Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Watercolor Journaling

One day last week, the lovely Rosemary Connelly came into the store and asked if I would mind hosting her Watercolor Journaling class on Sunday morning. Sunday morning you ask? Oh boy. For Rosemary, I'll do Sunday morning. I had no real idea what I was getting myself into, but I like her so much I couldn't say no. 

A little back story on Rosemary is that she is one of my favorite local artists here in Milford and the only artist from whom I have ever bought an original painting (two actually).

 My dear friend Tricia was the inspiration for, and the recipient of, the original Sweet Pea (which has since turned into a collection) and for myself, I have come to deeply covet Rosemary's recent painting Persimmon on Blue. LOVE that painting. 



Anyway, back to Sunday. A lovely group of artists and artist-y ladies arrive ready for inspiration! I hope the store has some of that. First a lesson on lines, with a cute little cupcake that I picked out in Atlanta, then they are off exploring the store for something to paint! I sat quietly, attempted to write the last blog post, and took pictures as best I could for someone who has no idea how to take pictures. 

I was expecting lots of pretty little paintings but I was not expecting how rejuvenating the experience would be - and I wasn't even doing anything! The quiet peacefulness, watching the view from ten different sets of eyes come to life in their journals, was nothing short of amazing.  I would do it again in a second, even if Rosemary didn't ask so sweetly. 

I hope you enjoy the newly inspired view of the store as much as I do!


First things first. The lesson.



The Subject. Cute Little Cupcake.


How Sweet!


Instructing or Inspiring? Yes.


These ladies are serious. 


She just looks like an art student. 


I never knew that chandelier could be so beautiful. 
And it was already a chandelier. 


Can I buy a journal page? Please?


Look familiar? 
She journaled (in Greek, of course) that she was imagining the apothecary jars full of candy!


Bells and Aprons, part I


Bells and Aprons, Part II 
Completely the same and completely different. 


Beauty in an everyday item like soap? Yes.


Again, available for purchase?


The sharing at the end of class was the best part. 
To hear each artist's thoughts and perspective was so much fun! 


Rosemary, I can't thank you enough for allowing me the opportunity to participate in such an enriching and rewarding morning. The paintings turned out so beautiful and the stories and thoughts behind each one changed the way I see the products I sell. I never thought about what they might mean to someone. 

And if the photos here were not enough, feel free to check out a more comprehensive slide show of the morning. Enjoy!


2 comments:

  1. I love it. What a great cross-promotion. Bob

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  2. You really captured the spirit of these sessions, Leigh. Thanks again for allowing us to journal at Minorbird! It was perfect!
    --Rosemary

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