Coloring Outside the Lines. Where my heart has always been, and now where my life follows.
First, let me introduce myself......my name is Sandra Haynes.
After recently cutting all ties with anything resembling a traditional job, the fires have been lit under my office-chair sitting behind and I now have joined the ranks of full-time professional artists.
Not a decision to be taken lightly, but at what point do you know something is the right path for you even though you can still hear the echo of a collective gasp from friends and family when you announce that you've taken leave of your senses?
When do you know the time is right?
This and many other subjects will be explored.......at times I would like to introduce you to the incredibly talented people that I count among my artist friends, and sometimes you will meet the wildlife, from up-close encounters, that become my subjects.
I will write about some of the hidden landscapes that I seek out......and offer an explanation to what draws me to the scene, and how it becomes a painting.
Words of encouragement to artists beginning their journey, or stuck somewhere along the way. Articles from creative souls that have already walked through the fire ahead of me, and quotes from our ancient past that still hold meaning for us now.
Whether you are already Coloring Outside the Lines or would like to come along as a friend and observer to this artist's weird and wonderful journey, I look forward to getting to know you all.
"The greater danger for most of us is
not that our aim is too high and we miss it,
but that it is too low and we hit it."
Michelangelo
"Hank Being Fluffy" (c) 2009
Scratchboard 7x5"
This engaging little being is an American Kestral named "Hank".
As he fluffed out and sat on his perch, occasionally bobbing his head,
his contentment with life was quite evident.
Hank is an educational bird at the
Columbia Gorge Discovery Center
at The Dalles, Oregon.
He came to his position in life not as an injured bird,
but as a fledgling taken from the nest by a licensed Falconer.
With a work-related relocation, Hanks' trainer was forced to give him up.
Being totally imprinted on people, Hank was the perfect candidate for an educational role,
meeting new people that he always charms with his small size, beautiful coloring and direct gaze.
American Kestrals are one of the worlds smallest and most colorful of raptors,
and can frequently be identified from their head bobbing and tail twitching when perched.
The male falcons measure about 9" tall, with the females being a couple inches larger.
Blog posts will be made weekly, and become more often as I get the hang of it all.
I invite your comments.........
Color Outside the Lines,
Sandra
