Evolution of a Plein Air Painting

Two weeks ago, I spent some time working in central Pennsylvania's Reeds Gap State Park. This is one of my favorite summertime retreats because it's secluded and generally a bit cooler than other areas during the hot days of summer.

The following series of photos illustrate a small landscape painting in progress as it evolves from initial concept to (almost) finished piece. Enjoy!

Step One: I use vine charcoal to sketch in a rough "armature" of the motif.

Step Two: This is the initial block-in, where I establish my darkest darks and lightest lights. Note that I use a metal easel. This permits me to set up right in the water, although I usually stand on dry land so as to minimize disruption to my aquatic friends.

Step Three: Continuing to build up the piece and fill out the blank areas of the paper. I always work on a pre-tinted piece of paper...Starting on pure white would be too overwhelming.

Step Four: Nearing completion. This is where I fuss budget with edges and small details.

Step Five: Pretty much done. I will polish this up in my studio to tighten some edges and add some small details because I'm not one of those plein air purist zealots who won't tweak a piece back in the studio. To me, the ultimate goal is always to get a good quality piece, so I don't limit myself arbitrarily.