Plein Air Painting Demo

A friend and I went out early yesterday morning to get in some plein air painting. We drove through the countryside until we spotted this lovely old farm overlooking a valley. The owners were welcoming and even offered cold soft drinks. I find that most people are flattered when I ask to paint on their property. Being a good artist neighbor by picking up my trash when I leave and not blocking their driveways is also important.

We only had a few hours so I just got down the basics and completed the painting in my studio last night. It’s a 16×20 oil on plain canvas.

Blessinger Farm, initial view of little barn and valley

Initial sketch and first washes

Third step with basic washes.

Initial washes, before I began to tighten up the painting.

Blessinger Farm, oil on canvas, 16 x 20