Laurel Daniel Blog

Evening Pause (study)

2012-01-25T16:04:00.001-06:00

Evening Pause (study), L. Daniel, 8 x 6

End of day. I love the feeling, smells and light. I love it in real time and I love painting it. :) This small study was done in preparation for a larger canvas I will post later in the spring (in conjunction with a show it will be in). As I have shared before, these small works are a great place for me to work out color relationships and composition challenges of an image before diving into a big one.

Click to purchase "Evening Pause (study)" $120 + $10 s/h

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PS - I had a number of readers request that I post my Woodland Series altogether. Here they are, in sequence... Further In, Farther Up and Circle Back...

Woodland Series, L. Daniel, 8 x 18

This series is SOLD

Circle Back

2012-01-22T21:44:00.000-06:00

Circle Back, L. Daniel, 8 x 6

This is the third of three woodland pieces. The buyer of the first two wanted all three, so this one is not for sale. The three paintings were designed as companion pieces and I am happy that they will all be traveling to their new home together!

Farther Up

2012-01-19T21:13:00.002-06:00

Farther Up, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, SOLD

Continuing on into my woodland trails series, this is the second painting of three. With these paintings I enjoyed trying to capture the delicious spotlights of the forest. One great thing about hiking through the woods is discovering little surprises of color and pattern on the way.

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Further In

2012-01-16T21:53:00.001-06:00

Further In, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, SOLD

This is the first of a little series of woodland trails. I kind of got hooked on the color combination and just couldn't get enough. It seems to aptly convey the dappled light and quiet mystery of the forest. Stay tuned - more coming. :)

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Blue Dusk

2012-01-12T21:58:00.001-06:00

Blue Dusk, L. Daniel, 6 x 6, SOLD

Have you ever noticed that light is most spectacular as it enters and exits the sky? Dawn and dusk are my favorite times of day because they always give such a great show. The soft colors of this blue evening took my breath away.

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River Valley Study

2012-01-09T22:20:00.003-06:00

River Valley Study, L. Daniel, 6 x 6, SOLD

Wow! Thank you all for your outpouring of support for my breast cancer journey. Your words of encouragement are incredibly empowering. I wish I could answer each email personally, but please know that I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It means so much to me to hear your stories and your promises to do those breast exams!

This small painting was a warm up for a larger piece I painted last fall. (Both are based on a plein air piece from my trip to the Adirondacks.) I hung onto this small one until the larger one was finished and, well, never got around to posting either of them. So, while I wait for some new work to dry, here is "River Valley Study".

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PS - I was pleased to find out today that I am the current featured artist on the Judson Art Outfitters Plein Air Store blogsite! Thank you, friends at Judson's!

A New Road and an unexpected detour

2012-01-06T21:09:00.001-06:00

A New Road, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

Some new directions beckon like a siren song... we see the road and long to follow it. But some paths take us on unexpected detours we would rather avoid. I am currently on one of those life detours....

One week before Thanksgiving I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although this was a really scary news to receive, it was stage one, easily removed and totally treatable. Early detection made ALL the difference. I know I am fortunate - I am going to be completely well soon and am very grateful.

Things move fast in the cancer world, and that's a good thing. But long story short... I had a lumpectomy on December 1, took a few weeks to heal from that, and had a wonderful Christmas with my family. Then, right after Christmas, I began radiation treatments - five days a week until February 17 (no chemo needed, and I am thrilled.) So far I am not experiencing side effects, but typically fatigue sets in about halfway through. I am generally pretty high energy, but I know it will hit me at some point and have adjusted my schedule accordingly. Meanwhile, I picked up my brushes this week for the first time since the diagnosis and it felt really good - THAT was a victory.

I thank God that this detour will be a relatively short one for me. And here's the thing... trials have a way of leading us to personal growth. They help us adjust our perspective and priorities, and demand that we remember our affinities. I am trying to embrace that reality and grab onto the lessons being offered.

Is it me, or does the sun seem to be shining just a little more brightly these days? Happy New Year to us all!

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Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to All!

2011-12-23T12:39:00.000-06:00

Sacred Pomegranate, L. Daniel

The pomegranate has been considered sacred by many religions since ancient times. In addition to its many healing qualities, it represents fertility, birth and eternal life. It's a perfect symbol for the message and hope of Christmas.

O Come, O come Emmanuel!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from my home to yours.

Ocean Walk

2011-11-27T22:02:00.001-06:00

Ocean Walk, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, oil on panel, SOLD

We just got back from St. Simons Island, Georgia, where we spent Thanksgiving with family. It was great to walk the beach at a different time of year. I didn't have a chance to paint this week - "Ocean Walk" is left over from my trip in April (kept as reference for larger piece). No matter the season, I always love seeing that patch of blue and feeling the sea breeze as I trudge oceanward through the dunes.

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Autumn Symphony

2011-11-23T21:31:00.000-06:00

Autumn Symphony, L. Daniel, 8 x 16, oil on panel

A recent day on Lake Austin... a reminder to give thanks for all things.

H A P P Y T H A N K S G I V I N G T O A L L !

Turning Leaves

2011-11-15T17:32:00.002-06:00

Turning Leaves, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, oil on panel, SOLD

Fall color comes a little late to Austin, and it usually has a pretty short window before peaking and flaming out. It's best to keep painting gear in the trunk and be ever "at the ready" for the perfect confluence of color and light. Well, that happened last week and you can bet I was out there trying to capture the magic! Watching the leaves turn multiple shades of red, orange and yellow is a spectacular show that never gets old.

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Dry Creek Bed

2011-11-12T21:12:00.000-06:00

Dry Creek Bed, L. Daniel, 12 x 9

Normally, Bull Creek is full of water that flows back to some limestone ledges and a small waterfall. After a summer of no rain, it's temporarily dry. Walking up the creek on dry land is an odd feeling but the limestone bed is beautiful and smooth from the water flow. This is always one of my favorite places to paint in the fall, and I really hope the water is back next year.

October Morning and Banner Project

2011-11-10T20:53:00.001-06:00

October Morning, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

I am a little behind in posting, but this is a little plein air piece I did a few weeks ago when it was still October (is time flying by or is it just me?) At that point, our fall color was just emerging and now it's at full peak. It's not like New England, mind you, but it's pretty beautiful.

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In other news...

