Morning on the Marsh

"Morning on the Marsh", 9 x 12, oil on linen panel

This is still a work in progress.  The building is an old convent in Newport.  The actual scene had a road running straight to the convent with the marshy area on the side.  It wasn't that interesting so I used my artistic license to change it (thank you Donald Jurney for that license)!  I have been trying to use instagram more often because it is easier to post images from my iPhone.  I will try to remember to post here when I post on instagram as well.  Or just come over to IG and follow me!

Humid Day in Newport

"Humid Day in Newport", 8 x 10, oil on panel

It's been a long time since I have posted here but I have actually been working!  As I have mentioned here before I am working in an indirect manner which takes much longer than painting all prima (in one sitting).  I am also still trying to paint without photo references for at least three months to see if I can improve my memory skills.  This painting was started on site and finished over a few days in the studio from memory.  To make things even more challenging, I am using a new palette which I am still trying to get a handle on.  It is based on Donald Jurney's palette.  He is a New England based painter who does stunning work mostly from his imagination.  He does paint a lot plein air and his drawings are exquisite.  I had the opportunity to meet him in Ogunquit a few weeks ago and I hope to be able to take another workshop with him sometime.  You can see some of his work here.  The palette is unique in that there is no cadmium yellow or red which makes for a softer and more natural color harmony.  He also uses premixed greens which I have never used before.  I'm working on it.  I have a few more pieces in the works.

The Series Continues

"Hot Day on the Docks"  8 x 10 oil on linen panel

I started this on site at the Newport Shipyard docks where all the big fishing trawlers and small boats are docked.   I couldn't stay long though as it was just too hot to stand in full sunshine with no shade.   I have an easel umbrella but it seems to only work in less than 5 or 10 knots of wind which is rare around here.  I like the colors in this.  The jpeg doesn't really pick up the subtle grays in the background but I like the soft effect in the further structures.   Things look a little busy in the lower right hand corner which I didn't intend but I will leave it for now.  If this ends up being a bigger piece I will soften that area so it doesn't draw so much attention.