Finding A Balance

In the Pines
24 x 20
detail

I like to think that mystery plays a big part in my work- like a character in a novel. Not surprisingly, my painting process reflects this. The layers of glazes and scumbles obscure some the initial information in the underpainting and create areas of visual uncertainty. But I have also found that I crave some beauty in the surface itself- areas of deep dark mystery surrounded by suggestive passages of paint. Enough form to satisfy our lizard brain's powers of recognition but not enough to destroy the playground of imagination. It is a difficult balance, and I am always veering off one side of the road or the other.

I have had a wonderful response to the announcement of the Little Everglades Ranch Florida workshop next spring, with many taking advantage of the Early Bird Special for those who register this month! Also, just in time for summer, the online course The Painted Sky returns next month. Details here.

Summer Skies #7

Summer Skies #7
6 x 8

Who can resist a summer sunset?

It may seem I am just drifting along with the clouds this summer, but nothing could be further from the truth. I have a full schedule of shows coming up this fall and holiday season and into the new year (most of which are listed here over on the sidebar). So, I'm in the studio each day for long hours at the easel. But, I still make time to watch the sky every afternoon.

The Vault of the Sky

Summer Skies #6
6 x 8

When I first began to paint landscapes many years ago, one of the most helpful ideas I came across was the description of the sky as a vault, arching up over us as well as out into the distance ahead. As a child, I often lay on my back in the grass watching clouds or stars at night. But, somehow, as adults we lose that sense of wonder at the thin little envelope of air and light that surrounds and protects us. About the same time I read that description, I started laying down on the grass in our garden and looking up again. Very edifying. I highly recommend it.

Summer Skies #5

Summer Skies #5

4 x 6

More storms this week provided some fine skying.

Summer Skies #4

Summer Skies #4
6 x 8

Continuing on with the Summer Skies project....last evening when the skies began to clear, there was still much evidence of the stormy weather we've had all week.