Nature’s Story

It is another scorcher today. Although it is early morning humidity can be felt in the air. A gentle breeze assists in dashing flies away and cooling one down. Nature’s offering today was a long forgotten rose bush with an indescribable scent. It has been left to grow wild peeking up amongst the bushes that have grown around it.

It’s determination can be felt as it strives to be seen in the sunlight. It seems to be calling out for attention; stating that although old and obscure its beauty is still strong and captivating. Reminding one that in the haste of life, beauty in others is sometimes overlooked. There is always a story to be told and beauty to be seen if an alert sensitivity exists.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

MacLellan’s Brook, Nova Scotia

It is so thrilling to be back out on location again! The horseflies were out in abundance when I painted this painting. The temperature got very hot as the morning moved on and the sun rose higher in the sky.  I continue to be enamored with roses and love both their scent and beauty in the summer sunlight.  Other than the horseflies it was an extremely quiet and peaceful morning. I counted my blessings to be able to stand in nature’s beauty and paint happily with her!  Hoping you are getting a chance to find happiness in nature too!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. I would love to hear any of your rose stories or thoughts too!

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/natures-story/feed/ 7 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/plein-air-inspirations-video-powells-pt-park/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/plein-air-inspirations-video-powells-pt-park/#comments Wed, 07 Jul 2010 11:38:55 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=1036

Hi Everyone!

Here is my latest ” Plein Air Inspirations”  video of my newest study done in Powell’s Pt. Park, Nova Scotia. It was a gorgeous summer morning and while scouting for a subject to paint I looked up in the sky and saw the moon still hovering above. I love the look of the moon in the sky during the day –something magical about it! I am presently painting a larger studio painting from my study and will be finished of it soon. Hope you enjoy my little informal video. Cheers!

Warmly,

Debbie

It felt like coming home when the park reopened and I returned to paint its beauty. I easily stepped in time with its rhythm and began to recall emotions I had experienced there  previously. There is something very comforting about painting in a familiar location and at the same time exhilarating knowing that unexpected views will be discovered amongst its familiarity.

My heart sang as I listened to nature, smelled the sweet salty air and relished in a slower pace nature had to offer. It is an escape from a  fast paced world –a place where living in the moment becomes a priority. Schedules and to do lists become a distant thought as nature envelopes my senses.  May nature softly whisper of the importance of self renewal and the necessity of finding a sacred place where you too can find a peacefulness beyond the noise of  life.

P.S. Although different from the surface texture I am use to, I did enjoy painting on this linen panel by RayMar.

Painting and Reflection both completed on location.

Freshness of Spring

It is such a thrill to be back painting in the park after a long winter. Spring has enveloped the park with its freshness. An array of lime greens, reds and crisp blues dance before ones eyes.  A gentle breeze drifts in amongst new foliage and across the ocean.

Delightful arrays of new beginnings prevail; bringing promises of leisurely days ahead within nature’s easy going personality. Promises of renewal and the enjoyment of warm day activities bring a smile to one’s face. Renewal is essential to one’s well being; it brings new hope and obliterates the mundane of daily routines.

Warmly,

Debbie

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/freshness-spring/feed/ 2 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/flowering-quincenewest-inspiration/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/flowering-quincenewest-inspiration/#comments Sun, 16 May 2010 23:54:43 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=937

Unexpected Surprises

Several years ago I planted a little shrub called a Flowering Quince.  I was new to perennial gardening and really had no idea what I was buying. Well I am so happy I decided to give this  little plant a home in my front garden. It really didn’t amount to much for a few years and then began to flourish.

Initially it started with a few pretty red flowers that bloomed close to the bottom of the plant. It is now a thriving showy shrub that displays an abundance of beautiful red cupped flowers in early spring. Thus, it became my inspiration and subject for my newest miniature painting.

This Flowering Quince took on a life of its own and matured into a gorgeous shrub! It exceeded any expectations I had for it. Life is sometimes filled with surprises when you least expect them. Recognizing they have arrived is sometimes a subtle occurrence.  Hoping that life brings you sweet, joyful surprises!

