Blog

The idea of Plein Air painting or painting "In the open air" was developed 400 years ago in Italy as a way to quickly document a scene while traveling; like today's snapshots. The practice moved to France in the 18th and 19th century with the Impressionists and then on to the Hudson River School in New York and the California Impressionists in the early 20th century. The original intent was to not spend more than a few hours gathering swiftly changing studies of light for a larger painting. However; many of these small oil paintings are collected today for their fresh and timeless interpretations of nature. The painting above is an example of an hour spent in Julie's lovely garden in Memorial. The charming bronze statue of a flute- playing cupid is really only a small shape dividing the spaces. By concentrating only on the impressions of light and color the painting becomes more and more abstract which is the logical conclusion for the artist. 

My friend Bettie graciously invited me to "let myself in" last week to her lovely garden to paint while she was out.  I had a very hard time deciding which of the many lovely vignettes to paint that day, but settled on the back of the property, far from a friendly but very worried dog. The main attraction was the deep shadowed foreground silhouetted by a brightly lit bank of azaleas in the background. Naturally the blooms were almost gone but I was able to recreate full bloom from the few blossoms that remained. This is where imagination works almost as well as reality. Clearly Bettie is a very talented gardener as each plant seemed very happy where it was growing. This alludes many, including myself, because a garden's design depends on constantly changing conditions. Thank you Bettie for allowing me to enjoy Your Creation.

Thornwood Gallery on Colquitt Street in having an Art Opening this Saturday, April 9 from 5-7 and I will be displaying this painting (among others) from the Houston Parks and Gardens series. It has been a delight to travel around Houston discovering all the secret green places to refresh and contemplate Nature in the middle of this big exciting city. Between the Museums, Galleries, Theatres, Dance and Music Venues, and  Restaurants, it's a wonder anyone finds time to sleep! So, please come by and have a glass of Champagne with me this Saturday from 5-7. We can toast Spring in our fair city, have a good visit and a light refreshment before we all rush off to see what else is Happening. We will be going to the Open Dance Project at the Midtown Arts & Theatre Center so are feeling very Cool and With It! Hope to see you at some point this Saturday Night! Life is short so, Get Out There!