Klondike Reverie

 

I love when a stormy afternoon forecast turns out to be wrong! It was a great painting day along water's edge at the waterfront in Klondike Park.  The expected rain had stalled, and two glorious hours turned to three as Teddy and I painted fast and loose. The birds were singing, frogs were jumping, and the weather held even until after the taco dinner hosted at the Creative gallery.  The tranquility of this place is inspirational.  Painting number 4864 in 4864 days. 

Standing along the River

 

I finished this one up just as the sun went down, and  I have never seen the Missouri River so calm!  I drove through here in my way to an artist reception from a paint out, and the light on the bank was glorious! Pulling myself away, I popped into the reception and took a quick spin around the place.  The scene along the Missouri River was calling - so I rushed on back to paint it!  Several artist friends were still there, so I had company as I worked.    This painting now has a new home, too!  Painting number 3767 in 3767 days. 

Klondike Park

The white sands surrounding the lake at Klondike Park are so unique!  Looking forward to painting here, I didn't let the rain stop me!  With umbrella in tow, I set up close to the water, for the best vantage.  I kept the umbrella over my panel until I had covered it with oil paint, necessary to get the paint to stick.  If that surface got wet with rain first, the oils would slip right off.  I've used an umbrella twice this week - when I haven't used one for years. That blowing rain makes it a valuable tool for painting en plein air!  Painting number 3039 in 3039 days. 

Klondike Park

Klondike Park is nestled between Augusta and Defiance on Hwy 94 in Missouri.  This beautiful rock formation sits high over the park and the Missouri River.  Once a silica sand quarry in the early 19th century, the park has a wonderful lake surrounded by powdery white sand.  With this painting, I am working on the light and shadow that defines the just the upper part of this very tall formation.  Perhaps another day, I'll paint if from the bottom up.  I have a full day ahead - so I am painting early!  This one makes 96 in 96 days :)

Klondike Park
Oil on panel, 10x8