Dalas

"Rose Dala", Ink and Watercolor, 10" x 10"

I took a wonderful workshop with artist Chris Carter a couple of weeks ago, and she has completely inspired me! Chris coined the word "dala", a spin-off of the mandala concept.  In a dala you start with a circle, swing a few "strings" to divide it into organic zones, then plunk yourself down and begin to draw, twisting and turning the elements of your subject as you move your way around the circle.  I did this drawing during the workshop in the rose garden at the Luther Burbank Art and Garden Center in Santa Rosa, and finished painting it at home.  Part of Chris's challenge was also working with a limited color palette for unity and harmony.  This painting was a joy to create.

"Dala Dala", Ink and Watercolor, 10" x 10"

One of my treasured possessions is a Swedish Dala Horse toy my mom gave me.  Here he is as the star of another dala painting.  Although the toy is actually red-orange, I chose this color scheme to convey a peaceful, Christmas feeling.