"Happy Trails Art Banner Project"

Banners featuring 55 juried artists' work are currently

hanging in historic, downtown Georgetown, Texas.

I am pleased to have the painting below included the project.

Of course I had to visit the display and get a photo of my banner!

Stormy Sunday

2011-11-08T17:57:00.000-06:00

Stormy Sunday, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

...otherwise known as "the day it finally rained"! This weekend was Plein Air Austin's year-end barbecue at Westlake Beach, a old and favorite Austin haunt. We gathered in the afternoon to paint first (because that's what we do) and families joined us later. Well, don't you know, about an hour in, the sky darkened like someone had turned off the lights... and yes... rain happened. We all ducked under pavilions to wait it out and then went back and finished our paintings. It didn't last long, but it was a thrill. (I mean that - an absolute thrill - we are literally praying for the wet stuff.)

Pomegranate Cluster

2011-11-05T22:01:00.001-05:00

Pomegranate Cluster, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

Yes, I've had a bit of a pomegranate fascination in the past few weeks. 'Tis the season and all.. and these golden orbs are just so compelling. Once I painted them this way and that, I had to paint them bigger and on squares. I will post the squares and that should be the end of it... at least till next year. :)

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In other news, I am happy to be a featured artist on "Artist.Blog.Critique", a new blog written by Tony Moffitt. Tony takes a look at artists and their blogs, and gives his personal critique on what he sees. Thank you for the kind words, Tony!

Fruit Bearing Branches

2011-10-31T21:30:00.003-05:00

Fruit Bearing Branches, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

Our pomegranate tree had an abundantly productive season. I just love the shapes and colors, and it was especially interesting to watch flowers turn into fruit. It's quite a transformation.

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Alley On Avenue B

2011-10-29T21:45:00.000-05:00

Alley On Avenue B, L. Daniel, 12 x 9

A few of us met up this morning to paint in a cute little bungalow neighborhood near the university - yep, a neighborhood with ALLEYS. I do love an alley. :) This one had such a wonderful play of darks and lights, and I was sucked right in. It was a great morning with half the neighborhood out walking dogs and babies. One guy stopped to take my picture and exclaimed that it was "just great to have a flock of artists here!" I had to laugh - so a group of artists is a flock! Learn something new every day.

Sun-Struck Sapling and tips for using refined linseed oil as a medium

2011-10-26T21:57:00.001-05:00

Sun-Struck Sapling, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, SOLD

Back at the Wimberley creekside, this small cypress sapling caught the brilliant mid-day light. It looked so beautiful against the purple gray limestone shadows. I loved it's simple but dramatic pose.

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Using Refined Linseed Oil as a Medium:
One of my readers asked me to talk about using Refined Linseed Oil as a medium instead of Turpentine mixes or Liquin. She has been experiencing some allergic reactions to solvents and is making the switch. Here is the thing about solvents and allergies: while not everyone is bothered, some people are completely debilitated. Still others begin to experience allergic reactions after years of use. Even the odorless mineral spirits are toxic - the fumes are there even though you can't smell them. So be really careful if you are using them.

I learned to paint using linseed oil (I use the "refined") and have never missed solvents. If you are interested in trying it, here are some pointers:
- Place linseed oil in small cup on palette - you only need a small amount
- Dip just the tip of your brush in it, add a little as you go and mix in completely
- Use it only to emulsify paint for an even flow (so all pigments are same consistency)
- Do NOT use it for washes - you won't be able to paint back in and it will take a long time to dry
- If you like a toned canvas, consider pre-toning with an acrylic wash in your preferred color
- I don't clean my brushes as I paint - I wipe them out with paper towel as necessary to keep the color clean
- I use lots of brushes - typically one for each basic color in the painting (since I am not swishing)
- Brush cleaning - at the end of a session, I clean my brushes with warm water and Masters Soap (also a great conditioner - make a thin paste of the Masters Soap and reshape the tips)
- Other options are walnut oil and poppyseed oil - I've not tried them but hear they are good choices

Like anything, it takes practice to gain mastery but it's worth it. Most of my students who try it never go back to solvents. I know we all want to be painting for a long, long time, so paint smartly. And good luck!

Quiet Creek

2011-10-24T17:37:00.000-05:00

Quiet Creek, L. Daniel, 12 x 9

Last week, the Outdoor Painters Society met up for a few days to paint in Wimberley, Texas... about an hour from my home. This was a special treat because we were invited to paint on private land along the creek. I got there early and had a quiet morning with this glowing stand of cypress tress. Delightful. (Also delightful was the gathering of friends at lunch time.) :) Thanks for having us, Bob!

Reeds in the Lagoon - Plein Air Demo

2011-10-19T21:33:00.001-05:00

Reeds in the Lagoon, L. Daniel, 8 x 8, SOLD

Plein Air Demo

Today my fall plein air class started and we met up down by the lake to paint reeds and reflections and little yellow flowers. It was a beautiful, cool, sunshiny morning - a truly perfect fall day. I promised my students that I would post my demo from class step by step, so here you all are!

I began by blocking-in the large masses of my composition

using a mix of French Ultramarine and Burnt Sienna.

(The stain in the background is just leftover from a wipe-off.)

Next, I painted the darkest darks of the upright planes in foreground and background

(keeping atmospheric perspective in mind to create a sense of air and depth.)

Then I painted the flower blooms (treating them as large masses)

and saturated greens in the foreground foliage.

Working to get the canvas covered, I put in the muted tones of the reflections on the water.

I am always comparing value, chroma, and temperature of each component to the next,

because all color and value is relative to whatever is beside or around it.

Once the values and color of the whole scene were working

I added the sunlit tips of the reeds and broke up the masses with subtle value shifts.

At the very end, I added the final highlights (very important not to rush this final step.)

Sacred Pomegranate

2011-10-17T22:51:00.005-05:00

Sacred Pomegranate, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, Oil on panel
*All Proceeds will go to "Every Mother Counts" fundraiser
SOLD

The pomegranate has been held as sacred by many religions since ancient times. It represents fertility and marriage, birth and eternal life... and, it's revered for it's healing medicinal qualities. It seemed a fitting image for this cause.

*Every Mother Counts is an aid organization that combats maternal mortality during childbirth by training midwives and opening health clinics in the Republic of Congo.

