size makes a difference.

oil 36x36

Taking a small painting and making it work as a large piece is not as simple as just sizing up. A different size requires a different look. This painting had this smaller 13x12 pastel as its inspiration. Some painters will grid a small painting and copy it.  I find that a larger painting needs a larger life.... it's not longer an intimate jewel.... it's more of an experience that you enter.

small pastel 12x13 (about)

In this one it no longer felt right to stream the trees across, one tree wanted to be the star. Enter sky.  This painting had so many metamorphoses.....I can't count. Yes, I had a thumbnail, but this was a bossy painting. Maybe that's what red is.
Now it will sit till I decide..done, or not.
BTW Due to the ice storm on Sunday the Waverly Street Gallery will continue the special holiday party on the night of the opening reception So please come join us on Friday, December 13, 6-9pm

Golden Glass/ November

10 x 10 pastel on watercolor on Uart paper, for sale at open studio
19 degrees this morning so I decided to wait until the mercury reached a balmy 40. River Bend Park was beautiful (as always). The light was low and golden with a hint of melon and the water was glassy.
The tricks to painting in the cold: long johns, car heater nearby, thermos of hot chai, and many layers of clothing. I wonder how long I can last outdoors this year ...I don't want to stop, no matter how cold I get! It seems like the light only gets better as the days get colder! Anyone want to venture a guess as to when I'll have to retire to the studio?

Late November Beauty

9 x10.5 pastel and watercolor on Uart paper $100. plus tax/ship
The beauty of early winter is phenomenal. It sure makes it worth freezing my fingers. One good thing to say about freezing is it makes me respond quickly to the color and light without over-thinking.
Thank you to my friends the reservoir guards who look after me each day I am out on the hill painting their treasure.