"China Cove" study

China Cove in the Point Lobos State Reserve is a tough spot to paint.  It's hard to find a place along the trail that won't interfere with hikers and at the same time offers a good view of the cove.  The trail sweeps around the cove and out onto the land mass so you are looking back at where I am standing for this painting.  The pristine water and pure white sandy beach, untouched by humans lets you dream of what this hidden cove would have been like to discover 100 years ago.   This painting is the "first draft" of an idea.  Lately there has been a lot of discussion online of the value of plein air paintings versus studio work.  Every artist works differently but I need a balance of both painting outside, observing nature first hand and studio work.  Without the direct study paintings I think my studio pieces would suffer.  

Oil on canvas, 12" X 16"

"Coastal Cypress" ©

The Museum of Ventura County is planning their 3rd bi-annual "Art Alfresco" fundraising event on Saturday August 17th.  I was invited to exhibit my artwork for sale, so all of the construction work on the home front will have to wait a bit, while I paint new work for the show.  Looking at my collection of available paintings I decided a few more coastal/water scenes would compliment the group for the event.  

Oil on linen,  16" X 20"

"Kelp and Cliffs, Whalers Cove" ©

I never knew how LOUD otters could be until I painted this painting.  Three otters were floating, slithering over and around each other and eating for the couple of hours I spent painting this one.  Floating and slithering they were pretty quiet, eating on the other hand is a very noisy activity.  One little guy was slapping his catch on another object with relentless patience.   While another little guy was eating what looked like kelp but sounded like raw carrots, for hours.  You can't help but watch their antics and smile.  They moved with such grace and ease though the water no wonder everyone enjoyed the otter show at Whalers Cove.

Oil on Linen, plein air, 9" X 12"

"Whalers Cove", Point Lobos State Reserve, ©

Home safely from participating in the 19th Annual Carmel Art Festival 2012, as one of 60 plein air painters I have been reflecting on what a great week it was.  Carmel is a tiny town, that is pristine from the sidewalks to the beaches.  Painting in the area is endless and finding spots to paint in a competition is so easy you can almost close your eyes, turn your body, open your eyes and start painting.  The town could also be titled the "dog loving capitol of the world".  It was truly a perfect event and the volunteers that pull it off deserve gold stars, they worked so hard on behalf of the artists. 

Oil on Panel, 11" X 14", $800.