30 paintings in 30 days Day 1- Song of the Irish Wildflowers

Song of the Irish Wildflower, 6"x6" mixed media

It's been a long while since I've completed a 30 paintings in 30 days challenge. When I started painting larger, I decided it wasn't worth the effort. However, back in the days when I was painting smaller, and doing lots of experimenting (at least 10 years ago now), the challenge would not have been difficult at all. Now, there are 2 of these challenges going on. I must be a bit nuts for trying this, but I'm going to take part in both!  Artist Leslie Saeta has been doing one these challenges every September and January for many years now. And artist Amira Rahim, (who offers a great class on 'Instagram for Artists') is offering the same challenge this month. 

So, I've been wanting to try some abstract painting. I'm finding it harder than I thought it would be. My usual work in oils is colorful, and textural...and takes a bit of time to dry. I've always envied artists who work in acrylics - the work dries fast - and can be sent to its new owner promptly. 

I had subject matter I wanted to explore, as well as some new techniques and supplies to explore.  Perfect time for a challenge.  This first one is a mixed-media piece called, "Song of the Irish Wildflowers", is a 6"x6" acrylic & paper collage on gessobord. The layering that goes into these pieces are so exciting! I some beautiful paper in the colors of the Irish flag, torn and arranged on my panel, as well as sheet music. Every summer, but especially the last two years I've visited, the wildflowers have been bountiful and beautiful in the west of Ireland. Foxgloves grow in the hedgerows in big stands of purple! They are like a song in the breeze!  (below are detailed close-ups).