This is a painting I did this past December when we were all excited about snow. And there have been years when the snow came and then quickly disappeared. That is why I was determined to do a large painting that depicted how Pittsburgh feels during a winter with snow. Little did anyone know that we were going to be buried in this stuff until April! With over 70 inches of snow so far this year I think it is time for spring.
A small 8 x 10 inch plein air study and a terrible photo of this alley were both used as source material. I find that even a rough oil sketch helps to reinforce what a potentially larger painting may have to offer. This particular area of Lawrenceville is tightly packed with buildings. By pushing the dark masses close to the top the viewer is forced to stay down near the alley. I think of it as an urban canyon painting. The light patches are used as elements that break up the space and also create the illusion of depth. The colors become less intense and the value of colors become closer as you move further back into the painting. It is a combination of linear and atmospheric perspective that takes the viewer up this snowy path.
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7 comments:
Ron, I love the way you paint light. The shadows across the snow in the alley are magnificent.
I had to laugh when I read about your doing this painting when you were excited about the snow in December. When we got that first substantial snowfall, I couldn't wait to get out and get some good photographs of the afternoon light on the snow. We've had less snow than you have had in Pittsburgh, but I too am ready for Spring.
Hi Ron -- I don't believe that I've posted a comment yet on any of your work. But I have been paying attention! You do a fantastic job of capturing the light and atmosphere, not only in this painting but in others of yours I've seen. I spend a fair amount of time in Pittsburgh so it always interests me to see what you choose to paint. I look forward to seeing your next post!
What a wonderful painting, Ron! I loved hearing your thoughts on your composition too. Funnily enough, I just read a news article about a man who died because of a series of missteps on the part of 911 operators and ambulance drivers in the Pittsburgh area. A rather sad by-product of all that snow. It sure is beautiful though! I love that blue house!
48" x 68" on linen canvas...WOW, what an undertaking. Beautiful, absolutely beautiful!! I, too, have been admiring your posts. I want to know if you are a descendant of any of the Scalp Level School painters from the Pittsburgh area? Your snow scenes also remind of the the Pennsylvania Impressionist Coppedge, especially the snow/buildings paintings.
I just simply love all of your posts, Ron...What effective placement of lights and darks ...the snow is awesome!
Smart, smart paintings....
This is a wonderfully rendered painting! I love the depth of the shadows, punctuated by the light. Thanks!
Thanks to all who generously comment!
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