Monday, June 8, 2009

Plein Air June 2, 2009


This 6x9 was painted at the Stevens-Coolidge estate last week. There were so many perennials and trees in bloom that it was overwhelming to simplify and concentrate.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Tonalism - a personal word on the subject . . .

As these days and weeks go on, I continue my journey of exploring tonalism and how it works for me. Working with an under painting, allowing the glow of the underpainting to show through, exploring the mood of how I perceive the subject in front of me, allows much expression to come forward. I've fallen into this category of painting by accident, by struggling in different methods. Tonalism has come to me by a painting instructor who suggested I start a painting with an underpainting . . . and all of a sudden it made sense. Its like music. Years ago, as a young adult taking advanced piano lessons, my piano instructor mentioned I should pursue the romantic composers . . . that too fell into place. The music and art 'making' are a bit easier!!!

Essex Marsh-Study

I love cloudy, foggy days on the coast. Seems anything in bloom is accentuated by its grayish surroundings. This was a Saturday morning a few weeks ago. 8x12 on panel - NFS

Maudsley Park-Dogwood

My visit to Maudsley a few weeks ago was so positive. I completed a plein air study (see below), and from the study completed this larger work in my studio. This tree was just 'out there', with nothing to obstruct its beauty. 16X20; framed. $540.-