How to Paint

Recently I have been reading Victoria Finlay's book Color, a Natural History of the Palette. It came as a gift and has been giving ever since. The author travels the world exploring colour and the myths and legends that make up that history. She writes in a way that is both informative and entertaining.

The history she cites ranges from the prehistoric to the present and documents personal and national fortunes won and lost. She notes the colour black, which seems to be my colour of choice these days, was possibly the first colour used to render ideas.  I was interested to hear that black can be both strong and mysterious. One colour being two things, so interesting. And no small wonder why artists colour choices can be so loaded and emotionally powerful.

The puzzle surrounding painting which at one time can be so simple and so complex draws me in with ancient materials, invention and discovery.

Fundy Tides

Recently, we had the opportunity to visit the Bay of Fundy once again. We drove the car  to a place called Rainy Cove and found a place off the road to park. Once parked we walked out on the dry ocean floor and made our way along the cliffs. The cliffs are carved by the water currents in the bay and make a spectacular sight. 
It is very important to keep an eye on the shore and on the waters edge to ensure you don't become trapped away from shore by the strong fast moving water.

The air was cool with the breeze blowing from the north all morning but painting on site is always a pleasure. The painting is on small panels that fit easily in a pack for travelling. 

The panels have been primed with three coats of gesso.

 The gesso seals the surface of the wood.  

Time is allowed to make multiple paintings from the same location.


 

 A few short hours and three paintings later we pack and go as the rushing water of the Bay approached. Check Minas Basin, Mooseland or Two Sides for more about painting around the Bay of Fundy.