people – Page 6 – Africantapestry

Posted on August 17, 2007August 22, 2007 by Myfrenchkitchen

The people of South Carolina

Well, at last a post from me…
It was a struggle from the moment we set foot on US soil! and I’m still struggling! But that might be a story for another day. We’ve settled into a condo, overlooking the beautiful Keowee lakes here in Oconee county, SC. We’ve stepped into an incredible heat wave and I have a suspicion I am being punished for my constant complaining about the weather back home in France!

I’ll start off my experiences here in Oconee, SC, with some sketches of people. Because I had no internet or a computer up to to now, and it was too difficult for me to be outside, even for sketching, I kept mostly to coffee shops, watching and sketching the people of SC.

I do enjoy watching people, making up stories about them, wondering what keeps them going, what inspires them, what depresses them, what makes them laugh, what are their sadnesses…

One day, I hope I’ll have the ability to convey that hrough my paintings, not the realism of thier appearance, but the story behind their living, the emotion in their gestures.
So, meet the strangers I swiftly met in my wanderings to Paneros, Joe muggs, Barnes and Nobles, Bi-Lo, on a bench in the mall; some were empty nest-moms, serious writers, some just enjoyed reading and some did interviews, others were almost asleep and some were watching the wordl go by…

These sketches were all done in pen in moleskine, given a few washes afterwards….

and now I’m leaving you to go throw another tantrum!!…I’m completely fatigued – I’ve been interrupted and I’ve restarted this post so many times since this morning, I’ve lost count and now I’m completely fatigued from driving around to 5 different places to find a connection! And this is my birtday…sob, sob!!!

PS: Please forgive the many mistakes and bad writing, I have not done any editing on this entry…

