Saturday Art Smorgasbord - Autumn Garden

I have been extremely busy lately, so I had not been able to post anything in 2 weeks or work much on my artwork.  I am at a crossroad in my life that may affect my future.  It's exciting, but I am very nervous.  Therefore, all I can do is "Believe" that the Lord is in charge, as Jesus said in Mark 5:36.  May God give me the strength, courage and wisdom to endure anything that is to come

© Arnoldo L. Romero 2012
Anyway, the live oaks in my gardens are dropping a acorns galore and the Monarch Butterflies are back!  The weather has also been glorious, with some occasional gentle rains, cool mornings, and clear skies in between.  God is good!  With all those acorns around my garden grounds, I decided to pick a few of them to use as subjects for my Twenty Minute Challenge piece.  I've been reading a book by Lee Hammond on crayon drawing, so I decided to give her techniques a try.  I started by sketching the acorns with a pencil, and then started adding layers of color with the crayons.  As you can see, I did not get to complete my drawing within the allotted time.  However, I feel I got the gist of the acorns.  I am submitting this piece to What's on your work desk Wednesday #174 and Mary Walker Designs: Show Me Something Creative (Autumn October 3rd - 9th.

© Arnoldo L. Romero 2012
I completed the illustration after the 20-minute allotment and cropped it.  I was happy with the results, especially since the illustration was done with crayons. I scanned it and made a print.  I trimmed the print and used it to design a tag for Tag Tuesday, where I and my team members were challenged by Carolyn Saxby to use "Autumn Leaves, Acorns, and Conkers."  I used K&Company rub-ons to trim the upper edge.  For the bottom, I made a label on which I used my calligraphic skills to write the word "Grow."  I finished the tag by distressing the edges and adding a simple tan cording tie.  I am also submitting this piece to Artists in Blogland - Fall Fearless and Fly and Take a Word Challenge - Manuscripts.

© Arnoldo L. Romero 2012
As to the original acorn drawing, I decided to incorporate it into a simple art journal page.  I began by adding a K&Company Smash tab that reads "I need," because I feel I always need to continue to grow as a Christian, family man, and professional.  Then, I wrote a quote by Lewis Duncombe about the growing acorn, because it perfectly describes the way I feel.  Finally, I used some Canson self-adhesive photo corners to attach my crayon drawing to the page.  I am submitting this page to Artist Playroom #30, Paint Party Friday, Word Art Wednesday #48, Sunday Sketches, and Three Muses - Journal a Quote.

© Arnoldo L. Romero 2012
© Arnoldo L. Romero 2012
Last, but not least, I took a couple of photographs of my garden views to share with you.  The first one is of the glorious Monarchs resting on one of my tree's branches before they continue their journey South into Mexico.  They are such a blessing to see.  I tried to capture them in flight, but all I got were fuzzy dots.  I am submitting this one to 52 Photos Project Gallery 24 {Orange} and to LorikArt's: Mandarin Orange Monday 13.  The second photograph is of one of my wife's Bugambilia blooms.  Bugambilia blooms are usually purple, but my wife found this one in orange and fell in love with the unusual color.  She currently has it in a pot, but plans to transplant it to the ground later this fall.  I am submitting this photograph to A Rural Journal #38 - Final Flower Farewell and to Hood Photo Blog: Orange You Glad It's Friday #7.

I hope you enjoyed my Autumn Garden inspired pieces.  Thank you for following my blog and for all your encouraging comments during my last post.  I was especially touched by a quote that Seema left by William Blake, "To see a world in a grain of sand and a Heaven in a wild flower, hold infinity in the palm of your hand and eternity in an hour."  As usual, you are cordially invited to leave a comment and join my list of followers.  Vaya con Dios - Go with God.

PS - If you are so inclined, I ask that you please keep me in your prayers as I pass through the current crossroad in my life.  I would truly appreciate it.  Blessings!

Comments

...your garden shots are alive with colour and life, the butterflies are incredible, what an amazing sight and I loVe your acorn sketch Arnoldo, your colouring is delightful, full of vibrancy & strength of colour, and in a way sums you up as a person perfectly, I only know you through the words you write and the depth of feeling behind them...I truely hope you step forward from the crossroad you now face to better things & better times, your posting says it all...the lofty oak from a small acorn grows...the strength you need is within you don't be afraid...blessings to you Arnoldo...Mel :)
I must admit that I did miss you last week, and hoping that all was well with you. Your pics are gorgeous, and I'm always grateful when you are able to share with us. Hope things are shaping up, and yes...He is always in control!
Blessings,
karen L
Word Art Wednesday
carol l mckenna said…
love the tag and your art style ~ and Grow! ~ wonderful photography ~ ( A Creative Harbor)