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American Women Artists - National Juried Exhibition, Opening Friday

2011-10-11T19:20:00.001-05:00

Summer Rains, L. Daniel, 9 x 12, Oil on panel

Available at Huff Harrington Fine Art Gallery in Atlanta

I am very pleased to be a finalist in the 2011 American Women Artists National Juried Exhibition. The piece above will be in the show along with fantastic work by women artists from all over the country. I will be attending the opening this Friday night, so if you are in Atlanta, please stop by. I would love to see you!

Here is the information:

2011 American Women Artists (AWA) National Juried Exhibition

Artist Reception Friday, October 14, 6:00 - to 8:00 pm

Huff Harrington Fine Art

4240 Rickenbacker Drive

Atlanta, Georgia

Exhibit runs through November 3

One Chocolate and One Vanilla

2011-10-06T23:00:00.000-05:00

One Chocolate Cupcake (after Wayne Thiebaud), L. Daniel, 7 x 5

One of my very favorite artists is Wayne Thiebaud, painter of desserts (and other objects of every day life.) In my still life class this fall, we have been looking at his work closely and taking inspiration from his thickly applied paint, colorful shadows and juicy edges. Of course, I had to take the challenge myself. SO, with great admiration and all due respect... here are some sprinkled cupcakes in the spirit and manner of Mr. Thiebaud.

It must be noted that if Thiebaud was painting these cupcakes, the paintings would be at least 10 times larger. If you have seen his work in person, you know what I mean. BIG. I learned so much trying to emulate his style and hope my students did too!

One Vanilla Cupcake (after Wayne Thiebaud), L. Daniel, 7 x 5

Summer's End (and thoughts on using thick paint)

2011-09-29T18:42:00.003-05:00

Summer's End, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

Here is another painting from last week's paint out where I my goal was to use thick and juicy paint. This is an area of focus for me right now - I am even making my students try it in our still life class. (Sorry guys, just sharing the joy.) :)
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Here is a question from one of my readers I thought might interest others...

"Why is it desirable to apply paint in thick brush strokes?"

I am just trying to better enjoy the buttery, goopy quality of the paint. The whole process is so much more delicious when the tactile factor is higher. Children get this intuitively. They don't need to be taught to smear it everywhere.

Adults need to be retaught (or un-taught). I see it all the time in myself and in my students and friends. Due to some crazy grown-up fears, we are 1) miserly with paint both on the palette and on the canvas; and 2) tentative and overly careful with our mark-making to avoid mistakes. Our fears of depleting supplies and wastefulness make us scrimp and our fears of imperfection and failure restrict our ability to express.

Fear is not a good place to work from when we are trying to be creative. So, what better way to get past those fears than to face them full on, with more paint and bolder marks? Turn it into a game. Make it play. SET A GOAL. (Whatever it takes.)

Of course, this is completely a matter of personal taste. Thick, chunky paint may not be everyone's cup of tea (it may even be UNdesirable to some people!) Whatever your preference, just remember to have fun.

Shadow Shimmer

2011-09-26T22:47:00.000-05:00

Shadow Shimmer, L. Daniel, 6 x 8

Last Thursday, Plein Air Austin met up to paint in the country. My goal for the day was to use thick, juicy paint; and the simple shapes of this shed and its shadows were a perfect subject for that goal. I am enjoying pushing myself in the area of paint application... if you click on the image, you will be able to see the thick paint up close. More of this experimentation will be showing up in my next few posts. :)

Click to purchase $120 + $10 s/h
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Spring Workshop Info:

Garden Vignettes En Plein Air, May 17-19, 2012, St. Simon's Island, GA

Contact Mary Anderson, Anderson Fine Art Gallery, 912-634-8414

Workshop Announcement - come paint with me!

2011-09-24T09:20:00.003-05:00

Back Gate, L. Daniel, 6 x 8 with 3" gold frame

Available at Anderson Gallery

This spring, I am offering a plein air workshop on St. Simons Island, GA.

If you are interested in joining in, here is the information:

Garden Vignettes En Plein Air

May 17-19, 2012

Thursday-Saturday, from 9am-4pm

Anderson Fine Art Gallery

St. Simon's Island, GA

$375

Workshop Description: Develop oil painting skills through painting en plein air at a variety of private and public gardens. Emphasis will be on catching light and shadows, seeing color, achieving depth with perspective, editing and simplifying forms and capturing a sense of place. Each session will include a demo and a critique.

To sign up:

Please contact Mary Anderson

Anderson Fine Art Gallery

912-634-8414

Still Life Lessons

2011-09-20T21:22:00.000-05:00

Pair of Oranges, L. Daniel, 9 x 6

My last session at the Weekend with the Masters was a still life class with Quang Ho. Ho is a great painter, teacher, author, and just an incredible thinker overall. Listening to his ideas about painting and creativity is inspirational. He encourages artists to strive for "maximum randomness"... to look for variety and complexity in each area of a painting. Most importantly, he experiments. He is always open to new approaches and simply knows how to play when he works. "Play" is a really good goal and so easy to forget.

In these two paintings, I tried to experiment with color and edges. The top one was my second attempt and favorite (I was definitely in play mode).

Fruit Toss, L. Daniel, 9 x 12

Mist On The Rocks

2011-09-18T19:02:00.002-05:00

Mist On The Rocks, L. Daniel, 9 x 12

Back at Point Lobos on day two of the Weekend with the Masters...
I studied with plein air painter Joe Paquet, who is passionate about painting, art and life. The day was overcast and foggy, and Joe did a great demo showing us how he paints air and atmosphere into his vista paintings. We started with an underpainting of all the shadow elements using cobalt blue, black and lead white (or flake white). Sadly, I didn't think to take photos of that stage so I can't show you what it looked like. My goal here was to create distance between the various receding elements and the underpainting helped me get the values set correctly from the beginning.

Addendum... it turns out that my friend, Leigh Sparks, took pictures at the workshop and happened to catch my painting at the early stage. Here is the underpainting using cobalt blue, white and black. Color was added on top of this. Thank you, Leigh! :)

Point Lobos - Six Quick Studies

2011-09-15T22:36:00.002-05:00

Point Lobos Study 1, L. Daniel, 6 x 9, NFS

Last week I had the great fortune to attend the Weekend with the Masters in Monterey, CA - four days filled with workshops, demos, and lectures featuring some of our country's best artists and teachers. I spent one of the days studying with Ray Roberts, who focused on painting quickly in the field to capture important shapes and fleeting color notes. Learning to work fast means being able to bring home more options for painting a scene larger and more carefully in the studio. We did 30 minute studies, repositioned, and started again.

