What is it about fall that brings us joy?
It could be the colors that stir our sense of sight! We see the giant yellow sunflower blooms with green stems and brown centers. These beautiful towering flowers bring joy to all, including the birds who love their seeds. We see the varying sizes of orange pumpkins laying in fields and patches or piled high at local markets just waiting to bring joy to children.
It could also be the wonderful aromas that stir our sense of smell. For me, there is nothing like a hot chai tea with cinnamon sprinkled on top! Or, how about all the pumpkin spice drinks that are so popular currently? These smells, along with all spice, nutmeg and ginger bring back memories of times with family and friends, not to mention beautiful fall weather here in the east.
For me, as an artist, while the sights and smells are great, I find my joy in creating these images. For example, I could create a sunflower mixed media on canvas using modeling paste to give the image a three-dimensional effect, or I could use a pallet board painted deep dark burnt umber as the backdrop with bright yellow sunflowers and fresh brightly colored flowers surrounding them.
As a maker, I can also find many ways to create a fall pumpkin for all to enjoy. We have a painting lesson on our website, createandcelebrateart.com, on how to create a fall pumpkin using plastic bags and papier-mache’. Once your pumpkin mold dries, you paint it with the rich orange colors of fall. I could also paint several pumpkins of different sizes on my canvas. We have all seen that where home décor is concerned, pumpkins don’t have to be orange. They can be turquoise, off white, rust, blue, or whatever color you choose that brings you Joy!
As I said in the title, it is Maker Time! So, take some self-care time. If you can’t squeeze out time to create and paint, then take time out to visit some fall pumpkins at a market or go to a sunflower field at your local farm. Take in the beauty of God’s creation! My hope for you is that you enjoy everything nice this September!