Bonny said…: Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to You! Happy Birthday dear Ronell, Happy Birthday to you! (Sung slightly off key but it comes from the heart…:))
It sounds like you are in a bit of a slump, not to mention a heat wave! I hope you find a nice spot out in the country away from the hot concrete of the city. Maybe you’ll find inspiration for a future painting, too.
Have a great Birthday, my Friend!Hugs,Bonny; August 17, 2007 10:10 PM
Sharon said…: Happy birthday, Ronell! I’ve missed your artwork (and recipes), so it’s great seeing you back online, however briefly. Sounds like you’ve been hit with both culture and heat shock. Hope good things are planned for the rest of your day…and that it soon cools off.; August 17, 2007 10:23 PM
mARTa said…: oh…so. carolina…too humid and hot…droop….so. california…heat wave..dry…languid…..have missed you…great sketches…I can feel the long humid hours….come to so. california and we can bask under palm trees on the beach! Joyeux anniversaire a vous mon ami!!!!; August 17, 2007 11:08 PM
shirley said…: HAPPY BIRTHDAY – Your sketches are fantastic and I thank you for being so persistent so we could see them! Are you traveling north at all. Would love to sketch with you in NYC.
Shirley; August 17, 2007 11:22 PM
Deborah said…: Happy Birthday!! Sorry you’re having some stress. Hopefully everything will work it’s way out and the heat and humidity will wane. We were hoping to meet in France in Oct. before your trip to SC but guess what? I will be in Lake Wylie, SC for 5 days in mid Sept. and for 2 days mid Oct. before and after my trip to France. Perhaps we are to meet after all. I leave tomorrow for 2 weeks but will chat about SC when I return. Stay cool. Have fun!; August 18, 2007 12:02 AM
Lin said…: HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET LADY! Oh cara, you have indeed dropped in for one of the worst heat waves we’ve had here in SC and NC!! We’ve broken all sorts of heat records … and I am so sorry — it is the most flagging of temperatures and humidities! But oh how good you’ve made of your time — your sketches are wonderful! And I hope you’re finding your time here enjyable too! I’d still love to find a way to get together .. and I’ve so missed your wonderful work.I hope you have a fabulous, and cool, birthday!! Cool in all senses!; August 18, 2007 12:17 AM
Diahn said…: Happy HOT Birthday, Ronell! Sorry you’re caught up in this heat-wave – it is miserable, even up here in Tennessee. HEY- you’re not very far from me and Linda – if you ever decide to take a trip up to the Smoky Mountains, let me know – I’d love to show you around!Great sketches – stay cool!!; August 18, 2007 1:27 AM
Anita said…: HAPPY BIRTHDAY RONELL!
I do hope your day brightened up for you, feel free to nibble at the Cadburys chocolate slice my Son made on my blog.
I love your new sketches and I have missed you!; August 18, 2007 1:41 AM
Brenda Y said…: I’ll add my off key Happy Birthday to You! Casey announced it on the EDM board and I was wondering if you had an internet connection yet so we could wish you birthday blessings. I LOVE these sketches and find the monochromatic washes, while different from your usual colorful flair, very intersting indeed!! We are hot on the west coast too — haven’t had too many days below 100 all summer, actually consider it a “cooling trend” when we hit 97. Thank you Lord for A/C!!!
Our Alaska cruise last week felt WONDERFUL at 60 degrees, but it’s been a rude awakening coming home to the heat.; August 18, 2007 2:13 AM
bec said…: It’s supposed to be cooler tomorrow!….Sat. in the 70’s I’ve been told (that’s here in PA , not too far from you.) lovely sketches-enjoy your vacation and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!; August 18, 2007 3:04 AM
Ujwala said…: Happy Birthday Ronnel! Lovely sketches and I hope you get to do many more.; August 18, 2007 6:17 AM
caseytoussaint said…: Hey – what a nice surprise to her from you today (well, yesterday, since I didn’t get a chance to check back!) I hope your birthday was happy after all – I’m glad you were with Hartman, and I’m sure you found some way to celebrate.Your sketches are really good – this is good news for me. It means we can go people sketching here in France when you get back?
Stay in touch! We miss you over here.; August 18, 2007 9:33 AM
Carole said…: Beautiful sketches – they have so much character to them. I’m sorry you are so hot (I wilt in the heat too) but hopefully you will aclimatise and enjoy your visit. Take care, and keep sketching!; August 18, 2007 12:09 PM
Tonniece said…: Welcome back, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY too.
Great sketches as always.
Hope you’re haveing some fun in all that heat.; August 18, 2007 3:24 PM
Tami said…: Happy Birthday! Sorry your birthday is going so bad. Your people sketches are just GREAT!!! Looking forward to more!!!; August 18, 2007 4:54 PM
juj said…: So sweet of you to leave US a present on YOUR birthday – Thank you. I’m sorry you are struggling, especially on your special day. I know it will get better soon. And fall is coming I promise. So nice to see you posting, if only for a moment. Great sketches. Happy Happy Birthday Ronell. Happy Birthday to you.; August 18, 2007 6:07 PM
hfm said…: Great to see again your sketches that look so great!; August 18, 2007 7:26 PM
Claudia said…: Nice to see your artwork again and all the best for your Birthday, Ronell!
Kind regards from Germany,
Claudia; August 18, 2007 10:17 PM
Bill Sharp said…: Nice to see some sketches from you. I hope the rest of your birthday was happier. Many happy returns.; August 19, 2007 5:41 AM
Fanta said…: Happy Birthday,Dear Ronell!!! Loving the sketches. Must be terrible without proper connection. I will be facing the same problem soon, and eventhough I still have it, I am already experiencing pre-withdrawal pangs. If there is such thing (I’m sure there is)..Keep smiling and enjoying life. After Casey’s pastries you should be in a good mood again. Did you see? You can have not one, but two. Too sweet!:))
Take care,
Fanta; August 19, 2007 6:23 PM
Robyn said…: What a lovely surprise to find your post today, Ronell. Sorry I found it too late to wish you Happy Birthday but I have a feeling you and Hartman had a gorgeous evening after that too hot day. It’s still too hot in Tuscany too.Beautiful sketches, I love the woman with the long ringlets and the old chap writing and then every single sketch that follows that! You are in extremely fine form and I’m looking forward to many more. I’m really in awe at your ability to capture such characters from a discreet distance.; August 19, 2007 7:09 PM
Sandy said…: oH good!!! I kept checking and finally found you drawing. Love the illustrations and so sorry you hit a heat wave. I have a friend who recently moved to South Caroline about a year ago, from Southern California. Her husband took a ministry job there. I think she misses So Cal…I sure hope you find some cool spots and find your time there really great!! I know, from what I’ve heard, you will have a great time eventually discovering all the beauty that is there.Happy Birthday….I’d sing but you wouldn’t want me to.Take care and discover the treasures that I know you will.sandy; August 19, 2007 8:40 PM
laserone said…: Welcome back! I love these drawings. They’re great people-drawings. 🙂; August 19, 2007 9:28 PM
Jana Bouc said…: Happy birthday and welcome to the U.S. Sorry about the crummy weather. Come on out to San Francisco. It’s been mid-70s and sunny and breezy here…just about perfect. Your drawings of people are wonderful. They look a little melty…like everyone is so hot!; August 20, 2007 8:40 AM
Sandy said…: Happy belated BDay Ronell “I hope you had a Fabulous “Fit for a Queen” Day – and Fabulous work as ALWAYS!!; August 20, 2007 3:23 PM
Lindsay said…: Happy Birthday and welcome back to cyber space! Great post. I love the personality of the people you have drawn.
We came back from vacation last week and left behind that unbelievable heat! We were in Pigon Forge NC near the Great Smokey Mountains. UGH. Too bad it’s still blanketing the region!; August 20, 2007 4:47 PM
Africantapestry said…: Thank you to everybody for this big surprise! It was so wonderful to see these messages all come through and feeling so special this one day of the year!
Thank you Casey!!
Ronell; August 20, 2007 5:44 PM
wagonized said…: I know i am late to wish you a happy birthday, but there it is, Ronell! Happy birthday! I love these sketches of people that you are posting. They have a spontaneity that quickly turns into poetry in my eyes.; August 21, 2007 6:24 PM
Dave said…: A belated happy birthday from me too! I know what you mean about the heat…even in Philly and NYC where I was it was very hot. These are wonderful sketches; so full of life and energy.; August 22, 2007 1:32 PM
Sandy said…: Simply awsome, I wonder if you used ink and dewert pencils for this fabulous shadowing or all WC. Glad you missed me, I miss posting terribly and have some entries when I get home – dang compter won’t post!! Keep the SC musing going, as an American I find it facinating to see through your eyes and hands!