Some tips for doing 30 minute studies? Do not limit your palette (bring primary and secondary colors). Premix tints. Keep it simple (really simple). Use lots of paint. Focus on getting correct values and identifying major color families. Do not try to get finished paintings - stop when you have the notes you need. And practice, practice, practice.

These are the studies I finished that day at Point Lobos in Monterey. It was an incredibly fruitful day and I think I caught the rhythm of something that will really benefit my work. Many thanks to Ray Roberts. (These studies are not for sale.)

Point Lobos Study 2, 6 x 9, NFS

Point Lobos Study 3, 6 x 9, NFS

Point Lobos Study 4, 6 x 9, NFS

Point Lobos Study 5, 6 x 9, NFS

Point Lobos Study 6, 6 x 9, NFS

Follow

2011-09-12T17:27:00.014-05:00

Follow, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

This dirt road winds it's way through old and dense evergreens in the Pacific Northwest and it certainly cries out to be followed! I was quite taken with this area of the country and can see why folks rave about it. It seemed to me that there was a painting in every direction and I hope to go back for more!

PS - I am now back from the Weekend with the Masters and will share some of the lessons this week. :)

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Fence Check

2011-09-10T17:31:00.003-05:00

Fence Check, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

I love a farmer's field, be it east coast, west coast or middle America, and this one in Washington simply had my name on it. The orange-yellow grasses and patchy blue sky were a delicious combo... and then there was that post and wire fence... irresistible!

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Cliffside Breezes

2011-09-08T17:06:00.007-05:00

Cliffside Breezes, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

Before I left for the Weekend with the Masters in Monterey, I pre-posted of some smaller studies I've been working on over the past weeks. They are a little like postcards to myself as I used them to process a few memories of my trip to the Pacific Northwest. Hiking next to the waters of the Puget Sound, we came across this bending tree, it's growth greatly impacted by the sea winds. It interested me to think about how the tree has adapted for survival there, hunkered in and clinging to the cliff. Nature always finds a way.

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Painting Included in fall issue of Plein Air Magazine!! WOO HOO!

2011-09-06T17:49:00.015-05:00

High Falls, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

The Fall 2011 issue of Plein Air Magazine has an article about the Publisher's Invitational that took place in the Adirondacks this summer, and this painting of mine is included in the story! What a thrill it was to open the pages and see it there (I'm not going to lie, I bought several copies!) The magazine is available at Barnes and Noble in the art section. Go check it out! And thanks for letting me share the good news!

Artist friends: this week I will be attending the Weekend with the Masters in Monterey, CA. If any of you are going to be there, please contact me. It would be fun to meet up!

Also - HELP CAROL AND DAVID MARINE FUNDRAISER - click here

My dear painting buddy, Carol Marine, has lost her home, studio and everything inside to the Texas wildfires. Many of you know Carol and would like to help out. The above link will take you to a fundraiser help the Marine family get back on their feet. All donations will go directly to them. Please keep central Texas in your thoughts and prayers.

Demo Notes - Stolen Moment (enlarged)

2011-09-03T21:30:00.002-05:00

Stolen Moment (enlarged), L. Daniel, 16 x 12

On Thursday evening I went to Fredericksburg, Texas to do a painting demo for the Die Kunstler Von Fredericksburg group. Since I was painting inside, at night, I chose to do an enlargement of a 6 x 8 plein air piece. The original was done the week before my daughter's wedding in June and it brings back many happy memories of that joyous time.

But beyond that, I also thought it would be a good scene to work through while explaining my painting process. More than 50 people came to the demo and they were a great crowd! Many thanks to the organizers and all who were there. I promised to post the whole thing here for a little review, so here we go...

A Demo of "Stolen Moment":

Line and Mass Block-in

Using French Ultramarine and Alizarin Crimson I lightly sketched in my composition.

Stepping back, I checked the drawing, made needed corrections and laid in the darkest darks.

For blocking-in, it's important to use a very dry brush and a light touch to avoid muddy colors later.

From here on, I will load the brush, continue to use a light touch and try not to scrub (more mud).

Foreground - Darks and Lights in Upright Plane

Using color to describe the darks and lights, I massed the shapes & kept them simple.

Later on I will break up the masses with subtle value and temperature shifts in each range.

(Upright plane refers to vertical elements, such as trees and foliage. It usually contains the darkest darks.)

Foreground - Darks and Lights in Ground Plane

Again, I focused on the simple shapes of the darks and lights - this time in the ground plane.

(The ground plane reflects the sky, so it's overall value is usually much lighter than the upright plane.)

I pushed the color a bit here, knowing that I will come back in with highlights at the end.

I tried to establish an overall vibrancy in the foreground that would contrast well with the muted distant shore.

Background - Establish overall Value

I try to compare every element; and here I compared "like" to "like"...

How are the elements in the background different from the same elements in the foreground?

Atmospheric conditions make the background cooler, more muted, softer, lighter...

I painted the background mass using the average best value and color to establish a sense of distance.

Background - Darks and Lights in Upright Plane.

Once the value was correct, I broke up the large background mass with subtle shifts of light and dark.

The value range is tighter (less contrasty) in the distance, so I avoided dark darks and intense color.

I kept detail at a minimum (it's far away and I know I can't see that detail!) :)

Middle-ground - Reflections in Ground Plane

Here again, I indicated reflections by using large masses that I will break up later.

(You should be seeing a trend... Large masses that get subdivided.)

Sky - Value and Nuance of Sky Plane

I generally paint the sky last, but I know lots of people who start there.

No matter when it's painted, the sky is an important key to the rest of the values in a painting.

The sky is usually the lightest area in a landscape because the sun is there...

once everything else established, I know how light I need to go.

Final Touches - Highlights and Sparkle

Painting is a practice in patience and delayed gratification.

I try really hard to establish the values and temperatures of all the masses before ever doing a single highlight.

Once the masses are working together, I begin to break them up and try not to overdo it.

Last, and I mean at the very end, I add the highlights and sparkle and any little details.

