Whoever said "color is my daily torment" knew what they were talking about.  I think it was Matisse.  I think he also said it could take a lifetime to learn about it, or maybe that's just how I feel.  I have painted the green soda bottle at least  five times and yet to get its intensity.

The first collage of McLeod has been recycled.  I did it in class up in the mountains so was trying something new.  I didn't think it worked, but maybe needed to keep going on it.  Right now I am working on the woman in a green kimono.  Equally frustrating but almost finished. 

This is a detail of a larger piece I am working on as a group of 5 or 6.  It is amazing how small bits of paper can create different expressions by being moved just a fraction.  

Just finished this workshop with Meredith Fife Day of Lowell, Mass. an artist who has been doing paintings and collages and teaching for many years. This painting  was done on paper rather quickly from the balcony of the library at WCU.  There are a number of ways to combine these two but in this instance we plein air painted in the morning and later made collages from our paintings.  Working with acrylic was challenging.  Can't say enough about the generosity, sincerity and unique, creative approach of this instructor. Check out her website that shows collages and paintings side by side at:  meredithfifeday.com

It took a long time but I finally was able to post from my IPad. I like the ocean backdrop so much I left most of it as is.  I am trying to finish several before I go to a collage workshop at Cullowhee Mountain Arts.  I have had so much interest in the dancers I did from Degas paintings I am thinking of ways to do more.  Possibly paintings next. 

This painting of a coffee drinker by Richard Diebenkorn was my inspiration for "PInk Hair" and "Morning Rhythm" collages.  I'm always surprised at how they turn out.  

I recently had the pleasure of hosting an informal collage workshop at my studio.  One artist friend demonstrated a painted paper technique from collage artist Harry Stooshinoff.  The great thing about collage is that there are so many approaches it is truly a creative medium and who doesn't like to cut and paste?  Above is one of my favorite subjects, the Wappoo Bridge.  I can't comment on where I am with painting right now except to say it's calling to me.  Follow me on Instagram for more art related postings.  

Looking for some common theme here and using different color schemes.  The three  from the right top down are works of artists or teachers I admire.  All on carton board except the one in left bottom corner, McLeod Plantation done on panel. Maybe after 100 more .......

This is my inspiration for a collage of a Bluegrass musician I am working on.  This collage by Romare Bearden was just purchased by the Virginia Museum of Fine Art.  I think its one of his best.  

Having blog technical issues.  New collages will be on Charleston Artist Collective site soon.  Please check it for more dancers.  Thanks.