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 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 (?)

Posted on May 23, 2007June 27, 2008 by Myfrenchkitchen

Inspirations in color

I am in search of Inspiration. I find it in people. That does it for me. Creative people, people with strong character, the survivors, the gentle, caring ones, the courageous, daring ones…I have them all in my small circle of friends.
Voici two of them. Two wonderful inspirations. Very far away, so I had to rely on photo’s. I don’t mind that much.
I chose to do the following sketch, because I love the way this friend interacts. She is a beautiful woman, an extraordinary talented florist; you can give her a dry stick and she’ll turn it into a magical creation. And she can’t talk without her hands. I love that. When I dropped by her floral shop, she was busy with a romantic bouquet for Valentine’s day and we stood for about 30 minutes chatting, while she held this wonderful creation in the one hand and expressed herself with the other. She wears this delightful “apron” when she works, to protect her clothes. Being around her, is feeling the creative juices flow…it is inspiring.

This was supposed to be only watercolor on HP Arches paper. Then I had to “fix” it by adding pen! It seems I have to fix everything lately.

This friend is a lovely romantic, in heart and soul and in appearance. She carries a bit of yesteryear with her. With her angelic hair and fair skin and soft features, she posed many problems to paint. This is my fourth go at her and it still not what I’m after and this time pen wont’ fix it. I want nothing less than a soft, flowy watercolor painting. I’ll probably try again and again…Maybe its because I know that she isn’t ALL romantic – she can swim faster than anyone I know, she can climb a rock as fast as the young guys, she can paddle a kayak through some scary rapids and she’s not afraid of any marathon! She exudes a wonderful zest for life, nothing is too hard or too boring for her, she does everything that comes her way…it’s contagious. This is watercolor on Fabriano CP (extra white)

27 comments:

