New Plein Air Paintings

I've had a lovely few days: camping with some of my favorite people, and then stomping around in my boots finding places to paint. My feet hurt!

June 4, 2012. 9"x12"oil on linen.

Young grain, a plowed field, blue sky, pastures, and trees with lots of character.

June 4, 2012, evening. 9"x12" oil on linen.

Rain coming in from the north. I couldn't paint fast enough to keep up with the changing, amazing clouds! Just as I finished, the wind kicked up, flinging chaff into my painted sky. I'll try to clean it up once it's dry. :)

June 5, 2012. 9"x12" oil on linen.

I love blue and green together, and all the grasses going to seed add great texture and color to the landscape.


After only about a year together, my French easel has given notice. I know I've been kind of rough with it, but I feel a little betrayed! It's still working, for the moment, but I'll be looking for a more reliable replacement.
 It picked a fine time to start falling apart too: the Plein Air Festival in Red Wing, MN is in less than three weeks! Can't wait!