Honestly, when I follow my own advice on this, I am happiest with the outcome.

Leaning Tree in Sunlight

2011-08-31T21:08:00.002-05:00

Leaning Tree in Sunlight, L. Daniel, 9 x 12

A few days ago I posted a painting of this scene at Rosario Beach (in WA) on an overcast, drizzly morning. I had several people mention that they would love to see the scene on a sunny day. Well, here it is. The day I scoped out painting sites was a brilliant, sunny afternoon, and I took photographs to remember some of my ideas for my days of painting. Of course, when I went back it looked totally different, but the time I spent painting it on location (studying the shapes and relationships) helped me bring the sunny day photo to life back in the studio.

The plein air piece of the grey day is below - just for the fun of comparing and contrasting. You can see I painted new one from farther away and corrected the shape of the peninsula while I was at it. :)

Leaning Tree, L. Daniel, 9 x 12

Help Africa and Demo Announcement

2011-08-29T17:47:00.003-05:00

Garden Quiet Study, L. Daniel, 6 x 6

Proceeds from sale of this piece went directly to the

American Red Cross for the children in Africa

My colleagues over at the Daily Paintworks gallery site have initiated an online auction to raise money for Africa. Due to the devastating drought, the UN estimates that up to 400,000 children in the Horn of Africa could die if they do not receive aid; AND up to 11 million people require food assistance at this time. I donated the painting above to the effort and I invite you to place a bid and help us make a difference!

SOLD - Thanks to Carol and David Marine for organizing this effort!

UPCOMING DEMO INFO:

On Thursday night this week (9/1/11), I will be doing a painting demo in Fredericksburg, Texas for the Die Kunstler Von Fredericksburg art group. If you are anywhere nearby, you are welcome to come join us free of charge. The meeting will be held in the EMS building on 221 Friendship Lane from 6:30 - 8:30 pm. I would love to see you there!

Cool Mist

2011-08-24T23:42:00.003-05:00

Cool Mist, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, SOLD

This has been a summer of any thing BUT cool mists here in Texas. Thankfully, I have been able to take a couple of excursions to places where jackets were needed and water actually fell from the sky. It's a beautiful thing. This piece is a revisitation to the drippy skies of upstate New York.

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Woodland Window

2011-08-18T18:52:00.000-05:00

Woodland Window, L. Daniel, 12 x 9

Up near the Puget Sound where I was visiting last week, I was constantly aware of being surrounded by water. The San Juan Islands glisten in the distance and the forested areas are deeply luscious. The foliage seems to understand that summer is very short, because it leafs out (rich and green) like there's no tomorrow. Coming from dry and thirsty Texas, it was quite refreshing.

Side note: While there, I also kept thinking about the Canadian painter (British Columbia), Emily Carr, who painted in the Pacific Northwest in the early 1900's. She was a bold and adventurous plein air painter who completely broke with tradition and defied the mores of her time (woman painter, traveled into the wild to paint alone, mixed with native peoples, painted in a crazy newfangled style, and painted totem poles no less!) Susan Vreeland wrote a great book about her that I highly recommend - a fictional piece called "The Forest Lover". It captures a sense of the times and the strength of her great spirit. Being in her territory gave me new insight into what her work was all about.

Leaning Tree

2011-08-16T21:08:00.001-05:00

Leaning Tree, L. Daniel, 9 x 12

This past week I had the great fortune to visit my daughter and son-in-law's new home outside of Seattle, WA. It was actually quite cool and refreshing there, in the middle of August!!!!! (Can you imagine?) We did a lot of hiking and I managed to get a couple of painting sessions in as well. This particular morning at Rosario Beach was pretty fogged in... but so beautiful in its quietness. I had to paint fast because the tide was coming in. How do you know when you are finished?? When the water is lapping at your feet! :)

I can see in this picture of my set up that I kind of shortened the peninsula... hmmmmm...

Evolution of a big, big painting

2011-08-02T00:36:00.001-05:00

Farmer's Field, L. Daniel, 36" x 60"

Above, close up shots for detail of brushwork and color.

A couple of weeks ago, I told you I was working on a larger version of one of my plein air pieces from the Adirondacks (click here to see small piece). Well, I finally finished! This is the largest fine art painting I have ever done (prior to this, 30" x 40" was my largest.) The canvas has been in my studio for years but I could never work my way up to it. Why now?? I did it for my biggest fan, my husband, who has a giant wall in his new office space. He has been asking me for his own, NEW painting for quite some time (he always gets the leftovers, sadly), so this one's for him!!! :)

The following process shots are for all you painter types out there who might find it interesting to see how the painting came together. I had to change my approach a bit since there was so much area to cover. Click images to enlarge.

1 - I began by lightly sketching of my composition onto the canvas with a blue pastel pencil;

followed by Line and Mass Block-in using French Ultramarine & Burnt Sienna.

2 - Focusing on the center section first, I worked outward adding color.

I prefer working with paint while wet (alla prima), so it helped to

work one area at a time... kind of like the fresco painters of old.

3 - Since the darks dry fastest, I painted into all the dark edges while they were still wet.

This was a good stopping point after a day of painting.

4 - Next, I added the sky and ground plane.

This was another stopping point (I actually thought I was finished here,

but, the ground seemed too orange and the sky needed more action, so...)

5 - Back at the easel, I muted the ground plane and began to add more clouds (in process here)...

6 - FINAL PAINTING - I finished the clouds (softened) and

further broke up the tree masses (still fairly subtle but more obvious in real life).

Once I get the painting up in my husband's office, I will try to get a good picture of it. It's always fun to see a painting "in situ". Now, did I mention I have two more huge canvases in my studio just waiting?? :)

Earthen Vessels

2011-07-27T18:29:00.002-05:00

Earthen Vessels, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, SOLD

The thing I love about gardens is that they offer many opportunities to study intricate layers of light and dark in a close range. There is always something popping up to interrupt the light; and I'm attracted to both the extreme contrasts and subtle nuances that result. These urns in my garden are situated "just so" to perfectly punctuate an early morning sunbeam.

