Friday Field Trips: My Mom the Artist

Today's "Friday Field Trip" is an extra special one.

It's really more of a show and tell.

I want to introduce you to my Mom, long time artist Caroline Bell.

I can't really remember when my Mom didn't paint.

I know it began when I was VERY young.  

If I remember correctly, her painting grew from a desire 

to decorate our home on a budget AND an instinct she'd be able to just do it!

She has the kind of creative confidence that inspires.

She always had "an eye" for interior design, 

so I suppose it was a natural evolution to become an artist.

What once was humble creative desire,  became a full time passion!

To say she's influenced me in MANY ways is an understatement.

For sure, in the 3.5 years since I began painting and we've shared a studio space, 

she's definitely influenced how I paint!

Caroline is true self taught artist - not one single class - EVER!

Well, with the exception of last year . . .

we attempted to take an in person Life Drawing class together.

We dropped out after our second class!  Oopsie!

Mom doesn't plan any painting and does not keep a sketchbook.

She the epitome of an "Intuitive" painter.  

My favorite kind!

Caroline's art ranges from full blown abstract to "abstracted" figures and objects.

ALWAYS there's texture and layers and depth and amazing color and light.

She really takes her time.

We paint side by side in our studio every week.

Never has she once instructed me how to paint - other than to wisely advise me to "slow down".

(I really paint fast!  Hee hee.)

Of course, I can't help but pick up some technique - mostly texture and color.

We both "see" the same figures in our messy backgrounds . . . 

it's something we discovered together during our paint and play days.

It kind of creeps us out a little. . . we wonder out loud what tribes we're "channeling".

(I NEVER remind her that our studio is located adjacent to the ancient 

Bolsa Chica Indian sacred grounds.  Shhhh don't tell her.)

Caroline paints with brushes or other mark making tools - and while wearing gloves.  

I paint primarily with my fingers, with various sized palette knives and tools thrown in - 

but never in gloves!

I'm so very fortunate and grateful to benefit from her creative experience.

 Don't you just love her work?

Isn't rich and ethereal?

Quite beautiful.

Here's some more......

My Mom is a bright spirit too.

She is Southern Belle charming, warm and charismatic - 

literally lights up a room.  

Everyone says so . . . it's not just me being partial!

But I am, of course.

We talk a lot about inspiration during our studio days.

But I have mine right beside me.

Thanks Mom, for showing me how it's done.

YOU are a Dream Maker.