Autumn at Peaceful Valley Lake

 I absolutely love painting the colors of autumn - especially when they are reflecting on water!  The reds are really popping around Peaceful Valley Lake - and I could hardly wait to get back here once I saw the beauty!  I marked all the highlights while the sun was shining, before the clouds moved back in. The calm water reflected those colors so well, in between bursts of wind.  It seems our autumn color fades so quickly in Missouri - I hope to get several more paintings finished before that happens!  Painting number 3941 in 3941 days. 

Sunset over Peaceful Valley Lake

 I should always seize the opportunity to paint a sunset - the beauty around me is my reward!  With only 30 minutes of light remaining, I grabbed a panel and started slinging paint quickly.  This view was from the lake side of our host home,  and Caroline and I both painted from water's edge! The clouds were illuminated with glorious color, so I marked those masses first, careful to keep them pure.  It's so easy to mix into areas when painting fast, so careful is key.  Once I had my colors marked, I married the edges, bringing it to a speedy completion just as the light was fading.  Sunset painting is always a race with the sun - an invigorating race, indeed! Painting number 3940 in 3940 days. 

Autumn Reflections on the Lake

I just couldn't resist painting this gorgeous fall color on Peaceful Valley Lake! I'm a bit in love with these first reds and golds, and I just can't get enough of them!  I saw this scene on my way out first thing this morning, and waited until the afternoon light was on them to paint. It is super fun to lay down strong color, and this rich scene surely called for them.  I hope I get many more days to paint the autumn leaves before they drop!  Painting number 3933 in 3933 days.  

1665 Lake Shore Drive

Peaceful Valley Lake was a wonderful place to paint for a day during the Gasconade County Paint Out!  Nestled in a shady pocket under a low tree, I perched up the hill a little to gain this perspective on this house.  Autumn color was just rising, and it was fun to let the watercolors mingle on the wet surface of the foliage masses.  I love exploring fall with ink and watercolor!  Painting number 3220 in 3220 days.