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.
I found my way to the beach after a day spent at Starkey Park and Ranch with family. I would have loved to paint there, but it didn't work out. My family's schedule is often not my own. When I grabbed my easel out of the car, I realized I was missing the part that holds my panel. I retraced my steps along the beach, but high tide has totally changed it. I charged ahead to my painting with only a little light left before sunset. With every brushstroke, the day's stress melted away. Perhaps I'll find that part or maybe I'll buy some clamps. I have a spare at home, but that doesn't help me here. Painting number 5104 in 5104 days.
Oh how I love the days of sand and sun! If only the beach were closer to home.... ❤️🎨⛱️
I kept an eye out for gators as I painted along Brooker Creek in John Chestnut Sr Park. With only 30 minutes to sunset, I decided to go ahead and paint here, though I knew it was cutting it close on time. The park closes right after sunset, and the trails get pretty dark when the sun goes down. Standing by a body of water in Florida calls for caution, so I was aware of every movement at water's edge. I did hear noises, and saw bubbles ripplev the surface, but kept in painting until i reached this point. Loose and fresh, this one is a quick capture of the beauty, with enough time to pack up and get out before the gates close! SUCH a gorgeous place to paint, I'm so happy I chose to explore this south trail! Painting number 3694 in 3694 days.
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.
It is super fun to work a little metal by the pool this afternoon, under the cover of the Florida room. The rain moved in just as I was heading to the beach to paint, so I switched gears and got my metal kit out. With so many wonderful palms in the area, I can sit in one place and see 10 different specimens! I begin by sketching with an embossing tool, then flipping front to back, working from both sides. I love the detail I can achieve this way, and I do wonder if I'll one day push right through that metal! Artwork number 3690 in 3690 days.