Stacy said…: Ronell, your friends sound lovely and look lovely too! I love how their personalities influenced you as much as their appearance did.; May 23, 2007 6:08 PM
Lin said…: STUNNINGLY GLORIOUS!!!; May 23, 2007 7:06 PM
Bonny said…: You have a wonderful talent, Ronell. Not only do you connect in a special way with people, but you portray them beautifully, too. Love the painting of your florist friend. She almost looks fey like a fairy princess. Gorgeous!; May 23, 2007 7:45 PM
Teri C said…: Beautiful paintings Ronell!! I love your commentary with all your art-they were made for each other.; May 23, 2007 8:17 PM
Dave said…: Well, you certainly fixed it well! Wonderful portraits, and what wonderful friends it sounds like you have.; May 23, 2007 8:39 PM
Anita said…: Oh Ronell I LOVE everything about this entry.; May 23, 2007 9:07 PM
Claudia said…: Ronell, w o n d e r f u l watercolours, especially the first one! It has something magic!; May 23, 2007 10:45 PM
Lindsay said…: What a sweet and beautiful post. A nice tribute to your friends too.; May 23, 2007 11:56 PM
martín said…: Beautiful portraits Ronell. The first one really talks. Your friend does it with her hands and you through your paintings.; May 24, 2007 12:31 AM
SCquiltaddict said…: fun wc…great stuff…gotta get my paint brushes back out! keep it up; May 24, 2007 2:04 AM
Jana Bouc said…: What a fabulous portrait–both in words and paint. I love the second one–it’s so loose and fresh and has a sweetness about it.; May 24, 2007 6:15 AM
Tonniece said…: Love this post Ronell
I’ts so great to have friends, good friends, and being able to capture their essence as you have here is a wonderful gift to them and all of us as well.; May 24, 2007 6:51 AM
Carole said…: I really love how you have composed and painted these to capture their character as well as their features. They are beautiful paintings and charming descriptions of your friends.; May 24, 2007 9:18 AM
suzanne said…: Wow Ronell….these are both breathtaking. Not only in the sense that they are technically outstanding, but also in the fact that you have captured the personalities of your inspirations so well. Not knowing them, I think I could have pretty much described their personalities in exactly the way you did, only by looking at your paintings.Your inspirations are inspirations to me.; May 24, 2007 4:39 PM
Arty Velarde said…: This is nice. I like the watery, “juiciness”!; May 24, 2007 6:47 PM
janey said…: These are very soft and pretty and I like the descriptions that go with them. It makes the paintings come alive even more.; May 25, 2007 1:33 AM
juj said…: Oh Ronell – These are lovely! I especially like the second one, so soft and loose – I love the expression on her face. And the deep red of the necklace is such a nice accent to the whole and balances her glasses perfectly. Your friends both sound wonderful. You must feel very fortunate to have them in your life.; May 25, 2007 3:45 PM
Nancy Van Blaricom said…: I simply love the stories that go along with your watercolors. The watercolors could stand alone with not comments, but you bring such life to them all….; May 26, 2007 3:37 PM
Robyn said…: Both friends are lovely – I love the mood as well in the first watercolour and the second is beautiful in the lightness of your touch.; May 26, 2007 7:07 PM
ksklein said…: I love the top pic. Very romantic. It reminds me of weddings, brides, valentines,…
I would have loved to nsee a little more of her face though.; May 27, 2007 8:58 PM
Emma Pod said…: These are both wonderful paintings of your friends. In the top one I can almost hear her talking…the hand gesture is so nice! Nice work!; May 29, 2007 5:35 AM
Regula Scheifele said…: Both your paintings and your descriptions are loving and beautiful – what a gift you have and how nice for your friends to have you paint them!; May 29, 2007 2:09 PM
Sandy said…: Ronell, these are beautiful and I loved reading how they inspire you..sandy; May 30, 2007 9:48 PM
platitudinal said…: Beautiful paintings of those you hold dear in your heart. 🙂; May 31, 2007 12:04 AM
Serena said…: Beautiful work, Ronell, and a very nice tribute to your friends. 🙂; May 31, 2007 12:30 PM
phthaloblu said…: These are both beautiful paintings, but I know how you feel when you’re trying for a certain result and you can’t get it. But, these are very beautiful. I think lots of us look to the people we know when we need inspiration. That’s how we re-energize. When we are feeling down, we gravitate toward someone who is immensely positive so we can feed off of that positiveness. Does that make sense? Anyway, it sounds like you have some wonderful friends to look to for your inspiration. Full of life and creativity.; June 1, 2007 5:27 PM
austin of sundrip said…: I’ve scrolled through your page here but I keep coming back to the girl with flowers, it catches my eye and won’t let it go. Awesome work, awesome.Austin of Sundrip

Posted on May 12, 2007June 27, 2008 by Myfrenchkitchen

Barefoot and happy

A handful of years ago, we packed our two small girls and with a suitcase and a chair or two we headed for the unknown. In this case it happened to be Suffolk, England. We arrived in February, stayed in the Orwell hotel in Felixstowe for some weeks while in search for a haven to unpack our lives.
Two days ago Hartman called me from Felixstowe, where he was working for three days. While he was walking by the sea, eating fish and chips, visiting all the places we lived, buying Fox’s crunch creams, we remembered. We remembered how young our girls were. We remembered how cold it was, how wet, how grey, how exciting, how awful, how lonely. This led to many memories old and dear. It took me far back to our homeland, before we packed up, to days of golden sun, warm cuddling friendships, lazy beach days, back breaking work sessions, hat wearing sports events… all of which happened barefoot.
We learnt in England to wear shoes, after the girls have been frowned upon for running at school events barefoot, for running barefoot through the lobby of the hotel to quickly pick up Dad from work(truth be told, it was February…), I have learnt to keep shoes close by for when the doorbell rang and I learnt not to kick out my shoes when arriving at a friends house.
It has been a long time since I’ve had to remove some thorns from my feet. It’s been a long time since I’ve felt mud squishing up between my toes, or heated up my feet in a warm puddle of cow dung,….disgusting maybe, but those who grew up on a farm, will know what I’m talking about. They’re quite beautiful now, my feet, very soft and supple, lovely pedicured and all, which is something to be grateful for I suppose. But when the chance for being barefoot shows up at our door, we still happily kick off those shoes and dash across the lobby.

In the light of my melancholy, I did 3 quick sketches with some pen and watercolor on Fabriano HP paper….and even trampled some mud…

40 comments:

