This blog was written by Gallery volunteer Andie De Luca. We thank her for this delightful and personal view of some of the works in our fantastic collection of pieces.
As the old children’s song says, “Spring is sprung, the grass is riz. I wonder where the birdie is.” I think my mother taught it as, “I wonder where the flowers is.” There are probably many variations. But the main thing to keep in mind is that spring is a time of change. We’ve all had to make changes in our lives recently, and drastic ones sometimes. Remember that there can be no progress without change. By making these changes, we are progressing toward a new, and hopefully better, balance. And don’t forget, spring is followed by summer!
If you’ve been able to get out and walk through your neighborhood, you’ve likely already noticed that our trees and flowers have been blooming for weeks now. Signs of spring abound. While you are staying safe at home, or unable to venture out to come into the Rental Sales Gallery at this time, I thought I’d share some of the lovely, colorful images that evoke spring, summer, life, and joy.
We aim to continue to bring you beauty and wonder as we showcase artworks from our talented artist members.
Last spring, I think it was a little later, in May, we (my hubby and I) noticed a pair of juncos – little gray birds, the males with black heads – had built a nest in some ground cover under our front window. I wonder if they will come back this year. What can represent spring more than the beginning of new life?
Anne John’s bird’s nest, high in the trees, is but one example we’d like to share.
Can you hear the birds out your window? The RSG has many images of mature birds in various mediums.
Oh, how silly. Here’s a bird you’re not likely to see on your walk around the neighborhood!
Speaking of a walk around the neighborhood (and, yes, we’re still allowed to do that), so much of the pleasure is found in seeing all the different flowers in bloom, now and a bit later in the season.
Fretta MM Cravens has used digital photography to create numerous “Flower Compositions”, colorful arrangements on black backgrounds. Here are a couple of examples:
Isn’t it grand to see flowers in their natural settings, like some of these from some of our naturalist artists:
Oh, look, there are some butterflies in our garden!
Gosh, I know it’s off-limits now, but soon, I hope, we’ll be able to take a drive to the countryside, or even the beach.
Several of our artists have recreated their own version of the beach as a favorite subject. George Johanson’s work often more closely reflects a Coney Island retreat, but Brian Cameron brings us back home to our beautiful Oregon Coast. Gary Anderson and others, take us to more abstract shorelines.
We hope you’ll check in with us from time to time to keep inspired! Visit us at our website, click on the “Artists” tab at the top of the page and then and choose the “Search the Catalogue” option. Let our virtual gallery and your imagination take you away for a while. Imagine the scent of the flowers, the bright springtime colors, the feel of ocean breezes on your skin, and breath it all in.
Finally, just for a chuckle, imagine you are walking in the countryside, along a split rail fence, and suddenly:
Stay healthy Portland, and we look forward to serving you with one of the largest inventories of original works of art created by our community once again.