Am your latest GFC follower ~ ^_^
Leovi said…
Delicious designs, the last one is my favorite.
Victoria said…
Hello Arnoldo..Beautiful post..gorgeous acorns and stunning art..fantastic..very inspiring. I have a deep affinity for both acorns and monarchs..so your post touched my heart and soul..gorgeous garden pics and again.. mesmerizing monarchs!
HUgs to you and yes I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers! I hope soon this crossroad will transform into whatever you divinely need to get through this journey..stay strong and all will be well! Blessings to you! Shine on!
Victoria
Tenia Nelson said…
Awesome project and awesome pics!! Hope all is well...
Hi! I am visiting from Fall Fearless and Fly...and love your GROW and Acorns! Beautiful art...so happy to meet you here! ~Kath
Nikki said…
Awesome artwork and photos.
Debbie said…
Wonderful artwork and photos!
Tammie Lee said…
i wish you the best with the changes in your life.

i love oak trees. your acorns are wonderful.
Lynn Cohen said…
I wish you well in this latest of life's challenges, adventures, changes, experiences and am sending lots of positive energy your way!
May it pass as lightly as those wings on those beautiful butterflies and soar as high!
Keep on creating your beautiful art!
lorik said…
Interesting post - i enjoyed seeing the work in progress. My favourite is the image with the orange flowers on the white background- such an interesting combination of textures and beautiful colour. You might like to share your work on Mandarin Orange Monday:)
Anonymous said…
I love the way you make tags - and explain the process. They are quite creative! I've never heard of the bouganvilla pronounced Bugambilia, but just looked it up and it is the same flower; in fact, I have one the same color, and love it! Definitely will say prayers for you Arnoldo.
Kokopelli said…
Beautiful oak inspired art! And the voyage of the Monarchs is one of nature's greatest wonders. Happy PPF!
Barb Cady said…
Beautiful post Arnaldo, I love the photo of the butterfies, what a privilege to have them stop by on their journey! I hope you are finding comfort in your lovely art work if you are experiencing one of life's challenges. Remember the pearl, it only appears because of an irritating grain of sand. You are in my prayers.x
WrightStuff said…
Lots to see on your blog today. I was especially amazed at the butterflies - i've never seen them like that before.

Lots of people are having shifts at the moment (myself included), you sound like you are ready for whatever is to happen though.
Molly said…
the acorns look wonderful on the journal page. good luck with all that's challenging you right now.
Alicia C said…
beautiful acorns! once again, you provide lots to think about
Awesome project, wonderful artwork and photos!
Zue said…
Lovely juicy acorns, beautifully created. Sadly we don't have Monarchs here. But acorns frequently hit me on the head when I frogetfully park underneath an Oak tree.
Have a great Sunday!
xx
Unknown said…
Don't you just love the smell of crayons?
Unknown said…
Your lovely tag reminds me of this message from the Talmud "Every blade of glass has its own angel which bends over it whispering "Grow, grow"".
Christine said…
lovely work this week as usual, good luck with your life challeges, you sound such a wonderful person it's nice to see the world through your eyes!
Heather said…
your acorns are lovely - i like the text GROW with them
Wishing you luck in your current situation.
Nancy said…
Gorgeous artwork. xo
Taluula said…
Some lovely work here, Aldo. Bravo.
SAMARA said…
Your style Arnoldo is very unique and beautiful! i really like the nature elements that you integrate in your journals. I live in the country in the forest so I deeply appreciate your work. thank you for your kindness in my work. I wonder if you would like the 21 secrets workshop I am taking at The Dirty Footprints Studio. I'm having a blast! All the best for a G-d inspired day. Samara.
very beautiful painting! :)
annie said…
Lovely work, as usual, Arnoldo!

I had trouble reading the light print against the light background. No one else seems to have had a problem. Maybe I am the only "old" person here? LOL

Will look forward to hearing about how being at the crossroads turns out for you...
K J D said…
Hi

Hope everything works out well for you.....

It's so lovely to share your garden.... I have never seen that many butterflies together.

Great sketch of your acorns, love how you made the tag and the journal page

Karen
First, you have a gorgeous garden based on these snippit photos! I can see how it would be so inspiring! Next, I would never even think to use crayons anymore...lol...and I should! They are what made me fall in love with Art a long long time ago! So, I totally love what you've done here, and you've inspired me to get my crayolas out!!!!
Marlena M. said…
Wow, you are so gifted in art AND in words. Fantastic project! I pray God continue to lead you and He be glorified in the direction you go~
Al said…
A very pretty garden. And I love that illustration, I wish I could draw like that!
Acorns, oak trees and butterflies, all sounds very beautiful. Love your acorn artwork! Hope the next few months become a time of great blessing in your life.
sharon said…
Love your tags. makes me want to go out and buy some crayons! I hope that God will continue to talk to you on your journey
Morph Waffle said…
Wonderful drawing! You make the best tags! The drawing looks great too in your art journal page!
Gloria j Zucaro said…
So glad to see you this week. I will definitely pray for your success in whatever is coming your way. Wonderful artwork again this week. Thank you for your comment on my blog. I also enjoyed your garden photos. God with God's plans for you and all will end well.
okienurse said…
Good luck and blessings on the possible changes coming to you! Love the acorn drawing, tag, art journal, and I love the pictures of the Monarch and the bugambilia! I was able to visit a monarch sanctuary a few years ago and the butterflies hung in such clusters that the limbs where hanging to the round from the weight and when they flew it was like a orange cloud! Thanks for visiting my blog! Vickie aka Okienurse
carlarey said…
Good luck with the changes in your life. Your acorns are beautiful, and so are the shots of your garden. I have always wanted to see the monarch migration.
Unknown said…
Beautiful acorns! "Grow" is a great response to our first challenge. Thank you for joining us at Fall Fearless & Fly! I was hoping to see you there!
magiceye said…
That is wonderful work Arnoldo! Best wishes in your new endeavour!!
lorik said…
Thank you Arnoldo for being part of Mandarin Orange Monday:)
Love your piece! I have often worked with crayons and I love the texture and colors they bring to my creations! Thanks for sharing!!
Bill said…
Nothing grows more beautifully than a seed. How wonderful that God created all things to begin as one.
Birgitta said…
Great artwork and photos!
Winnie said…
Arnoldo: Love your acorn piece! (I have never seen a green one! Awesome. I love how you find inspirational and spiritual words to put with your pieces. I loved your photos also. I have never seen that many butterflies at one place except at a museum! I just offered up a prayer for you and am sure your path will be guided with care.
I can't believe those acorns are drawn with crayons. You never cease to amaze me with your creative art work!! The monarchs are an awesome display of God's creation. Although they are here for much of the year, we only get to see them one or two at a time, never clustered together like this. I'm praying for you as you seek God's direction at this cross road. ~ Blessings, Tracey

