November 21, 2010

"The Cliffs of Carpinteria" oil on canvas, 8X10"


I  stood high on this bluff with the wind in my hair and the sound of sea lions barking on the rocks below.   The surf and the sand is something I have never painted from life before, and I felt a little daunted as I began.  The water wouldn't hold still (imagine that), so I had to just watch the surf for a while, and attempt to paint it while it moved.  It was kinda a strange sensation,  something different.  Something captivating.

I will be attempting many little  "ocean scapes "  over the next several weeks while I am here in Santa Barbara. It's quite a kick to be painting this while back at home (British Columbia, Canada)  the weather has moved into the double digit sub-zero category.  On another note of smugness, this week I get to celebrate American thanksgiving, having already had Canadian thanksgiving.  Somebody pinch me. 

4 comments:

  1. I love the colors you used! I will be interested to see your paintings of the ocean. I found out how hard those pesky, ever-moving waves can be, while painting in Maine. Congrats on two Thanksgivings! Enjoy!

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  2. Well Elaine, I am actually going to attempt a "wave scape" today. Wish me luck, I'll let you know how it goes.

    This is slippery stuff to paint from life, but no guts, no glory!

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  3. Looks awesome!
    Hope your trip is going well!
    :)

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  4. As if your painting wasn't tantalizing enough, you complete the abuse with your written description - yes Gaye it's cold and snowing here in Canada but I am warmed by your delightful painting!

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