Harvest Time - focusing on the earth and growth

Hello all,

I have two new paintings that celebrate the harvest and growth.

"Victory Garden."

This is my newest soft pastel painting that celebrates the self-reliance and joy that comes from planting your own home garden. The victory garden movement started during World War I when Americans were called on to grow food wherever people could; empty lots, backyards, anywhere there was open soil. Twenty million victory gardens were planted during World War II and this supplied over 40% of the nation's fresh vegetables. This idea is back in fashion as we realize the value of self-sufficiency, simplicity, and the empowered feelings that come with adding to one's own health and the health of a community. There are no drawbacks.

I encourage you to try out gardening if you haven't.

For more on Victory gardening, Google it, or here's a nice article from the New York Times.

Plant On and for more info on gardening in anyplace, fearlessly and for the good, see my garden heroes website: Ron Finley Project

"The Good Earth"

"The Good Earth" is an original acrylic mural I painted as part of the SLAM Mural Project here in Bozeman, MT. The original is 4x8 feet and will be installed outdoors in the Bozeman Sculpture Park near the Bozeman Public Library. Three artists were invited to paint the themes: Patience (myself), Hope (Kelsey Dzintars) and Happiness (DG House.) The trio of art is meant to inspire and uplift the community. The three paintings will eventually move around Bozeman as long term public art installations.

“This challenging year has shown me that patience can lead to positive changes. In this mural I wanted my bear family to show that focus and determination in a garden can improve your surroundings, remind one that you are part of the natural world, and that by planting a garden you are actively taking part in the growth and flourishing of living things. Gardens are places where we can work together. Seeds, soil, water, sunlight, and patience, can change your world. Some things that grow through the garden experience are joy, self-reliance and the courage to try new things. A garden can bring all ages together. It is never too early or too late to start."

Sincerely,Mimi

PS* there are not five but seven bears in this painting. You will be able to find the other two when you order larger images.

The original is an acrylic on wood board.

This image is available in reproduction.

For prints that are larger than 24x48 inches, please email Mimi for pricing, sizes and print options. ©Mimi Matsuda