Light through the Arches

Light through the Arches
Oil on panel, 11x14

Last September, a dear painting friend and I went out to Unity Village in Lee's Summit to do a little plein air painting.  This is one of the reference shots from that day.  I love the architecture out there - it is like traveling to another country to paint!  The morning sun streaming in through these arches instantly caught my attention.  I love the angles and the curves - all working together with the light and shadow, to tell an inviting and peaceful story.  I used to attend this church as a young girl with my grandma, mom, and brother.  I first sketched this scene on the panel, then applied a detailed underpainting.  Once my values were established, I had some fun with the palette knife.  Not nearly as crazy as yesterday, but enough to add to the texture throughout.  I did have thoughts of trying the fracturing technique on this, but the complexity of the composition persuaded me not to!  I think I will try that technique again tomorrow - on something simple, so I don't get in over my head!  Well, this makes 68 paintings in as many days.  Can't believe I am maintaining this pace.  That, in itself, is a miracle.