Last week we had a brief period of sunshine here in Pittsburgh. Even if I'm working inside on a commission, like I was, it is impossible for me to stay there. Light on snow just has that effect on my senses. A favorite place to paint winter landscapes is Fox Chapel. This was done by Trillium Trail. The real challenge is painting the shifting shadows over ice that is melting. Add the chilling 15 or 20 degree temperature and it is easy to understand why most artists prefer to work inside using photos as reference. But for me there is a special feeling of accomplishment that working outdoors brings. It is difficult to explain. The spirit of a place somehow becomes part of the painting. Even if I'm not satisfied with the finished painting, I'm always pleased with the experience. Time spent looking closely at nature is never wasted.
It is 16 x 20 inches, oil on linen.
website: http://www.donoughe.com
blog: http://www.rondonoughe.blogspot.com
7 comments:
Ron, This is a beautiful painting. I see the warm sunshine dancing on the snow. I do admire outdoor painters like yourself. You are so right about time spent looking at nature is never wasted. It really shows in your painting!
I, also, agree with what you say about plein air painting. Your painting is beautiful. One of the gallery owners once told me snow paintings don't sell; however, I think winter is one of the most beautiful of all seasons because of the colors in the snow and the challenges of painting white.
Familiarity breeds a thoughtful, beautiful and true painting, Ron.
Outstanding.
What a beautiful winter painting! I so wish I lived amongst those trees...
Fantastic post Ron. I agree with you. Thank you for the inspiration. This work has amazing depth. The sloped hill, the flat plane, the road and creekbed. I could go on and on.
Your statement "Time spent looking closely at nature is never wasted" says it all, and is so evident in your excellent work.
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