Tropical Flower in Belize

Photography – Digital Art

When I was in Belize, I noticed this amazingly beautiful bright orange-red flower with golden yellow edges perched on top of a tree.

What led me to it was the flower petals on the ground.  When I looked up, there was this tall tree with the exotic flowers on top.  This picture I took was from under the tree looking up against the sky.

Later, I learned this flower is native to tropical Africa called “African Tulip” (also known as the fountain tree because the buds squirt water when squeezed). It is widely planted throughout the tropics and has naturalized in many parts of the Pacific.

The flower cup holds rain water and dew attracting hummingbirds, birds, and bats. Although African tulip tree is not typically thought of as a toxic plant, African hunters are said to have boiled the seeds to extract arrow poison.

Spring Daffodil Symphony

Photography – Digital Art

Spotting yellow Daffodils everywhere in my neighborhood, I can feel the spring is here. Daffodils bloom early in the spring and symbolize the rebirth of the season. Their trumpet-shaped flowers adds a variety of sizes and colors to the waking landscape.
In addition to the traditional sunny yellow, daffodils also come in a variety of white or pastel yellow, some even pink or green. They are very inspirational and usher in vitality to the place and my painting!

San Diego View

Photography – Digital Art

While visiting San Diego, California, I was introduced to the La Jolla Cove, a must seen locale by the visitors.  Its secluded location surrounded by deep blue water provides a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. This picture was taken after I accidentally discovered a long path between houses that led me to the spot. But I think the outcome was worth all the trouble I went through.

Yorkshire Terrier puppy

Photography – Digital Art

My friend has this adorable pet. It is a Yorkshire Terrier, Yorkie for short. I used Photoshop to create a painting from the picture first. After staring at the painting for a long time, I felt like something was missing . So I did what I do the best, adding the color.

Bird of Paradise

Photography – Digital Art

Ever since I first saw the flower, Birds of Paradise, on Catalina Island, California, it has become one of the most beautiful flowers that I love to paint.  Also known as the Crane Flowers, the Birds of Paradise is native to South Africa. According to some, it resembles a colorful bird in flight, hence the name Birds of Paradise.
*** I created this painting using Photoshop.

Caribbean Cabanas

Photography – Digital Art

Getting Ready To Go Snowboarding

Photography – Digital Art

Snowboarding didn’t reach a fever pitch until the mid 1980s. Early snowboarders, mostly male teenagers, were often viewed as rebels and risk-takers. Now, males and females of all ages are seen cruising down the slopes on snowboards.