This piece is

This piece is called Bonsai 4 Japan, number 1.  I will be donating 50% of the proceeds to GlobalAnimal.org, to help displaced pets in Japan.  I lived in Japan for two years and it's a beautiful country with beautiful people.  I really can't express how deeply saddened I am over their tragedy from the 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami. 

I am working on a series of Bonsai.  I have lost most of my vision in my right eye and have an upcoming surgery which may help.  I was going to wait to continue painting until after the surgery, but in light of what happened in Japan, I just had to do some painting now, so I can help them out.

Unfortunately pets aren't allowed in the shelters during an emergency in Japan.  Here in San Diego, when we have the fires, I have been able to take my pets into hotels that are acting as shelters..  You may not have noticed but some areas of Japan are covered with snow and they are still haveing some cold winter weather, so it's essential to provide shelter for the pets.

I have grown my own Bonsai trees and what a labor of love and patience.  The trunk is what really fascinates me the most.  They remind me of the ancient Bristlecone Pines.

I created a loose watercolor background with some blooms.  I like areas of mystery in wartercolors.  I did a quick thumbnail sketch with values then drew it out on the full size paper.

I painted it on Arches of France 300# Hot Press watercolor paper with Winsor & Newton professional grade transparent watercolors.  It is treated to be protected from sunlight and moisture.  The image is 11.5"X15" and will fit into a standard ready made 16X20" frame and mat.  Since the paper is 300# it can also be hung by the paper with the natural deckled edges.

Thank you for looking.  Susie