Method

I've been painting and drawing for as long as I can remember. I sketch objects around me and have always preferred to work from life. Landscape and still life subjects change dramatically with different viewing angles. Atmospheric conditions also help provide endless subject matter. The longer I spend looking at something the better the final results are.

Wind and weather can create problems for any artist when working outside. A canvas becomes a sail in a gust of wind, and a palette of wet paint a repository for all kinds of bugs and debris. Once I stabilize the easel and painting surface, nature enhances the painting process for me. I've applied paint with reeds, feathers and sticks. Bits of shell and sand have become textural elements in finished paintings. My artwork relies on the combination of experimentation and inspiration. Going out on the coldest days to paint is invigorating. Foggy and misty days enhance colors. Working in wet weather can add unexpected "happy accidents" to the painting surface.

My painting "kit" changes to suit the working conditions. But I usually wear a hat and comfortable shoes. I carry tubes of paint, towels,brushes, and containers for medium in a bag. I try to find the lightest easel and carrying case that can be slung over the shoulder. Canvases, boards and paper are tucked under an arm along with an umbrella. Sometimes I bring along a bucket or a stool to make it easier to reach supplies while working.

Set up is accomplished quickly. Once a subject has been chosen, the angle of the sun or the movement of nature can alter the scene. I try to capture what has inspired me before the changes are too great. Beach and dock carts are a necessity when traveling long distances over rough terrain. Everything is clipped or tied to the easel and the easel is attached with bungee cords to the ground.

I am mindful of brushstrokes keeping them similar throughout the picture. As I complete the painting, I try to keep in mind my original idea and work the surface evenly. The first layer of paint is applied in a thin transparant wash over the entire surface. A blank canvas causes harsh glare out of doors and the colors showing through the final paint layers can create pleasing effects. One of the great challenges I face with each new work is to find a balance between what is planned and what is not, and to keep beautiful areas that happen early in the painting process from disappearing when the work is finished.

Painting from life is a challenge, but well worth the effort. Even though the light may change, petals may fall or vegetables dull in the process, the slight movements and changes in color are inviting to study. If the scene I intended is changed naturally for the better, I will alter my original idea to pursue a better painting.

PO Box 90, Braddock Heights, MD 21714
301-371-7757