press release

"A few years ago, my parents sent me a box of watercolor art papers and sketchpads of different sizes and textures.  I called them to say thank you, but then asked, "What am I supposed to do with this," to which they unanimously replied, "PAINT." :-) So I travelled to the nearest Blick Art Store and decided upon the Winsor Newton Cotman watercolor starter set. Suddenly inspiration settled in and I spent six of seven mornings a week on my patio with art papers, WN Cotman, brushes, a bagel, and espresso in all the right places.  

That year, my double delight roses, angel face roses, pansies, and Tiffany tea roses were in full bloom. I had a field day getting back to my art. One particular day, I did what I will call a "portrait" of a double delight rose and photographed it with the cut rose in the frame and posted it to my Facebook page. A friend named Susan Blanch of Murrieta saw it and invited me to exhibit several months later at a library. Again, I thought, "What am I doing," but I said yes, even though my face was sheet white with fear. I later joined a watercolor group on Facebook and started posting and watching what others were doing. My inspiration and commitment grew. 

One day when it was time to buckle down and get the exhibit pieces started, professional grade watercolors were recommended. Once I learned how those performed, I decided upon Fredrix Archival Watercolor Canvas for my nine works. Oh the stories I could tell you about the success, difficulties and learning experiences that came with this preparation to exhibit! It felt at times, I imagined, like having a record deal and not knowing how to write a song.  As an exhibit "warmup," I did a local preview and a few friends and music students came to see! When I got to the library, things went very smoothly for the Patty O'Garden Premier Exhibit!