Tides are Changing Study was done on location at Stony Creek village. This is one of my favorite places to paint and I often talk about it in my blog posts, but this time I'd like to share about my painting process.

Painting from life is truly the best way to learn to paint. Back in 2012 when I started painting again, I would set up still life arrangements in my studio and paint small paintings 6 x 6 inches up to 12 x 12 inches. I was able to complete 2-3 small paintings a week even with a busy schedule of shuffling kids around from school to activities.  Reflecting now this training was vital when it came time to paint en plein air. I didn't know this at the time, because  plein air painting wasn't even on my radar. I was enjoying these small still life pieces. posting and sharing on Daily paintwork art gallery and displaying them in a local coffee shop. 

It was in the spring of 2012 that one day after dropping off my step daughter at elementary school I pulled into the driveway and looked over at our garden and decided, that's it I have to paint this. I had a portable easel used a TV table and set up right in the driveway. I can remember that day so clearly because it was the absolute best feeling to be outside capture this incredible scene in real life, not from a photo. 

Transitioning from studio painting to painting en plein air can present a new set of challenges for any painter. With weather changes, wind shifts, clouds moving and the sun is always on the move, no wonder it's easy to get frustrated.  

This night a Stony Creek the sky had this beautiful pinkish orange glow, and just as the sun was setting it looked like it would be a magnificent sunset. Like so many we had seen before. But that wasn't the case tonight. The purplish blue clouds rolled in and eclipsed the sun and blanketed the sky leaving only a sliver of that gorgeous color to poke through. 

This is when I had to make a decision, did I go with what I original saw or should I modify the painting to match what I saw before me. From past experience and many failed pieces, I have found it best to stay with the original vision, to the best of my ability. It's hard because that means you need to rely on your memory for color and your sketches for shapes. And that's exactly what I did. 

 The next morning I worked a little bit more on the plein air study back in my studio with a few quick glances at the photo references. Which were really not that much help because they didn't capture the beauty that I saw with my own eyes. 

I knew I wanted to turn this piece into a large painting. I had 30 x 36 canvas available and started the "block in" or first layer. This is one of my favorite stages, it moves quickly and within an hour I have the base down. Like a skeleton, it's the bones of the painting. From there I start to work the larger areas, the sky, clouds and water.  It was when I got to the details of the boats and the houses on the islands I found myself stuck.

My small plein air piece didn't give me enough information, nor did the photos. So that night we head over  to Stony Creek just about the same time the night before. But this time the sun was just too bright, the glare was too strong and the photos were completely washed out. 

On to plan B, the next morning I headed back again around 8am, I knew the lighting would be completely different but my goal was to spend an hour just sitting on the dock with my sketchbook in hand drawing just the boats, islands and houses.  

Back to the easel I go, I had enough information to tackle just about all the missing pieces but the lobster boat in the foreground.  Since the boat was turned the other direction I couldn't get a clear view inside and at the angle I thought was just right. 

So, what did I do, yep, I headed back to Stony Creek the next day hoping the star of the show would be in the right place to capture another sketch. No chance, I did a few sketches waited about a half an hour to see if it would turn but it wouldn't budge.

 Plan C, I hopped in my car, drove down the street, parked my car in front of the library and walked down Hull's Point Road. Peaking between each house to see if I could capture the lobster boat in just the right angle. I truly hope the neighbors weren't watching me.  And then I spotted it, I had to hold my camera up high in the air to shoot a photo over the dock in the foreground but I did it! Back to the studio I go!

With this last round of reference photos I was able to complete the painting. What an adventure but so worth the effort. I'm so thrilled with the way this painting came out and now, I'm ready to start another!

Thanks for reading and enjoying the creative process with me - it's always nice to have fellow sojourners to travel with -


PS. Are you on the mailing list? click here to join - to receive up-to-date information on latest works and shows. 

PSS - Do you know we are planning to have the Shoreline Arts Trail Open Studios 2020? Join the mailing list to hear more about the Open Studios and to reserve your space for a studio visit. We have over 24 artists from Branford, Madison and Guilford participating this year. 

