I almost didn't find time to paint today. I had a lot of things to do, and opted to walk the dog before painting. I was planning on doing a still life in my office/studio. But I walked the dog in the park and the sky just inspired me.
I know this is really plain, but I am happy with it. Things just started to "click." I started at 7:15 pm or so, so I was quickly running out of daylight. So I blocked in the color first with my knife. That worked really well. I was happy with the colors I mixed. I had bought myself a color mixing book, but didn't even glance at it. I think I am gaining a bit of confidence. For example, I used blue right from the tube to darken areas in the tree line.
The brushstrokes are so important! I didn't realize until today how important they are! After blocking in the color with the knife, I made big swirls in the paint. I love the thickness on the canvas. For the trees, I kind of scrunched up the brush. It worked so well! The technique is so important. I'll try to find some good articles or books on technique so I can find out more.
The other great thing about painting outdoors was that it inspired others. A mom and her two kids came and watched me and both her girls asked tons of questions. Also a couple of fellow painters stopped by to give me an encouraging word.
So, I'm really happy I'm doing this. We'll see what tomorrow brings!
