Departing Storm

Another seascape in a new style. I was pleased with last weeks Trestles seascape. I'm still dealing with foreground issues in these early evening paintings. This is a 5" x 7" so I can't wait o start a large seascape in this style.

Edge of the Ocean

Ididn't think I would finish this small 5" x 7" but, sometimes you just need to stop. Pick a point to stop painting and don't touch it again. This semi-daily painting has taught me the importance of that lesson. I am happy with what I have learned here.

I was trying to be very simple and still have a a little something going on with the background, a la Matisse. The title comes about because the shell is on the edge of the table and looks so lonely.

Aldergrove Moonrise

Reference photos can be deceiving because they are two dimensional which poses a problem for most painters. I prefer to paint the effect of the light with reference to observations outside my studio windows. So it is that I came across this photo of the Moonrise on a farm in Aldergrove, British Columbia. The mountains reminded me of their counterparts in Southern California with the only difference being the California mountains tend to be a bit more purple. The cows were a first for me as well - 2 out of 3 isn't bad. I liked the double effect of the setting sun and the the rising moon; warm reds & oranges versus the cool aqua blues & violets. I cant wait to paint a similar subject in the style similar to my previous Trestles seascape. I think this would do well with a dramatic color approach. It took me a few extra days to complete but I'm satisfied with the finished painting. This was a very difficult painting to photograph, but thanks to my friend Paula, it's better than expected. Comments please. (16"x20" oil) ~NEXT Detail -

Surf's UP!

The surf is up at Trestles Beach in this early evening view during a storm. I've been reviewing VanGogh and Gauguin's work recently so was looking to put a few of their techniques to practice. Thicker paint and more definitive outlining give it a different feel and mood than may of my other paintings. Trestles is a world famous surf spot and a great view. More pictures to keep the great memories of San Diego North County alive.

Speaking of pratice, this surely was practice! I'm very happy with the clouds but I think the foreground could use a little thought & work. ~NEXT

Here are a few detail photos to give a clearer view. Enjoy!

A Look Inside My Studio

I completed another painting last night and I'm working an a few others so I thought I'd give you a peek inside at the work in progress. The Monet painting is a favorite of mine and I've painted it several times; I'm not sure why I'm drawn to this particular painting. Maybe it's the simplicity of the color scheme and the subtleties of their application. I have learned quite a bit every time I paint it. (9" x 12")

The lagoon painting is again a favorite subject of mine and is an early morning view of Batisquitos Lagoon in Carlsbad, California down the street from where I grew up. Growing up being a temporal term. I' trying to capture the early morning fog and impending warmth of the day. Just a bit more to add to this one. (18" x 24")

This painting of an Aldergrove, Canadian farm at moonrise is a new one for the week and I hope to finish it today or tomorrow. Reference photos are a source of inspiration for me lately as I work a full dime desk job in finance that precludes me from sunlight in my studio during the week. After completing last night’s painting I wanted to try a few new techniques on a different subject. I’m excited about this one. (16” x 20”) Stay tuned for more peaks inside my studio....