Seabirds 5

5x7 Oil on ampersand board

Three in a row.  The birds in a collection with the long shadows of very early morning post sunrise caught my eye.  This 30 Day challenge has become a personal discipline for me in January- a gret way to beat the winter blues and spend time in a meaningful and measurable way.  

Seabirds 4

6x6 Oil on Panel

For several years, I studied with a master watercolorist-Andrew Kusmin.  When I would get frustrated with lack of progress, he would counsel to paint many of one item, trees, carousel horses, florals, etc.  "Paint until you know them inside and out." This week I am finally taking his advice and painting seabirds-several.  This guy was hopeful that I might have some snacks in my pocket.

Seabirds 3

6x6 Oil on Museum Quality Panel

I am working on a series of these birds.  I like their shape, coloration and movement- and they remind me of warmer days and sunshine.  

Out for a Stroll

5x7 Oil on Panel

I am taken with shore birds right now -my little resistance to the winter that is surely coming soon here in Boston. 

Flight

6x6 Oil on Ampersand Panel

I am playing with seabirds a bit.  I managed to take some photos two weeks ago and want to see if I can capture their shapes and life.  This one glowed in flight above my head.

Courage

12x16 Oil on canvas

I call this one 'Courage' because I decided to paint 'plein air' by myself at the Bonnet House in Florida.  I've gone with groups in the past - strength in numbers.  Painting outside is a challenge and a joy.  I love the total focus required.  It is much more difficult to isolate your subject matter.  The light changes, there are bugs and heat and people looking over your shoulder.  This captures my morning.  I had a blast!

At Rest

8x8 Oil on Board

I've had the nice chance to spend a few days in Ft. Lauderdale pre-Christmas.  It has been such a busy month that I haven't found time or peace to paint.  Having a day or two to stop and think and walk and paint- now that's advent- waiting for light.  So this is my offering to waiting for light and change and whatever is next.