Peace at Water's Edge

Peace at Water's Edge
Oil on panel, 24x18

I am painting another large landscape today - and I am surprised at how much paint I am going through!  This was a panel I had primed a long time ago, and it's surface absorbs the paint and causes it to drag far more than the way I prime them now.  I add a bit of acrylic gloss medium to the gesso mix now, and that creates a better surface for the oils.  Since I don't use turps or mediums, this is pretty important.   I listened to Walden by Thoreau as I painted this.  It was as if I was sitting by Walden Pond as I pulled the strokes.  Painting number 547 in 547 days, now out to get some more yard work finished!

Moss on the Lake

Moss on the Lake
Oil on panel, 14x11
George Owen Nature Park

This is my second painting from the George Owen Nature Park.  In this spot, one must tread carefully, as Canadian geese and their young goslings are all about!  I had to give them a wide birth, just to get close enough for this view of the lake.  The moss spreading out into the water drew me in.  I have not ever tried to paint algae on the water before - and it is a little tricky!  The lake was calm as glass - allowing the most beautiful reflections on it's surface.  Such a peaceful place for spending the day.  This makes painting number 137 in 137 days.