Summer Retreat is an oil painting on 10 x 20 stretched canvas. I have to admit, beach scenes are my favorite things to paint. I think it is the peaceful feeling that comes over me when I paint them. And if something isn't working right, I can change it. I enjoy walking the beach and painting the beach. Simple pleasures are the best, don't you think? The original is available.
What a difference a year makes!
What a difference a year makes in our lives. This month is the anniversary of what changed all our lives. We have come to recognize what is truly important. And that is family, friends and good health.
It is the little things in life that are important. What have you found changed in your life? Have you done more outside activities close to home? We need to take the time to be grateful for what we have and hold it close.
In the Studio
Well, it has been really busy in the studio. First the painting below of 'Skinner's Pond' I just finished - 36 inches x 36 inches. Much, much bigger than I usually do. This painting has been submitted to the Art Bank of PEI. They get a large number of entries, so am hoping my painting makes the cut and they purchase it for their art bank. Can only wait and see!
I also have two commission pieces that I have started. And yes, these are huge too. One is 36 inches x 48 and the other is 24 inches x 36 inches. They are going to be a big challenge for me as the large one is of a golf course and the other is of a PEI potato field. How I wish they were beach scenes! Wish me luck!
Tips for the Artist in You
Have a look at the painting below. It really didn't start out like the reference photo I had. It was suppose to be a moody sunset scene with lots of dark oranges and browns. I tried it that way and it really didn't work. So I tried with dark blue clouds, it still didn't work.
I couldn't give up on it as it was a big canvas that I really couldn't afford to throw away. So I went back to my usual soft colors and I am pleased with the end result. It is much more inviting and that is what I intended it to be.
So my advice is don't give up on a painting or give up on trying something different, but you alone know your style of painting, your comfort level in painting. A style you can always go back to.
Most Recent Work
'Skinner's Pond, PEI'. If you haven't been here, you really have to go. Make it a 'to do' on your list this summer. I suggest you explore the western part of Prince Edward Island this summer. There are truly some hidden gems with beautiful stretches of peaceful beaches without any crowds.
This painting is larger than my normal paintings and took some time. At first I did it in a sunset with dark shades and I really didn't like it.
It is a 36 x 36 oil on gallery stretched canvas, no frame required.
It has been nice chatting with you. Take care and enjoy your weekend. If you know of someone you think would enjoy my newsletters, please forward this email along to them and they can sign up with this link http://eepurl.com/hicSTb Talk to you soon. June p.s. I plan to run another contest for my newsletter subscribers at the end of March, so I encourage you to signup for my newsletter with the link above.