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Sun-Kissed Blossoms

2011-07-24T22:04:00.001-05:00

Sun-Kissed Blossoms, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

Last week when I mentioned that I was calling this little garden series "Other People's Gardens", I got some ribbing from my blog friend, Kirby. He kindly wondered was something wrong with my own garden? (Perhaps the drought had killed everything???) Certainly we all know that the other man's grass is always greener, but it got me thinking... no, my flowers are alive and well (in spite of 40 days of triple digits.) SO, the next few garden paintings will be from my own backyard. I shall re-title the series "Gardens" and leave it at that. Much more freedom all the way around! :)

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Garden Embrace

2011-07-21T21:11:00.002-05:00

Garden Embrace, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

I am quite drawn to the intimacy of private gardens, so today's paintout with Plein Air Austin was a perfect location for me. We met up at the Barr Mansion, which is a beautiful Victorian home from the 1800's that is now a popular wedding venue outside of Austin. It is surrounded by well-tended gardens from which this statue greets the morning each day. The unabashed praise of this young gardener is simply contagious.

I can't help but think of these words from "Morning Has Broken", the old gaelic melody sung by Cat Stevens...

"...Mine is the sunlight, mine is the morning

Born of the one light, Eden saw play

Praise with elation, praise every morning

God's recreation of the new day..."

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Blazing Palm

2011-07-18T16:26:00.001-05:00

Blazing Palm, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, SOLD

Sometimes the sunlight hits things just right. You know what I am talking about... it stops us from whatever we are doing and we are compelled to look twice. When this palm has its daily "moment" in the sun, it gets me every time.

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Lily Dance

2011-07-16T18:20:00.013-05:00

Lily Dance, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

This group of dancing lilies absolutely sparkled in the morning sunlight. They were a little parade-like, I thought, all decked out as they were. This would be another in a series that I could entitle, "Other People's Gardens"... a favorite subject of mine. :)

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Farmer's Field - Adirondack Trip (last)

2011-07-13T21:59:00.001-05:00

Farmer's Field, L. Daniel, 6 x 12, SOLD

This is my final painting from the Adirondack Invitational trip with Plein Air Magazine. And what a fabulous trip it was! Beautiful country, wonderful people, a great adventure! This row of trees on the horizon called my name as I was scouting out some country side roads late one afternoon. I found a tree that protected me from both sun and rain while I was painting... it was that kind of day.

Thank you for your many notes of encouragement about these paintings, I really appreciate being able to share the experience with friends. AND, right now I am actually painting a giant version of this scene in my studio (3' x 5')... so stay tuned... I will post about it later, when it is finished, dry and photographable. Extending the fun... :)

Stormy Meadow - Adirondack Trip

2011-07-11T21:08:00.000-05:00

Stormy Meadow, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

Sometimes when the sky is darkest, the ground takes on an incredibly intense hue. In this meadow, the grass sparkled a brilliant chartreuse while the distant mountains came in and out of view with the fickle mist. Occasionally some light would push through on the horizon, but only for a moment. It was just one of those rainy mountain days... cozy...

Mountain Chapel - Adirondack Trip

2011-07-09T15:14:00.001-05:00

Mountain Chapel, L. Daniel, 16 x 12

This charming old chapel sits on a triangular corner in the tiny mountain town of Bloomindale, New York. It obviously served the spiritual needs of the community for some time, and most recently served as an antique store. But sadly, it now sits vacant. It's so charming and gingerbread-y that it would be perfect for something. (It would make such a cool studio I thought to myself). Hopefully, it won't be empty for long.

Disappearing Creek - Adirondack Trip

2011-07-07T20:53:00.001-05:00

Disappearing Creek, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

One afternoon, all the painters who came to the Adirondack event gathered to paint at the Saranac Gun Club AND to pose for a group photo. We lined up in this field and painted together until the appointed time for the photo "op". It was a memorable event - this many plein air painters all in one place is rare indeed! (Normally we all like our privacy.) As for our subject matter... this is actually the Saranac River though it looked more like a creek in this location... hence the title.

Here we all are, hard at work...

See all the easels lined up in the background??

Black Pond Forest - Adirondack Trip

2011-07-05T19:07:00.001-05:00

Black Pond Forest, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

Another misty, rainy day led me into the forest to paint in the dripping quiet. I set up my umbrella early on because the trees were shrugging off water droplets from an earlier storm. Well, it turned out to be fortuitous because an hour or so into the painting, the sky started raining with gusto. The umbrella worked like a charm. I stood my ground and was still painting long after the shower stopped (so empowering, I felt like I had won a battle!)

By the way, I love those trees they have out there in upstate New York! :)

High Falls - Adirondack Trip

2011-07-03T19:45:00.003-05:00

High Falls, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

Hiking down in to this falls was well worth the effort. When I stepped into the clearing and caught my first view, I absolutely squealed with delight. It's sheer power was evidenced by the roaring, gushing water and the misty overspray; completely enveloping everything in the vicinity. It is a truly awesome place. (see picture below)

In other news - Many thanks to Raymond Logan for reviewing my work in his "Daily Painter Review" blog. Please check it out and see some of his other reviews at the same time! Thank you, Raymond!!!!!

This is me painting the waterfall - picture by Maria Amor (thanks, Maria!)

Rock Island - Adirondack Trip

2011-07-01T18:02:00.001-05:00

Rock Island, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

I just returned from a fabulous week of painting at the Publisher's Invitational in the Adirondack Mountains. It was a wonderful gathering of over 80 like-minded plein air painters from all over the US (and one person from Russia)... brought together by Eric Rhoads, publisher of Plein Air Magazine. We had a bit of rain and overcast skies, but it didn't deter any of us. We painted every hill and dale, creek and waterfall we could find. In the evenings we shared stories and inspirations - an incredible time all the way around!!!!

Sunlit Arbor

2011-06-25T21:40:00.011-05:00

Sunlit Arbor, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

This garden gate leads to a quaint beach cottage on St. Simon's Island. I love intimate garden glimpses; and this one really struck me. It was on my walking route while I was visiting in April and May. Each morning I looked forward to seeing the sunlight beaming through the pretty picket fence.

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6th & San Jacinto

2011-06-20T21:39:00.002-05:00

6th and San Jacinto, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

A couple weeks ago, Plein Air Austin met downtown to paint our city streets in the quiet of the morning. As you can imagine, it wasn't deserted for long. Soon it was hopping with cars and people. This corner is smack in the middle of Austin's famous "6th Street" - at night, it completely transforms into a wild music and party scene. College kids love it.