Artists Sunday is the nationwide movement dedicated to supporting artists and recognizing the impact they have in enriching our lives, communities and the economy.

the powerful new effort is designed to make the Sunday after Thanksgiving the most profitable day of the year for artists. Consumers are encouraged to shop with artists and purchase creative, handcrafted gifts for the holidays. Artists Sunday follows Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, prior to Cyber Monday.

This is such great news since 2020 has been such a challenging year for most artists since shows, exhibitions, fairs and festivals have all been canceled. 

Purchase one of kind original art as gifts for those on your shopping list is one of the best ways to say I love you!

Go here to visit the website and artist directory

10 x 20" acrylic on canvas
framed in a gold tone frame - other framing options are available

What a picture perfect autumn day at New Pond Farms in Redding, CT. It was my first time visiting the farm and I'm glad my friend John invited me to join him and several other artists. We painted on Sunday October 11. I found a nice spot up on the hill near the Educational Center. There's an enormous Weeping Cherry Tree to the right of me, something to keep in mind for a springtime painting when it's in full bloom, I can only imagine right now how beautiful it will be with all the pink petals!

What an incredible place with the most spectacular views of the rolling hills, pastures - the barns and chicken coop are not your typical red barn, these are painted a light yellow with white fencing around the grounds for the animals and an old white farm house. They have many programs all year round for families and schools.https://newpondfarm.org

Definitely on my list to return again. There were so many views and just not enough time to paint. 
​. 
*** Partnership Program** - if purchased online through this website - 35% of sale of this painting will go todirectly to New Pond Farm as a donation to their organization.


Purchase an original piece of art not only makes you feel good, you're also helping to support local artists and art organizations. It's a win-win-win!


Free shipping in the US or Free delivery in Connecticut.
Secure packaging and certificate of authenticity is provided.

​Thanks for being apart of the journey!

Painted at Branford Point in the the park near the pier. It was late July into early August when I set up my easel one morning. I love painting at Branford Park there are always folks walking around, fishing, swimming, jogging and biking. It's a busy spot but it never seems too crowded.... well, expect for weekends. 
Behind me is a quickly ascending hill that's covered with trees and foliage. It makes for great shady spots to paint and gives a nice panoramic view of the harbor and Branford River. 
I met so many wonder people while painting. A father with his young son in the stroller, a couple who the husband's name is Bob Ross! A lovely lady who grew up in Branford and shared a few fun stories about what the local scene and how it's changed over the years.
I truly love living here in Branford. It's a very friendly community.

Honored to work on a public space mural with two very talented artists Melissa Imossi and Hillary Griffin. The project began at the very beginning of the Covid 2020 pandemic in March. The planning stage spanned over a few months and the option to paint offsite and at Hilary's home studio was the best choice for the current situation.
We started preparing and painting the 8 foot masonite panels at the end of May and finished by the end of July. The panels were then transported to the library and Melissa's husband helped to install the panels. 

What an honor it was to have a newspaper article written by the local Shoreline Times and published on the front cover. below is the link to read the entire article by local journalist, Elizabeth

painted mostly en plein air and finished up in the studio. This is a favorite place for both me and my husband to go on a painting/fishing outings. It's hidden little spot with a public boat launch on Trolley Road in Guilford. There are just a few parking spots and easy spot to load your kayak or small boat into the the marshy area that has fresh sea water rolling in during high tide. There's a small beach that residents enjoy and the views of the shoreline houses is amazing. It's a very desired location in Guilford.
This is the first time I saw this small row boat parked up on the shore next to tall grass and I just had to paint it! It felt so inviting, calling out "do you want a ride?"

I also love the distant  seagull perched on the rocks waiting for his next meal. 

• free shipping in the US or free delivery in Connecticut
• certificate of authenticity
• 7 day return policy 

The Waveny House is an iconic landmark in the town of New Canaan. Growing up in New Canaan we spent many wonderful Fourth of July holidays watching the fireworks on the grounds, playing on the terrace and flying kites in the fields. So many fond memories and it's always a pleasure to return to see how so much has truly stayed the same. 
I've participated in this event with Carriage Barn Arts Center for the past two years. Capturing New Canaan and enjoyed it very much. It's a wonderful art organization that does a great job supporting the artists and local artists. 
This painting along with 2 others will be in the Capturing New Canaan Sale and Exhibition at the Carriage Barn Arts Center in New Canaan, Ct from October 22 to Nov 4, 2020. Purchase through the Carriage Barn Arts Center in New Canaan, CT or through the Partnership program.
*** Partnership Program** - if purchased online through this website - 40% of sale of this painting will go to The Carriage Barn Art Center in New Canaan, CT.

