North Beach Moon

Pastel, 8.5 x 12

© 2015 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

On our walk this evening, this view of the moon hanging in the subdued gradient of color, framed by the tall palm trees stopped me.  Thankfully I had my faithful reference photographer (and supportive husband) with me.  What a fun composition to paint.

Lead me...

Pastel, 12 x 8 - SOLD

© 2015 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

Sunset Waltz II

Pastel 12 x 16

© 2015 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

I actually painted the first Sunset Waltz (9 x 12) a few years back and it has since sold.  I really enjoyed painting the first and thought I’d paint it larger this time.  This one took on a life of it’s own as I used the first painting as a spring board to paint from.  They have their similarities, however the clouds took off and showed me where to go as they lead me in this dance called painting.  

Always Remembered. (Flag at Poche Beach, CA)

Pastel, 9 x 12 - SOLD

© 2015 Paula Somma. All rights reserved.

Tea Tree Bay

Pastel 12 x 6.5

© 2015 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

It couldn't have been a more perfect day last week when Bob and I explored Noosa National Park in Australia.  This was a view off the Coastal Trail looking through Tea Tree Bay at Dolphin Point.

I kept looking up for the Koalas that are usually seen grazing along the tree lined path,

but no sightings for us this day. 

The Old Orange Grove

Pastel, 9 x 12

© 2015 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

I took a Workshop last saturday with Molly Lipsher.  What fun!
The painting above was finished in my home studio after doing some color studies and exploration on different surfaces.

Here are a few quick color studies done in 15 min ea, exploring painting the scene as is, then doing one with a unique color palette.  I changed the sky color to a warm pink/yellow then responded to that.

Eucalyptus Moonrise

Pastel, 9 x 12

© 2015 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

I'm fascinated with the various phases of the moon.
One of my favorites is when the full moon is rising as the sunsets.  It's appearance is almost translucent.

Mission Blooms

Pastel, 9 x 12

© 2015 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

I took a stroll through the Mission in San Juan Capistrano a few days ago and all is in full bloom.  

What a gorgeous mix of old architecture and new life.  

Powder River Memories

Pastel 9 x 9 - SOLD

© 2015 Paula Somma. All rights reserved.

My father-in-law took my husband and I on a little tour around the outskirts of Baker City this past Fall.  A scenic drive along the Powder River, stopping here and there to take in the beauty and details.

Memories to hold dear, and a painting to capture a treasured moment along the way.

Lost Winds Sunset

Pastel, 9 x 12

© 2015 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

Lots of memories for me here at Lost Winds Beach.  Hanging out with friends, trying to surf, volleyball, beach runs, and enjoying many sunsets over the years.

Into the Hills

Pastel, 9 x 8 - SOLD

© 2015 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

Fall Sunset (rev)

Pastel, 12 x 9

© 2015 Paula Somma. All rights reserved.

Heaven's Palette

Pastel, 12 x 18

© 2015 Paula Somma. All rights reserved.

Endurance

Pastel, 12 x 8

© 2014 Paula Somma.  All rights reserved.

I am fascinated with trees and thoroughly enjoy painting them.  Some stand out more than others to me symbolic of character or emotion.  This one was on the road out to Julian awhile back and looks as though it's younger years endured quite a bit of harsh winds and weather to form it's trunk this way.  What interest me most is that the roots must run deep and be anchored to solid ground in order for it to hold this posture and still flourish.  A truth in life.

Christmas Time is Here

Pastel, 9 x 12

© 2014 Paula Somma. All rights reserved.

For our Christmas card this year, I wanted to create something less traditional yet still bring glory to God for His amazing gift to us all.   My hope is that this peaceful image, although a tree, will still point to the birth of Jesus, the true meaning of Christmas.  The Evergreen tree has been known to represent everlasting life for it's endurance of life through the dead of winter.  The triangular shape also symbolic of the Trinity and points all to heaven.  With the sun setting behind the tree, I wanted the hints of light to decorate the tree in place of manmade lights, for it is God's handiwork and ability to shine and reveal Himself through His creation.  I placed the tree in an open field to represent that there is nothing that hinders us from freely coming to Christ, His invitation is to all and for all through His immeasurable love for us.

Have a wonderful Christmas!