My inspiration for this painting happened during a camping trip to Kansas in late March. At the site, I noticed a dozen or so Red Admiral butterflies floating around an open area near some trees. After following them around for awhile, I realized that they were taking nectar from two weedy non-native plants: henbit and dandelions. My thoughts went something like this: Those two plants are disdained by gardeners and the general public. Yet one of our most beautiful native butterflies found them attractive. There is something to be valued here that I wish to explore.
The henbit was lush and blooming profusely.
I grabbed another photo in my backyard, which I used to create my drawing.
For the butterfly reference, I went to Unsplash.com for this lovely by Don Coombez.
https://unsplash.com/photos/a-butterfly-sitting-on-top-of-a-metal-pole-PLyR1XIwcsU
Reference in hand, I started work, first by testing colors in my sketchbook.
Next came a pencil sketch which was transferred to Arches cold press paper.
Stages of the painting:
Masking fluid applied and Initial wash laid down.
First round of colors dropped in.
Foreground painted and additional layers added.
Masking fluid removed, some shadows and details painted in.
Finished up by adding highlights and cast shadows.
I’m relieved to have finished. These complex organic scenes are still very difficult for me. And while I can’t say I love every bit of my painting, I did achieve my objective.
Daily Fiber 
I love that you took separate inspirations and combined them in one piece. Very creative and inspiring!
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Thanks
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I saw one of these butterflies yesterday and was surprised because it seems too early. Glorious painting!
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Thank you.
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Thanks!
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Beautifully done!
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Thank you.
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That is beautiful!
So, unpopular opinion – I love dandelions. They are so cheerful, they seed themselves, and they end up with big foofy seed puffs that are fun to disperse. Also, they do have food value. An old PA dutch spring salad uses you dandelion greens. Finally, we used to make dandelion wine, which was delicious.
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All excellent points in favor of the dandelion. They are also available for nectaring insects early in the year and their taproots break up compacted soil.
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Two more reasons to love them!
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I enjoyed reading how you got your inspiration. Your watercolor is beautiful! Sometimes weeds can be pretty too! 🌸
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