Warmly,

Debbie

Return To The Park

After a long hiatus I have come back to visit the park.  Immediately, I am reminded of its allure and hear an inner voice scolding me for my lengthy absence. Life’s responsibilities can get in the way and what brings much delight can soon become a fading memory.

A gentle breeze rustles amongst the foliage; allowing it freedom of movement as it gently rocks back and forth. Wild roses provide delight to the eye as they cheerfully dance about within summer greens. Their laughter fills the space around them with joy and the promise of languid summer days ahead.

We must remember to take nature’s lead and move at a slower pace, remembering to quiet the mind so that self renewal becomes evident.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

After a long winter, I still remember the feeling I experienced when I returned to the park for the first time last summer. My heart sung as I witnessed its beauty and one of my favorite sights, wild rose bushes! They always make me smile as they cheerfully bobble about in summer’s breeze. I especially loved the lighting that morning as the sun was making its appearance above the treeline.

In the midst of winter, I am once again yearning to paint in the park in summer’s warmth. I am earnestly awaiting the day when artist and park can merge in spirit once again. Wishing you many sunny and cheerful days ahead no matter what the season!

Sweetness In Friendship

It is a gorgeous September morning causing one to recall past languorous summer days. Birds noisily flutter in and out of the old apple tree as a gentle breeze appears intermittently.

I have come to paint in my best friend’s backyard while she is traveling. Like the apple tree our friendship has matured over the years. Its weathered the storms of life and always bears fruit. No matter what the circumstances our friendship is unconditional. As the years march on a sweetness is gently sprinkled over our friendship as we realize how fragile life can be.

I giggle at the anticipation of her arrival  home.  A special gift will be bestowed to a very special friend for her 60^th birthday. A smile spreads softly, as I think of the years we have ahead to nurture a friendship that only years of acceptance could create.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Riverton, Nova Scotia

“Sweetness In Friendship” was a special gift for a dear friend. It was painted in her backyard while she was away traveling.  It was a gorgeous day in September, where I was transported into the tranquility of nature. Like a small seed in nature,  true friendship occurs and blossoms over time if attended with loving care.

Wishing you many happy moments with new and old friends in 2010!

Plant a seed of friendship; reap a bouquet of happiness. –Lois L. Kaufman

Late Autumn

It is well into autumn now. Leaves have been stripped from trees baring skeletal structures beneath.  Glimpses of areas unseen before, make their appearance between negative spaces once occupied by greenery.

Mauves and grays have overtaken the land as nature prepares for her slumber ahead; while straw colored grasses soften the appearance of autumn’s grayness.  Even the light has becomes less intense and seems to be filtered into a cooler light.

As evening approaches a stillness engulfs the land.  Warmer temperatures are a welcome relief to previous damp weather. It won’t be long before the land will be hushed with a blanket of white.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Grant’s Lake, Nova Scotia

This past weekend we were fortunate to receive warmer temperatures and drier weather.  I decided to take advantage of the finer weather and head out on location. I  knew I would not be blessed with many more days to paint en plein air before it got too cold.

It was amazing how much the light had changed since early autumn. The warmth of the sun quickly disappeared as the sun began to fade. Unfortunately I had forgotten my small gloves, so a rapid clean up occurred before I trudged back to my car!  Admittedly, my thermos of tea was a welcome relief when I got back into my car!

A State of Solitude

The air is clear and crisp this morning. We have been blessed with another gorgeous autumn day. Today the park tantalizes one with an array of subject matter.  Decisions must be made before the noon sun fades autumn’s brilliance.

Finally, across the ocean a strip of land beckons to be captured on canvas. Slats of light drape gracefully over land and foliage; while pockets of shadow add to its drama and mystic.

Senses engaged, a rhythm of paint and motion begins as an intuitive voice guides the way. Directed thought  gently disappears as the mind quiets and the present takes precedence. A state of utter solitude occurs, interrupted only by nature’s activity within the area.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

This weekend I took full advantage of the weather when the sun decided to visit! The park will be closing soon, therefore I am trying to paint on location as much as possible. I also took some time to explore new nooks and crannies at the park that I had not viewed before.

