Morning on Kessler Farm

I brought two long panels for this plein air event, and when I saw this location I knew I must use one.  I wanted to capture all the barns, silos, cattle, and the wonderful old farmhouse, so I needed a substrate that was long and narrow. I happened to have a piece of birch that I had cut the night before I left town.  I had not washed a color over it, so I had to start on white.  It is a struggle, when I am used to an underpainting. It was a bit dusty on the gravel lane, especially when the tractors were operating, so there is authentic dust embedded in the oils from this site!  These pastoral scenes are among my favorites to paint - so happy the Kesslers allowed me to capture their place!  Painting number 1940 in 1940 days.

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Reflections of Balducci

I can't remember a nicer evening for a sunset paint at Balducci Winery!  After scouting the entire area, I decided on the amazing view from the pond.  I love the way the buildings reflected on the water.  Wanting to capture the entire scene, I grabbed my only long panel left and hiked back down towards the vineyards.  A very windy night had me holding onto that easel, and staring into the sun to paint my chosen composition.  I found myself using strong color for this one, could it be the white surface pushing me this way?  Next time I'll be sure to tone every panel - even the ones cut at the very last minute!  Painting number 1921 in 1921 days.