Sunset Beach Afternoon

 

White sand and sun - what a perfect February pairing!! The gulf coast beaches here are so very light that it bounces right back into my eyes as I paint.  I chose this side of the peninsula for a little protection from the wind blowing out of the north.  The cold side lighting is completely different, too. The water is a very dark steely blue, choppy with foam, and the north sky is cooler and more ultramarine.  Comfort and color landed me here, and I wish I could have stayed for another.  It could not be since Mom was ready to head back for a nap. Painting number 5107 in 5107 days. 

Sunset Beach Pavillion

 

Oh how I love the days of sand and sun! If only the beach were closer to home.... ❤️🎨⛱️

Afternoon at Sunset

 

Another gorgeous day on the white sand of Sunset Beach for plein air painting!  The sky started to cloud over as I began my initial block in. Working quickly, I marked my colors before loading in the masses.  I talked to some lovely people and visited as I worked.  The temperature went down as the clouds rolled in, and with Mom waiting on me, I had to hurry.  Feels so good to get my daily dose of sand and sun, exploring it all in paint. Painting number 3696 in 3696 days. 

Sunset Beach

 

The Florida sunsets are gorgeous on the gulf coast and I love painting them in ink and watercolor!  I've been painting in oils all week, so it is fun to switch mediums. I love how locals flock to the beaches, just to watch the sun dip down below the horizon.  I sketch quickly and lay in color as fast as possible.  The light is so fleeting, changing before my eyes.  Love spending these quiet moments on the beach. What a great way to end the day.  Painting number 3692 in 3692 days. 

Afternoon at Sunset Beach

Every painting has a story, and there is certainly a unique view behind this painting!  When I was first scouting the beach, I zoned in on this area, looking at the masses.  As I set up my easel, I realized there was something unidentified among the rocks, almost still, but moving slightly.  As I walked closer for a better view, there was a man, holding a plank on the beach, in a speedo, facing away from me. No wonder I had trouble identifying those round shapes among all that tan skin.  Haha!  I bet he wondered what in the world I was up to, as I painted, looking directly in his direction!  Just another plein air adventure!  Painting number 3218 in 3218 days.