Farmhouse Vineyard

Arriving just in time for the quick paint at White Mule Winery, I searched for a scene that grabbed me.  For the first time here, I found this north vineyard adorned in it's autumn color!  I stepped back into the isle far enough to gain the right composition, with the farmhouse in shadow in the background.  The challenge of the wild vines leading to the cool structure of the house was invigorating - especially for a quick paint!  I painted fast, trying to get all described before bringing the masses together.  I love finding a new scene to paint at a place I've painted before, makes the painting experience fresh again.  That farmhouse is a lovely bed and breakfast just steps from the White Mule Winery.  Painting number 3937 in 3937 days. 
 

Old Blue on the Farm

 

I'm so happy my effort on this Quick Paint was awarded tonight at the White Mule Winery!  Loving this whole scene from behind the barn, I backed up until I could see the entire space in front of my easel.  Farm equipment drove past me - kicking up dust, as did a gorgeous team of horses with a shiny red wagon!  The horses were off to give wine country rides, so I couldn't include them, too!  The best advice on a quick paint is to narrow your field and simplify, of which I did neither!  It was a bit of a struggle as I realized I had many masses to paint - and the minutes were ticking by!  I almost bit off more than I could chew on this two hour painting - and still, it was super fun!  In fact, it was exhilarating!  There is something about a real painting challenge that revs me up and gets my blood pumping.  I do so love plein air painting in all it's forms!  Painting number 4371 in 4371 days. 

White Mule Winery in Autumn

When I arrived on location, I knew I would paint here.  An old farmhouse with picket fence AND white mules in the pasture - how could I resist?!? The afternoon light was magical as it cast shadows on the house and illuminated the scene!  With a hard wind blowing, I set up beside an outbuilding for shelter.  Autumn is really showing off here - and I'm so lucky to get to paint it!!  Painting number 2845 in 2845 days.