Composition:  When I arranged these pansies I wanted them to look as natural as possible.  I also wanted to capture the true look of pansies.  For composition with the flower bowl on the right side it was important to balance the picture with the flowers on the table which creates an informal balance and a more natural setting

8" x 10" copy $12.00 with a matte frame $15.00

When setting up a still life it is important to group the objects in such a way that they overlap and are connected some way instead of everything sitting separate from the other.  When painting bottles you have to remember that they are transparent and should not be painted solid.  The bottles reflect light, what is around them, and behind them.  They are a challenge and this was my first try.  Metal cans are like a mirror.  You should only paint what reflects onto them and allow the white paper be base color of the can.

Still life with fruit again must be grouped together so that there is some overlapping.  When you do this it is always interesting to allow one or two objects to sit separate such as the garlic and the small branch of grapes.  Also in a composition you need to indicate a surface or your objects will be floating in the air.