A sneak peak into TTL Directory Member Sallie Strickland’s series of watercolor flies inspired by Father’s Day.

Finding gifts for those amazing yet picky father figures in our lives when June rolls around every year is a tricky task. Men usually buy for themselves on any random occasion and there comes a point where gadgets begin to lose their sentiment. Enter artwork, and not the kind of art you hide away in a corner of his man cave but the kind that also adheres to your thoughtful aesthetic. All different and original, my watercolor flies have been one of the most requested subjects as they add meaning and style in one pretty package. Derived from actual tied flies, they can be subtle and whimsical or pack a punch where needed. 

Personally, the flies are extremely meaningful to me and seeped in southern roots as my grandfather, dad and my husband treasure fishing above most things. This year will be my husband’s first Father’s Day and my Dad’s first Father’s Day as a grandfather! This special series of flies, now available on the Well and Wonder Artist Collective, is an ode to them. The pieces range from 9×12 to 14×20, on Arches watercolor cold pressed paper, all unframed so you can add your own special touch. 

What began as a small commission seven years ago has grown into one of my favorite subjects to paint. I love how each piece looks as though it will jump from the page, but once framed and styled they remain so delicate. I have taken time over the years to study the flies my husband hoards. Each is so intricate like little pieces of art in themselves. By using a very sharp graphite pencil I’m able to capture the tiniest of feathers not seen by the naked eye. This helps each fly to look different and special in its own way. It brings me joy to show you a peak into my process and if you have any specific Father’s Day commissions, I am accepting them until June 12th. I hope you enjoy and I will be wishing all of the Dad’s in your life a very happy Father’s Day!