This piece was created on location at Hammonasset State Park. I met up with my friends Lorraine and John on Sunday. We painted for most of the day. The sky was bright and with no clouds in the direction that I was facing. I was able to complete at half of the underpainting and drawing.

The next I returned for another three hours. I bumped into a few of my friends from another art group, the Hamden Art League and we all painted in close proximity. It was so nice to see them, It's been almost one year since I saw them last. This year has been a crazy year, even though we're finding ways to cope with the social distancing and isolation due to Covid, I still miss the freedom of our casual gatherings.

The second clouds filled the sky. I painted them in but upon returning back to my studio they seem to be competing with the rocks. So, I painted over the clouds to clear blue sky again and I think it will start that way.

What I love about painting rocks is that the more you see and observe them the more colors seem to appear. They may start off as a dull neutral gray but over time I see more and more colors come out. From muted violets to warm burnt Sienna oranges, even greens and a few pinks here and there.

Painting Details:

18 x 24" acrylic on canvas

• price includes frame, framing options are available
• free shipping in the US or free delivery in Connecticut
• certificate of authenticity
• 7 day return policy 
• link here for online store

Buying art as a gift or for yourself always makes you happy! 

A few years ago I was asked by the Waveny Care Center if I would like to have a solo show in their art gallery. It was an honor to show my work in New Canaan, my hometown. The show was based on the recent pet portraits and commissions I created. With over 25 works of art, some originals and other reprints. They held a lovely reception and dozen of my family members came to visit. While in town, I walked around snapping photos of the downtown area which brought back a flood of treasured memories.

Once, I remember walking through town with the two little girls I  babysat for during the summertime. Marybeth and Bettyann. Adorable sisters who loved to swim and play tennis at the Field Club. We were walking around town to pick up lunch when they asked, "are you going to college soon?" I said, "oh, no not for 2 more years." and they stopped, looked at each other and started to ball. What happen? What did I say? The girls were only 6 and 8 years old. "In two years!" they cried, "You can't leave us in two years"And the only thing I could think of to stop them from crying is "oh don't worry two years are going to go by so slow, let's have lunch instead." And that was that, they stopped crying, started to laugh and off we went to pick up lunch at the deli. 

This painting along with 2 others will be in the Capturing New Canaan Sale and Exhibition at the Carriage Barn Arts Center in New Canaan, Ct from October 22 to Nov 4, 2020. Purchase through the Carriage Barn Arts Center in New Canaan, CT or through the Partnership program.


*** Partnership Program** - if purchased online through this website - 40% of sale of this painting will go to The Carriage Barn Art Center in New Canaan, CT.


Purchase an original piece of art not only makes you feel good, you're also helping to support local artists and art organizations. It's a win-win-win!


Free shipping in the US or Free delivery in Connecticut.
Secure packaging and certificate of authenticity is provided.

​Thanks for being apart of the journey!

Painted from a photo reference I took last year during the Capture New Canaan event held by the Carriage Barn Art Center. This is the New Canaan Playhouse, built in 1923. Growing up in New Canaan, I saw many movies in this playhouse, Rocky, Star Wars, James Bond and so many more! It's an icon in my little hometown and brings back wonderful memories as I created this painting.

This painting is currently in the Capture New Canaan Sale and Exhibition, October 22- November 4, 2020. Purchase through the Carriage Barn Arts Center in New Canaan, CT -
here: carriagebarn.org/capturing-new-canaan-virtual-gallery/ or through the Partnership program.

*** Partnership Program** - if purchased online through this website - 40% of sale of this painting will go to The Carriage Barn Art Center in New Canaan, CT.

Purchase an original piece of art not only makes you feel good, you're also helping to support local artists and art organizations. It's a win-win-win!