http://gracescraps.blogspot.com/
Anonymous said…
Wishing you luck at your crossroads. :) And I am amazed you drew that in crayon. Proof that you don't need tons of money and fancy art supplies to create beautiful art!
Chubskulit Rose said…
Such an amazing talent you have!

Visiting from Mandarin Orange Monday.
Duct Tape Bag is my entry.
Your comment is always appreciated!
Sharon Wagner said…
There is so much beauty in the small things. I stole some acorns from the squirrels and deer to paint and hang on my tree last year.
Faye said…
I love the garden photos, but I'm most impressed by your beautiful drawing of the acorns. The deer in our backyard are happily gobbling up acorns when they come by for a visit.
Beyond Zephyr said…
Gorgeous post, and whatever that you're going through, I pray for you to have the strength and courage to go through it with God's grace.
Liz said…
Beautiful work! Have a fabulous week.

Liz @ MLC
Liz @ YACB
Ritu Dua said…
This is a lovely piece of art with even a lovelier message 'grow'...totally awesome!
Good Morning to you. I have kept an eye on your blog. Member of IA and I just let temporarily due to some crossroads in my life. Lift all your concerns and wishes UP and then TRUST. When it is time for you "move", you will know the path that you should take. If you ask and you trust in receiving the answer, there is no worry. When GOD says for your feet to move, they will.

On to acorns now... beautifully done! There is something familiar about acorns..
Beautiful post and you captured them well!

Prayers up for you!
Have a lovely week!
Kim
Imgirlwithoutwings.com
Gemiel said…
Arnoldo, I'm so glad you were aboe to share with us at Word Art Wednesday this week. Your photographs are beautiful, they would be fantastic on a scrapbook page :). Love the acorn sketch and how you were able to incorporate it on your tag. I will lift prayers for you as you pass through your crossroad. Praying that you follow God's guidance wherever it may lead.
Unknown said…
love the monarchs! Thanks for sharing at Your Sunday Best.
Linnea said…
Good luck to you wherever life may take you. Your artwork posted here is terrific. Thanks for stopping by...now I found you!
Bella Cirovic said…
What lovely images you have shared! I'm so happy the butterflies are back. Thank you for linking up this week.
Anonymous said…
Sorry to be so late in commenting...I've been out of the country with little to no internet access. Please know you will be in my thoughts as you pass through your current crossroad in your life. Feel a big virtual hug! Stay well.
Carolyn Dube said…
How exciting to be at the crossroads! Your autumn art is fabulous! So glad you were able to join us and Fall Fearless and Fly!
Neesie said…
Love the artwork Arnoldo...but then I always do! ;D
Crossroads can be scary but have faith...I'm sure you are in safe hands.

It's fantastic to see the Monarchs...I don't think I've ever seen them before ~ they are so beautiful.
Thanks for sharing :D
Currie Silver said…
So much love and BEauty exude from your art, Arnoldo. And it is clear that you will trust God. Sometimes when I feel the overwhelming feelings I simply remember I've always been amazed and surprised and that some of the best things have only come through having faith.
Blessings to and Gratitude for you!!
Gloria j Zucaro said…
Prayers still with you, Keep the Faith...I know you will!
Tracey FK said…
those butterflies are almost as lovely as your acorn painting/ drawing... I never know what to call things done with water soluble pencils and crayons... anyway ... hope that the week is giving you a little more art time ...xx
Jennifer McLean said…
thanks for entering early this week, and I'm so glad you did, your acorns are scrumptious. See you next week!
Terrie said…
BEautiful work, as usual. The acorns are perfect and I like how you found so many ways to use the image. Great photography as well.....it's sure nice when one art piece satisfies several challenges, isn't it?
VonnyK said…
Your acorns are really beautiful, you are so talented. I hope all works out for you.
Von
Jan Hennings said…
Such a beautiful journal!