 🙂
Always, Rita; July 18, 2007 3:20 AM
Jana Bouc said…: Another big wow! These are gorgeous! And a thanks to you for visiting my blog, even when you were “gone”.; July 18, 2007 6:11 AM
Joanne said…: Your sketches are soooo juicy. Just awesome. Take a break when you need one, but don’t be gone too long, please!; July 18, 2007 7:44 AM
Africantapestry said…: Thanks to everybody!
Sandy: No, I don’t know the book, but I’m defintly going to hunt it down…by the title it looks like book to own!
Brian: Just hang in there..
Casey: Will call you for a session of sketching?
Thanks
Ronell; July 18, 2007 8:52 AM
andrea joseph’s sketchblog said…: Ooh Ronell,
firstly another stunning painting. Wow, you are good!
And secondly I know exactly what you’ve been going through. I feel like I’ve been in that place myself recently. It’s such a frustrating place. And the hardest thing is, I find, not putting too much pressure on yourself to create. Your work is fabulous and here’s to lots more of it!; July 18, 2007 11:36 AM
Anita said…: Gorgeous flowers and that hint of a vase is pure genius!

Posted on July 9, 2007August 22, 2007 by Myfrenchkitchen

Time out

It has been a while now that I’ve been struggling to get anything on paper and I was getting just more stressed by the day. Lindsay mentioned that when she gets this slump, she does nice things, naps, fun outings…. So I decided on some time out.
I put away all art, all stress, all guilt, all expectations. I went shopping(mostly window shopping) and I fiddled in the garden. I played piano and even wrote a song. You will never hear it. I concocted new recipes and did some cooking classes. I stole some mirabelles off someone’s tree and got chased by the dog with the pink bow. I moved the furniture around and changed the kitchen. I took down wall paper and started painting the living room. I played and slept with my cats. I ate too much and excercised too little. I’m blaming it on the weather. I watched Wimbledon and cried because it’s over.
I baked a cake for a friend’s birthday, decided at midnight I’ll do another one in the morning and helped myself to many slices. I sat in the rain and ate ice cream. Now I’m taking double dose vitamin c, because my throat is on fire. I went “brocante hunting” with a friend and bought other people’s junk. I sold a couch and bought a bed.
I never switched on the computer. That makes me feel bad because I didn’t visit any blogs. I dropped Hartman off at the station to go the States. I was so sad so I drove to the perfume shop and bought a bottle of Coco Chanel and a bottle of Hermes, now I don’t feel sad anymore…just guilty.
So I did indeed take time out…..no more stress, no more guilt, maybe more inspired…? Don’t know, time will tell. In the meantime, I have a living room to finish painting, I will be back next week, catching up on everybody’s work.
In fear of being completely forgotten, I thougth I’d post some of my finds at the brocante, while I’m waiting for the undercoat on the walls to dry.
An old dilapidated little car, while waiting for the brocante to open after lunch and then some old silver and pewter finds and lastly the old daybed(lit ancien as it is simply called), which is to replace the couch I sold, but only after some restoration. I just did some quick sketches in my moleskine with pencil, pen and a wash…all wonky still, which means I probably still need some time out.

