Thursday, April 22, 2010

The Old Mill House

7x9 Oil on Canvas Panel
I occasionally try painting plein air. It is really difficult. I spent some time at my Moms in Ancaster, a great little town close by. There is a great old stone mill there that has been converted into a restaurant. This painting is of the home that accompanied the mill. The blossom is a very delicate tree like bush that is blooming now. I think it is a Service Berry.  I am completely out of my comfort zone when painting outside.. I want to overwork everything rather than staying loose and spontaneous. I think it takes lots of practice and time...which I don't have a lot of. (I ended up finishing it in the studio.)

12 comments:

myra anderson said...

this is absolutely beautiful!

Mary Anne Cary said...

This is very loose, and not overworked. I am afraid of plein air too,but hope to get out soon! Very nice!

schilderijenfoto said...

no excuses, this is straight beautiful!

Janelle Goodwin said...

This painting is very loose and has spirit. I love the welcoming tree next to the entrance. It makes me want to see what's behind the door! Beautiful plein air, Catherine!

Lori Bonanni said...

This is such a lovely scene. I especially love the pink tree as it's so full of light.

Marie Theron said...

So unusual to find you in the quiet countryside....a very restful scene, Catherine. The tree is light as a feather!

r garriott said...

Just lovely!

Jan Yates, SCA said...

Quite like the diffused light and paint application re the white tree...leads the eye through the painting..re plein air, they are often finished or touched up in studio:-) Sorry I missed you at our gallery--I'm usually in on Sundays! The invitation is still open re showing some of your works!

Carol Schiff Daily Painting said...

CJ, I know exactly what you mean about plein air...practice, practice, practice! But,why bother? I think it is very over-rated. (I am sure that will come back to bite me) Anyway, love this painting, it is beautiful no matter how it was painted. You are such an expert at capturing that glowing light and you have done it again here. The thumbnail just jumps off the screen.

Gwen Bell said...

Oh, that tree is gorgeous! Love the way the light absolutely glows through it and bounces off the pave stones. The little touches of red in the flowers leads the eye across the canvas. Very nice composition!

magicmyst said...

Well done Catherine, an enticing picture. Kay

Pam Holnback said...

Love the darks and light. Everything takes practice and time and growth come by stepping out of one's comfort zone. Great job.