The plankton that I paint in my work I collect on oceanography cruises and photograph under a microscope at the University of Washington. Since cruises have been restricted due to Covid-19, I am getting creative. I took a GoPro with me out on Puget Sound near the Ballard Locks and recorded underwater video to see what waves look like from below.

I came across a few challenges the first time out! How do you hold a camera on a floaty stick and paddle at the same time? I carried it in my mouth like a labrador retriever. Puget Sound water, yum!

Next, how do I talk to myself without looking like a total idiot? Somewhat harder to solve. Maybe next time I will leave the chatting part out. Let me know what you think! I especially love the part where I got distracted by a seal. I tried to get it in the video, but I totally missed. Talking and taking pictures at the same time is harder that it looks.

It was worth it! I love the images looking up at the waves, and I look forward to making paintings of them.

I am close to completing 100 Paintings of Plankton. This is number 82, I’m getting close! It’s available in my online shop. Hey, that’s more news! I have an online store! Come visit!

AND, I have some of my larger pieces on Saatchi Art. Including this one, Photic Zone. Check it out here: SaatchiArt.com/LizEwings