Lin said…: Ah, Cara .. I’m sorry this slump still haunts you — but I think your time ‘unstressed’ is well spent. As someone told me when I complained of the same ailment “consider it pondering time’ … that special time you need to incubate ideas, desires, dreams, creations … so incubate, cara … and spend some time resting .. It will help — it really will.Huge HUGS!; July 9, 2007 5:51 PM
Robyn said…: I’ve always wanted such a day bed – now I have no room for one. The pewter plates are lovely.
Enjoy your time out, everyone will still be here when you feel like it again. I’ve been cooking all day myself – it’s fun sometimes to return to old loves and to do it without guilt.; July 9, 2007 6:39 PM
Lynn said…: I’m sorry you’ve been in a slump, but it sounds like you had some fun recharging your batteries. I like that sketch of the daybed. I hope you feel rejuvenated soon.; July 9, 2007 7:31 PM
Bonny said…: Hi Ronell;You know taking time out is good, not just for doing art. Sometimes doing other things, even unexpected things gives us a new focus on our art and on life. Take your time, and don’t feel guilty about taking time off. It’s summer, you’re SUPPOSED to to take time off from life!!!
We’ll still be here for you whenever you feel like talking or coming back!Hugs,Bonny; July 9, 2007 7:50 PM
Sandy said…: Yes I have missed you (forget you – Never!) Your time off sounds Glorious to me and I would like to join you (especially the cake and ice cream parts!). You will be inspired and come back gang-busters and I am Ready!! (ps – wish you had come to NY for our crawl and I LOVE the bed you purchased!); July 9, 2007 8:46 PM
Emma Pod said…: Hi Ronell, enjoy your time off. Have some fun. Relax. Goof off. Finish your projects. Sometimes it’s just good to change gears and do something different. And the whole point of art and blogging is for pleasure…not when it feels like “work”. I’ve been doing very little drawing this summer – there are so many other nice things to do. (thanks for helping us all not feel guilty!); July 9, 2007 9:51 PM
Jana Bouc said…: That’s a brilliant idea of how to get through a slump–enforced non-arting and non-blogging. Maybe it’s like what sex therapists advise when couples are having problems–they tell them to NOT have sex (which gives them time to pay attention to caring for one another and make the desire grow?). That would certainly apply to art–give you time to care for yourself, find your muse and allow it to seduce you back into the arms of art? I hope I’ll remember this next time I’m in a slump and badgering myself to produce!; July 9, 2007 10:28 PM
hfm said…: Have a good time we will wait here for you.; July 9, 2007 10:38 PM
Sharon said…: Slump or not…your fans are always happy to hear from you..and sending good thoughts your way!; July 9, 2007 10:58 PM
Regula Scheifele said…: was wondering what you’re doing. Your time-out sounds like the best idea, sometimes window shopping is the best kind of ‘therapy’ 😉
I love the little car you have found… but then I’ve got that thing for cute little cars anyway…
Looking forward to read your next post – whatever you have to share.; July 10, 2007 12:11 AM
uj said…: I am heartily applauding you Ronell. Good for you! Good for you!; July 10, 2007 3:03 AM
Sandy said…: Well…first off..no way would I forget this blog. I check every day. We all go through these times..you’ll get inspired again but heck, look at all you are getting done!!! I will keep checking back every day because I wouldn’t want to miss a new piece of art…or anything you post. sandy; July 10, 2007 8:17 AM
Nancy Van Blaricom said…: Whew ! There… finally a word from Ronell. Yes, we’ve missed you and your wonderful prose and art … But indeed your time away sounds like something needed. Possibly it’s the season, or just time for enjoying where you are. Come back when you are ready.; July 10, 2007 3:28 PM
Carole said…: I was just about to check that you were OK, and there you are! Good to hear from you. I’m glad you are allowing yourself off the hook and enjoying some other projects. Meanwhile you haven’t lost your touch with these little sketches. I love the daybed – that’s going to look gorgeous once you’ve restored it.Keep playing, and enjoy the summer! Look forward to reading more when (and only when) you are ready.; July 10, 2007 6:11 PM
Linda said…: Not to worry — you’re not forgotten! ;-D I remember a friend once saying that a field MUST lie fallow for a spell if it is going to yield a good crop. So, relax, enjoy, de-stress!
🙂; July 11, 2007 12:22 AM
