A Change of Heart

Finished another little watercolor of a
Louisiana subject...a great egret perched on a
stump in the swamp.

There was a time when I wouldn't have ever painted
something like this.  When I first moved to Louisiana from
Texas, I painted and drew the local landmarks and I did
a lot of wildlife, mostly ducks and deer.  I thought the
"white bird in the swamp" was a little cliche'...a LOT of
artists in Louisiana did that kind of painting.  I believed they
did not need one more.  I did not want to do such an over-worked
subject, and felt I had nothing to add.  Over the years, I have grown to
love the swampy parts of this state, and the beautiful birds
that live there.  I have taken numerous swamp tours, and spent lots
of time photographing these graceful birds.  I have done lots of paintings
and drawings of them...and I enjoy doing them.  They do sell well,
and most people who walk into the gallery, are looking for Louisiana subject
matter...often the "white bird in the swamp"!!  So, there will be some more
paintings  like these...so if you like them, great.  If you don't, maybe
they will grow on you.  Just give it a little time!

sheltongail@hotmail.com

Luminosity

Luminosity


This egret drawing is done...I tweaked the darks some.  Made the contrast
deeper.  And then worked on the bird a little more. 

I would still like to do some more of these egret subjects.  I am trying
 some now in watercolor, and there may be some
colored pencil ones too.

It is so ironic.  I am a Texan by birth.  I have lived in Louisiana
now, however for 35 years.  When I first opened the gallery,
I cannot tell you how many people asked me if I had
any "white bird in the swamp" paintings.  I was doing some
still life, lots of wildlife, and some architectural pieces. I didn't
have any swamp paintings at the time, and it would make me
slightly irritated.  The longer I lived here, the more fascinated
I became with the swamp.  And now I have done lots
of swamp scenes and photography.  Now I just need those
customers to come back!

sheltongail@hotmail.com

Peace at the Lake

I have been in south Louisiana again this weekend,
and I stopped by Lake Martin on my way home.
This place always makes me smile, and gives me such
peace.  Enjoy!