An evening cruise on the Seine River in Paris brought this unique opportunity to see the impact of strong lights on the darkness of the water.  The stark highlights emphasized the motion of the water and the structure of  the bridge.

Next week expect artwork from Augusta, Missouri.  This will be my third year to attend this fantastic fun painting event.  Several others from Lee's Summit, Belton, Independence, and Blue Springs will also be travelling to Augusta.  I must continue my packing. 
Hope you will stop by again real soon.

Creatively yours,
Teddy 

I have a very different subject for this week's painting.  This beautiful carousel horse was created using photos from a 1900 Carrousel Palace in Honfluer, France.  This carousel was two levels tall; but only had horses on the lower level.   

As you might quess, I collect carousel horses.  I noted that all the carousels that we saw in the north of France had a carousel horse high atop the canapy.  There were elaborate murals around the decorative ring at the top of the carousel.

It is common to see colorful flowers clinging to fences and climbing up the sides of the buildings.  There are inspiring gardens nestled near the doorways to the many of homes.

The small towns compete to receive a special designation of "Four Flower City".  This gives them the honor to proudly display "Four Flowers" on the sign, which welcomes visitors to their city. 

When you enter a "Four Flower City", you are in for a fabulous display of floral treats.  The residents work hard to help their city achieve this goal. 

Annually, the cities are judged and receive either a one, two, three, or four flower award.  The more flowers they earn the more stunning the floral display.