Tami said…: Wow! Looks like you are doing a lot of fun, creative things with your time out! Enjoy youself, we have enough things that make us feel guilty, art, doing or not doing, shouldn’t be one; it’s for relaxation remember? I LOVE your art and hope to see more soon! In the meantime, I’ll entertain myself looking over your previous posts and any new “stuff” you are doing…; July 11, 2007 5:21 PM
Nancy said…: Keep up the adventurous days! Slumps can be great – get a “floaty pool” and float!; July 12, 2007 5:37 AM
bec said…: I’m all for that. gooooooo swimming and
relaxxxxxx.; July 12, 2007 8:11 PM
biteyourowntail said…: I think everyone needs time to rekindle the fire every now and again. And I think you do right not to fight it. There is a book, Women who run with the wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estes – not about creativity per se, but she does discuss these issues. It’s a wonderful book that I think every woman should have by her bedside. Beautifully written, drawing on Jungian archetypes and traditional fairytales to chart women’s journey through life.; July 13, 2007 6:55 PM
caseytoussaint said…: Hi Ronell – I haven’t been able to comment in a while, but I enjoyed hearing about what you’ve been up to while I was in the US.. The sketches are great, and it sound like you’ve been having fun. Sometimes we just need a change….; July 13, 2007 11:10 PM
martín said…: I just came to see what you were up to, since I haven’t heard of you for some time, and wow, you’ve been having a lot of fun! you’ve gone through every possible emotion, hahaha. I think you did great, it’s a vacation, an arts vacation you took. Well done. Sometimes we need a change like Casey says. Take care. M; July 14, 2007 1:41 AM
Anita said…: At last!!!…I’ve been worried about you!
🙂; July 14, 2007 4:14 AM
soulcomfort said…: You may have felt in an art slump–but in didn’t sound like you were in an everything else slump. Having fun and relaxing is good for the soul. 🙂 Just needed a break–we all do sometimes. Looks like you are right back in the swing of things again–nice work, as usual! 🙂
Always, Rita; July 14, 2007 4:27 AM
Lindsay said…: So sorry you are having a hard time. I hope it will pass in time….be gentle with yourself! And thanks for mentining me!; July 14, 2007 5:01 AM
Arty Velarde said…: I really like these sketches. They have a lot of character.!
I hope you are doing ok.
Lydia; July 15, 2007 4:15 PM
mARTa said…: ok, so I’m missing you but glad you are just enjoying life right now…the creativity will burst forth soon I’m sure!; July 16, 2007 6:49 AM
Pequete said…: Well, one thing I am sure of: no matter how long your slumps may last, you will never be forgotten! I’m sure that with all that activity, your inspiration will come back soon. If not, try reading “Living Out Loud” by Ker Smith. I’m reading it right now and it has really great stuff!; July 17, 2007 3:10 PM
Felicity said…: I had no idea you were in a slump. My goodness, your art is so amazing, so briming with vitality and I’d just die to be able to paint like you – so I guess it never occured to me this could happen. So sorry, I hope you are finding your way out of it.; July 17, 2007 4:16 PM
Laureline said…: I’m very late to add my encouragement, but here it is, nevertheless. You’re a wonderful painter and writer, too. I hope you figure out a way to minimize the slump time, but we all have them, don’t we? Take good care and enjoy yourself and try not to have unrealistic expectations about production and perfection.
Xoxo,
L; July 17, 2007 4:44 PM
Serena said…: I haven’t been online much over the past couple of weeks due to my upcoming house move but I’m sorry to read that you’ve been in a bit of a slump, Ronell. I must admit I was a little envious reading all the things you have been doing though……relaxing and taking time out for yourself is nourishing to the soul so try not to be too hard on yourself. Your blog is one of my favourite blogs to visit as I find such inspiration here and I love the way you write about things. I appreciate too that you also take time to visit my blog and leave such beautiful comments….it really means a lot to me. Btw, I love your painting style and these sketches are wonderful ~; July 19, 2007 8:49 AM
phthaloblu said…: I am so sorry that you are having to experience this slump. I was in one for many years, but I think you are doing the right thing. Doing something else and taking a break. Don’t pressure yourself. These sketches are lovely and quick and I’m glad you did them even if you didn’t feel too much like it. I really love your work. Have a lovely little break and we’ll see you back soon.