It continues to amaze me how many angles and different vantage points I can find as new subject matter to paint. There is an endless array of subjects and inspiration! Visiting at different times of day add to the abundance of subjects.

Today, I met a person kayaking in the bay. We chatted about the absolute beauty of the park. It was one of those perfect autumn days you wish could go on forever!

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/a-state-of-solitude-at-powells-pt-park/feed/ 5 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/within-the-breeze/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/within-the-breeze/#comments Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:37:40 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=660

Within the Breeze

The wind is unforgiving today. It gusts about whipping grasses and foliage relentlessly. The ocean air permeates the space with its salty breath. Fall has suddenly arrived with its bright clear colors and crisp air.

I have found a sheltered corner on the beach avoiding some of the wind’s power. Memories of roses prevail as the remaining rose hips bobble in the wind.  Their circular forms are smooth and shiny in the bright sunlight.  Before long a frosty hand will gently turn their leaves crimson as autumn spreads its charm over the land.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Big Island, Nova Scotia

During the long weekend in September, my husband and I ventured down to Big Island, one of my favorite places to paint en plein air. It was an extremely windy day! I really wasn’t sure if I would be able to paint with comfort. Luckily, I found a small corner on the beach, somewhat sheltered from really huge gusts of wind. I became captivated with the swaying of tall grasses and their silhouette against the bright clear sky. Happily, I was able to complete a small plein air painting at one of my favorite painting locations!

Invitation To Freedom

There is a chill in the air as a cool breeze drifts in; causing one to don long sleeves and pants. A shift occurs as the lazy days of summer begin to fade. The park is quieter today as people move on to other responsibilities with September’s anticipated arrival.

Still the park’s allure prevails.  Unaware of our man made world it bustles along stepping in time with nature’s pace. Seagull’s gleefully jostle about in the breeze causing one to imagine how joyful it must be to soar without cares in an endless expanse of space.  Nature happily stretches out her arms in invitation to join her in a freedom that only she can provide.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

I visited the park a few days before we were to experience yet another weather disturbance. The last one had brought with it much cooler air, bringing about the realization that summer was falling into the past. I love this view in the park. It is part of a well worn path that leads to the beach. As you trudge along there are little peek holes that allow views of the wide open ocean. The height of the path above the ocean adds to its appeal.

I always find that a shift occurs in September which makes me a bit melancholy knowing that summer will soon be over. On another note the anticipation of fall is stimulating as I love its brilliance. Wishing you a wonderful autumn or new season wherever you live!

Spirits Merge

It is a humid and very breezy day in August. Everything is in motion as a steady breeze drifts over the ocean surface. It dashes throughout pockets of space within swaying foliage. An intimate perch above the shoreline beckons for company. It creates a protected space for the viewer, enabling one to nestle in as a creative spirit becomes one with its environment.

A merging of spirits occur as the dance begins and nature sings her song of praise. She joyously triumphs over her ability to seduce the viewer; allowing one to live within a present moment uninhibited by worry or care for the future. It is a meditative moment where time stands still and a magical blending of spirits occur.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

It was the day before Hurricane Bill was predicted to pass over parts of Nova Scotia when I decided to venture out on location to Powell’s Pt Park again. The humidity hung heavy in the air as the wind whipped to and fro. I was being lured to the ocean front that day and knew it would be a day to remember.

With it being so hot, it was necessary to seek shelter out of direct sunlight. Imagine my delight when I saw a wonderful view  from a perch under an old oak tree! Oh it was heavenly, warm wind, serene and a moment in time I think I could stay in forever.

Nature has a way of gently caressing our soul, without any expectations from us. Let’s reciprocate her selflessness and honor her gifts. Wishing you peaceful moments in nature’s late summer embrace.

