Friday, April 30, 2010

More Apples

Painting day with Mary - we always have so much fun, and although we paint the same scene or still life, inevitably it turns out very different. I still like making rounded smooth shapes....it is in me, what can I say?

Thursday, April 29, 2010

The Zone


Lately I have been wanting to paint a bit differently, inspired by the exhibits I have seen in the last six months. It is a shift from a study mode into a more zen space while painting, for the pure joy of it.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Medicine Lake

I have been moving my daughter's things from her university apartment and came across this painting which I had done for her several years ago as a symbol of support and strength. They are the Rocky Mountains near Jasper Alberta by Medicine Lake. It was interesting to see it again - the canvas had been primed with a pink which gives these rugged mountains a soft aura.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Trent River


This view is from a beautiful spot on a friend's farm that I was shown this weekend. In the distance is the Trent River. Soon the leaves will be out. I am still enjoying that first blush of pink and lime green.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Early Spring


We found this little laneway in a farmer's field. The day was perfect to be out painting.

Spring Hues


Out painting with Mary today - this was my warmup piece. I had a need to paint the soft hues of the budding trees, and Mary gave me another piece of plywood. The grain of the wood comes through, unless really thick paint is used - which I didn't. The exercice satisfied my desire - feels a bit abstracted.....

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Alpacas


Today was a beautiful sunny early spring day, and my sister and I went to visit a friend's alpaca farm near Havelock. They are related to llamas and camels. I wanted to try capturing their essence while their smell was still on my clothing - next best thing to plein air!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

First One Up

Spring is in the air, against the greys before the greens. Mary and I wanted to keep it simple today.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Reflections

Seems like I am drawn to reflections in spring ponds - reminds me of watercolours. After seeing the Group of Seven, it is the confident decisive strokes that impress me the most - and of course their colour sense. The minimal lush brushstrokes in gorgeous colours - what mastery!

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Windswept


It has been a while since I painted last, but the good news is that I was in Toronto at the Art Gallery of Ontario and at the McMichael Gallery to really study and enjoy the Group of Seven collection. It has been fabulous....I come home inspired. This scene is on Highway 41, spring in the valley!