Stargazer and Stripes

Stargazer and Stripes

It's time to gear up for the holiday week-end and take on a patriotic mood to appreciate Independence Day.  I was thinking Stars and Stripes and other music while I was painting this. 

These lilies will be blooming for just a little longer so I hope I can paint a couple more of these next week.

6 x 6 in. oil on archival panel

Stargazer Lily

Stargazer Lily

These lilies are blooming in the garden right now and they are very fragrant, with wonderful color.  I read something helpful today, just before I cut some to bring into the house.  Pollen sacks, technically known as anthers, should be removed from the blossom filaments as soon as the flower opens. Removing the pollen sacks prevents pollen petal staining of the flowers. It also keeps the pollen from falling on the table and staining the tablecloth. 

I bought these bulbs about ten years ago and they bloom every year and seem to be spreading.  They are very easy to grow.

6 x 6 in. oil on panel