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/spirits-merge/feed/ 2 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/the-unexpected-in-plein-air/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/the-unexpected-in-plein-air/#comments Sat, 25 Jul 2009 21:46:49 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=499

A  Harmonic Existence

Every year I gleefully anticipate the arrival of wild rose bushes. They brighten summer greens and cheerfully inhabit the surrounding space. Their nature is pleasant and easy going.  Bobbling in the breeze they sway about effortlessly. Resistance is set aside as they adjust to nature’s ever-changing state. Without resistance an existence of harmony surfaces; paving the way for a greater sense of joy and contentment. Negating resistance is not an easy task and one that must be revisited often.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

My Park Story

On this beautiful summer morning I had etched out some time to paint in the park. I truly love the appearance of wild rose bushes every year and knew my time was limited in capturing them from life. Once I got settled in an unexpected event occurred! Now I need you to picture this to set the scene. I am quietly sitting painting and thoroughly enjoying the peacefulness and solitude of nature. The park is very quiet and not many visitors are apparent.

Suddenly, a camper truck rolls in and a gentleman gets out. He saunters down to where I am painting and gestures to the picnic table right beside me and asks if I would mind if he set up for a little outside party. Now you need to know that this park is large and there are many picnic tables available! Not to mention that they were all free in every area of the park that morning.

Of course I was dumbfounded and stumbled over my words as I nod towards the table beside me saying “Oh you mean this picnic table right here?!” I am diplomatically saying that I will be  an hour or so. Of course it is hard to be assertive in a public park; so in the end he ended up pulling his camper truck right up beside the table and busily started getting ready for his two companions to appear.

My first thoughts were “Oh no how am I going to get this plein air painting finished before his wife and daughter arrive?” Determination set in and I continued to work on my painting with the intent of completing a greater portion of it. I must admit my visitor was quite quiet as he went about his preparations.

Finally his company arrived! Oh my goodness! Quiet they were not!! Loud talk began, country music filled the park for a country hoe down and pounding began as lobsters were cracked opened! Thank goodness I was almost finished of my painting and knew I was going to have to pack up and retreat to another location in the park in order to write my reflection.

All in all I had to laugh at the event! They were friendly people and well intended I am sure. I actually chuckled at the bizarre happening on my way home and had fun tweeting about it on Twitter later. Thank goodness I was able to concentrate and actually only had to tweak my painting a bit once home.

It is unexpected events like this and our reactions that make life harder or smoother. I like to take the road of least resistance and find a solution rather than trudge against the tide. One Park Lesson I did learn from this event though is to always occupy the  picnic table beside me–never leave it empty! Secondly, expect the unexpected in plein air painting–you just never know what adventures await you!

]]> http://www.lameymacdonald.com/the-unexpected-in-plein-air/feed/ 7 http://www.lameymacdonald.com/seasonal-journey/ http://www.lameymacdonald.com/seasonal-journey/#comments Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:22:55 +0000 Debbie http://www.lameymacdonald.com/?p=459

Seasonal Journey

Spring is upon us and has brought a renewal of life.  Nature adorns her space with an abundance of blooms, lime greens and reddish umbers.  The air is crisp as I nestle down beside a low lying tree limb.  Before me is a treasure to behold. Fresh blossoms rejoice in spring’s return with intricate layers of whites and pinks.  They join each other in groups and happily scatter themselves amongst leaves and limbs.

Their allure is unmistakable as their grandness beckons one to move closer to experience their beauty more intimately.  Their journey has just begun as they prepare to bear fruit and present their offerings to the world.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Plymouth, Nova Scotia

A couple of  weekends ago, I was lured into my backyard by beautiful apple blossoms bursting into bloom. Every spring they entice me to admire their birth. When life is too busy it is easy to miss the best part of their presentation! Their blooms are fleeting and one must be fully conscious in order to witness their full drama!

I was especially glad that I had visited our apple trees when I did. This past weekend their beauty was wilting. Blossoms had made their debut and nature was moving onward to its next stage.

Being fully present in a moment is not always an easy task. However, when accomplished, living in a moment in time can bring about much peace and harmony. Wishing you small present moments this joyous Spring!

