This California Tortoise Shell butterfly was perched on a small tree branch by a stream in the Eastern part of Mount Rainier National Park. The shadows cast around it were a striking blue color which was lovely with the orange butterfly. This was done from a photo I took on the east side of the park. It is a California Tortoise Shell butterfly. It was the hardest painting I have ever done!! Such a variety of shapes, colors and edges and paint application. Took an insane amount of time, because I just kept working at it - probably should have moved on a lot sooner, but the challenge was fun. Have you ever noticed that we seldom really see the creature between the lovely wings? It was almost furry looking, with big eyes and long antenna. Interesting.

As always you can purchase this painting from my Daily Paintworks gallery (www.daily paintworks.com). The price for this 8x6 is $60. I have given up on auctions to allow people to buy without waiting.

I will be establishing an Instagram site probably today as well, which will also link to my Facebook page. I will be doing some YouTube videos as soon as I finish learning how to do that! - Lot of learning!!!