Celosia

One of my goals for this year was to try painting with gouache.  I procrastinated for nine months and was finally inspired on a walk when I saw these Celosia plants.  I loved the shape so much I decided to paint them. 

I kind of "cheated" when painting as I ended up using my white and pink Posca pens to make the fine hairs.  At least the base color and leaves were gouache.  But I am not a purist about these things as my focus is just getting it to look right.  And at least it got me started with gouache.  Below you can see a couple process photos with the gouache base layers.

When I look up the spiritual meaning of the plants I felt like the universe was sending me a message.

"The name Celosia comes from the Greek word keleos, meaning 'burning', as the bright plumes look like rising flames. They represent fearlessness and strength." (Google)

The bright, fiery shapes are viewed by some as a physical representation of spiritual enlightenment and inner fire.  They can also represent a fresh start, courage, and good fortune.  I won't go into all the details, but I recently had to conquer a big fear and am starting fresh on several fronts.  I am always astonished how the plants in my artwork nourish me on many levels.  And I feel lucky the Celosia reached out her spiky fingers to grab my attention and get me started on my new gouache endeavors!