Final Days

It is a crisp October morning. Mist hangs in the air from last night’s moisture; while sunlight adds drama to the land and sea. I can hear a chorus of Canadian Geese announcing their arrival as they inhabit the space overhead. They arrive in formation moving quickly into the expansive space beyond. A few stranglers appear a few seconds later, working furiously to fall in line with the others.

Gratitude whelms inside for making such a rich discovery so close to home. Subject matter abounds and the seas’ expansiveness enlivens the spirit! Soon the park gates will be closing as the season comes to an end. A foreboding sense of melancholy creeps into the crevices of the mind. With the closing of the gates a longer journey would have to be made in order to reach this small sanctuary. Visitors are arriving one last time to witness nature’s treasures. Although the park shall close, nature will march on, sailing into the next season, oblivious to man’s restrictions beyond.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

When I painted the study for “Final Days” it was a bittersweet moment for me. My uncle had suddenly passed away the day before my visit. He was a lovely,gentle man. I knew a new chapter was about to begin for both he and his family. Once again nature brought solace in a challenging time. I envisioned his spirit soaring into an expansiveness as beautiful as that day! Nature has always been a friend and never ceases to bring comfort.

The park is now open and I joyfully visited again yesterday! So many paintings to paint there: I will have to get busy before the gates close! Wishing you peaceful days ahead in nature’s wonderful playground.

Sold

I just finished ” Marching Into Autumn”. It is the first painting in my Powell’s Point Park  Series.  My plein air study was used has a reference, as well as my written impressions and color notes. I began this painting by toning the canvas with cadmium yellow light. I tried to do sections at a time so I could work wet into wet. The sky was completed during one session.  Then I moved into the upper land section, down to the water in the far left hand distance and from there I did the water in the foreground. Finally, I moved to the lower portion of the painting. This painting has a bit of lightheartedness and free flow to it. There is a  S curve in its presentation as well.  I loved painting it and remember the day at the park clearly.  I have also included my reflection I completed on location as well.

Marching Into Autumn

There is such a sense of freedom today as I explore a new location to paint.  We have been blessed with a bright clear October morning.  The sun penetrates downward adding welcome warmth to the open shoreline.  Seagulls are out in abundance this morning clamoring back and forth from narrow strips of land nestled amidst the ocean.  Low tide has given them more areas to scatter upon.  They are a very noisy and busy lot as they dart about.  Bright light defines areas in the distance adding interest and drama. Fine weathered days are numbered now as we march further into autumn.  Colored leaves are reaching their peak and colder air will arrive without warning on a regular basis.  It is time to relish the moment stretching it to last beyond the hands of a clock. Negating segmented time and smoothing this moment today into one long pause.

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Powell’s Point Park, Nova Scotia

Now to continue with my series.  I still have a couple more studies left that  I did of the park. I will try to develop them into a couple of larger paintings as well. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate and I will be able to get back out on location to get a couple of studies of the park in winter. I hope “Marching Into Autumn” brought memories of some of your past carefree days!

I have been so busy working on location and also finishing up a  studio painting that I did not get a chance to get back to my third sketch.  Well I finally finished my apple sketch!  It was tricky working wet in wet as red is such a strong color!  It is really easy to get it smeared into areas you don’t want it! I did enjoy the process of completing this healthy looking apple.  Now I just have to choose one more apple to paint a sketch of and my foursome will be complete!

I also finished a studio painting using an earlier study I did.  The study for Upwards was posted under the title Back Out Again, Sept. 26/08.  I did manage to paint one of the chickadees that were out in abundance that evening.  It seems to fit without being contrived.  I will be posting this painting in my current work section of my site with its reflection when my husband takes a good digital of it.  Stay tuned!

Prior to Thanksgiving weekend I found a treasure trove of subject matter in a park close to home.  I have visited the park many years ago, but had a nudge to return.  I was so delighted that I listened to that nudge.  I was like a child with a new toy.  There are so many paintings just begging to  be painted here.  I could do a whole show just from this one location.

