Americana in Ink

Today is plein air in New Melle day and this charming, old historic house on Mill Street and Peter is my subject du jour.  I've been trying to draw my paintings out first in ink,  before laying them down in oils.  Adding this process really does help me think through the painting before I have a brush in my hand!  This drawing is number 1566 in 1566 days.

Waiting

Tonight finds me drawing Carole Bowles in the vintage dress she wore for the civil war reenactment at our farm. I am really learning from each figure I draw.  The compositions come easier with each one, and the permanence of ink no longer scares me.   It is fun, and relaxing even.   Who knew?   Thanks to my friend Lyn Pharis, for inspiring me to take up pen and ink this January!   Painting number 1282 on 1282 days :)

Waiting
Pen and ink on paper, 6x7
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Painting from the Pasture

Painting From the Pasture
Acrylic on masonite, 5x7

As the final assignment in a figure class this month, I have painted myself!  The photo reference in from the civil war reenactment we had in the pasture, where I invited the MVIS artists to capture the event in paint.  One of the women from the camp loaned me her dress, and voila - I became a period painter!  The hat is one I paint in, and the apron was one I had tucked away from who knows where!  Using my limited palette of acrylics, I blocked in the values and colors that shape the scene.  Next, I tweak those masses using loose, impressionistic strokes.....although I may have tightened up a bit on my palette and brushes.  They are prized possessions that make my life a joy - so, I guess they’re allowed the extra attention!  Twice, I have forgotten to pack my make-up and curling iron on out of town plein air trips, but I always have my art supplies with me!!  This is painting number 1183 in 1183 days.

block in