Wow! A quick peek at the last blog post tells me it's been since February that I've posted anything new here.  I know why. We all know why. We're in the midst of a global pandemic with stay-at-home orders starting and stopping.

I'm not reviving my neglected blog to complain about that, though. I'm back because in all of this time at home (and without human clients) I've been busy, busy busy creating new (people-less) work and, in my spare time, creating a whole new business (but more on that another time.)

THIS post is about my new series ARNO. 

Arno is a river in Florence, Italy, and the name means Water Flower. I didn't even know that when I began shooting flora in the water. I actually discovered that when I was looking for titles for the nine completed pieces. My Google search led me to a baby name site full of water-related names for boys and girls that helped me with names for all the pieces, plus a few more in reserve when I need them (and I will need them.)

This series has been a life-and-sanity saver, honestly. I'm used to doing water portraits with people during these hot Texas summers, and I desperately needed to work in/with water, even if my typical muses were unavailable. What I love so much about working with water is that it adds an element of spontaneity. The movement of water causes the subject to flow and bend and move in beautifully natural ways that I don't always expect. I am often delighted by what unfolds.

It would not surprise anyone who knows me that flora in water would replace humans in water during these socially distant days (months.) I have always been in awe of the designs and patterns of nature. It is graceful and intricate while at the same time powerful and majestic. It excites both the scientist and the artist in me.

So far I have completed nine pieces and am already working on more. I'll share a few below.

I am releasing the first nine now because I want to participate in a really amazing community movement called The Artist Support Pledge. Through this community, artists commit to offering affordable art (nothing under $200 or 200 Euro.) If $1000 is made, the artist promises to purchase work from another artist (around the same cost.)

I'll include a link to The Artist Support Pledge website, so you can check it out if you'd like to participate. You can also search the hashtag #artistsupportpledge on Instagram to find more artists participating and perhaps find your next art piece!

Ready to shop the ARNO collection? Click HERE!

Want to know about The Artist Support Pledge? Click HERE. 

Follow me on Instagram @ChristieStockstillArt to see the new pieces I put up each day or just to stay connected!  Thank you!