Ujwala said…: nice 😀 i wish i could draw my feet with as much ease. i do know about running around barefoot though 😀 pretty common growing up in India. Took to wearing slippers when i discovered that not doing so was one of the triggers for an allergy attack .; May 12, 2007 5:28 PM
Kunya said…: Gorgeous & sensual. Love to look at these.; May 12, 2007 7:34 PM
Renate said…: Not only are you beautiful with pen and brush, I’m also very touched by your words. A poet, for sure …; May 12, 2007 7:52 PM
Bill said…: Beautiful thoughts and paintings.; May 12, 2007 8:07 PM
Lin said…: Ronell — OH WHAT WONDERFUL FEET!!!! And memories and thoughts! I used to run around NY sidewalks and mud with barefeet .. grew many a callouses .. and sure do miss those days …!; May 12, 2007 8:35 PM
shirley said…: I LOVE your paintings and your use of shadows.; May 12, 2007 10:51 PM
Fanta said…: Wonderful tale, gorgeaus feet sketches (not to forget the gorgeous feet:)). My absolute fav. has to be the first one, I just love its vibrant colours and the dramatic treatment of the shadows.
I can’t wait to get back to China where I can have my weekly reflexology sessions for the fracture of the European price… I love to have my feet pampered. I can imagine cow dung can be very pleasant too, but never tried it. Well, not yet.; May 12, 2007 11:27 PM
Robyn said…: I don’t think I can remember running through cow dung – but I still wince at the memory of chicken poo. Vivid, entertaining writing, as ever, Ronell and sweet feet!; May 12, 2007 11:37 PM
Susan Hosken said…: To celebrate your blog entry I’m going to go paddling down at the beach and feel sand between my toes. What a treat.
Enjoy the journey
Lots of love from Susan in Australia; May 12, 2007 11:55 PM
Serena said…: I loved reading this post, Ronell. It brought back memories of our trip to England to visit with family back when I was fourteen. Granny was shocked that my siblings and I were barefoot a lot of the time. Once, when my sister and I walked down the street to the corner shop barefoot, people would actually stop and stare at us like we were freaks. LOL Being barefoot was so much the norm back then in Australia. Nowadays, we tend to go barefoot only in our homes, yards and, of course, at the beach. Sorry for digressing….LOVED your sketches….great feet!!; May 13, 2007 12:11 AM
Arty Velarde said…: Very, very cool.
paintings and story that is!; May 13, 2007 2:46 AM
Anita said…: Beautiful post and fabulous sketches Ronell.
Living in the Fens, in England, I can happily report that my children are rarely seen wearing shoes of any kind. My youngest walks upon the shingle, thistles, stinging nettles…barefoot. My eldest feeds the animals and dashes over to my parents opposite the yard…Barefoot.
Me…Well let’s just say my feet are anything but beautiful. Tough, mostly naked and always looking a little grubby which is fine until I need to wear evening shoes!
It’s good to feel the earth you walk upon, freeing!
I also have it on good authority that it is very good for you to walk upon the early morning dew barefooted, especially women. I often do this and, damp footed, I breath in the virgin fenland air at the start of a new day…It’s a very calming way to start the day and allows me time & peace to appreciate all I have.; May 13, 2007 3:11 AM
mARTa said…: lovely paintings and wonderful memories. I am fortunate enough to live in a climate where I run around barefoot ALWAYS at home. We do kick off our shoes when we come indoors or visit! And it’s sandle time so time for toe rings and ankle bracelets!; May 13, 2007 7:05 AM
Jana Bouc said…: These are wonderful Ronell. I grew up barefoot too, in San Diego, California. I never wore shoes (except to school or jobs) and my feet were so tough I could walk on the hot beach sand or the hot sidewalk with no problem. When I took my drivers license test the examiner tried to tell me I had to wear shoes but I told him there was no law that said so and he gave in. It wasn’t until I moved to New York City when I was 19 that I stopped going barefoot. My first walk down the street I stepped in glass, spit, etc. and that was the end of that. I still go barefoot at home and around the yard though. I actually liked the way it sounds to warm ones feet in a squishy cow pie. I bet it felt better than mud!; May 13, 2007 7:32 AM
Emma Pod said…: Wonderful feet and good colors too! I got “tagged” to tell 7 things about myself on my blog and then tag 7 others. I tagged you as one of my 7 (if you haven’t done it already) on my post tonight.take care! Mary; May 13, 2007 8:19 AM
Africantapestry said…: Thank you for the comments- I loved all your stories about your barefoot days…wonderful to hear that it is a freedom still loved by many. It is so true what Anita says…to feel the raw earth beneath your feet, is to feel something freeing your soul.
Thanks
Ronell; May 13, 2007 9:18 AM
Tonniece said…: What a wonderful story Ronell. I have never liked being barefoot in my entire life, till that is, I got to that magical age all we women must endure. I now find the floors so soothing and (cooling). As for the great outdoors and bare feet I’ve never done that, but you make it sound so relaxing and fun. As summer is fighting to stay here in Canada, I just might give it a try.
Love the sketches. (being barefoot dosn’t seem to have done them any harm).; May 13, 2007 9:35 AM
