Painting new pieces has slowed in recent weeks, and in some respects, months. Painting is a hobby and not a full-time job, so it often gets put on the back burner when other priorities crop up. In the last two months or so, a few pieces have been started and allowed time to dry but have not been finished yet. This piece was created in a single sitting without giving it time to dry in between elements.
Building on the former post of trying to create detailed atmospheric work, the latest works have built on that technique, and I have attempted to push the understanding even further. The works below begin to capture both the luminism and atmospheric qualities that I had been hoping to achieve.
Lately I have been trying to push my understanding and ability in trying to create detailed, atmospheric paintings. I documented the process for this piece while trying to follow tips I’m learning online. The first view is of the 8×10 canvas with the hand sketched composition and initial shading. The second view attempts to create the outline of the shadows and gradation of the scene. The third shows the underpainting where the sky is a cooler blue and the foreground is a warm sienna. The fourth reflects the inpainting of the entire piece to add colors and initial detailing. The fifth and final picture shows the overall detailing and my first attempt at glazing a piece. Overall, practicing the techniques was of benefit though I’m not entirely satisfied with the piece. I do have another in the works that mimics these techniques with greater control.
Another study practicing underpainting produced “After the Rain.” I have a few other pieces in the works and needed to let them dry before moving on, so I began layering in an underpainting and working with my shadows. The composition isn’t the best, the river in the middle ground accidentally lined up with the mountain ridge beyond. Had the painting been just the mountain, it could have been an acceptable piece, but I did learn a few tricks for future pieces.
Three new pieces completed in the last week or so. The goal for two of the works was to focus on the luminism of the atmosphere to really push the limits of light and shadow. The third work attempted to harness rays of light through the different values and the effects it had on composition.
Two new 8×10 oils completed in early May 2025. Once dried, they will be sealed, scanned for archival, and then framed for sale. Images below are quick digital photographs and the final archival will be of better quality and clarity. The oil paint drying process takes several weeks to months depending on the amount and texture of the paints. After they are dried, the seal coat also takes awhile to dry which delays their offer for purchase. So, be sure to check back in the coming months if you are interested in purchasing either “Distant Falls,” or “Mountain Meadow.”
