Colorscape Blog

As a landscape painter, heading outside with my painting gear is a joy-filled occasion. The great outdoors becomes my open-air art studio! There is so much to explore and savor as I connect with nature up close. A few weeks ago, I hiked out to edge of the Long Island Sound for a day of plein air painting. The top photo posted here includes my portable outdoor easel along with my full box of pastel paints. 

The painting on the easel is a work in progress and shows the underpainting and composition at the early stages. I waited for the tide to head out to reveal the rock formations that dot this part of the shoreline and lie in hiding during high tide.  Once the rocks were fully exposed, I worked quickly to capture the drama of the setting with loose and energetic strokes.  

The finished work “Exuberance of the Day” is posted here. The warmth of the day and spirit of this beautiful place are expressed with bold mark making and vibrant colors. This work reflects the hope-filled emotion that comes with the gift of a creative summer day. What is the perfect summer day for you? Perhaps a beach outing, visiting a quiet lakeside setting, or taking a long walk nearby is a delight. May the warmth and light of the summer season nurture you!