My first study was done early in the morning.  It was a bright clear October morning.  The sun added a welcome warmth.  Seagulls clamored amongst strips of sandbar, enjoying feasts from the shallow waters. I found a little niche around a bend on the shoreline and was quite intrigued with the lighting in the distance.  I really liked how the light shone on the small buildings.  The red rooftops added interest to the scene, especially with autumn’s colors. I relished in the moment and wished I could freeze it so that time would stand still for a long welcomed pause.   The gates will be closing soon and driving into the park will be impossible.  A long hike would have to be made in order to reach my new found sanctuary.

The next day I was off again to paint two more studies in Powell’s Point Park.  One in the morning and one in the evening.  I loved the little strip of land before me and have found several angles it could be painted from. While I was painting a gaggle of geese arrived.  I could hear them long before they came around the bend! They were awesome to see and were quite close to me in the sky.  It didn’t take them long to vanish into the expansive distance though.  Visitors were arriving throughout the morning.  They too were trying to absorb these last few fine days in the park.

The evening  was glorious with its strong light against the fall colors!  I had to work extremely fast as the light was rapidly disappearing and October’s brisk air was moving in!  I was able to get a quick study in about forty minutes.  I had to pack up quickly as I was concerned that the gates would be closing by dusk and I couldn’t drive out.  While completing my reflection for this study a funny thought occurred to me.  I wondered if the seagulls found comfort in their daily routine.  Did they sometimes find it monotonous?  Routine can be comforting, but then again it can encourage complacency.  The danger then is to move through our day in auto pilot never being totally aware and forgetting to appreciate small present moments.

Since the weather was so good today.  I decided to take advantage of it and head out on location again this evening.  I headed to MacLellan’s Brook where I was going this morning before I found a new location on my way.  It is cloudy tonight and the sun is a bit fleeting. I decided to paint a subject I never tire of and am totally enchanted with year after year.  It is a bush with gorgeous red berries that dangle from its branches.  I could paint these berries and entwined branches over and over.  I think I am obsessed with this subject!  They always look so brilliant and rich in the autumn light.  The sky is incredible tonight–marbleized and changes by the minute!  The chickadees love these trees and berries.  They flit in and out of the tangled branches nibbling on the crimson berries along their way.  I have caught a digital of one in flight.  I have posted it above.  I think I will try to incorporate it into my studio work of this location.  I had to work really fast as the light was escaping and the flies were terrible!  Some are actually embedded in the paint on my study–you can see them if you look closely.

I am very inspired to paint a larger piece of work from my experience.  I will add greater detail and paint on a gallery wrap canvas (sides of 2in. wide).  I can’t wait to get it started!

I ventured out early in the morning with the intentions of painting a study in one of my favorite locations.  However, on my way I discovered a new spot I had never painted.  Usually it is shrouded by dense foliage, but with Mother Nature weeding out her foliage the spot became quite visible from the road.  A calm brook awaited my arrival.  It was gorgeous with its surrounding fall colors, contrast in lighting and deep reflections.  The ground around the brook was extremely muddy and it squished up and around my sneakers.  I had to lay some large ferns under my feet where I was painting so I didn’t have to squish down in so much mud as I painted.  I got quite a workout lugging all my gear over the bank and stumbling over limbs and brambles!  I did a larger study this time (9x12in.) and was happy with the results.  It will make a nice resource for a larger piece of studio work.

It was one of those beautiful autumn mornings where the air was fresh , but not too cold.  It was a more pleasing morning today as the wind from yesterday had disappeared.  Moisture filtered in the air and clung to foliage.  I decided to go to MacLellan’s Brook today as I love this area and it is always so peaceful.  As I drove into the old farm area, a deer bounced out in front of my car.  We both stopped and watched each other for a few minutes.  I took a digital, but by the time I was taking the picture she was darting away.  The scene I decided to paint today was breathtaking with its strong back lighting.  It is amazing how quickly the summer greens are disappearing.  The greens now hold traces of red, orange and deep yellows.  Lots of greyed colors are present now as one season passes into the next.  Wildlife was out in abundance today.  While I was setting up to paint, a deer bounded up into the hills.

