Evolution of style.

For 20 years I have been painting the same subjects in the same realistic style: flower, gardens, houses--rinse & repeat.  See:

Lately, I’ve been feeling confined by my compulsion to define every arc and curve.  And I’ve noticed myself tightening up. 

I receive daily letters from the Painter’s Key (http://www.painterskeys.com).  I love these letters.  They come to me at just the right moment.  I look forward to their gentle reminders and insightful advice.  The latest post to strike a chord touched upon the idea of trying something different--reaching out beyond your comfort zone.  Expanding, experimenting, loosening up.  

So I did just that.  Here is one example of my attempt at abstract painting:

My daughter didn’t approve.  Not sure I approve either!  

How about a subject  that I knew little about but that has surrounded me from coast to coast?  Waves! Big and small.  Distant and close.  Wave after wave:  

Although I loved the process and the result of my wave phase, it did get a little monotonous...

Next up, flowers, a subject I know well but with looser arcs and softer lines:

Style is an evolution.  Habits run deep. Even after decades of painting, I'm still trying to find my voice.