Reflections Archives - Page 7 of 48

Winter Colors

March 2, 2019

Winter surface design offers the same color combinations as in warm weather. Warm and cool. The tone however, is entirely different. It’s important to note that all of my design inspiration begins in the garden which changes with the time of day, season and light. Even as I look forward to working in the garden and photographing its fresh spring colors, the cold weather continues to interest with its intense variations of warm and cool colors. I’ve been working with some dried roses to create my last winter scarf- a tribute to my sister Laura. Orange goes to earthy rust,
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Flowers Galore

February 26, 2019

Flowers are the number one reason this gardener gardens. Of course, the number one flower for any mom is her daughter. In this photo, Bridget is shown modeling our new scarf Caroline, named after a great lady, Caroline Ferriday. We’ve created a tradition where I finish a couple new scarves and snag Bridget to pose for them in exchange for coffee on me. It’s been no small feat convincing my dear photophobic daughter to help out but it’s been fun! This year’s garden efforts will include enriching existing beds and improving all blooms. We began last fall with a general
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A Blanket of Snow

February 19, 2019

Connecticut really hasn’t had significant snowfall yet this year. The morning’s showing was a welcome sight to this gardener. Did you know that snow can be good for your garden? Less frost damage for example. Did you know that snow cover is a great insulator? Certain varieties of azaleas and flowering bushes are better suited to some zones. Think about that in Spring when you next shop for them. There are general “good practices” to be aware of in preparing for winter and caring for bushes year -round. Wind protection and bush placement are important. Watering well before winter is
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New Scarves Incoming

February 16, 2019

Wintertime is design time as the garden sleeps. Happily, I’ve been busy and we have three new scarves ready to order – Caroline, Mardi Gras, and The Blues. Another one is just back, Laura. Waiting for stitching. As thoughts turn to garden, I thought a couple links might prove helpful. Every year at this time I find a need to check again when that last frost might be passing through. Here is it again. And some thoughts about what to do when that happens! How about starting seeds indoors? I found this funky site. I heard this young man’s voice
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Happy Valentine’s Day

February 9, 2019

What are your Valentine’s Day memories? At least as far back as the 1700s, people have been exchanging Valentine cards. No surprise then that growing up, our experience included cards except that we always made our own -on a kitchen table littered from one end to the other. Every shade of red and pink, glue, sparkles and of course white lacy doilies. I LOVED it. Making the cards was the most fun about the day that I remember. What are your memories? What will you do this year? We bought my daughter and her husband tickets to a Valentine’s Day/dinner
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Life -A Catalyst for Creative Endeavors

February 5, 2019

For several weeks, family members have been watching over my older sister who’s been ill with Alzheimer’s for many years. She’s finally reaching her end of life. Hosting out of town family members has become a new reality for those of us nearby. And not entirely unpleasant. Whenever else would we make the time? I take solace in creative work. Quiet time engaged in physical activities like gardening, cooking or sewing can go a long way in achieving internal peace- rather then hitting hard issues head on. I chose the name “Caroline” In honor of Caroline Ferriday, the inspiring former
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Life in Black and White

January 29, 2019

I will die a colorist. At the same time. In the beginning, an artist has to deny her creative self and start simply. It’s part of any learning process, regardless of vocation. The markers are everywhere. How often have you heard the words “Baby steps; One day at a time; or First things first?” In art school, Drawing 101 begins with charcoal and a still life. Fast forward. One lens used in the new film Roma cost in the neighborhood of $80,000. Film director Alfonso Cuaron did NOT get there overnight. Roma lead actress, Yalitza Aparicio is new to acting
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Summertime in Winter

January 22, 2019

In the northeast this time of year, it’s easy to fantasize about bright colors and blessed memories of summertime. Let’s indulge! The first white phlox of the garden are in bloom. And…paper whites are on the ascendancy. I’m not quite there. Some people take off for a warmer climate this time of year. What are the other options? Well, this artist thrills to the creation of sunny images with power to transport the imagination. This was a busy week for Paola Prints. We’re getting a print order ready for two new designs and have almost finished a third. The Blues
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An Artist’s Escape

January 15, 2019

Today was a difficult day, once again navigating the days preceding my older sister’s passing. As difficult as one can imagine that is, it’s sometimes harder to navigate other family needs related to their responses. It’s all part of life. We have the power to change some of it, but most, not so much. As an artist, I’m forever grateful for access to creativity that helps mitigate external forces beyond my control. I treasure the ability to tap into the energy that exercises beauty and strength for good. I had the pleasure of shooting a fantastic local lily pond a
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Where Do Colors Come From?

January 12, 2019

Having worked in color all my life, I’ve never been intimidated by its use. Add to that an obsession with fairy tales and well, we’re off! I remember when a very successful decorator, on seeing my brightly colored pillows in NYC became vexed with me. “Too much color! Didn’t I know, color is intended for walls-as ART?” I admit it, I’m a little color crazed. But why does art have to be limited to walls? Overtime, I came to see a certain wisdom in her comments. Color, is challenging to integrate, and color carries with it, certain moods, which further
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