Since November 2019, I have been taking Matt Smith's online class. Recently I painted Elk Lake which is by far and away my best painting. Although I have a very good idea of how I accomplished this feat, the paintings that followed did not come together as quickly or as solidly. On reflection as to why, I think it is because I did not decide the location and color of the horizon line from the beginning and STICK TO IT as I did with Elk Lake. As a result, I painted problem areas over and over again which blurred perspective, color and value lines.
The second realization is that I have to review all of Matt Smith's class instruction before my year is up November 1, 2020 with the goal of learning how to lay down real life color and value in one or two brush strokes.
I am on a journey. I hope you join me plein air painting for the fun and excitement of looking for hours at the beautiful country we live in!
“Elk Lake,” oil, 11” x 14”
“Jemez Hiker,” oil 8” x 10”
“Morning Sunrise Mist,” oil 11” x 14”
“Glacier Braided River,” oil 11” x 14”