Rent a Pineapple

Pineapples are by far my favorite fruit. The fresh fruit has all sorts of health benefits to it, but today I learned that it has been a symbol of welcome and hospitality since colonial times. Affluent hostesses would have a pineapple as the centerpiece of the table, and it would ultimately be served for desert. As a guest, it was a high honor to know the hostess had displayed the expensive treat for your visit.  Less wealthy hostesses had the option of renting pineapples so the welcoming gesture could be bestowed on her guests as well.

Today, a pineapple graces my art table, along with four pears, a stuffed country cat and a vase of fresh tulips.  They are all fodder for my latest endeavor, art journal sketching and watercolor. Its been years since my days of sketching from life, but many examples from fellow artists and a downloaded video from Interweave Press gave me courage....well, except for drawing the pineapple....i'm afraid of it. 

But here are my first attempts at the tulips....

I'm encouraged to keep going at it...work my way up to the welcoming pineapple...wonder if i will get there before i cut it up....

Maria