Posted on June 27, 2007July 6, 2008 by Myfrenchkitchen

If all else fails, try vegetables

I’ve seen a few people on EDM struggling with being in a slump. I guess it is my turn. I can’t seem to get a hold on inspiration.
There is a whole wide world out there to paint, to draw and I can’t find anything. I have the pencil and brush in my hand, like a knife and fork, waiting for the perfect meal to come from the kitchen. Unfortunately I am the “cook” in the kitchen….so I literally took my pencil and brush to the kitchen and tried to cook up something…I painted the first things my eyes fell on. Just earlier today I bought fresh produce which were on the table and so here are my carrots and aubergines…interestingly, the striped one is called a Graffiti. I struggled through 6 sketches, going from bad to worse. So I threw away the rest and kept the first attempts.
Both these sketches were done in WC on Fabriano HP.

Posted by Africantapestry at 5:01 PM

alteredtome said…: I just love your painterly style! So direct and fresh.; June 27, 2007 5:39 PM
Betty said…: aahhhhhhh! I am very envious of your slump 🙂 This is so lovely, as always.; June 27, 2007 5:46 PM
hfm said…: And they are so fresh and natural!; June 27, 2007 6:36 PM
martín said…: Wow! These are so well done. The combination of colours and the touches with the brush on the paper. Two masterpieces!; June 27, 2007 6:41 PM
mARTa said…: Ronell my favorite is the second one. Upon close inspection (hehehe)I have found numerous ‘jewels’ in this lively watercolor. I have several ‘favorite’ areas…the white veggie has lovely colour in it and a great blend of hard and soft edges. The contrast between the deep purple and blue is electrifying and the splashes of colour in the shadow areas keep the watercolor from vibrating too much. This is by far a most successful painting and the slump is offically over. have a great kitchen and painting day!!!; June 27, 2007 6:41 PM
caseytoussaint said…: These are just beautiful!; June 27, 2007 7:03 PM
juj said…: I never get tired of your style Ronell. LOVE those carrots.; June 27, 2007 7:29 PM
Robyn said…: What Marta said followed by what Casey said. And I bet you cooked them as beautifully as you painted them!; June 27, 2007 7:48 PM
Lin said…: GORGEOUS!! SO JUICY AND PAINTERLY!!!!; June 27, 2007 8:22 PM
brian nelson said…: Very nice, indeed!; June 27, 2007 10:40 PM
Dave said…: Wonderful; I love to see watercolours that look like watercolours! They are both lovely, the carrots are very striking, and the second one has some great touches, like the purple reflection in the blue one.; June 27, 2007 11:45 PM
mARTa said…: Now my critic of the carrots. I do think this one was successful as well but i have one area that bothers me. The dark shadow under the leaves just stares at me. I think I am entranced by the subtle colour in the other shadow areas but don’t see any here. The variation of the red/orange color of the carrots has my eyes traveling and so it carries me throughout the sketch. Both of these are successful also in that you’ve allowed the colors to mix themselves on the paper and for me that is always so hard to do!; June 28, 2007 12:57 AM
Teri C said…: These look good enough to eat. Except they are too beautifully colored-so fresh and bright.; June 28, 2007 1:41 AM
Deborah said…: Ohhhh, these make me want to eat some veggies. Beautiful!; June 28, 2007 2:19 AM
Africantapestry said…: Thank you for all the comments..I appreciate them.
Yes Marta, you’re spot on with the carrots. My shading is not at all successfull…under the leaves it looks like something standing on it’s own and it really does hurt the eye. I also threw in unnecessary shadings under the tips of the carrots, which does the same thing…and that v-shaped shadow which is supposed to follow the little tie around the carrots.. This is of course due to my uncontrollable habit of not leaving things alone! I had finished and then I thought I could maybe have them look a bit better and so the fiddling started! Thank you for noticing it and saying it…I really appreciate it….without positive critique I can’t grow!!
Ronell; June 28, 2007 8:26 AM
biteyourowntail said…: Lush aubergines Ronell – I’m in love with those colours.I actually like to draw and paint veg – they’re such satisfying shapes – not to mention colours.; June 28, 2007 10:46 AM
Carole said…: Well done for clambering out of your slump and painting. I love both of these.Rather than throw away the ones you are less happy with, you could cut out the bits that do work (there are usually bits that do) and collage them, just for fun.; June 28, 2007 11:38 AM
