Conversation  Roses

In the spirit of Valentines day, I have started a new series of small paintings called "Conversation Hearts" Each painting is titled after a "sweet heart" candy saying....a favorite Valentines Day candy of mine for as long as I can remember. The concept of Motto Hearts dates back to the late 1800's when printed sayings on colored paper were placed in "Cockles," small crisp candies formed in the shape of a scalloped shell.  In 1866, Daniel Chase, brother of Oliver Chase, who founded NECCO in 1847, invented the process which allows the sayings to be printed directly on the candy, and the rest is history! Roses are less fattening than candy, and a painting lasts longer than a rose so..................

My Arizona Series

My Arizona is a place were diversity abounds, from the arid regions of  the desert to the thick green forests of the high country.  These paintings capture the amazing things that grow in our botanical gardens, as well as the nurtured flowers that grow in a friend’s back yard.  I love an adventure and I love to share what I have learned in a way that might encourage someone to step out and try something new.  Most important to me, are the relationships I have here in Arizona, they are precious to me.  “My Arizona” will be an amazing show of well painted botanicals used to illustrate the wonder that lies in my home state.  So, hang on for the ride, and come see Arizona in a whole new light.

One Day 2009
A special collection of paintings inspired by a memorable visit to The Huntington Library and Gardens in San Marino California.  Impressed with the diversity of what this garden had to offer in just one day, Dyana paints a body of work that not only captures fleeting beauty, but also the significance of what each day can hold.  Succulents, Magnolias, Agave and Camellias are just some of the subjects represented in this ambitious show.