Lindsay said…: Ronell, I loved this sweet and sentimental post. The paintings and your nostalgia are a lovely combination. Japan might be a great home for your feet!!; May 13, 2007 3:30 PM
SCquiltaddict said…: great story about your feet…and going barefooted…too bad you were not in the south…you could have gone barefooted here!; May 13, 2007 3:51 PM
andrea joseph’s sketchblog said…: These are really great. All of them. I love your approach Roneel. It makes me quite envious!; May 13, 2007 6:06 PM
Nancy Van Blaricom said…: Wonderful post. (I love reading your story’s)Wonderful memories for you.Wonderful sketches.Happy Mother’s Day to you.; May 13, 2007 6:35 PM
Natalie Ford said…: That reminds me of this – done years ago!; May 13, 2007 6:48 PM
Sarah said…: This time I hope it gets posted … enjoyed your post and the paintings are lovely – particularly the middle one. Reading about being barefoot made my toes curl in delight – I love the feel of dew-wet grass.And strangely enough, I live in Ipswich – and am regularly in Felixstow as it’s my nearest coastal town and I miss living by the sea. Small world!; May 13, 2007 7:31 PM
Robyn said…: Ronell – Just wanted to let you know, since I so enjoy your blog, I’ve tagged you. Just follow the link to my post http://havedogswilltravel.blogspot.com/2007/05/tagged.html; May 13, 2007 7:45 PM
E-J said…: As a three-year-old, I was evidently known as “the little girl with green feet” because going barefoot was seen as such an oddity! My father was originally South African, though … perhaps that’s the connection …Suffolk!! It’s so close to where I am now.Love your sketches, and your words.; May 13, 2007 11:20 PM
Silvia said…: Wonderful story and paintings. I can only agree with all that has been said before.; May 14, 2007 12:25 AM
bec said…: ahhh ! barefoot. I’ve enjoyed going barefoot since I was a child too… now I find it so freeing especially when I play music-I’m a violinist- it always goes better when I’m barefoot! I always enjoy your free and happy sketches.; May 14, 2007 3:46 AM
wagonized said…: They are beautiful feet! Not just the way you painted them, but simply them, their shape!; May 14, 2007 4:01 AM
aPugsLife-laserone said…: Wow, what a fantastic post. I love hearing about people’s lives through their posts and their art. I am very… I am not sure of the word. I tend to think about the past a lot. I moved around A LOT growing up and so I think about towns and houses I used to live in growing up. I miss some of them. Some I do NOT miss but still think about or dream about in my sleep. 🙂; May 14, 2007 7:48 AM
caseytoussaint said…: What a great post, Ronell! I also went barefoot all the time when I was a kid, even in New Jersey – and sometimes I forget and answer the door here in France with bare feet. The looks I get are terrifying!; May 14, 2007 8:39 AM
Carole said…: I get such a sense of freedom from your description of enjoying your barefootedness! And the paintings seem to communicate that revelling in such simple freedom. Lovely post!
By the way, I’ve tagged you – but just realised reading through your comments that I’m not the first. Sorry!; May 14, 2007 12:12 PM
Alison said…: Beautiful – I used to stub my toes so often as a child as I went barefoot all summer.; May 14, 2007 2:02 PM
Jan said…: Great feet Ronell. And I’ve tagged you too! Seems someone else got here before me, but it’s too late to change. I’ve got you up on my blog. So come on over and check the details!; May 14, 2007 2:15 PM
ksklein said…: Hi there, You have been tagged. To check it out have a look at my blog!I like the first feet pic.; May 14, 2007 4:27 PM
Sandy said…: What fun, both story and sketches, Both show so much of who you are and it is simply GREAT. For someone melancholy you ROCK!; May 14, 2007 4:28 PM
Teri C said…: What fun!!! I especially love the one with mud between the toes, that’s about as free as you can get!!; May 14, 2007 5:09 PM
Biby Cletus said…: Cool blog, i just randomly surfed in, but it sure was worth my time, will be backDeep Regards from the other side of the MoonBiby Cletus; May 14, 2007 9:15 PM
Stacy said…: Ronell, it seems your foot post was a hit! I enjoyed it too! I always liked being barefoot as a child and found that I haven’t yet outgrown it. Shoes suffocate my feet. My kids are taking after me and take off their shoes as soon as they get home. In warm weather we often wear flip flops when we need to go out because they are the most minimal shoes allowed.; May 15, 2007 6:04 PM
platitudinal said…: Melancholia may be a fleeting moment, but it certainly knows how to make its presence known. Hope you are feeling better. Love the bare feet sketches. I have a bit of a hard time imagining the delight of squishing around the cow dung, but was tickled by the idea that some people do not mind 🙂; May 16, 2007 1:44 PM
phthaloblu said…: Oh my! I grew up barefoot. The bottoms of my feet were as hard as leather from going everywhere barefoot. My husband hated that (he’s from New Jersey) and wouldn’t let our kids go barefoot. I told him, sorry, you married a hillbilly! lol! Anyway, he hates it when I get back from girl weekend, especially if we’ve been in the mountains because the first thing I do is ditch the shoes. Thanks for bringing back some memories.; May 16, 2007 5:13 PM

