Preparation

"Heat of the Day" oil on canvas panel, 8x10"

I thought I'd share a little of how I think about putting together my paintings. I have learned that I really need to make a little sketch before I start actually painting. It helps me make decisions about the composition, and it gives me a chance to think about my game plan before I even start mixing paint. This is a page from my painting sketchbook with little thumbnails I did in preparation for the painting above. I don't always do so many sketches, but this one I went through a long process.

Oaks and the last show of the summer

"Oak Grove" oil on canvas panel, 8x10"

I'm starting to get excited about my last outdoor festival of the year. I'm very proud to be participating in the Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival the weekend of September 15th and 16th. I should have several new paintings to show, including this one, and I'm looking forward to meeting lots of new folks.

Last Days of Summer

"Last Days of Summer" oil on canvas panel, 8x10"

I painted this at Mt. Burdell, one of my favorite of the open space reserves in Marin County. It was rather windy in the afternoon, but I found some shelter and shade behind a large oak and painted these two lovely trees.

Rush Creek Oak

"Rush Creek Oak", oil on canvas panel, 11x14"

I painted this the other afternoon after teaching. I don't usually paint looking into the sun, but I really liked the way the sun came through the branches of the tree and the shadow it cast.

Painting again

"Chileno Valley Vista" oil on canvas panel, 11x14

I spent the weekend painting mostly in Marin, and have several new paintings to share. This one I painted on the Chileno Valley Road, which winds its way to the top of a hill that has a commanding vista of southern Sonoma county. It's a favorite road for bicyclists, as it's fairly quiet and very scenic, if a bit steep towards the top. As I painted I had a steady stream of cyclists making comments as they slowly labored up the road behind me.

Burlingame

"August Afternoon" oil on panel, 8x10"

It's been a busy summer, filled with many projects and not enough painting time! I did get out to paint last weekend, and felt very rusty. I hiked along Big Rock Ridge in Marin county and was treated to tremendous views, certainly worth the climb. The ridge is the second highest point in Marin county - only Mt. Tam is higher. This painting was the last one of the day, and I feel like I finally got my groove back with it. This coming weekend (Aug 11&12) I'll be at the Burlingame Art and Wine Show on Burlingame Ave in, you guessed it, Burlingame. My booth will be somewhere between Primrose and Park Rd - hope to see you there!