Highlights from the 30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge

During the challenge I painted more than thirty paintings ranging from 4x5" to 24x18" on paper and cradled panel. To get through this it really helped to set some goals and create a strategy. Working in batches, I explored color palettes that were new to me, and new painting processes.  This was a great opportunity to expand my painting vocabulary. The process I used generated many painting starts, finished pieces and new ideas. The images below are from the first two weeks.  More will be showcased in the next two blog posts.

Christine Sauer, "Urban Flora II", image 8x6" acrylic on paper, matted to 14x11" $70

Christine Sauer, "Urban Flora II", image 8x6" acrylic on paper, matted to 14x11" $70

Working alongside others, even though it was virtual on Instagram and some postings in a Facebook group, provided a level of accountability that kept me on track.  It wasn't easy to keep up the pace.  Several other things in the works were put on hold.  And lots of other stuff fell through the cracks like dishes, laundry, etc., you know, all that fun stuff!  

The "Urban Flora" group of paintings were inspired by flora from my small but abundant New Orleans garden.  The "Marvels and Mysteries" batch are imaginative little worlds that reflect a fascination with microbiology.  All paintings in this post are 8x6" floating in 14x11" mats that easily fit in frames of that size. $70 each.   If you are interested in dressing up your walls with one or a grouping of these, please email me at csauerarts@yahoo.com.  Framed option in bright white or natural wood also available, 14x11",  $175. Free shipping in the US

Click images below to enlarge. 

Launching the "Earthy Collection"

I'm excited to be launching the the "Earthy" Collection on the blog this month with special introductory pricing (see below).  I grew up in a rural area in upstate New York and spent a lot of time outdoors.  Nature and landscape have always fascinated me so it seems natural that those elements would percolate up in my work though not in a literal way.   These abstract, mixed media collages on paper have a palette of earthy hues and rich surfaces.  The artworks evolved intuitively from arrangements of paper and fabric, drawn from my extensive stash, that were layered with acrylic paint and sometimes with machine stitching.   As the pieces developed they suggested inviting imaginary landscapes, gardens and other elements from the natural world.  

Many of the collages were monoprinted using Gelli Plates with acrylic paint.  This created surprising and unexpected textures and colors. Using a sewing machine as a drawing tool, several collages were also stitched with heavy thread. The resulting line work visually reinforced the overall designs and added a geometric counterpoint to the organic textures.  The collages are dressed up in natural wood frames.  They are also available unframed.  

Earthy Collection
CSauer-PathwayI Stitched