My May and June Makes That Might Just Inspire You

This rainbow cloud painting is a bit different from my usual oil cloudscapes! I wanted to create a more graphic image using the rainbow symbol which had become an important symbol of hope, positivity and support for the NHS and key workers during the lockdown. The whole country has been staying at home to prevent the spread of coronavirus and some people are still socially isolating for health reasons in the UK and also abroad internationally too. We are all keeping our safe distance and just meeting outside for now.

Thankfully we are very fortunate to have a garden which has been a haven for us during these warm dry months and makes a good outdoor studio too.

Rainbow cloud with musical notes artwork by A Howse

Rainbow cloud with musical notes artwork by A Howse

Layers of pastel and metallic water based paints were applied to this deep canvas and shaped tissue paper was used for the cloud texture. Treble clef wooden blanks were painted and glued onto the canvas to represent musical creativity coming out to lift the spirits of people during the many clouded dark days when millions of British citizens are either staying indoors or going to work in a very stressful environment.

This daily battle with Covid-19 has been the situation for many brave medics, carers and emergency services across the nation and we are all very grateful for their dedication. Many people have had to deal with the loss of their loved ones and that cloud of sadness was shared throughout the nation. The notes that fall like dark rain are small but defined as they are hand drawn with charcoal ink. There is however brightness on the horizon within this image and the light that is refracted through the cloud has vibrant tints and a glimpse of some promising blue skies in the future. The wooden rainbow is three dimensional and painted using colourful acrylics in primary hues and then glued on in its central location to make a bold statement.

Musical guitar notes artwork by A Howse

Musical guitar notes artwork by A Howse

This painting features musical notes and guitars and celebrates creating and listening to live music. During lockdown we decided to learn how to play the guitar and this deep canvas painting accompanies our living space. I wanted to add a decorative element of living by the coast into the design so I added briny waves in sunset colours. This means the artwork also blends well with the rooms interior scheme and with my hand printed stripey cushions.

Musical guitar notes artwork with interior by A Howse

Musical guitar notes artwork with interior by A Howse

The background in this deep canvas was constructed with layers of water based paints which were allowed to dry individually and so it took several days to complete. A three dimensional effect is added by glueing painted wooden treble clefs that were sourced on etsy.com. Cut out crotchets, quavers, minims and semibreves are painted on and also collaged using bright and metallic cards. Printed sheet music of some of our favourite tunes add some detail and interest too.

If anybody would like a copy or a print of either of these original images please get in touch via facebook or email on our contact page.

To see more colourful items for your home check out our etsy shop which is open anytime https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CreateDisplay

We hope you enjoy these pieces and that 2020 keeps you safe and creative and brings you many brighter days ahead.