I learned a lot in doing these two pieces. I am finally getting to where I wished I could be 4 or 5 yrs ago. When I put these in groups called "realism" on artist print on demand sites, I don't wonder if I'll be judged not good enough for the category. I think I'm where I wanted to get as far as technique and effect. But I need to find more interesting subjects one of these days. I mean apples are boring. But it doesn't matter to me because when I paint, all paintings are challenging and fun!