Tomorrow I am headed to New York to paint in the Adirondacks for a few days and visit my sister. I look forward to painting in some of the same locations as the Hudson Valley River School Painters of the middle 19th century. It's beautiful country with an inspiring artistic history. So excited - it will also be a little cooler there... :)

Rio Vista Rapids

2011-06-16T21:47:00.004-05:00

Rio Vista Rapids, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

Today our painting group met up on the San Marcos River, where the water is still flowing in spite of the drought we are having. It's a great place for tubing and kayaking and just staying cool in the heat. Lots of moms were there with their kids enjoying the glad freedom of summer.

AND, I got the funniest plein air comment yet...
While I was painting, a little girl named Amanda came over to watch. After awhile she announced, "I am going to be a painter when I grow up, too. I am going to practice and practice and when I get good enough to make a painting like this I am going to give it to you!" Then she thought about that for a minute and added, "that is, if you are still alive... But if you're not, don't worry, I will just put it on your grave."

True story... And I took it as a compliment! :)

New Gallery and a Summer Show

2011-06-10T22:34:00.003-05:00

Dune Grass, L. Daniel, 9 x 12

I am very pleased to announce that I have recently joined the Buchanan Gallery on Galveston Island! It's a wonderful gallery and a beautiful space, and I look forward to seeing what will come of this new relationship. In addition, I was invited to participate in the Summer Group Show featuring 9 gallery artists, and tomorrow (June 11) is the opening reception. If you are in Houston or anywhere near Galveston, please come by, I would love to see you!

"Summer Group Show"

Buchanan Gallery

220 25th Avenue (one block off The Strand)

Galveston Island, Texas

Opening Reception June 11, 6-9 pm

Show runs through July 9

Visit my website to view works in the Buchanan Gallery show.

In addition to the Buchanan, my work will continue to be represented

by the Davis Gallery in Austin, Texas and by the

Anderson Fine Art Gallery in St. Simons Island, Georgia.

Holy Ground - Wedding Joy

2011-06-08T21:24:00.002-05:00

Country Pavilion, L. Daniel, 9 x 12, NFS

I painted this wonderful old, rock pavilion last fall after my daughter chose it as her marriage site. Last Saturday was her wedding day and she married the love of her life. I felt as if I was on holy ground as they exchanged vows and committed the rest of their lives to one another. It was truly a magical time.

Many of you have sent me kind notes of congratulations - thank you so, so much. Here are a few pictures of the beautiful day...

Happy Bride and Groom.

Proud father takes his daughter to the altar.

Husband and wife pass under the military

sword arch into their new life together.

My son ushers me to my seat.

Stolen Moment

2011-05-26T22:49:00.003-05:00

Stolen Moment, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, NFS

Back in Austin, I am immersed in the final preparations for my daughter's upcoming wedding - just 8 days away. It seems like we have been thinking about it and planning for it for so long, and now it's here. It's a deliriously wonderful and emotional time. I catch myself tearing up at the strangest things. Today it was the little pre-school aged girls in the grocery store pushing their mini carts through the aisles. I remember those days like they were yesterday.

So, with that as a backdrop, this painting truly represents a "stolen" moment in an otherwise ridiculously hectic week. Yesterday morning, Julie Davis and I met up under the low water bridge to paint before facing the demands of the day. It was much needed time to just stop and take in... and I went away completely refreshed!

Sylvan Glow - a study, a larger piece and a friend

2011-05-25T22:17:00.004-05:00

Sylvan Glow Study, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

This glowing tree in St. Simons Island, GA was so captivating that I had to paint it twice. The top piece was first. My challenge was to capture the glowing quality of the foreground tree as well as the glowing road behind. AND it included Spanish Moss to just make things more tricky. :)

It was a study in temperature. Observing the relative warms and cools was important to getting it to work. Several days later I went back in the same kind of light to try it again (see larger piece below). This was a very helpful exercise to really understanding the light and color.

Sylvan Glow, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

Available at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery

in St. Simons Island, GA

Alyson Tucker and Laurel waiting for ferry on Sapelo Island.

This is my fabulous painting buddy from St. Simons Island, Alyson Tucker (and me on right). We have fabulous painting adventures whenever we get together, and this year was no different. We painted almost every week day I was there, and I SO appreciate that she is always ready to go anywhere, anytime! Thank you for a great visit, Alyson!!!!

Boat Shed

2011-05-22T21:10:00.000-05:00

Boat Shed, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

I painted this plein air piece the small, rural town of Meridian, Georgia. This shed sits right next to the local post office and I am pretty sure that every member of the community stopped by for their mail while we were painting. They were a friendly bunch and more than several of them stopped to tell us the history of the old shed...

Apparently, there was once an old country store next door that purchased "deertongue" by the pound (named for it's appearance - it looks like a deer's tongue). Deertongue is an indigenous, vanilla flavored plant that was used by the tobacco industry back in the 1900's to flavor cigarettes and pipe tobacco. Folks would collect these leaves in the countryside and bring them to the store for extra cash. One guy remembered working in these old sheds as a kid, processing and bundling the herb. Lots of history in this place! :)

Sapelo Lighthouse

2011-05-19T22:00:00.002-05:00

Sapelo Lighthouse, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, SOLD

This lighthouse on Sapelo Island, Georgia looks like a toy, don't you think? Not only in my painting but in real life - I think it's something about the red and white stripes. While I was painting, another visitor to the lighthouse took the picture below and emailed it to me. It lets you see the story book quality of the scene... thanks MC!

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Coast Guard Lookout

2011-05-17T21:00:00.001-05:00

Coast Guard Lookout, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

St. Simons Island has a wonderful, historic Coast Guard station that sits overlooking the ocean. It was built in 1936 and after many years of service was refurbished into a maritime museum. Sitting right next to the main public beach, it is also a major landmark for meeting up and the location of much summer fun. :)

I have some other fun news... yesterday, I had a visit from a blog friend, Kathy Cousart! She was traveling through the area with her husband and they stopped by to see us. This was the first time we ever met in person (though we have exchanged many a communication through email and our blogs). It was pure delight! We visited, talked plenty of "art" and instantly felt like old, old friends. It's a wonderful, small world. Thanks for visiting, Kathy!!!

Me and Kathy Cousart meeting up in Georgia!!!!