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Posted on May 6, 2007July 6, 2008 by Myfrenchkitchen

I give you… Christeen

A fun exchange in emails between Christeen and me a while ago, turned into work in the end! Not that this wasn’t fun. Too much, I would say…I actually attempted three paintings! But it sure was difficult…I was very worried about not doing justice to her beauty and wonderful character. She assured me though it is about the process, and not the end result(for this time, I’ll believe it, although I would normally believe that the result does carry quite a bit of weight too!)
She also sent me a picture of her and her brother at four years, which I’ll attempt a bit later. By her own words, she now once again has the playfulness, enthusiasm and humor she had when she was four and that was what I tried to capture. I can see it so obviously in her face, but capturing it, is another thing. She has these amazingly long eyelashes behind which she carries the sparkles of mischief, a mouth full and round with humor, and hair, wild like a free roaming lioness. See Christeen’s excellent take on this!!…. as well as the original image here
So, here I give you Christeen…..in graphite on paper; then watercolor on Arches and last, oil on linen.

shirley said…: All absolutely wonderful! What a huge project….; May 6, 2007 4:21 PM
Christeen said…: Ronell, you are one amazingly talented woman!! Holy smokes! These are awesome!; May 6, 2007 4:22 PM
Dave said…: Ooh, these are all good. I think the graphite one is my favourite. No, perhaps it’s the oil. Although now I come to look at the watercolour again…; May 6, 2007 4:29 PM
caseytoussaint said…: Wow, Ronell, these are great! My favorite is the oil – it ‘s so full of life.; May 6, 2007 5:09 PM
Lin said…: RONELL! STUNNING! GORGEOUS! PHENOMENAL WORK! MERCY … THIS IS TRULY OUTSTANDING!; May 6, 2007 5:35 PM
Claudia said…: I like the watercolour one the most! Wonderful work, all three are superb!; May 6, 2007 5:44 PM
Nina Johansson said…: hese are just lovely! Incredibly good, you captured Christeen perfectly!; May 6, 2007 7:01 PM
martín said…: Ronell, I absolutely agree with Christeen, you´re amanzingly talented!!! I can’t say I have a favourite, I can’t decide since I like the three of them very much. Each one has its own character. GREAT JOB!!!; May 6, 2007 7:45 PM
Sarah said…: Amazing paintings – isn’t it interesting how the different media seem to emphasise different aspects – they’re all alive and vital, but the watercolour shows a more reflective person, the oil brings that hint of mischief out more and in the charcoal drawing she looks more curious, almost about to challenge someone (I should say – that’s how they look to me anyway); May 6, 2007 8:45 PM
SCquiltaddict said…: Ronell THese are just super…they got better and better as i scrolled down the page…cant decide WHICH is my favorite…they are all MAGNIFICIENT!!; May 6, 2007 9:19 PM
Cathy (Kate) Johnson said…: Oh, Ronell, your charcoal is GORGEOUS, and so is Christeen!; May 6, 2007 9:21 PM
Cathy (Kate) Johnson said…: Ooops, graphite! You did such a rich, deep job with it I just assumed it was charcoal!Read ALL the words, Kate…*G*; May 6, 2007 9:23 PM
Silvia said…: All of the portraits are wonderful :), but I think I like the second one even best :))!; May 6, 2007 9:58 PM
Kristin Saegaert said…: Wow! I think I like the graphite the best, but with your amazing talent it’s really hard to commit to that!!! Thanks for sharing your art with us!; May 7, 2007 12:42 AM
Shelly McC said…: Stunning painting!; May 7, 2007 1:49 AM
Kay Cox said…: Ronell, these are just beautiful. I aspire to be able to paint like you someday. Thank you so much for sharing your lovely work. Lucky Christeen!; May 7, 2007 2:23 AM
bec said…: What a fun project! My favorite is the watercolor… nice play of light on the subject. Did Christeen draw you?; May 7, 2007 2:35 AM
Robin Neudorfer said…: I love the graphite drawing. So spontaneous. What a fun project; May 7, 2007 2:49 AM
Nancy said…: I love the graphite drawing and keep gong back to it (your model is beautiful by the way). I love to look at your site – I leave feeling inspired.; May 7, 2007 4:12 AM
Serena said…: These are awesome! I think my favourite is the graphite. 🙂; May 7, 2007 9:08 AM
Africantapestry said…: Thank you for all the comments -Sarah…thank you for being so observant..you’re spot on! I’m so glad you did see a littel of what I tried to do…see down below.Nancy: Yes I had a beautiful model to work with!Bec: and Christeen does have a snapshot of me, so when she has time, she’ll do one too.note: This was a very intimidating experience for me….doing a painting of someone you don’t know or haven’t met face to face, and in a weird sense is actually a friend(like you all would agree, I’m sure) and all you have to work with is a photograph – you haven’t seen some personal mannerisms, like how her mouth moves when she smiles, how she crinkles her nose, how she plays with a string of hair, how the light in her eye changes…anything that can give you an idea of something more than physical…. Normally I would’ve preferred to have Christeen’s face say something more than just displaying rendition, tell more of a story, but I didn’t feel confident enough to do that. Who knows, maybe our paths might cross and then I’ll redo these.
