Escher Style Tessellation

We have been learning about tiling and tessellations in my Geometry for Design class--right up my alley with my quilting background. But specifically, I have been fascinated with M.C. Escher's tessellations. I made about 10 different prototypes out of regular colored paper, and then selected one that I wanted to turn into a painting for my final project.

This shape started with a 90-degree triangle. I traced the shape out repeatedly onto a piece of 15 x 20 illustration board, and painted in the shapes with turquoise, teal, orange and red.

I then developed the design further by drawing the lizard figure and leaves with black charcoal.  Put a final coating of spray clear acrylic, and voila--my first tessellation!!!

Pursuing An Art Degree

I don't think I've mentioned this on my blog, but I am currently pursuing a degree in Fine Art at CNM (Central New Mexico). 

I have a B.A. in Anthropology from UNM, with a minor in Studio Art, and for many years, I wish that I had gotten the art degree instead. So, last Spring, just about a week after my 40th birthday, I took my first class toward this goal!  The kids think its kinda funny that I am going to school, VOLUNTARILY, and as my 9 year old son said, "And you've got to PAY for it too?"  Too funny. But I also think that it is a good example for them, to show them that it is never to late to follow your dreams, to value education and life long learning, and that it takes hard work to achieve your goals.

This semester I am taking 9 hours/ 3 classes. It is a lot to do, plus working to support myself and my kids, and to have any time to clean the house or relax.  But, I am loving it!  I am taking Art Practices II (a studio course), Geometry For Design and Art Career Concerns. More about the classes later.

As I am reevaluating my artistic life, I am realizing what an important tool blogging is. I used to blog very regularly, and really enjoyed it. I love to be able to share my work, to see what other people are doing, and to be part of the online art community. Blogging also helps me to organize my own thoughts, and is a great record of where I have been artistically.  I dropped off for a couple of years due to personal complications (new baby, divorce, move, etc.) and it took me awhile to get my Art Mojo back.  Well, it is back. And I will be sharing a lot more on my blog!

I am also fighting FEAR of posting my art (soul) publically.  And fighting FEAR of being IMPERFECT (see the post a couple of weeks ago).  But many times, I feel the urge to blog about something, and then chicken out because I don't have a good picture, or the artwork is unfinished, blah, blah, blah.....excuses. So, I will try really hard to do my best, but not let FEAR of any kind hold me back!

So, to get the party started, here are a few pictures of little miniature watercolors I have been playing with. They are 3 x 4.5 inches.  I just started doing them in December, and gave a bunch away as Christmas presents. They are a great way to get my "art fix" before bed, and don't take much time at all to do. Hope you enjoy!