Ok so this isn't my typical style, but I've gotten some compliments on it so feel obligated to share it.  In watercolor class a few weeks back we studied John Marin, who paints far more abstract than I ever can.  So here's my attempt at imitating his style.  This painting is a combo of 3 photos of Dubai that I tried to put into one composition.I completed this painting in only 2 hours, so I guess I got out of it what I put into it. 

Every once in a while I feel completely overwhelmed by how far I still have to go with developing my skills.  I just finished a pastel tonight that I was really excited about painting.  Every single stroke just frustrated me until the very end when it started to come together.  I think part of it is that I did it on watercolor paper which creates quite a challenge at covering the surface.  I'm going to buy some wallis sanded paper since apparently it's a must have for pastels.  I'm hopeful it will make a difference.