Cloudy Day on Antelope Island, 14" X 11", oil painting on stretched canvas. I am a bit frustrated with the plein air painting, but plan to continue. I decided to work on a painting in my studio instead. It was much more satisfying, plus I reviewed my photos from my trip to Antelope Island (Great Salt Lake, Utah) and enjoyed my memories too. (about 8 years ago).
Meanwhile I bought some water based oil pastels to play with. They are like crayons, but turn into paint when you brush some water on them. I brought them with me to the group painting at Polecat trail in Boise (Idaho) and tried them out. I wasn't happy with the result, but they were fun to play with.
When I was back in my studio, I painted over the dry painting and liked it much better. I could mix the colors better too. The foothills in Boise are very dull in color at this time of year (mostly yellow ochre), but they are near enough for a quick painting trip.
This is a 8 X 10 painting on Yes brand mixed media canvas. I also purchased some 6" X 8"gesso'ed board. I bought some small hardboards online and put 2-3 coats of gesso on them (sanding in between). These are easy to bring out with me for the plein air painting. The gesso dries quickly so it doesn't take too long to prepare the boards. I will take them with me tomorrow for my next plein air outing.
