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Oil Pastel (new)

Welcome to my ongoing oil pastel painting project, launched in June 2024, where creativity meets color in 99 vibrant expressions. Each artwork in this evolving collection is not just a visual feast but also a narrative waiting to be discovered. From vivid landscapes to intimate portraits, every piece captures moments of beauty and emotion through rich, textured layers and bold strokes, each with its own unique story.

Join me on this artistic journey as I delve into the endless possibilities of oil pastels, aiming to inspire and evoke wonder through each carefully crafted creation. Discover the stories behind each painting as they unfold, inviting you to explore the world through my eyes and imagination.

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01

Lucy in the Sky with Diamond Liu

Though the Beatles' song may inspire Lucy's (the dog) 's name, her life story is just as legendary. Lucy is a Japanese-breed, Brazilian-born, Chinese-owned dog living in the United States, and she proudly carries her owner's surname, Liu.

 

In the spirit of Lucy's joyous spirit, may people around the world find happiness living under skies adorned with diamonds, cherishing life's moments with the same warmth and enthusiasm as Lucy, the beloved canine companion.

02

Morning Ride Through Cave Creek

This oil pastel painting captures the serene beauty of a horseback riding adventure in Cave Creek. On a crisp, beautiful morning in March, the desert comes alive with a vibrant bloom of wildflowers, painting the landscape with splashes of yellow, purple, and red. The sun casts a gentle glow over the rugged terrain, enhancing the colors of the desert flora.

 

Here, without social media, technology, and all the noise, we can immerse in the pure beauty of nature. The quietude allows us to appreciate the tranquility and splendor that surrounds us. As we revel in this moment of natural harmony, it prompts us to ponder: How can we strike a balance between our modern, fast-paced lives and the serene simplicity of nature? How do we ensure that amidst the hustle and bustle, we still make time to reconnect with the essence of life itself?

 

This painting invites you to reflect on these questions as you soak in the peaceful allure of Cave Creek's morning splendor.

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03

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The Magic of Castle Hot Springs

This oil pastel painting beautifully captures the enchanting colors of Castle Hot Springs. Nestled in a secluded Arizona valley, the springs are a hidden gem, surrounded by a lush oasis amidst the desert. The mineral water brushes over the stones, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that seem almost otherworldly. Each pastel stroke brings to life the magic of this tranquil retreat, inviting you to immerse yourself in the soothing, natural beauty and feel the restorative power of Castle Hot Springs.

The Bath was built in 1900, twelve years before Arizona became a state in 1912. This historical fact raises significant questions about its legal establishment on land that was historically inhabited and cherished by Indigenous peoples.

 

Each pastel stroke brings to life the magic of this tranquil retreat, inviting you to immerse yourself in the soothing, natural beauty of Castle Hot Springs while prompting reflection on its complex history and the ongoing dialogue about land stewardship and justice.

04

The Beauty and Beast at Oak Alley Plantation

This oil pastel painting captures the contrasting elements of Oak Alley Plantation, a historic gem nestled along the Mississippi River in Louisiana. The artwork vividly portrays the majestic beauty of the grand avenue of ancient oak trees, their sprawling branches creating a natural canopy over the pathway leading to the stately Greek Revival mansion. The vibrant greens of the foliage contrast with the soft pastels of the plantation house, evoking a sense of timeless elegance and charm.

 

Yet, beneath its outward beauty lies a complex history intertwined with the legacy of slavery. The shadows of the past cast a solemn reminder of the harsh realities endured by those who lived and worked on the plantation.

 

"The Beauty and Beast of Oak Alley Plantation" invites reflection on the dual nature of places like Oak Alley—symbols of architectural splendor and natural beauty, yet also reminders of a troubled past. It challenges viewers to contemplate the complexities of history and the ongoing pursuit of understanding what truly defines civilization.

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© 2024 by THE ELIZABETH. All rights reserved.

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