Peaceful Afternoon
14×18 inches
Acrylic on masonite
©2016 Lucinda Howe

After I installed my show at Still Hopes on Saturday, I was tired of framing, hauling, hanging, labeling, and publicizing. I needed to get back to my preferred activity… painting. But I had limited time Saturday afternoon, and I didn’t want to waste time scouting the perfect location and getting started.

So I decided to go out to Sandhill Research and Education Center, a familiar location near my home.   From previous experience, I knew I’d find several lakes, barns, and trees. If I could find an interesting angle of light, I could make a painting.

I found a spot next to the lake that had interesting shadows and set up my easel. I blocked in the value pattern with reds and yellows in fluid acrylics that dry quickly. Then I added blues and greens in layers to build up the foliage. Using large brushes, I didn’t get bogged down in details.  See the process in the video below.

This painting came together quickly.   Sometimes constraints remove the decision making stress. My most successful plein air paintings are done with energy and focus.  The result has a vitality that belies the previous experience and planning behind the work.