Pink hollyhocks....

With all the summertime busyness....I was so thrilled to be able to finish another painting. Not a biggie, but one that is a favorite of mine. I have done a couple paintings from these beautiful hollyhocks that were growing in my friend's yard. So gorgeous! I can picture these growing in many an English cottage garden, along rustic stone walls, or bordering white picket fences in the countryside.
I began by laying down a very light wash of Windsor Lemon, then I used layer upon layer of Rose Madder Genuine. I know that many artists prefer Permanent Rose or Opera, but I adore the specific texture and hue of Rose Madder. One of my favorites, and one the captures the color of these beauties to a tee!
The stem and leaves are Sap Green, along with some Windsor Blue and Lemon Yellow. I also like to throw some Dragon's Blood in the stem and leaves for some interest and contrast.
Now if only I could grow one like this in my garden!! Veggies I can do.....flowers I seem to have more trouble with!