Detail from Stonington Bridge

I did tweak the bridge painting today despite getting two different opinions on the cables. I put some subtle highlights on the bridge itself and just a hint of light over the cables. Hope I didn't wreck it. I'm posting a small detail of the birds today (did anyone know they were birds?) because after endless attempts, I couldn't get an accurate photo of the finished painting. I'll have to wait for a brighter day.

Tiverton Shack 6x8

Lately, I have been less successful in getting paintings that are ready to post. I did find this little start from an outing in Tiverton, with the girls last late summer. I was surprised that I found it 'not bad' and think it doesn't need much to be moved over to the finished pile. So up it goes for my faithful visitors whom I don't like to disappoint.

Banyan Tree #1 6x8

I'm posting this as the finish, though after studying it while writing my post, I think the left side of the painting needs just a few small strikes of sunlight into that neutral mid tone to enhance the form of the trunk. I'll let it sit a while and it will tell me what it needs. We're going back to the same location this Thursday and I plan to stay with this subject. It's a good lesson in seeing the big picture in terms of design. This is just a small section of the trunk system of this massive Banyan tree. It happens that while I've been working this evening I listened to a inspirational PBS feature on Ansel Adams who was a fantastic artist with a camera.

Summer People

I've been away taking care of some family stuff which put a crimp in my creative process but my site meter report says you're all still there checking in. Thanks, I'm getting back to work today. I did this 9x12 plein air painting at a paint out many years ago. Initially, I thought it was a mistake to let the arms run off the edge of the board but most viewers think the people are fishing and don't seem bothered by the cropping. I like the color in this one. Hot and summery.

Back Yard Plein Air

The expression, "the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence", applies here. I live a block from the ocean and 2 miles from a working harbor filled with boats of all types. Old fashioned cottages can still be found and there are beautiful gardens galore. Right here at our house I have a bunch of container gardens and cool garden statuary and endless still life "props', the collection of which, is ongoing. Yet, I'm compelled to drive to Maine to paint lobster boats, to Nova Scotia to paint flowers and cottages, anywhere to paint anything. It's an artist thing. Here in my own backyard is just as nice as anyplace, really. This is my block in of this little setup with petunias. I'll finish it today. The heat has been replaced by cool sea breezes, my kind of weather.