Turtle Shell with Magnolia Seed Pods

Turtle Shell with Magnolia Seed Pods - 8x8" oil on wood panel

I am venturing into still life.  Hiking last week, I was struck by the vibrancy of the Big Leaf Magnolia seed pods that littered the forest floor.  They are striking next to a sun bleached turtle shell.

Preliminary sketches for up coming group show "Waking Up with Van Gogh" at the Hickory Art Museum, Hickory, NC in May 2012.  A number of artists responding to Van Gogh's "Bedrooom in Arles" together in one show.  I am looking forward to seeing it! 

I am working through the idea of ordinary objects (aka. our monochromatic, tiny bedroom) transformed by use of color to evoke restful balance.  Something I think Van Gogh struggled with personally and fought to portray or find in his own work.  A good challenge.