Bosque at Dawn

Bosque del Apache, NM - Dawn

Progression oil sketches. Each 6x8in   NFS

It was before dawn when we arrived and I had my plein
air kit set up ready to go as the sky started to get light.
I painted in the basic shapes and I was amazed how light
it became before the sun actually broke over the horizon
The closest reeds were really dark and the far trees bluish
and mauve colors. No green
I added the few details of the cattails at the end.
Below.
The sun started to illuminate the top of the reeds.
The trees started to get a green cast.

Next.
I turned the easel to the right and by this time the sky
was getting blue and the bright green of the new reeds
growing through the old ones was almost a shock.
All this change during the course of less than an hour.

Artist Note.

These sketches were basically color studies for a
painting in my upcoming May show. I found what I
was after thanks to the help of a ranger, and got some
other sketches completed. Great painting time and
a great hubby for going with me! It was a two hour drive
and we arrived before dawn...you can figure out
why I think he is great.

Please understand if I cannot reply to all the comments
at this time, but know I read and truly value each one.