1040 Unconditional Love

 Tulips are such a happy flower and there is much to learn about them.  Did you know the petals are edible and can be exchanged for onions?  Did you know they did not originally come from the Netherlands, rather from Persia and Turkey.  Did you know that the name tulip is derived from the Persion "turban?" They also have many lovely meanings:  Rebirth (because they are one of the first flowers to come alive after a long winter), Charity (and many charitable organizations use the tulip for their logo), and Unconditional or Deep Love.   I wish tulips lasted longer because they bring so much cheer.

1039 After the Rain, a Rainbow

 

 Yesterday it was 90 degrees here in Chicago and I was wishing for an overnight rain the quench the garden's thirst.  Today it is a cold 45 degrees, rainy and dreary.  I had hoped to find white tulips to paint, but there were none, but I felt lucky to find a huge bunch of mixed tulips, too many to fit in one vase.  I hope you like this one---I'm happy with it and enjoyed watching the tulips grow right before my eyes!!

https://www.dailypaintworks.com/fineart/diane-campion/1039-after-the-rain-a-rainbow/882479

1034 Cuppa Spring

 My daffodils that were planted in the Fall are finally blooming!  

https://www.dailypaintworks.com/fineart/diane-campion/1034-cuppa-spring/878048

931 Springtime, Michigan Avenue

One of the things I love about Chicago is the ever-changing public gardens in the city.  Michigan Avenue is so beautiful, with unique displays changing with the seasons.  Springtime gardens are shocked with colorful tulips, and it is not unusual for people to stand in the middle of the boulevard to photograph them, as I did this past May.

I'm still getting acquainted with the oil paints, which force me to loosen up.

https://www.dailypaintworks.com/fineart/diane-campion/931-springtime-michigan-avenue/752519

639 President's Dinner

The Garden Club's official year has come to a close, and on Tuesday night we had our President's Dinner at the beautiful Lynden Sculpture Garden.  I was in charge of centerpieces and favors for guests and I was delighted to find beautiful flowers at a local farmers' market.

599 Bringing Spring Inside

I am still wearing earmuffs, scarf and gloves.  Pansies are not yet planted out in the garden. (sigh)

598 Bringing Spring In

Last weekend I bought 2 flats of pansies but it has been too darn cold to go out and garden.  So I just brought some indoors to paint.  Pansies are so sweet and simply say "happy."