Thursday, October 3, 2013

"Cool" Butterflies. . .

Recently, my SIL from Seattle asked me to paint some "cool butterflies" for her.  Nothing scares me more than painting on request.  I realize that it may sound ridiculous for someone who would happily paint everyday to make that statement but I get paralyzed with fear at the thought that they won't like it but feel compelled to do something with it because they made the original request.   
On the other hand, if a person saw something that I had already painted and wanted to have it I would be tickled pink!!  No angst with a situation like that - no overanalyzing what "cool" means to her and if my butterflies can live up to that.  I was never "cool" in school - I was the smart, nerdy girl with glasses and allergies.  The one all the boys gravitate to (NOT!) 
Although I've grown past most of my insecurities, all those years of self-doubt still get me from time to time.  Anyhoo - even though these butterflies would never be found in nature, I find them to be pretty cool - Hope Jen does too!
Linking to Paint Party Friday

19 comments:

Lynn Cohen said...

I've no doubt she will love your butterflies. I sure do! HPPF!

JKW said...

I love the butterflies. I know exactly what you mean, someone else's ideas aren't necessarily what you would think up. However, they wouldn't have asked had they not liked your work. Blessings, Janet PPF

Unknown said...

Ooh I love them, they're fantastic! I know what you mean though. I could paint the same subject matter every day, but as soon as someone wants me to paint it specifically for them...uh oh!

Netty said...

The butterflies are beautiful and am sure she will love your painting.
Happy PPF, Annette x
http://nettysartadventures.blogspot.co.uk/

ann @ studiohyde said...

They are cool butterflies...brilliant!

carol said...

These are great! How did do the borders?

Anne Manda said...

Very beautiful butterflies, just lovely! Yes, I know what you are talking about, I totally freeze if I try to do a request! :)

Studio Kaufmann said...

You have done a superb job on these butterflies. No need to be scared! Happy PPF

pauline said...

Michelle, what beautiful butterflies you painted! And it is so normal to feel fear when you are attempting something new. Especially if it's a commission. Feeling fear means you are growing as an artist. You are pushing your own boundaries. Always a good thing. Lovely work and here's to YOU being brave!! xox

Tracey FK said...

These came out perfectly... they are so cool... and I figure that those who were cool in high school used up all their cool at a silly time... we are just coming into our cool later... and I would rather be cool now to tell you the truth... loved your comment on my post... Phantom felt totally justified reading that the strapping son was freaked by a june bug... xx

Terri Corona said...

Well I think they're cook for sure, I don't think there's any doubt your friend will love them!

Giggles said...

In my world those are perfect whimsical vibrant butterflies...Love them. I feel EXACTLY as you do about creating on demand. I think it's because there are expectations, where as when we create from spirit it flows out the way we need it to. She will love what you've done....put down the self doubt and take a bow....can you hear me clapping while happy dancing for you!!

Hugs Giggles

Tracy said...

I know exactly what you mean- having someone pick something is one thing but creating on demand is quite another! What you have to remember is this: she's already seen things you've done and obviously likes your style. So take heart, the butterflies are wonderful :)

veronica said...

She's gonna love it! These are all fabulous! Even cooler irl.
Love how the colors blend.

sharon said...

They definitely are cool! Although I get where you are for requests always second guessing what they will like.

Sandy said...

Your butterflies are gorgeous!!!!
Sandy

Kimberly Jones said...

They are cool AND gorgeous! She is going to love them!

alarmcat said...

these are beyond cool....love them!!

Michelle said...

I think they're beautiful! I'm sure Jen will love them.