Storm Approaching

There is something wonderful about the marshes in Maine and the stillness of the water. I'm working with a more muted palette and this painting was challenging as most of the colors needed gray. I absolutely love gray cloudy days and the possibility of rain.

Tomato on White Counter

I cannot believe I have not posted since last September! Well, life got in the way a wee bit. I spent time in Oregon and Maine in autumn and then became uber busy with work and my art group. I know, I'm making excuses but Carol Marine was very correct in stating it is very difficult to keep focused and committed to painting every day. She however, is amazing in that she does! 

The wind has changed yet again and life seems a bit simpler, my son is graduating from college in two weeks (no more nursing!!) and my tenure as president of my art group, PaperWorks, is finished as well. And the blistering Arizona heat arrives, so I cannot think of a more apt time to refocus my priorities and commitments and stay inside the cool house and paint! 

I'd like to continue with small still life studies but my real love is the landscape. That just may have to wait until Fall. I wanted to only use two powerful neutrals and I have never used a black background for painting, only photography. It was really good to mix up the oils again.

Haystack Pines

I spent a week at Haystack School of Arts and Crafts in Deer Isle, Maine, ten years ago and it was the most creative and magical experience I have had in my adult life. Living in the desert, I really miss the pine and fir trees and I guess I must have Maine on my mind as I recently came across a bunch of Deer Isle coastal photos. 

I wanted to tackle the tricky landscape greens in this painting as well as loose brushwork. I painted this painting primarily with my left hand as opposed to my right, which is my dominant hand. I really enjoyed working this way and hopefully it will prepare me to paint some plein air when I return to Maine next month.