If I have the time, I frequently make more than one painting of the same place. Sometimes it helps. The second one might emphasize what I realized was important in the first. Then again it might not!
These two scenes done one after the other, very early morning at Van Damme State Park (whilst Mark was sensibly sleeping) unintentionally document how quickly the weather can change. The mist came in within half an hour. The fishing boat was also present when I was painting the first one but I chose to leave it out. That wise decision was not followed in the second, which is a pity, as otherwise I love the way the heavy moisture in the air caused a granulation of the watercolor washes. (See detail at the top of the post.)
I am happy with each of these sunset paintings as they describe a different aspect of that rapidly shifting light. It was worth foregoing happy hour to capture the moment!
To see more paintings from the Gualala trip click here Northern California 2019
I love the Van Damme beach pictures Michael. They are so evocative. They made me think it might be worth awakening early enough to see what the world looks like at 6:30 but since you’re doing it for me, there’s no need.
Very sensible!
These works truly transport one and masterfully capture the shifts of weather, light, and mood!
Thank you Medill!
Well you made something out of the mist and damp, Michael. I hate it – nothing drying, not being able to move on- only one thing worse: when the water freezes as well. As for missing happy hour – you were having it – sat in the warm solitude of the evening, far better than any barroom and cheaper.
Thanks Graham! “Happy hour” would have been back at the vacation home we had rented, but you are right, it was a good trade off.