About Me
Self taught plein air oil painter. early works from 1964.
Land and Seascapes.
Devotee of low horizons big skies and changing weather.
AS I SEE IT..........
Should we repeat the same walk enough times we will pass things we think we haven't noticed.
They may be small or quite large, but inexplicably become imbedded in our subconscious .
It is as if the eye has taken a photograph with out our knowledge. The image may remain there for days or even years. But it will eventually emerge onto the canvas in one form or another.
Of course, for years the sketch book has been the main tool for the painter, followed by the use of the camera as aid de memoir references .
These are both methods used by me. But the other is "plein air". A smart way of saying " Painting in the open air on location of the chosen subject." ( I suppose "plein air" is better.)
When I have chosen my scene and
having with luck picked a spot a spot with the sun behind me, I study my subject. I might dissemble it a little or replace objects or buildings to suit my work. After all, it is the painting itself that takes precedence over the subject.
Over detailing can make for a drab lifeless look despite the skill and labour of producing an accurate record.
With a deep breath, attack the canvas. Eye on the subject, then pallet, then the work. A duel with the senses. Instinctive selection and interaction between eye and work.
For me, this is an exciting procedure, where the painting is completed within the hour. Then you have either got it, or you haven't got it. Hit or miss. That's the real buzz.
The plein air sketch can be developed in the comfort of the studio later. And with luck, there might be something worth looking at.
Anyway ....thats me !