Race Day

This is the first time I've been able to capture a regata in progress!  I arrived on site just as they were ready to go, so I set up quickly.  As these first two sailboats made their turn, I painted fast and furious to get those values and hues in!  I did not take a reference photo.  In fact, it never occurred to me until I saw some of the other artists looking at their phones.  I guess I've gotten so used to painting from life that I don't even think of changing my process.  The benefit is that I walk away with a fresh painting that isn't overworked and cluttered with the details of a photo.  Just another super fun adventure in plein air!  Painting number 1715 in 1715 days.

Oil on panel, 14x11
purchase here

Two Ships Sailing

Two Ships Sailing
Oil on panel, 7x5
original sold - print available here

Of all the colors in the skies, I think the sunsets are most challenging.  The bold, vibrant hues seem so unnatural on the panel - and I find myself trying to reign them in!  I lay the water colors in right beside each other, stroke by stroke, careful to not mix as orange and purple will soon turn to mud.  I then take the edge of a flat palette knife through the highlight color, placing it down on the dark brushstrokes and lifting with one movement.  This creates a thick "wave" that seems to crest, and I use a plastic knife that I can curve gently as I place the mark. I think I will do a few more sunsets until I really feel comfortable with them!  Painting number 785 in 785 days.