Regula Scheifele said…: Slump? – if you say so… though the paintings surely don’t show it.
I love the second one, the colour of the aubergines is perfect (I’ve tried painting aubergines as well, didn’t really get the colour the way I wanted it….).
Beautiful!; June 28, 2007 12:02 PM
andrea joseph’s sketchblog said…: Ronell I couldn’t agre more. These are brilliant brilliant brilliant.; June 28, 2007 1:57 PM
Lindsay said…: Ronell, I’ve been there! Slumps can feel really aweful. The last time I was in one, I took myself on a date to and did some really relaxing and beautiful things. Sometimes, all you need are a few naps and a couple of low pressure outings for just yourself.
The carots are lovely!Take good care!; June 28, 2007 3:20 PM
Cathy (Kate) Johnson said…: Gorgeous, Ronell! I love the fresh, splashy look…; June 28, 2007 3:54 PM
Irene said…: Very nice. Fresh and watery (is that a word?); June 28, 2007 4:18 PM
Sandy said…: Oh My God, there is nothing left to say – I love every bit of them!!! I may hate you 😉; June 28, 2007 4:50 PM
Sandy said…: I like both of the pictures. So glad you updated. I come here almost every day just waiting, LOL..silently waiting…these are gorgeous Ronell.sandy; June 28, 2007 9:27 PM
Emma Pod said…: Hi Ronell, these are beautiful vegetables! Great colors. I also like your frog from an earlier post!; June 28, 2007 9:49 PM
Linda said…: bsolutely gorgeous! The carrots, especially, are just so ALIVE.; June 29, 2007 1:30 AM
good with color said…: “sigh”Your paintings are so beautiful, it makes me feel happy and relaxed to look at them. especially those eggplants. I bought some today, to make ratatouille (sp?) but yours are so much nicer! Bunnies everywhere are longing for your carrots, I’ll bet.; June 29, 2007 6:57 AM
laserone said…: Hey, that’s really good work for somebody who is uninspired! I especially love the aubergines, I just love blues and purples. 🙂; June 29, 2007 7:07 AM
Africantapestry said…: Thanks for the comments, they are all so inspiring.
I alos found Diahn’s article on Wet canvas, very inspiring – makes me want to just get back into doing “small things”, but things that give pleasure. See Diahn at http://artbydiahn.blogspot.com/
Thanks again to everybody.; June 29, 2007 9:14 AM
platitudinal said…: Ronell, I love how you described holding the pencil and the brush in your hands like eating utensils, and you were waiting for the “perfect meal.”The vegetables looked so beautiful. I love the carrots (even though I don’t really like eating carrots). The orange and the yellow compliment each other so nicely, they’re such a delight to the eyes.; June 29, 2007 11:55 AM
Claudia said…: W o n d e r f u l colours, Ronell! Keep up the good work! I always love to see more of it!
…And thank you for your nice words “whatever you chose to do, do it to the fullest!”
Kind regards from
Claudia; June 29, 2007 8:09 PM
Tonniece said…: I enjoy your art so much Ronell, whether in a slump or in perfect form, you always get it right.; June 29, 2007 8:26 PM
Laureline said…: Wow!!!!!!!!Just amazingly gorgeous, Ronell!!! They’re so loose and colorful and watery—PERFECT!!; June 29, 2007 8:45 PM
Anita said…: Ronell you turn everything into an uplifting rainbow, these are beautiful!!!; July 1, 2007 2:15 AM
Sandy said…: just waving hello…looking for updates..no pressure…but looking for updates..LOL…gosh everytime I come here I get inspired…I love your stuff. By the way you have great links too…; July 1, 2007 6:26 PM
Pequete said…: Well, if this is a slump… I just wish I had some of these myself! Both sketches are lovely, but I especially like the carrots one, so painterly and light.; July 2, 2007 11:32 AM
wagonized said…: What a great approach. When i hit a drawing funk, even my favorite subjects are uninviting — that’s probably because i am less willing to “surprise” myself. These are gorgeous — just what you managed to do by pushing yourself into the kitchen is amazing. And i love the fact you chose to juxtapose the orange of the carrots with the purple underneath. Excellent.; July 5, 2007 8:23 PM
phthaloblu said…: These are great sketches. Sorry to hear about your slump. Just keep ‘doing’ and hopefully you won’t be slumping for long. Your work is beautiful and so loose and I love looking at it. Good thought for you!; July 7, 2007 9:36 PM
Bill said…: hy an I always hungry after visiting your blog?Beautiful!; July 15, 2007 9:14 PM
CrumpledPaperbirds said…: These are gorgeous!!!
Lovely colors, and love the two pics next to each other…food for eyes.; July 16, 2007 1:50 PM

