Christmas Card Landscape Sketch

I very much want to paint something for printing my own Christmas cards this year. The thought is for it to maybe be something that could be hung anytime of year. The following is the first quick sketch done for this goal.

You might be thinking that a yellow sky is unlikely for an evening/dusk scene, but that the imagination of it, and I kinda like the harmony. This is not the completed image, only a start... it is a composite of photo resources and imagination. I want to add something, but haven't quite settled on what(?).

Should it be something figurative, or something holiday related even though it would be counter to 'hung anytime of year'?

Will sketch out a couple more ideas before I make a final decision. Better get out to the easel!

Thanks for looking!

Prelim Sketch - Winter Landscape
9 x 12 Oil on Canvas Sheet
© 2013

Christmas Camellia - Still Life

I have mentioned before that I walk my dogs - everyday morning, noonish (when I am home), and evening. I notice so many beautiful blooms in the neighbors' gardens that just seem irresistible. 

There are many varieties of camellia and can be challenging to paint because of their perfect symmetry; I think this one lends itself to a less rigid style.

The Yuletide Camellias are not in bloom right now - not until later in the year. The leaves are used to make tea, and this plant also provides oil for many uses.

Hope you enjoy it.

Christmas Camellia - SOLD

6 x 6 oil on Canvas Panel

© 2012

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_Camellia