Every morning in Italy Glen and I sat down to a breakfast that was Buonissimo, a veritable feast of everything breakfasty (though after day three I reverted to my bowl of raisin bran [they had that too] and ? cream [that was the one thing I missed about the U.S. -milk- I am after all from the dairy state] for fear I would no longer fit into any of my clothes). Afterward I'd wave goodbye to all the guys as they left to attend their classes for the day. Returning to my room I'd gather my paint … [Read more...] about Morning in Italy
Plein Air painting in Italy
This is the beautiful Ariotto Hotel Ristorante in Monferrato, Terrugia Italy. The watercolor of the Ariotto is a plein air painting, which means it was done on site in the open air. Having the opportunity to sit on the street corners in Italy and paint the beautiful surroundings was a once in a lifetime experience. … [Read more...] about Plein Air painting in Italy
Gouache vs. Oil
Designer gouache is particularly difficult to work with when trying to do portrait work...it dries so fast and therefore doesn't want to blend well. A more loose almost impressionistic look would probably be easier. I always found it easier to work with on smoother metal surfaces as opposed to toothier surfaces like paper and canvas. I prefer working in oils as for this portrait. … [Read more...] about Gouache vs. Oil
Fruits of my Labor
It is time for fall festivals and the celebration of the end of harvest season. I've canned and frozen plenty for the cold months ahead so that I can enjoy the fruits of my labor after a chilly day of drawing or painting. I'll try to go as long as I can before turning on the furnace, but when the fingers get to stiff to manipulate the paint brush I'll have to give in. … [Read more...] about Fruits of my Labor