Pokeweed: Watercolor Sketch

American Pokeweed Phytolacca americana

Family: Phytolaccaceae

Genus: Phytolacca

Species: P. americana

I really like the shape and colors of pokeweed. Maybe because it's native to eastern U.S, I don't see it often. So when I saw it in the farmers market yesterday, I decided instantly that it would be my next model despite that I already have a few on-going projects.

Pokeweed is deadly toxic if eaten raw, so don't let your children or pet play with it.

I did a page of watercolor sketches and plan to draw more tomorrow.

May The Bb Power Be With You,

Ellie

My Artist Page on ASBA American Society of Botanical Artists

My artist page in the gallery of American Society of Botanical Artists was launched online this week!

https://www.asba-art.org/member-gallery/ellie-yun-hui-tu

I am very excited to show the best of my artworks on a site with very high reputation. I will also update my page constantly with new paintings.

May The Bb Power Be With You,

Ellie 

Safflower Carthamus tinctorius

Carthamus tinctorius

Family: Asteraceae

Genus: Carthamus

Species: C. tinctorius

There were several exciting things happened this past week:

1. I finished a watercolor safflower to submit to the art exhibiton at Ventura County Fair.

2. And it's framed!

The safflower was among a field flower bouquet my friend Carol gave me. Although it's not a California native plant, I did love the different textures it had.

The history of human's growing safflower can be traced back to ancient Egypt. Dyes, cooking oil, and traditional medicine can be made. One interesting fact: safflower seed can replace sunflower seed in birdfeeder, since squirrels don't like the taste of it.

About this artwork:

Watercolor

Original size: 12" x 15"

Framed size: 16" x 20"

Paper: Fabriano Hot Press 140 Lb

May The Bb Power Be With You,
Ellie 

Watercolor Sketch with New Seals: Carthamus tinctorius

Lately I've been doing sketches with watercolors in order to loosen my strokes. Yesterday the new seals I ordered one month ago finally arrived with much anticipation. The one at the right says "Little Backyard", while the left one says "Hidden Paradise". I can't wait to use them on my future paintings! Today I tried them out on a watercolor sketch of safflowers. Looking great I say!

May The Bb Power Be With You,

Ellie