Posted on June 20, 2007August 22, 2007 by Myfrenchkitchen

Touches of yellow

I have nothing yellow in my garden. But I have white flowers with touches of yellow.
Two vignettes from the garden done in their setting, in bright sunlight.
A white Hemerocallis, the only one in flower.
Done in WC in moleskine.

I also have Feverfew(Chrysantemum parthenium), a small camomile-like white daisy with bright yellow centre. They make a wonderful display in the herb garden, and work wonders on a migraine, they self sow profusely and look beautiful picked by the armsful.

My goal with both these paintings was to keep them light and fresh by incorporating the white paper as part of the composition. With the feverfew, I used more “dabbing” of color, since that is how I perceive them in the garden.

Done in WC in moleskine. Posted by Africantapestry at 6:39 PM

Sharon said…: These are gorgeous! I really love the loose, simple style and colors mixed on the paper.; June 20, 2007 7:20 PM
Kunya said…: Wow, what abeautiful work. I just bought some books about the work of Charles Reid. This paintings, especialy the first one, reminds me of the book. Great work.; June 20, 2007 7:21 PM
Lynn said…: Oh my, these are lovely! I really like the fresh, spontaneous feel of these paintings. The feverfew are gorgeous.; June 20, 2007 8:21 PM
Teri C said…: Definitly spontaneous, definitly loose and defintly WONDERFUL!!!; June 20, 2007 9:01 PM
Jenny said…: My favorite is the first one though both a lovely, loose, and colorful.; June 20, 2007 10:11 PM
Dave said…: Superb. The colours are lovely!; June 20, 2007 10:46 PM
Lin said…: Ronnell — fresh, lively, colorful, glorious — all of this and more!! Your daylily is absolutely breathtaking!! I AM IN LOVE with the various hues within it — and I too grow feverfew — but never again — I find it takes over too MUCH of the garden! GRAND JOB!!!!!!; June 21, 2007 2:23 AM
bec said…: oooh! I love these drawings…. I have lilies and feverfew also. I’ve got big bouquets all over the house. Question: how do you USE the feverfew for a migraine? make a tea and drink it? sniff the leaves? I’m interested in knowing…Thanks!
BEC; June 21, 2007 4:11 AM
biteyourowntail said…: Lovely – I particularly like the way that blue makes the yellow sing in the second painting – makes me think of late summer, and lazy afternoons in the shade.; June 21, 2007 10:18 AM
caseytoussaint said…: These are just wonderful – fresh and lively and full of color. I definitely see a resemblance to the lovely, loose florals of Charles Reid, although they are your own personal style. How do you find the time to et all this done? You’ve been so productive lately.; June 21, 2007 11:23 AM
Regula Scheifele said…: lovely loose dreamy vibrant lively fresh…
WOW; June 21, 2007 12:30 PM
andrea joseph’s sketchblog said…: Oh my gosh!!! These are BEAUTIFUL Ronell.; June 21, 2007 3:08 PM