Ronell; May 7, 2007 9:15 AM
Regula Scheifele said…: So I’m going to chime in and say how much I admire your work and your courage as well… I couldn’t say which one I like the most, since they all have a different feeling to them, like showing different aspects of Christeen’s personality? – Would be interesting to know which one she thinks portrays her best?; May 7, 2007 9:29 AM
Ujwala said…: all three are wonderful but the oil is my favourite 😛 sounds like a fun project and i hope we can see christeen’s work too.; May 7, 2007 12:14 PM
Tonniece said…: OOOH, I LOVE THEM ALL RONELL, BUT I TRULY THINK THE GRAPHITE IS MY FAVE. I; May 7, 2007 12:35 PM
Sandy said…: WOW – big WOW you are a master (bowing down before you); May 7, 2007 3:52 PM
Robyn said…: I love the graphite one, Ronell. it looks so spontaneous and very much from life. That, I find, is terribly difficult to achieve from a photo which usually lends itself to a more formal portrait. You are very clever – I’m so in awe of the oil too!; May 7, 2007 6:30 PM
Fanta said…: I like the first one best, maybe because I love graphite, maybe because you truly did capture the child in her expression.
The last one truly looks like a lioness, even the twirls in the background resemble the presence of a lioness! Awesome!; May 7, 2007 9:49 PM
platitudinal said…: Truly amazing work. You’re not only attempting a likeness of her, but also her essence. That’s very difficult to capture, and yet you did. I think each medium emphasize more of certain characteristic, but all and all they’re all there. Superb job, Ronell.; May 7, 2007 10:02 PM
Carole said…: Well done – these are stunning! It’s so interesting seeing them done in three different media, and noticing how each gives a different feel. My favourite has to be the oil painting because I am such a huge fan of your luscious way with oils. Oh, to be able to paint like that!; May 7, 2007 11:16 PM
Anonymous said…: Hello I cant tell you how much your work has inspired me to practice daily and hope that someday I also will be able to turn out wonderful works of art. You are a wonderful artist and I thank-you for letting us see your work hear.
Linda; May 8, 2007 12:49 AM
mARTa said…: wow! how different they all are yet how smashing! Your blog is always a joy to the viewer!; May 8, 2007 2:13 AM
Renate said…: Wonderful. They all have there own charm. I love the eyes from the graphite one, but my favorite is the one in oil.; May 8, 2007 8:50 AM
wagonized said…: It is hard to tell which one strikes me the most — as each of them stresses something different about Christeen. Love her hair in the graphite one.
Thank you, Ronell, for your comments on my funk of the past few days. Your words, which i found on Suzanne’s blog, have stuck in my head ever since i read them. Yesterday, i just showed up at the page… 🙂; May 8, 2007 4:03 PM
Christeen said…: I keep coming back to marvel at these. I’ve never seen a drawing or painting of myself before, and I enjoy them SO much!Your graphite drawing really captures how my hair feels to me- men have lost watches in it! It can be incridibly difficult to coerce into submission!I love the loose, fresh approach in the watercolor. You’ve made the light SO beautiful- I feel like I’m outside, just looking at it. I am also impressed with how you kept the line of my nosering thin and delicate in the midst of those wonderful washes of color. You’ve got my squint wonderfully.And the oil- wow. The brushstrokes are really lively. Thje background supports your lionine take on my hair, and suggests wind tossing it around (and it was VERY windy the day I took that shot). The colors are luscious. The colors you’ve used for my skin are particularly impressive to me.So, all that said, thank you SO much for applying your creative talents to this swap of photos! You’ve inspired and impressed me, and I’m so glad we gave it a try.; May 8, 2007 7:56 PM
andrea joseph’s sketchblog said…: Great work Ronell – not just this post throughout your blog. These are great, I think I like the pencil one the best.; May 9, 2007 1:10 AM
aPugsLife-laserone said…: These are really fantastic! You’re so talented. 😀; May 9, 2007 6:37 AM
E-J said…: You’ve been so busy! You and Christeen have really taken this challenge by the horns. I think the oil is especially good.; ay 9, 2007 1:52 PM
Linda said…: These are all great! Christeen’s painting of you is wonderful, too — you two are cooking up some fun stuff! 🙂; May 11, 2007 4:18 AM
Anonymous said…: Come across to your blog and loved it. I will return.http://tcores.blogspot.com; May 11, 2007 2:40 PM
janey said…: These are great, I love the color and texture in the last one.; May 11, 2007 6:15 PM
Africantapestry said…: Thank you for all the generous comments!
Ronell; May 12, 2007 8:26 AM
phthaloblu said…: What a grand project! I love the graphite the best, but that’s just me. All of them are simply superb.

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