Artists find inspiration in the garden
Sandy Cogar – Garden Art by Sandy
To me, the task of gardening never seems overwhelming or like hard work. In fact, quite the opposite. I get lost in the creativity and visual reward and find it extremely therapeutic and relaxing. This passion sparked my interest and inspiration in creating something unique to complement a garden setting.
I started off with a great blue heron (in memory of my mom who loved watching them at our shoreline) and realized that this simplistic blend of metal and rock was a design that could be worked into other nature pieces. I am known for my rock art but recently have broadened my skills to larger sculptures for my woodland trail and commission.
My outdoor studio is open to visitors Friday to Sunday from May long weekend to Labor Day and always open by appointment.
Peggy Cracknell – Flower Photography
I grew up on my parents’ farm where I developed a deep love and respect for all living things, so I think of all plants and especially my beautiful flowers, as my 'foster children', my 'grand babies' and as special living miracles that bring joy to my heart.
I enjoy being able to help my plants grow into lovely beauties that inspire happiness.
In my portraits of these flowers, I enjoy highlighting the inner textures and the stunning colours in their 'faces' so the others can appreciate their inner beauty as well. Walter does all of the printing and enhances my vision.
Mary Ellen Gerster – Fine Art Watercolorist
As a watercolorist you train your eyes to see. My work is inspired by my surroundings – subjects with strong lights, shadows, shapes and colors.
Detailed drawings are created from photographs, the more detail, the more realistic the painting will be. Next, dramatic lighting effects are achieved by retaining the white of the paper for highlights. Then, layering pure transparent colors creates beautiful, subtle variations, in tone as well as vibrancy to achieve the range and depth of oil painting.
I’ll spend the rest of my days learning the intricacies of realistic watercolor painting.
