Saturday, October 12, 2013

Plein Air painting

Lately I've really been focused on my traditional skills -- painting, drawing, etc

I'm currently experimenting with various techniques and media (oils, acrylics, watercolors, gouache and oil pastels) -- even doing some 'mixed media' experiences that show promise (stay tuned!)

I'm also really enjoying being outside in the great outdoors --> and doing plein air painting! (I love it!) -- to be outside, smelling the air.. feeling the breeze and seeing the local colors -- really invigorates a person! (especially when my day job is spent inside -- usually at a desk/on a computer!)

I have such appreciation for plein air landscape painters -- and I find myself really wanting to learn more! (it's so addicting, once you get started!)

The images that I'm posting today are from a recent plein air trip (to a local stream in my town of Sammamish, WA) -- here is a map link of the area: http://goo.gl/maps/xqSw9

The study was done in Gouache  (I actually prefer the final quality of oils (in regards to paint), but gouache is fun to work with -- especially for studies. Essentially I treat it as 'opaque watercolor' -- and it's easy to transport for plein air (just a few tubes/water and palette and you are all set!) -- everything I have fits in a small back pack that i keep in my car with me at all times. Check out James Gurney -- (YouTube videos) and how he uses Gouache.. what a master! -- that's my inspiration!! (to get that good!)

'Small Creek in Sammamish, WA' -- 1.5 hr plein air study done using Gouache on 8x10 canvas panel


(Click on the image to view larger version)
(Click on the image to view larger version)


Thursday, October 10, 2013

the Colors of Fall #2

'the Colors of Fall #2' - digital painting

Love this time of year! ..really enjoy the opportunity to paint with such wonderful colors. This is #2 in a series of landscapes I'm working on. 

done using a Surface Pro (Win PC) and Art Rage software


(Click to view a larger image)

Monday, October 7, 2013

'The colors of Fall #1'

'the Colors of Fall #1' - digital painting

Love this time of year! ..really enjoy the opportunity to paint with such wonderful colors. This is #1 in a series of landscapes I'm working on. 

done using a Surface Pro (Win PC) and Art Rage software


(click on the image to view a larger version)