Hammocks at Sunset

 

I like to paint on the beach as much as possible when in Florida. As sunset approaches, locals walk, bike or drive to the beaches just to watch the sun set. Then, just as quickly as they arrived, they pack up their gear and are headed out before it gets dark.  I love watching it, being part of the nightly ritual, and painting it when I can.  There is something magical about the rising and setting sun, and the thankfulness of it all. Painting number 5116 in 5116 days. 

Causeway Clouds

 

I found my way to the beach after a day spent at Starkey Park and Ranch with family.  I would have loved to paint there, but it didn't work out.  My family's schedule is often not my own.  When I grabbed my easel out of the car, I realized I was missing the part that holds my panel.  I retraced my steps along the beach, but high tide has totally changed it.  I charged ahead to my painting with only a little light left before sunset. With every brushstroke, the day's stress melted away.  Perhaps I'll find that part or maybe I'll buy some clamps. I have a spare at home, but that doesn't help me here.  Painting number 5104 in 5104 days. 

Dunedin Causeway

It was totally worth the drive through snow and ice to get to this beach and paint!!  Oh sweet Florida!!  That white bird to the right, behind my easel, was my constant companion this afternoon.  This beautiful Great Egret is in his greening, which is represented by a green patch above his eyes, signifying breeding season.  He walked right up to me and was very inquisitive about my gear. When I talked to him, he came closer.  I was just ready to take a selfie with him over my shoulder when my Mom called!  He stepped away a bit and the chance was lost.  He waded along the coast and fished for his dinner while I painted another two from this spot.  There is nothing as therapeutic as the beach for my soul!  Painting number 5103 in 5103 days. 

Dunedin Causeway

After a family lunch with Danny's office workers, I headed out to paint, unsure of where to go.  With a quick look at the map - I found myself heading towards Honeymoon Island.  Set up on the beach, I was so immersed in my process I didn't realize the tide had reached me until it was lapping at my feet!  What a glorious day at the office, capturing the beauty of the Dunedin Causeway in oils.  Painting number 3693 in 3693 days. 

708 Wilkie Street

I love finding charming towns in the places I visit to paint!  Dunedin, Florida is a hidden gem close to the west coast of Florida.  Stumbling into this town during their Mardi Gras festival, we had a family day of eating, shopping and of course I had to get in some ink and watercolor!  One of these sketches was seen by the owner of this cottage, and she asked me to commit it to paint!  Love the charm of this place - and it was a joy to get to paint this!  Painting number 2627 in 2627 days.

417 Scotland St.

These cottages in old town Dunedin are full of charm!  Nestled between picket fences and flowering bushes, spring arrives early on the gulf coast of Florida!  So glad I had time for a couple more ink watercoler paintings!  Painting number 2619 in 2619 days.

The Trail in Dunedin

After a day of family time and lunch in downtown Dunedin, I grabbed my stool from the trunk and sketched this street scene right from the bike trail that runs down the coast through these vintage towns.  With plenty of shopping and entertainment, this was certainly a day well spent.  The icing on the cake was a sunset run on the causeway out to Honeymoon Island.  I think that island needs to be explored in paint!!  Painting number 2612 in 2612 days.