Vicki Sawyer

Gabby, chickadee with blue vervain

Vicki Sawyer says, "If birds can build nests, they can make hats." And paint hats for them she does. Her paintings always bring a smile to my day with their whimsy, detail, and directness. The photo Vicki included of her palette also shows her painting which I take as a bonus. I had never considered a plate palette, but seeing the results certainly makes that method a contender now. It is great to see how people work & use their palettes. You learn a lot that way, along with asking questions. 

Included here is a brief Q&A:
J: What color do you wish wasn't there?
V: Sometimes I wish raw umber was not there, but I use it so much.
J: What is your favorite brush? 
V: I love using brights because they can give you a thin, controlled line or a broad stroke.
J: What is your favorite paper/surface to paint on?
V: Having sewed a lot, I love the texture of painting on canvas, but since I usually paint highly detailed pieces, I prefer a fine textured canvas.
J: What is your favorite color to work with? 
V: My favorite color to work with is diarylide yellow because it provides a great, enhancing undercoat for the more transparent reds and greens. 


If you are interested in seeing more of Vicki's work head over to her website where she also has information on her latest shows. She also has a fun zazzle shop full of customizable merchandise.