nicole lamothe - Blog

It's obvious

1/6/2021

...one cannot capture moving clouds in a single sitting when plein air painting. Clouds move freely in the atmosphere and travel on the currents, constantly changing shape and size. Painting clouds is like trying to paint ocean waves, attempting to freeze them in time. When I started the painting "Brilliant Noon Skyscape," my goal was to create several color studies to capture the atmosphere, infinite distance, and the brilliant colors before my eyes. I could see for miles that day, lost in thought. In addition to ethereal sky blue evident on a clear day, I saw many color variations: blue green like the tropical Gulf water on a summertime day, and the tart yellow green of a Granny Smith apple. The bright and uplifting painting came together with the aid of color studies, sketches and several photographic references. This 12x12 inch oil painting is now for sale on my Etsy shop here.

Ten years ago...

12/10/2020

….my backyard neighbors were cows and hay bales. During today’s trying times, it is beneficial for me to look back on the past and remember times that brought joy. I, like many people, rummage through old photos for a glimpse into the past. I, like many representational painters, have the opportunity to rummage through old paintings for a glimpse of techniques and subject matter that bring back joyful memories. I painted this small plein air painting 10 years ago after a brief passing thunderstorm just as the sun began to set. I am in the midst of curating a selection of joyful landscape and seascape paintings featured for sale on my etsy shop. These paintings can be viewed here.

New Handmade embroidery gifts

11/17/2020

I have officially opened my Etsy shop! My hand embroidered goods are now available to purchase. The selection is small, but 100% handmade. Each item is unique and original (no reproductions or mass production partners involved). Click here to shop!

Nicole Lamothe-hand embroidered clutch

Embroidery by Nicole Lamothe for sale on Etsy

Embroidery by Nicole Lamothe

Drawing for Pale Purple Tulips

11/12/2020

Some images of my preparatory drawing for “Pale Purple Tulips” in Violet. I love working in monochrome, I am able to match the color values closely, which eases the transition working from drawing to paint. The finished painting is available to purchase from UGallery here.

Tulip still life drawing in violet. Original size 11 inches by 14 inches

Although small in size

11/5/2020

Although small in size, 8x8 inches, this oil painting required the same attention to detail required of a larger representational artwork. These bright yellow roses placed on a subtle greenish-gray background were painted from life without the aid of photography. This painting is now for sale on UGallery here.

A glimpse into the process

10/29/2020

A glimpse into the development of my recent painting, Spring Serenity, from drawing to grayscale sketch to finished painting. After arranging the composition for this floral still life, I was immediately attracted to the warm reflected light cast on the right side of the pink blooms. The color of the flower petals shifted from a bright, cool pink to a warm pinky orange. Set against a cool blue background, the Astras appeared to glow.
The finished artwork is 12"x12"x0.75". Oil paint on cradled wood panel.
Available for purchase on UGallery

Bon Voyage....

10/22/2020

In the midst of packaging and sending a brand new painting across the country. Well wishes for a safe journey to a new home. I enjoyed having this Magnolia painting on my wall, even though it was just for a short time. I hope it brings as much joy to its new owner that it did for me.

Interested in a special purchase for yourself? My representational oil paintings are for sale on UGallery here!

In the middle of a new embroidery project....

10/20/2020

In the middle of creating the third version of this design by Yukimo Higuchi from the book: Zakka Embroidery. The all-over pattern is aesthetically pleasing. A simplified color palette unifies the variety in the design. I think the pink clutch is my favorite, although I have a personal rule not to judge a creation until it has been completed. These cute clutches are for sale: purchase on Etsy

Embroidery in process

Hand-embroidered cotton clutch in blue, violet and gray

Hand-embroidered pink linen clutch