When I began to seriously
consider a career as an artist, I was faced with a decision. I loved
to paint and draw. I had the ability to capture on canvas, whatever
I could see or envision. But such a wealth of subject matter was
overwhelming! As I had just recently moved to the Northwest, and
as the ocean was a total fascination to me, I began steadfastedly to research
and paint the sea. My media of choice was oil. I would use
the best materials available. The approach was to be classic realism.
So I studied the ocean. I painted the ocean.
From numerous sketches and photos I decide
on the composition, color and mood. I begin by sketching on the canvas
with gey-toned paint, the basics. That is, the horizon, the position
of any rocks and headlands, the major wave and the background and foreground
water.
"Working from the top down, I quickly
complete the sky."
The mood of the sky dictates the rest of the painting. Working from
the top down, I quickly
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complete the sky. I finish the sky
in one session, bringing the sky color down to the background and foreground
foam. This assures a continuity of color and mood throughout the
piece. The background is then completed before I paint any rocks, and before
closer waves are added. Another session will be required to complete
the translucent wave which must be done "alla prima" to get the proper
blending. This is essential to obtain the luminous glow of sunlight
through the water. I work large rocks and headlands with a palette
knife thereby assuring the look of rugged, jagged edges.
"inspection reveals a classic realistic
seascape that glows from within."
The finishing includes trickles of water running off rocks, diamond-like
sparkles on rippling waves, and the highlight of sunshine against deep
shadows throughout. The final inspection reveals a classic realistic
seascape that glows from within.
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