Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Virtual Paintout 24: Besties in Bhutan!


For this April of 2015, the Virtual Paintout gang went traveling (via Google StreetView) to the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan

Known as Land of the Thunder Dragon, it's at the eastern end of the Himalayas, bordered by India and China. 

Flag of Bhutan

And wow! It was amazing to travel so many high and sometimes narrow mountain roads. At times, we were looking DOWN at the clouds. 

I was charmed by two young schoolgirls. I came across them at a large school complex high up in the mountains. I imagined them being "BFF's", as they leaned in toward each other, whispering secrets and gathering flowers. 


Here is the original location I chose 
(can click on images to enlarge):





And the finished painting from Bhutan:


"Bhutan Best Friends"
6 x 9 sketchbook
acrylics



Happy Painting,

Retta

PS: Remember, the Virtual Paintout gang is free to join, and we go to a new location somewhere in the world each month. No pressure, just paint as you have time. Visit the Virtual Paintout blog for all the deets! 

Thursday, April 09, 2015

How To Instantly Feel VERY Encouraged!



The answer: shock yourself by winning a contest for your art!!! :-D

I am sooo excited to announce that a painting of mine won first prize in a contest. Wowzer! That's a first for me, and I could get used to it, ha ha!



The backstory: Recently I created my own website for my paintings at RettaStephenson.com  

This is in affiliation with Fine Art America,  a print-on-demand publisher of quality photographs and art prints. 

Before I chose them as my publisher, I ordered some products myself, to check out the quality. I didn't want my name going out on something I wasn't proud of, ya know?

I was impressed with the quality. The colors are true to my originals, and the finish on the papers, cards and prints is outstanding. So... I signed up.

One of the things I enjoy at FAA (Fine Art America) is the community. There are forums, discussions, groups, and.... contests!

That brings me back to my exciting news. I entered "Shoot for the Moon" in a contest called Spring Churches. There were tons of beautiful photographs and paintings entered. So imagine my joy when mine WON! 

Really, it was my friends on Facebook that supported me by taking their time to go and vote. I am truly humbled by that. I know how busy everyone is these days. So I thank you so much.

Whenever I get discouraged, and feel like a tiny drop of water in a huge ocean of art, I will look at this and remember the kindness and support given to me, and to never forget to shoot for the moon!




Happy painting,

Retta