Lit Forest Floor

"Lit Forest Floor", 10x8", oil on panel

The weather turned hot yesterday, which provided the perfect opportunity for an early morning hike.  It also provided the perfect opportunity to have the forest to myself. And I wish it was mine. Creek crossings and lots of limestone, pooled water (my dog enjoyed that), bird calls I haven't heard in a season,  drystack walls from multiple generations back, moss starting it's spring coat and more. It was senses overload for a good morning.  The tree canopy is yet to grow, but I will be back.

Green Cove

Green Cove, oil on gessobord, 10x10"

Since I finished the Strada Easel 31/31 challenge 12 days ago, I have only worked on some studies, and I have been researching and looking at many artists that are new to me. My goal, stated many times over the past year has been to lean towards abstraction. And, even though it hasn't left my thoughts, I don't feel like I have accomplished this to my satisfaction.  Today's painting DOES do that and for that, I am very happy!  I bought a broad wash brush recently and used it for the first time today. It immediately felt right, and I started painting what has been locked in my head for months.  This little scene is from a cove at Lake Cumberland, painted from a photo that I took at the end of summer.  I guess I should thank Strada easel for the huge push that got me to this stage!

Long Run

Long Run, oil on gessoed hardboard, 8x10"

I have been looking at several contemporary painters that I consider successful abstract landscape painters. This can be a blurry area, and many attempt it. However, it is obvious when it is not done well.  This is my first honest and conscious attempt at abstraction with landscape.  I'm not sure it worked, but I am still happy with it and feel like I worked through it more then the eye can see. I believe I will continue to work on these - as small scale, learning works. Note to self: prepare a limited palette prior to painting based on reference photo or subject matter.