Thursday, September 26, 2013

Datura

It is also known as Western Jimson Weed, Thorn apple, and Indian Whiskey (because of the ritual intoxicating use by many tribes.) The Datura wrightii near Joshua Tree are in full bloom. Even though this member of the nightshade family is poisonous, it is fragrant and beautiful to look at. The plant is large, and strikingly green in our dusty desert landscape. The white flowers are large and trumpet shaped. It's hard to miss.




I decided to use the Datura as the background for my latest jackrabbit painting. This is quite possibly my grumpiest jackrabbit yet! Proof that even a jackrabbit can have a bad day.
"Jimson Weed Jack." Oil on Canvas, 30 x 24 inches.

I have also begun re-vamping my website. I would really appreciate it if you would click on this link and give me some feedback:  http://www.karineswenson.com/
Do you like the changes I made? Is there anything I should do differently? Is there anything you do like about it? I can still change it, so if there are some suggestions, I am all ears, just like my jackrabbit paintings!

Happy Fall - can you believe it's here?

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I've seen that flower many times in the desert, and never took a moment to learn its name. Now I know three names it uses.

Your new website design looks good. You're looking wonderful in your portrait, too.

Happy Fall.

Terry

Kelly Larson said...

Isn't that the plant that Don Juan gave to Castenda to make him evoke The Gate of Power and fly?! You've surely read the books and if not, you must! I would love to see your paintings inspired by those!

The website looks great. And I love your blogs too. Thanks. Much love, Kelly