June 29, 2010

I have been painting in Addison, Maine for the last month, working outside and in the studio, preparing landscape paintings for an August show, Summer Studies. Most of my painting is usually done in the studio, so there is a big adjustment to working outside. Selecting a site, and getting started is more difficult - too many possibilities. Painting outdoors creates a sense of urgency as the light and tide change constantly. Gradually, I adjust to the change, selectively picking those visual qualities that are most important, and adding the shifting information as I progress. The plein air process demands focus, and a commitment to being in the present, and I love that. The difference in palette between studio and outdoor paintings has surprised me as I cast aside my favorite low light conditions of dawn and dusk to paint in the daylight hours.