Getting Real

Since I have started painting a year and a half ago, I have been exploring various techniques and styles. I am still trying to find one that really speaks to me. I do see a style emerging, though I don't think it is completely obvious, yet.

I decided that I really needed a challenge that was different than what I have been doing, just to help me solve problems of depth, perspective, and movement.

I chose to do a painting based on a photograph I took this summer while on vacation. I enjoyed doing this painting even though there were numerous problems to solve. I also had to ask myself a lot of questions as the picture was emerging on the canvas such as: "Do I want it to be a real representation of the photo?",  "Do I want it to be loose, relaxed?"

I think I ended up settling somewhere in between, leaning toward the realism side.

I am pleased with how it turn out and subsequently learned a great deal; however I am not sure if there will be many more like it.


Liscombe Falls, Nova Scotia...

Liscombe Falls, NS - Acrylic on Canvas - 12 X 12

Urban Lights

The lights at night continue to be a magical time and an inspiration for me, particularly the reflections on the water. I wanted to continue with the theme of the harbour at night and did another painting for my Night Harbour Series.  This painting has a different feel, more vibrant perhaps. It is also my largest painting yet, measuring 18 x 24.

Urban Lights
18 X 24 - Oil on Canvas

I don't think I am done with this series yet...