Art historians make a living attempting to discover the meaning behind an artist’s work, unpacking every brushstroke to discover its inspiration. For artist Ruth Oosterman, the answer is simple: her 2-year-old daughter, Eve.
Ruth noticed Eve had begun taking a keener interest in her work, especially while she was painting. So she decided to include the little one in her process with this amazing collaboration. They start with Eve, a canvas and an ordinary ink pen. Ruth doesn’t guide or influence Eve, just lets her create on her own. Then Ruth builds on the scribbles with watercolor.
But it’s not about covering up or taking away from what Eve created. Ruth explains, “I try to work quickly and let imagination and play take root into the painting rather than taking it too seriously, this way I can encourage Eve’s contribution without making it to ‘grown-up.'”
The Lady and the Fox
The Elephant King
The Great Owl
A Bookworm’s Dream
(via Bored Panda.)
Check out this video of the whole process:
Ruth says she hopes to continue collaborating with Eve as she grows older, so be sure to stay tuned on her blog, The Mischievous Mommy.