New Mexico Adobe
8x6in oil on canvas board $125.
Same as yesterday - this is another piece painted just for the pure
pleasure of doing it.
Artist Note.
I find after I have had a really intense period of time I want to paint
things I enjoy... more than having a difficult challenge.
I love the New Mexico adobe houses and this one is close-by
in the Mesilla Valley. It has the metal roof which gives it a
different look from the flat roof adobe. I find both styles hold
a different appeal to me, but I like to paint the metal roof because
the reflective quality creates a link to the sky.
It was painted plein air and I fudged a bit on the tree by moving it to
the back. Good to feel in charge!
I remember when I first started to paint plein air I would try to paint
the scene exactly how it was, but I soon started to listen to my
inner design voice and found I enjoyed having my own
landscaping service, moving things at will.
It is always the light I try and capture. Today the sun cast strong
shadows and the one I was standing in
kept changing, so I painted it first and then started on the rest.
Most of it was done with a palette knife.
I so understand the joy of a simple building sitting in a great landscape. This is lovely and fresh. Liking it a lot......
ReplyDeleteYou are so nice - thanks, Helen. That is a lovely white rose you have today,
DeleteIn places where the lights are strong, colors and shadows become colored so fascinating! Looking at your work,Julia,it seems to be there, bathed in light and color!This adobe ...an emotion to watch!
ReplyDeleteHi Rita - you noticed the color in the shadows. Our shadows can have a very blue or purple color where the earth is reddish, as the sky reflects down very strongly. This is because there is no moisture in the air to diffuse it. Further into the shadow is different as the sky does not reach that area at all. When I go to Portland or back east, the shadow colors are what I have to really study because they are so different.
DeleteI've been to New Mexico a few times - in the 1970s - can't remember where (I'll have to look in my logbooks) most probably USAF bases.
ReplyDeleteWonderful painting, Julie - Peace & Harmony.
Light and shade are ALL to me ... without shadows I am but a fleeting shadow!!
Neat to hear you have been to New Mexico, John. I live near a USAF base (40 miles)which also has a German Group. Hollowman AFB. It is next to White Sands National Monument / Missile Range.http://www.nps.gov/whsa/photosmultimedia/duneimages.htm The space shuttle landed here once.
DeleteThanks for the neat comments... Fleeting shadow!
It is gorgeous, Julie! This "fractured" style of yours...simply exquisite. Each piece is stunning and interesting. I think I'm in a bit of a slump, not feeling inspired of late.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your generous comment. In fact it came at a good time.
DeleteI really like dancing trees too so if anyone out there is familiar with the work of Sandra Gaili, then let Crimson know please.
Love that roof! Houses of any sort are a real favorite and I always like when you select a landscape close to home. Nice job and isn't is satisfying to paint something familiar after a tough patch?
ReplyDeleteGlad you understand about relaxing with painting instead of having a "stimulating" one on the easel.
DeleteYou always seem to be stretching, Libby. I like what you share.
Wonderful piece with lots dimension.
ReplyDeleteIt makes me want to visit New Mexico with all its charm and unique adobe.
And I saw your beautiful palm tree and boat and thought I would want to visit there too. We travel courtesy of our blogging world.
DeleteThanks Carol.
this is so beautiful, Julie. The texture is outstanding...love the metal roof and how the light hits it. (Wonderful landscaping service!)
ReplyDeleteGlad you visited and left such a nice comment, Hilda.
DeleteLove your amazing new portrait.
Just love the feel of this painting...
ReplyDeleteThanks, Ashok. I loved your new one, too.
DeleteIt's so challenging to paint plein air. Hats off to ya'! Another lovely painting. I try to design on the spot and it is quite difficult but as you say, it is necessary.
ReplyDeleteHappy painting.
I think it would be challenging to paint a bird and you made it look effortless. I love those bright little paintings.
DeleteWell, this is amazing and it is also amazing how you seem to be able take any subject and make it your.
ReplyDeleteI find your comment interesting, Roger. I have a hard time seeing how my work really looks so I like the fact you can tell it is one of mine.
DeleteIt is your work which is so totally YOURS! Unique and strong. I really like the tree one tonight with the sgraffito - especially on the leaves
The lighting is perfect and the colors are so fresh! I feel like I'm there. I agree with Roger- it's your signature style!
ReplyDeleteHello Julie:) Beautifully done! Love it:)
ReplyDelete