Playing in the Sand

"The sand may brush off, the salt may wash away.

The tans may fade, but the memories will last forever."

                                                                                                --Unknown

LEGO Deer

Recently I've posted photos of other LEGO sculptures by artist Sean Kenney, including a gorgeous peacock and a pansy bloom with a bee.  These images are of the deer herd that Kenney constructed and placed in an appropriate setting in Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa.  All of these delightful creations are apart of the Nature Connects:  Art with LEGO Bricks Exhibit that is on display through the end of October.  And, for those wanting to know, Kenney used 84,442 LEGO bricks to build these three animals.

A Funky Garden

"Your mind is a garden.

Your thoughts are the seeds.

You can grow flowers

or you can grow weeds."

                                     --Unknown

This garden is one of many featured at Reiman Gardens on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, Iowa.  Isn't it unique?  The colors are splendid and inspiring.  Let these photos give you ideas for creating something "funky" in your garden.

Peace, Love & Parades

These images were taken during recent small-town Iowa summer celebrations.  This annual tradition involves all sorts of folks from rural communities and is a highlight of the year.  Of course, youngsters watching the event look forward to the treasure trove of candy they collect from parade participants.  Fun times for all.

Bee on Bloom

Have a look at another fascinating LEGO sculpture created by the talented LEGO Brick Artist Sean Kenney.  This particular piece measures 40"x 35"x 55" and contains 29,314 bricks.   A few weeks ago I featured the peacock sculpture and described the exhibit that is currently at Reiman Gardens on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, Iowa.  These structures are incredible and entertaining for all ages.  Take a drive to the middle of Iowa and enjoy a beautiful setting with unique art.

And, from what I've read, the answer to the question posed on the information board regarding what colors bees do NOT see is red.

1K

This is my blog post number 1000 and featured is one of my most popular images, Tractors on Parade.  Albeit very appealing to Iowans, this image also reminds me of this blog and my journey as an artist.  Day after day my work takes time, practice and is never perfect but always in-progress.  Truly, just as multiple tractors represent in this photo, my portfolio is not just one well-liked image but rather the cumulative effect of experience, perseverance and creativity.  Finally, a sincere thanks to loyal viewers and those who take time to leave comments.  Now, stay tuned for the next 1000.

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step."

                                                                                   --Lao Tzu

Posing in the Garden

Paint Me by Stephanie Funke

Throughout the entire photo shoot this garden statue was the perfect model as she never flinched. More seriously, during a recent garden tour this stone figure caught my eye as she occupied a central location in the lush green outdoor space under a canopy of trees.  When I took this shot, the sun was at the perfect angle to let just enough light through in order to nicely illuminate her face and front.

In addition, this image just earned Special Recognition in the Light Space & Time online Figurative exhibition.  To view several captivating pieces in this collection, go to the following: https://lightspacetime.com/current-online-art-exhibit

Old Glory

Happy 4th of July.