En Plein air

I painted this on a cold wet day not far from Sidney, Vancouver Island. It was the colours in the puddles that attracted me to paint that scene. I generally start from the back and work my way to the foreground, completing the painting as I go along working wet in wet, that way I can quit at any time and my painting will be complete as is.

Heading outdoors to paint?

Be prepared! There's nothing worse than heading outdoors to paint to find out after you've set up ur easel that u forgot ur turpentine, worse, brushes!

Make a list and stick to it, take ur time when packing ur stuff, make sure u have everything. Pack the day before so u don't have to rush, even better, have a package ready to go at a moments notice. To be that organized means u have to unpack after ur last outing and prepare for the next. I have a cart on wheels, so convenient, my french easel fits in there perfectly with a fold up stool. I also use bungee cords to attach more paraphernalia.

My list... french easel, canvas, oils, brushes, stool, turpentine, paper towel, disposable palette, cling wrap, (to cover your palette when u leave), umbrella, sugical gloves (keeps the lead at bay), sunscreen, bug-off spray (a must have!), dress for the weather, don't forget refreshments! oh and one more thing, enjoy!

Beach at the Creek

I just had to take advantage of the sunny weather and sit on the beach in Roberts Creek and paint.

Documenting Colours

Don't u just hate it when u want to rework a painting and u cant remember what colours u used? Aaaargghhhh drives me nuts! From now on I'll be documenting every painting and the colours I used. Yes a colour chart works too! I highly recommend doing Richard schmid's colour charts. I find them very useful, saves me a ton of time. When designing a painting, I simply use my colour charts to map out my painting and the colours I'll be using. If I'm not sure of a colour, it'll be on my colour chart for sure. How simple is that!