Van Gogh Colors

No, I haven't returned to the South of France. But today I was surrounded by saturated color......and shutters!!

Arles, Provence - June 2006

Below is the shutter color/effect in the picture of the inspiration room for my guest room makeover. Although I like the neutrals it really needs a punch of color to warm it up a little. Today, despite strong gusts of wind, it was quite warm and sunny so I ventured into the side garden, my best painting spot. This time I was armed with my three cans of paint and all the other paraphenalia one needs for a project. These wooden shutters are from SuzAnna's Antiques in Raleigh - a matching pair to the ones in my master bedroom - those I left blue-grey and are perfect in that room.

Below, shutter metamorphosis, from blue-grey.......
.............to Belle Grove Brass...........
.............to La Fonda Teal.............
..................to Pine Forest dry brushed on leaving the other two colors showing through in spots.

Yes, I know what you're saying, the color doesn't look the same! Actually they are quite close when the painted shutters are moved into the shade, however I think I'll take the last color back and ask them to darken it just a bit and give one more dry brush coat in areas where the shutter would be worn. I really like working with these Valspar paints from Lowe's. A final sanding of the edges and raised areas to expose a little more gold and they should be ready to hang. The iron shutter dogs are showing their age but I like that and don't plan to change them. I painted some picture frames while outside - they'll have their debut later. I've also completed the secretary makeover - I think it looks great and will share in the next post.

Before leaving I'm sharing more daffodils from the garden as many of you are still snowed in and I think you'll enjoy these colorful blooms.

Ice Follies
King Alfred