Story behind the art of Carolyn Lieber

27th Annual International

American Society of Botanical Artists and the Society of Illustrators

Porcelain Berries

Ampelopsis glandulosa var. brevipedunculata

I am always looking for a subject that will hold my interest during the process it takes to complete a painting. Painting on vellum is a long, slow event and while I love its Zen-like quality, my impatience often gets the better of me. I have a drawer full of unsuccessful work!

I have been painting for about ten years now and I realize I am just beginning to really see and sometimes even understand my subject. I’ve painted porcelain vine before because I am taken by the vibrancy of the berries and the complex shape and variety of the leaves.

This composition began as a much more complex depiction until I realized that much of it was superfluous. The dying leaves and the twisting, interlacing movement of the vines attracted me. The berries gave me a focus. I was lucky to have a gentle piece of vellum and when I put it all together it just seemed to work.

This process of painting is such a solitary endeavor. It is so difficult to know if one is getting any better, finding a rhythm, making closer observations, and growing in the journey. This painting makes me feel satisfied and I know it will be a long time until that happens again. Another step maybe….

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Read more about this artist's work: 26th Annual