Draw Outside?
Out of doors drawing in winter time. I wasn’t going to do it. I was going to wait until the weather was better, as in the spring or summer time.
The Challenge
Then I read about some dedicated en plein aire painters that go out year round, regardless of most weather. Dealing with weather is part of the experience and the only way to get the colors and feel correct.
Sigh. Nothing like having the proverbial gauntlet thrown down.
I would not classify myself as a true en plein aire painter yet. I’m still finding my way around a landscape. But, imply that serious en plein aire artists paint year round, and I feel the challenge.
Armed with Long Johns
So, this morning I pulled out the long johns, the wool sweater, the poly propylene gloves and my painting supplies. It was 40 degrees and foggy. I hoped I was prepared. Out I went, down to Bear Creek. Yes, my husband has seen a bear along Bear Creek; I have not.
About Bear Creek
Bear Creek runs along the eastern side of Talent. There is greenway with a bike and walking path. I walked south along the path to the bridge on Valley View Road. This is part of my daily exercise route. I have been looking at this bridge for quite some time, thinking I sure would like to draw it. So, I plopped my stool down and set to work.
My husband and I routinely look for animals while we are out doing exercises. We keep track of birds, cats, dogs, deer, and other local fauna. Right by the bridge is a favorite place for the kingfishers. While I was drawing, one came to visit.
About the bridge, it links west side with east side. It goes over one of our major creeks. It is the life line to many of our local wildlife and plant life. Its modern and functional, built in 2005.
From an artistic point of view, I was attracted to the light and dark pattern and the shapes created by the bridge and water running below.
Not So Bad
All in all, a good experience. I’ll have to go drawing in wintertime again! And, guess what? The sun came out before I was done.
PS. I took the time to draw a value study first. It helped me see and understand the shapes I saw be fore me.