Robyn said…: Beautiful dancing lines, sparkling white and a fairytale touch with the colours, Ronell. I long to paint so instinctively.; June 21, 2007 5:20 PM
Africantapestry said…: Thank you for all the inpspiring comments..
Bec – I take infusions. Normally it is advised to dry the leaves, but I forget, so I just take two or three leaves and let them infuse for a thirty minutes. It is best to take the infusion regularly. You can chew the leaves, but apparently they easily cause mouth sores, so I have never tried that…
Robyn – you are a poet.
Ronell; June 21, 2007 5:35 PM
Deborah said…: Ohh, these are so fresh and light! I love the techniques you used here. You must have a great garden.; June 21, 2007 7:31 PM
Serena said…: Both are beautiful in their own right, Ronell. I love the loose, airy feel you have achieved and the splashes of colour are divine!; June 21, 2007 10:29 PM
Lindsay said…: These last few sketches are so beau;tiful and fresh. They truley capture summer!; June 22, 2007 2:37 AM
Sandy said…: I looked at them enlarged and they are so free flowing. So gorgeous. I would love to walk through your garden some day.wow.. Ronell, thanks for all your comments…they are appreciated… I just love coming here to see what you’ve been up to, when I’m out sweating in the dirt in my garden. haha. I keep thinking I want to go outside and paint but somehow it never works. How do you do it??; June 22, 2007 5:15 AM
Tea & Margaritas in My Garden said…: Just lovely! Sure wish I had your talent.tea
xo; June 22, 2007 10:38 AM
Pequete said…: These are lovely, Africantapestry! I love your loose style and I wish I could paint as freely as you.; June 22, 2007 11:58 AM
hfm said…: Great!; June 22, 2007 11:20 PM
Tonniece said…: beautifully done Ronell. Light and fresh, very summery; June 23, 2007 3:03 AM
phthaloblu said…: Simply gorgeous! All those colors and shadows and details. Well done!; June 23, 2007 11:19 PM
Laureline said…: Happy, happy, loose and lively work! I LOVE them! You’re so in your element!; June 23, 2007 11:46 PM
Carole said…: Lovely colours, Ronell, particularly in the feverfew. I have tried chewing the leaves for a headache, but they tasted so rotten I think I preferred the headache.; June 24, 2007 1:45 PM
janey said…: These are lovely sketches. So colorful and full of summer.; June 25, 2007 6:48 PM
Fanta said…: Lovely, cheerful and extremely fresh! So well done.; June 26, 2007 10:29 PM
luci said…: The flowers are lovely, Ronell. Chrysanthemum is my favorite flower. The florist wasn’t too happy when I insisted on chrysanthemums only bouquet for my wedding. It bothered his artistic taste, I think. I remembered he used variety of chrysanthemums, and feverfew was one of them. I’m happy to see the beautiful feverfew you painted.

Posted on June 17, 2007July 6, 2008 by Myfrenchkitchen

Unknown faces on the train

Some faces on the train to Paris. All done in pen in moleskine and given a wash later at home.