While I was in the middle of painting, an amusing thing occurred.  I was very quietly painting and begun hearing a scuffling in the bushes nearby.  At first I didn’t pay attention as there are always small noises and activity around me.  It persisted at a steady rate and seemed to be coming closer.  As I turned around I could see the grass moving and suddenly  a porcupine stuck his head out into the pathway where I was standing.  He was about 2 yards away from me!  I was just as surprised as he was at our discovery of each other!  We both just stopped and stared at each other.  Then I thought it would make a perfect digital.  As I reached for my camera, he stood up.  We were at a standstill again.  Then he flipped around and proceeded back in the direction he came from.   I had a little chuckle and continued on with my painting.

Once my study was complete I began to write my reflection while I sipped tea and had a snack.  I just soaked in the intense fall sun today!  I was very pleased I had, because the beautiful day gave way to a dull cloudy one later in the afternoon.

During a run on fine days I ventured down to Big Island on two separate occasions.  The first morning was gorgeous, still and warm.  The ocean was like a mirror.  While I was sitting on the beach, I began to observe the grasses before me.  What I found interesting was the way they arched as if still swept by strong breezes.  Their marks could also be seen etched in the sand where they swept back and forth during breezy days.  I loved the shadow affect on the light colored sand. I painted this small 5x7in. study on my lap as my reference point was better at that level.  I think I might do a studio painting of this one for my Bookshelf  Collection.

The next day I arrived back earlier than the day before.  It was a bit windy and not quite as warm at first.  My husband Ian was with me that day.  He did some reading while I painted.  We made lots of starts and stops searching for my subject that morning.  If you go too far up the island the mosquitoes are atrocious!.  They literally attack any bare skin available!  This scene was on the calmer side of the island.  The road separates the two sides-one is the wide open ocean and the other side is an inlet which is often calmer.  I liked this scene for both the opening and distance as you looked through this open space.  The reflections seemed to sink deeply into the shallow waters.  I liked how the center shadows below the opening were not as greyed.

I always feel a sense of freedom at the shore.  The wide open spaces just seem to let ones spirit soar.  It was quieter in the beginning of the morning; but, as the morning wore on more tourists were site seeing.  Some took pictures of the scene I was painting!  I guess they thought it must be a good spot to do so, since I was taking the time to paint there.  Personally, I like it when the island is quieter.  The fall is a great time to come down as less people are around.  By the time we left the island it was quite warm.

We were lucky enough to get consecutive days of summer weather again.  Thus, I took the opportunity to get back out on location.  I ventured back out to MacLellan’s Brook.  It was a hazy evening –warm and languorous.  I was attracted to both the back lighting in this scene and the diagonal slats of light across the field.  The haystacks were scattered about the field and flicks of light touched some, while others stood in shadow.  Since the background was mostly in shadow I had to look closely to pick up subtle greyed colors.  The clock was ticking as I had to work quickly to paint my study before nightfall.  Colors, light and shadow were changing before my eyes as the sun dipped lower towards the horizon.  When my study was complete I was literally writing my reflection in semi darkness.  Just as I was packing up a deer sauntered across the field unaware of my presence.  Suddenly, she realized she wasn’t alone and perked up.  Then it seemed out of no where another deer joined her.  He started snorting and then they both darted across the field.  Satisfied with my study and notes I drove home in the dark.  It was a great night!

After several weeks of rain, a clear day has finally arrived!  When I awoke to a beautiful day and captivating light my itinerary for the day quickly changed.  It was a perfect morning for a study.  So with my gear in tow I ventured out to MacLellan’s Brook- one of my favorite places to paint.  Upon arrival I just strolled around until a particular view resonated with me.  I loved the depth in this view. It seemed to progress in layers with the background trees deeper in shadow and the foreground trees in brilliant light.  Shadow and light also played out in the foreground grasses.  What struck me today was how subtle colors were revealed to me, only after I was still and focused.  Hints of color within color began to become apparent.  Green was not just green, bits of orange or blue mixed with it were necessary.  Shadowed areas were also enlivened with color, not just flat darker areas.  Ah, it was a perfect morning, initially still and clear and later a gentle breeze stirred.  After my study was complete I sat back with my tea and snack as I began my written reflection.  Curiously, I never know what will be said, I just follow a gentle lead.  It is an exploration of thought and a coming to terms with ideas that have floated around in my head.  Life’s trials and tribulations are a major influence.  Once again, I am reminded of how my life and art are codependent on each other.  It was that kind of memorable day that will stay with me for awhile.  Hopefully, the fall will produce a few more!

