"A Summer Afternoon", A small figure study for a larger composition.

Step 1.

Step 2.

Step 3.

Step 4.

The finished figure study "A Summer Afternoon" 12x9 oil on linen panel, is an exploratory study for a larger composition. I wanted to see if these figures might look appropriate in this scene. The figure reference is actually from another location, and the larger painting will be a different format (not vertical). The lighting is similar, so I think it might work. I don`t always do studies to work out potential problems in paintings. Generally, I just jump in, but sometimes it is fun to get a small piece done, as long as it is quick, and does not use up all my juice.

"2010 Summer Trip to Maine"

"Summer Farm" 6x9 oil on linen.

Detail of "Summer Farm".

Here, I am painting at Bidderford Pool, one of the many areas we visited during our several weeks in Maine. I am painting one of the many pristine marshes that Maine has to offer.
The wealth of imagery is endless. I wish the winters weren`t so harsh.

This little painting was about two and a half hours of pure enjoyment. Not that the painting is so wonderful, but the experience was worth the trip to Maine. Of all the people there to enjoy the weather, water and beatiful day, I was the only painter in sight.....imagine that.

Detail of "Kettle Cove"

This was one of my favorite days on this trip. The conditions, and the great spot to set up and paint were awesome. Beyond my capacity to describe. A great day in Maine.

We had an absolutely perfect day at Kettle Cove Maine. Marilyn is enjoying the great weather, and a good book while I entertain myself with trying to capture the moment. Good luck with that.

This is the beginning of the on location study of the Old Port Dock area. I really like painting the old beat up, used, weathered by weather and time buildings and docks in the Old Port section of Portand Me.

Here, I am finishing up my field sketch of the downtown Old Port dock area.

Finished study of the "Old Port Dock" 12x16 oil on linen panel

"Fort Williams Ocean study" 6x9 oil on linen panel

" Monhegan Flowers" 9x12 study, oil on linen.

"Pirates, Petticoats and Puffy Sleeves" - New York Society of Illustrators.

On our recent summer trip to Maine, we went into New York city for a day trip. I had not been in the city in fifteen years. It was a thrill to be back in the city that has so much energy. You can feel it the minute you get off the train. We visited the Society of Illustrators, a great organization that I was a twenty three year member of. I was pleasantly surprised to see that it had not changed a bit. We visited on a Monday, so the club was closed......which was great, because we had the place to ourselves.... sort of! There were two exhibitions on display, one in the main gallery, and the "Pirates, Petticoats and Puffy Sleeves" exhibition. All in all, it was a great day in the city.

Here is a shot of the Bar at the New York Society of Illustrators. The painting over the Bar is the great Norman Rockwell`s Stagecoach painting. A masterpiece!

One twenty eight east sixty third street. I have some great memories of good times spent in this great establishment that has such a rich history of illustration art. I was proud to be a twenty three year member of this club.

Some of the paintings and drawings on display at the Society in the dining area.

More of the paintings in the dining room area show.

This piece has really grabbed Marilyn`s attention. Must have been a winner.