Anita said…: They are all wonderful Ronell but I especially like the 2nd with the woman facing away, adds a sense of mystery and gets the imagination pumping!; June 17, 2007 3:58 PM
Lin said…: BEAUTIFUL!! The softness of the wash is outstanding!; June 17, 2007 4:29 PM
Meinhild Selbach said…: Great work! I really like your style.
Greetings from the Lyons area 😉
Meinhild (inselfan54); June 17, 2007 4:37 PM
Nancy Van Blaricom said…: These are beautiful. Was it ink or watercolor you used for a wash? Your portrait sketches are so well done.; June 17, 2007 5:18 PM
Nina Johansson said…: Great with those grey washes, I love these drawings!; June 17, 2007 5:19 PM
mARTa said…: love these too! I did my daughter on the train into Los Angeles on friday….she was right in front of me so I could see her!!! I love how these don’t have color…the washes are beautiful.; June 17, 2007 11:31 PM
Jenny said…: Enjoyed your train sketches. Ink and wash is perfect for these.; June 18, 2007 1:19 AM
Arty Velarde said…: These are nice, I like the washes for the gray scale.
It looks cool!; June 18, 2007 3:12 AM
juj said…: These are fabulous Ronnell – Your linework is so free and easy, and the washes are the perfect touch. I love the sleeping man at the top and the one at the bottom. And there is something so compelling about the posture of the girl with the pony tail. Sly girl – capturing the people who wouldn’t notice what you were doing!; June 18, 2007 4:19 AM
Sandy said…: Gosh how do you do this!!! I would love to learn watercolor wash like this…just beautiful and delicate. sandy; June 18, 2007 7:35 AM
Africantapestry said…: Thank you to verybody for the kind comments…I really appreciate your encouragement.
Nancy – I just used some black watercolor.
Marta – will have alook at your daughter’s sketch today. I think someone right opposite me is a bit intimidating(a stranger)…I expect them to bite me any minute!
Judi – Yip, that is exacty how I caught Hartman…!
Sandy – I feel like I’m is actually cheating; really good sketching can stand on its own with only the lines, but I feel mine needs that extra bit of “oomph”..
Ronell; June 18, 2007 8:28 AM
biteyourowntail said…: Sneaky drawings of people – love them. And what better way to spend a train journey? Lovely work; June 18, 2007 11:01 AM
Dave said…: These are lovely. So expressive and the wash adds a lot to the line work.; June 18, 2007 3:21 PM
Robyn said…: Wonderful people! I too love the girl with the pony tail but they are a delightful lot. I think the sketches would stand up very well without it, but the wash is a lovely touch. Paris! Sigh! The last time I saw Paris….; June 18, 2007 5:47 PM
Tonniece said…: A real wow factor here Ronell.
Great sketches; June 18, 2007 10:17 PM
hfm said…: Great work! Don’t know how you can draw on the train! I’ve tried but I can’t; June 18, 2007 11:25 PM
Ujwala said…: the ink and wash portraits are beautiful ronnel! now i need me some trains to ride in 😀 actually i’d be too shy to pull out my sketchpad at such close proximity to the subject! 😀; June 19, 2007 12:59 PM
Claudia said…: Oh, Ronell, you did so nice paintings and drawing while i was away on my hiking tours! I nearly can’t decide which I like the best! Your glass bells are so wonderful! But your garden sketches turned out so good as well!!! I like the colours you use!
And your train sketches are very nice, too! I want to see more!!!; June 19, 2007 1:03 PM
Carole said…: You are so talented, Ronell. You’ve captured a lot of character with these simple lines.You are brave, sketching people. I always feel too self conscious to attempt it, which is a shame as it would be a good way to spend the time on the train.; June 19, 2007 2:35 PM
Anonymous said…: HELLO, i CANT TELL YOU HOW MUCH i LOVE YOUR WORK AND BOTH BLOGS. sINCE iM LEARNING ON MY OWN YOUR WORK HELPS ME ALONG IN LOOKING AT HOW YOUVE PAINTED THNGS.
tHANK-YOU SO AND HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY.
lINDA; June 19, 2007 6:17 PM
caseytoussaint said…: I somehow missed this post – it’s wonderful, Ronell! These are so full of character, so individual – I really love them. This seems like a new departure for you (?)

Africantapestry

Author: Myfrenchkitchen

I live in beautiful Provence. With my art, my cooking, my garden and my husband by my side, life is just good. On Myfrenchkitchen I try to convey the good side of life here in Provence.

Chanel, and a river runs through it

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A thank you

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Time out

If all else fails, try vegetables

Touches of yellow

Unknown faces on the train

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