Bee Hive, Part 2

I got another commission to paint another bee hive for friends. The first bee hive depicted their lovely view from the Santa Cruz Mountains. This one would feature Magnolia blossoms, as this is the preferred food source for these particular bees.

The hive box arrived, all plain wood. Here I primed the sides & gave the front a coat of artist's grade gesso...

The finished box, all varnished & ready for it's new occupants. I'll post pics of that too when I get the opportunity!

The Bee Hive is Occupied

I was commissioned to paint the front panel of this new beehive for friends. I was thrilled to hear that my friend S. was on her way home with approximately 20,000 bees, all in cardboard boxes on the backseat of her car. I got to hear about how heavy the box was, and how it felt warm to the touch. I couldn't wait to come see the bees in their new home.

I've been told that the bees like having the painting on their hive. It helps them find their way home. They apparently are loving the magnolia blossoms nearby and beat a steady path back and forth all day. I look forward to trying some of their honey.

Bees

I received a commission to paint a front panel of a new beehive.  The hive belongs to friends, and I'm looking forward to visiting their new bees.  The view depicted is from their house, of the Santa Cruz Mountains. 

Detail:

Detail:

Detail:

The panel, albeit a bit crooked & blurry & with a fair amount of glare:

I'll post more photos later, of the beehive in it's new location, with the new occupants.