Monday, May 10, 2010

More Spring Plein Air

MISSOURI PLEIN AIR • KANSAS CITY


Forsythia, 6 x 8, oils
This was painted during a couple of lunchbreaks right outside of where I work.



Red bud, Lowenstien Park, 6 x 8, oils
Both these paintings were done on cloudy days. In spring you can still have a lot of color without sun.


Amigoni's Cabernet Franc, 6 x 8, oils
Mr. Amigoni gave me a personal tour of his vineyard and let me paint the new growth on his vines. European grapes growing in western Missouri. He's a pioneer. http://www.inlandseawines.com

Sunday, May 9, 2010

The Augusta Plein Air Event

MISSOURI PLEIN AIR • OZARKS • VINEYARD


Becky's House, 8 x 10, oils



New Growth, 8 x 10, oils


Take the Long Way Home, 9 x 12, oils

Like last falls trip, bad weather was a major factor in this event held in beautiful Augusta, Missouri. I'm sure the locals were impressed to see dozens of artists painting in the pouring rain. Still I was able to get some painting done and submit three pieces for the show.

About the pieces: I noticed that another artist had painted the same house. He was from nearby and said "Oh, that's Becky's house." I asked who Becky was and he said "I don't know, that's just what everyone calls it." The twisted vines were painted up at Sugar Creek Winery. It went on to win an Honorable Mention and was purchased in a silent auction. I started the third one in the rain and went back and finished it a week later.

The Augusta region is a beautiful place to paint. I feel like I've just scratched the surface. I also thoroughly enjoyed hanging out with so many great and friendly artists and volunteers. I will definitely go back next year.


Left to right: Me, Laura Kratz, my son-in-law Alan and my daughter Annie.