In my studio, I set up a simple still life: white roses with stalks of unopened lilies in a glass vase. As I painted these flowers, something special happened - they started to tell me their secrets. Each became a personality, whispering sweet nothings to one another.   The roses seemed to lean toward each other, as if they were sharing a quiet little conversation. As I eavesdropped I heard them whispering secrets only roses could understand. And the lilies? They stayed closed, almost as if they were covering their ears. Maybe the roses' secrets were too tender - or maybe they made the lilies blush, turning their petals a deeper, glowing orange. Always, when I paint, something surreal begins to happen - as if the session becomes my alone time with God. The Roses seemed to whisper things about the beginning of time and I was the 'fly on the wall' overhearing the secrets of creation. I always feel honored to be able to experience this intimate process of creating - even if it is only with paints and brushes.    With this oil painting as the first layer dried, it felt too flat, too neutral.   So I brought it back to life with glazing - soft layers of pastel colors brushed over the flowers, background and glass. The roses brightened. Their personalities appeared, the shadows became more rich and the painting became more alive. For the lilies I imagine the roses' secrets were just a little too juicy - or maybe they overheard something they weren't supposed to! Either way, with the glazing, the lilies flushed into this deep, warm orange.   To me, flowers always have personalities. These four roses became friends and along with the lilies they became a tribe of sorts. Together, they created their own quiet little story with secrets only some can understand.   Want to Hear the Roses' Secrets?  This piece, Whispers the Lilies Shouldn't Hear, is now available in my store. Message me if you're interested -  and don't forget to follow me on YouTube for more art and behind-the scenes moments    With warmth, color, and a few secrets,   Kristen