​Thank you to all of you who have been part of this wonderful journey!

Linda
​

Oct 21 -  Nov. 4, 2020 Capturing New Canaan - Sale and Exhibition at The Carriage Barn Art Center in New Canaan, CT. I have three pieces in this show. Here's the link for more information carriagebarn.org

Shoreline Art Trail 20 -Open Studios is ON!! For the month of November and December the Shoreline Art Trail artists will be opening their studios, for one on one scheduled visits.

If you live in the area of Connecticut, New York , Mass or Rhode Island,- come and visit my home studio. Appointments are made through an easy to follow online app and you can choose the day and time that works best for you. Days and times are Friday- Sunday 10-3pm.  
I will have my latest work available for sale, some framed and some unframed. With special pricing on older works. 

Open Studio Visit will be available for scheduling on November 1, 2020. - 
Studio hours: Friday 10am-4pm Saturday 10 am - 4pm, Sunday 10 am - 3pm

To register for an Open Studio Visit - go to the Shoreline Arts Trail 20 website to sign up
Shoreline Arts Trail Website
​

The Inspiration behind this painting began with the sounds of the water gently bubbling over the fountain sculptures. The one large fountain that is not shown in this painting was to my right and directly in front of my easel was a green patio umbrella and two Adirondack chairs.  (see photos below)

I would have loved to include all these elements in my painting but the canvas just wasn't big enough! So, I focused my attention towards the back corner of the Fountain Garden. The large round sphere sculpture and the three stacked planting pots took center stage. I included the mixed metal  pinwheel sculpture and the sign. Although the sign would not have been necessary, the space was so well designed that one could easily tell its main purpose: a place of rest and relaxation. But,  the cream color sign with green lettering  was welcoming touch that graciously invited any visitor to this visual oasis.

The sound of the bubbling water from the fountain was the initial pull but I was also captivated by the color harmony, the various plant textures and the contrast of the light and darks between the base of the Japenese Maple tree.

Although I am not a gardener, and have very little knowledge and experience of successfully growing a garden. I can still appreciate and marvel at the work of the experienced gardener's hands. Master gardeners like the folks at Acer Gardens have the ability to visualize a space similar to the way and artist visualizes a painting. Using the same principles of shape, color texture, composition and focal points. I love seeing how others use their imagination and create beautiful spaces for all of us to enjoy.

A small group of us from the Madison Art Society gathered that day, a little overcast but still worth going out to see my fellow artists friends, explore the beautiful scenery and painting together.. 

Plus, we were invited back - always a great sign!
Look forward to painting a winter scene - perhaps with snow and wreathes and Christmas trees! 
'Thank you Acer Gardens!

Link to Acer Gardens Website: https://www.acergardens.com

Painting Details:

• Painted in acrylic paints, with a protective coat of varnish
• Size: 11 x 14" on canvas panel
• frame: shown in a gold and dark toned frame - other framing options are available
• Certificate of Authenticity will be provided to the buyer
• Free shipping in the US or free delivery in the state of Connecticut
• free gift wrapping is available
• Includes a sturdy box and packaging
• CT sales tax included

for purchasing online go to the online shop here - or contact me directly by email or by phone 203-444-5705
​

Oct 21 -  Nov. 4, 2020 Capturing New Canaan - Sale and Exhibition at The Carriage Barn Art Center in New Canaan, CT. I have three pieces in this show. Here's the link for more information carriagebarn.org

Shoreline Art Trail 20 -Open Studios is ON!! For the month of November and December the Shoreline Art Trail artists will be opening their studios, for one on one scheduled visits.

If you live in the area of Connecticut, New York , Mass or Rhode Island,- come and visit my home studio. Appointments are made through an easy to follow online app and you can choose the day and time that works best for you. Days and times are Friday- Sunday 10-3pm.  
I will have my latest work available for sale, some framed and some unframed. With special pricing on older works. 

Open Studio Appointments will be available for scheduling on November 1, 2020. - 
or sign up for my newsletter to be the first to hear about latest works and news. Sign up here -


Like always, thank you for being apart of this journey!
​Linda