More portraits! More gardens!

This week's portrait is called "Ring of Fire." A tribute to another kind of artist,   a man who sang of deep- held beliefs, and  the stuff that constitute our souls. The gravelly voice of the man in black spoke to something deep within.
Many thanks to those of you who have commented so  kindly on my work.. We work alone, and often don't know if our art speaks to others. Lonely decisions every step of the way, painting, quilting, writing, composing. We must all speak out, affirming, guiding, applauding, correcting and inspiring each other.
And if you think fiberarts is time consuming- try writing a book! My true admiration for those of you  who work so long and hard on  that, with no assuredness of success.
This painting is of the bridge in the rhododendron garden in Portland, an incredible place bursting with flowers, and fountains, and streams, and ducks, and color, color color. Go see it when the rhodies are in bloom. It is magnificent.
Wish I could go to the big shows next week. If you are at the Denver National Quilt show., look for two of my pieces, "Peeper," and "Wetlands". And if you go to Paducah, "Lovebirds " is at the Yeiser."Old Point Loma" is in the Lighthouse invitational opening May 1 at Back Porch Fabrics,
  Instead, I'll be in ...Anaheim, at a medical meeting instead. Bummer.
 But if any of you live around there and want to get together for dinner, that would sure improve my trip!
By the way, I don't know how to link to other blogs, but a must read is Elizabeth Barton's. (www.ElizabethBarton.blogspot.com). Especially March 23, her spoof on entry rules for shows.
OK, back to work. I've got a huge gallery to fill, you know. I'll show you some more soon.