Woodland Bunny

You never know when inspiration for your next painting will come from.....

While walking my bichon frise Summer one morning, my neighbor stopped to show me a photo of a rabbit that we believe has been eating our flowers.  It hasn't been proven in court yet, but the evidence is stacking up.

She got a good close-up as he was right outside her window.  When I asked to paint him, she generously sent me her photo.  After cropping in and playing with color I came up with "Woodland Bunny".

"Woodland Bunny", pastel, 5x7"©KimWerfel

He's painted on gatorboard treated with an Art Spectrum Terracotta pastel surface.  I love the way the color pops when you use cools on a warm surface.  He's a charming little rascal.  People on facebook have asked for cards or prints.  I'll be making some cards soon.

The Rabbit is an astrological animal in China linked to the moon and good fortune.  Maybe my Woodland Rabbit will be lucky for me!

Thanks for reading my blog.

Kim Werfel

When Women Waken - Deer Spirit

I am thrilled that three of my paintings are in When Women Waken, a journal of poetry, prose and art by women. The June issue is about wildlife. 

Thank you to Anora McGaha for including my work in this beautiful on-line magazine. 

Click here to see the issue and my submissions:  http://www.whenwomenwaken.org/deer-spirit-by-kim-werfel

My first submission is "Deer Spirit", my very first pastel deer portrait.

I had just moved into my new home in Chatham County, and was amazed and totally captivated by these astoundingly beautiful and graceful wild beings that appeared outside my windows.  

This "teenaged" fawn was outside my office when I took her photo.  The blue asphalt of the street behind her was changed into water and I found myself softening the edges around her unconsciously creating a halo effect.

This was different from anything I had painted before, as I usually paint quite realistically.  I decided to leave it looking a bit ethereal, I liked the effect.

The first person to see her during the Chatham Studio Tour that year bought her.  I was actually kinda sad to see her go.  This, of course, lead to more deer paintings.

So exciting to be included in this on-line magazine!

Kim

30 Seconds of Fame on U-Tube

It may sound silly, but I'm excited to see myself on U-Tube during the reception of the 4th Annual North Carolina Juried Pastel Exhibition.

unflattering photo of Eric & I at the reception :) 

I'm receiving my award (which I redeemed today for a 18 pastel set of Unison Brown Earth pastels!)

Check it out here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=423&v=DGLSEbLpmTE

I show up at about 6 minutes 23 seconds for about 30 seconds.  Probably no one but my brother will look at this, but it made my day!

Got to get into the kitchen and make dinner!

Thanks for following me!

Kim