My son and I were joking that I was like the phantom artist on my site.  Since we had not posted the About section on my site there was not a single picture of the artist on my website.  Even on my blog my outdoor set up was on display, but NO artist!  Well the phantom artist has appeared!  I have posted a picture of me working in my backyard studio.  I love working in my outdoor studio when the weather is nice or even overcast.  I have even worked out there during a light rain.  I get the best of both worlds–shelter plus fresh air and the sounds of nature.

A few years ago I was looking through an artist magazine and saw a similar set up and thought it was an awesome idea.  I didn’t like working in my studio (which is in the basement) during the day in nice weather, so I thought this would be the perfect solution.  Almost like being out on location!  We had a platform built out of hemlock and erect a screen tent on top of it.  I might add that due to high winds and rain this is our third tent!  However, my husband came up with a great idea this year and stabilized it in a more effective way.  So far so good and we have had a lot of rain and wind this year already.  I would like to keep it up into early fall so I can continue to paint there.

The painting in the picture is now just about finished.  I posted the study for it in an earlier blog.  I will be posting it soon along with some stages I took during the painting process.

Yesterday morning I decided to venture out to McLennan’s Mtn. I travel on a dirt road that winds through the woods and offers much subject matter at various times of the day and year. It was a morning where the light was fleeting and darted in and out of a heavy cloud cover. On my tour I came upon several spots that I hope to return to paint.

One spot was especially alluring with a sea of Loosestrife tucked away within a wooded area. However, the lighting was not quite to my liking so I will have to return. I decided to paint a 6x8in. plein air painting of Loosestrife and other weeds that looked fresh and cheerful amongst the summery greens. I love painting intimate little corners in nature. It is so meditative to observe and capture a snapshot of nature with brush and paint! All my senses become engaged. Just listening to the sounds of nature hum around me bring a sense of joy and freedom. During my painting session I accidentally stepped on a wasp’s nest a couple of feet from my easel! Luckily I did not receive their wrath! I just let them settle and kept a short distance away. I had to step back from my easel several times while a few stray wasps came to investigate. After my painting was complete, I sat with my tea and jotted down my written reflection to accompany this piece of work. All and all it was a great plein air session and during the last hour the sun came out in full force!

I have been back out on location again this past week. I call it my great outdoor studio–which is also my greatest teacher! I find it amazing that I can visit the same local areas year after year and still view it with fresh eyes. Often stumbling upon new subjects or viewing familiar subjects in different angles. One day this week that exact fact occurred.  I went to MacLellan’s Brook where an old farmstead used to exist.  It is a location that I feel both safe and in sync with.  I was very surprised to stumble upon beautiful rose bushes that must have been a part of the old homestead that once existed there.  They were gorgeous in the bright morning light and dew.  I painted a small 5×7 painting of them and only have a small bit of tweaking to do on it.  I will post it when it is completed with touch ups.  An added note : while I was painting a hawk or eagle soared overhead letting out a few screeches.

Yesterday I visited another familiar haunt I like to paint on a yearly basis.  Once again, a familiar setting took on new perspectives.  I did not paint a study as the lighting was not to my liking.  Instead, I rose early the next morning and ventured back out to the same spot in Grant’s Lake.  Awesome! The conditions were perfect, calmness,lighting, temperature–all except for the abundance of black flies! I set to work on a 9×12 painting study.  An hour and half later I had a decent study, color notes and listed palette colors.  I am looking forward to painting a large studio work from my new plein air study! I have posted a picture of my on location studio, my subject  and the study I completed.  I certainly got a good workout trudging through long grasses and brambles with all my gear!

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