This Week's Artistic Theme: Houses

When I arrived in Sweden, just about a week ago, I had no idea what kind of painting I wanted to do. Yes, I traditionally focus on landscapes and still life, but those are so broad and Sweden is a country filled with so many inspiring vistas that narrowing my focus has been a challenge.

As you might have noticed from the pictures of Stockholm, I've been drawn do architecture. This is new for me- as I have shied away from drawing or painting buildings in the past. Right angles and parallel lines are intimidating for me and I always get confused with using one or two point perspective. So, I always thought it best for me and my art-viewing audience that we just ignore the fact that buildings existed... and to paint trees, flowers, and mountains instead.

Well, it turns out that my biggest inspiration thus far has been houses. I love Swedish homes, their tidy little yards, the colorful buildings, and the way each house nestles into its lot like it owns the place. For three days, I have stared at a series of homes right behind Sofia and Kristoffer's back yard and have fallen in love with that view. I decided to try to sketch it out and see what happens. I did one sketch yesterday and another this morning- basically identical- and look forward to the next few days where I will try to paint a sketch and then do a larger, legit painting.

In order for me not to have Artistic ADHD, I need to focus on a theme. By selecting 'houses' for my theme this week, I can rest knowing that my choices have been narrowed and now it's time to get down to business.

I already know what next week's theme is, but I guess you'll have to check back next week to find out what it is =) I'm sneaky like that.


Here are some sketches:

The view from Sofia's deck

Neigboring houses to the west

Just getting things in the right place