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Musings Of A Painter
by Marian Fortunati on 11/7/2009 1:47:13 PM
 Last week an email message popped up on my computer from a gal I had met in my portrait and still life class taught by Johanna Spinks. Lani had started the class at LAAFA to pursue her interests in portraiture, but she was already very good. Lani Emanuel had completed her art studies at the Art Center in Pasadena. I hadn't heard from her in a while, so I emailed back to see what she was up to. Turns out she lives not too far away and was interested in doing some plein air painting.
Sepulveda Basin Plein Air
8"x10" Oil on RayMar Canvas
We met last Wednesday at the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Preserve and had a great time exchanging ideas -- she's had some great experiences -- and laughs. The basin was filled with beautiful egrets, happy cormorants and a large variety of other birds. The Audubon Society was even there preparing for classes for children.... what a treat for them!
I tried to paint big SHAPES and not noodle the painting to death. I used the palette knife some as well as the brush. I was trying to build up some interesting texture but keep the values correct. I had started with a red toned canvas and I liked the way the complementary red still showed through the green foliage. Although I was happy with the overall look of the study, upon reflection (no pun intended) I would have made the light area in the water appear less rough to indicate the relative calm of the water - although their WAS a breeze - and done more with the colors reflected in the water. I think we both had a nice time and enjoyed painting in a beautiful area.
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2 Responses to Plein Air In The Valley
via marianfortunati.com
via marianfortunati.com
I used to love going to the wild life preserve. Last time. a few years ago, I took my video gear mounted on a tripod in my wheel chair.I used it to carry all my gear; and to help me walkto the view sites. I guess I was a pretty weird sight. One old guy asked me if I'd seen any aliens lately.Love, Dad