Springtime Affair

In many respects this winter has moved by rather quickly and I have to admit that on those chilly evenings a roaring fire and glass of chardonnay are quite the comfort.  But in particular the last few weeks we have had endless rain and indeed snow was forecast on the horizon.  

It's during that time that I take solace and relish my time in the Studio when I can simply imagine any place or season I care to be.  Hence I came across some earlier pics that I took of fruit trees in bloom and decided that I would usher springtime along if nothing more than in my studio!

This canvas is 36 inch square and has become one of my favorite sizes.  Their is something that forces me to be quite purposeful when I lay out the composition in a square format.  It has to be matter of fact and I enjoy that confrontation.  My background was fluid blending in a variety of hues of naples yellow, sap green, cobalt and sky blue with titanium white creating a delightful atmosphere.

Once dried the process of adding the skeleton of my tree with strokes that dragged along the canvas giving not only a delightful texture but a romantic pull and push trhoughout.  My blooming buds came next and here lies the key, feeling as if they were almost swaying in the wind.  Many where knocked down just before they became tacky with a large flat brush softening their edges with just a wisp of motion.

This played out for a couple of days until it all magically came together.  The irony upon its completion was that it was snowing outside!

A fitting tribute to the contrast of this colorful "Springtime Affair".