Hill Country Color - 5 x 7 Art Splurge Show

2011-05-15T20:00:00.008-05:00

Hill Country Color, L. Daniel, 5 x 7

This is my second donation to the annual "Five x Seven Show" at the Jones Arthouse in Austin, TX. Though I am not in town to enjoy the opening weekend myself, I recommend a visit to this fun and fabulous exhibition if you are around.

Annual "Five x Seven" exhibit and fundraiser

Arthouse at the Jones Center - downtown Austin

Hours: Mon-Tues closed, Wed 12-11 pm,

Thur-Sat 12-9 pm, Sun 12-5 pm

Exhibit runs through June 12

This is my other donated piece in the "Five x Seven" show:

Golden Splinters, L. Daniel, 5 x 7

Golden Splinters - 5 x 7 Art Splurge Show

2011-05-14T05:43:00.000-05:00

Golden Splinters, L. Daniel, 5 x 7

This weekend was/is the ever popular "Five x Seven Art Splurge" in Austin. It's a big fundraiser that benefits the educational programs at the Jones Center Arthouse and the above painting is one of my donations. For the second year in a row, I had to miss the big event because I am still in Georgia. I guess it's a small price to pay, but I do love this annual show and party. The exhibit includes hundreds of 5 x 7 artworks of every shape, style, medium and color; and all displayed anonymously. On the first night nothing can be purchased until a buzzer goes off at 9 pm. Each work costs $150 and it's a huge grab fest - competitive art buying at its best. SO MUCH FUN!!!

If you are in Austin, the show is open all weekend.

Hours: Saturday 12-9 pm, Sunday 12-5 pm, Mon-Tues closed, Wed 12-11pm.

Exhibition will be up until June 12.

Sneak preview of my second donated piece in case you go

(will post officially tomorrow):

Hill Country Color, L. Daniel, 5 x 7

Gateway of Palms

2011-05-08T19:27:00.001-05:00

Gateway of Palms, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

These palm trees appear to be greeting the river like a giant natural gateway. I love how the one is leaning out toward the water, almost as if to beckon.

Happy Mother's Day to mom's everywhere!

Island Alley

2011-05-04T21:19:00.000-05:00

Island Alley, L. Daniel, 12 x 9

As kids, we used to play in the alley behind our grandparents' home in Wisconsin. There was always an intrigue about being in that "in between" place separating the backyards. (And I remember there were always hollyhocks growing there.) This dirt alleyway has that same kind of draw for me. This is not the alleyway of my childhood, but I have been wanting to paint it for a long time. :)

Fishing Boats

2011-05-02T17:50:00.000-05:00

Fishing Boats, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

I loved this turquoise boat docked on the river. The light was hitting it "just so" and the tide was swirling beside it. For those who know this area, I was under the bridge on Jekyll Island and after painting, we had a lovely lunch on the wide outdoor porch at Sea Jay's! Life is good! :)

Before the Storm

2011-04-30T21:13:00.001-05:00

Before the Storm, L. Daniel, 12 x 16

Available at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery
in St. Simons Island, GA

We have had some great dramatic skies on the east coast this week (still in Georgia); but I'm happy to report that we had no tornados. On this particular morning, the clouds were rolling so swiftly over the marsh that they were hard to capture. The low ones in front were menacing, while the ones in back were fluffy and illuminated! I am not sure I completely got the effect here, but it was beautiful to see.

Hidden Beach Path

2011-04-27T20:35:00.024-05:00

Hidden Beach Path, L. Daniel, 16 x 12

Available at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery
in St. Simons Island, GA

A glimpse of the ocean through this over-growth of trees revealed an infrequently used path to the beach... I knew my plein air search was over for that day. AND, a wonderful breeze off the water kept me cool and bug-free! :)

Lighthouse

2011-04-25T21:29:00.003-05:00

Lighthouse, L. Daniel, 12 x 9

Available at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery
in St. Simons Island, GA

In addition to being an important ocean beacon, this lighthouse is a famous landmark on St. Simons Island. It's the subject of Eugenia Price's locally beloved novel entitled "Lighthouse", which tells the story of the man who built it in post revolutionary Georgia. The station was finished in 1810 and is made of tabby (a mixture of lime, sand and oyster shells). I love to imagine those early days on the island; and this lighthouse saw it all.

Windy and Blue

2011-04-22T07:20:00.001-05:00

Windy and Blue, L. Daniel, 12 x 12

This is another piece from my painting day in Brunswick, Georgia with the Plein Air Affair (painting event last weekend). This lovely old Victorian home caught my eye, particularly appealing with the heavy Spanish Moss draped like a veil in front of it. The day was very windy, and I found protection behind a big church across the street.

Happy Easter weekend, all!

View From Newcastle Street

2011-04-20T21:04:00.000-05:00

View From Newcastle Street, L. Daniel, 9 x 12

Across the causeway from St. Simons Island is the town of Brunswick. It, too, sits on the marshes and inter coastal waterways of coastal Georgia and was a designated painting site in the Plein Air Affair event last weekend. Driving through the old downtown, I spotted this perfect composition and knew I had to paint it. You might say that it selected me! :) I love the delightful serendipity of plein air painting!

4th of May Cafe

2011-04-18T20:15:00.001-05:00

4th of May Cafe, L. Daniel, 12 x 9, SOLD

This past weekend I participated in The Plein Air Affair, a 3 day plein air event that took place on St. Simons Island, Georgia where I am visiting (and painting) for the next few weeks. The event was a fundraiser for Glynn Art, the local art association. Eighteen of us painted, displayed our wet paintings, and painted some more. It was a wonderful group of artists to hang out with. This piece sold in the grand finale silent auction on Saturday night. Great cause, great fun!!

"4th of May" is a little cafe in the village of St. Simons Island. It's a favorite eating spot for locals and tourists alike... and a lovely sight on a sunny morning!

6 Inch Squared Exhibition - Randy Higbee Gallery!

2011-04-14T20:42:00.000-05:00

Morning Breaks Study, L. Daniel, 6 x 6

Garden Quiet, L. Daniel, 6 x 6

These two paintings will be part of the "6 Inch Squared" exhibit at the Randy Higbee Gallery in Costa Mesa, California. The show opens Saturday, April 16, and features 500+ small paintings that are all 6" x 6". I would so love to be at the opening to see all the paintings. There are works in the show by many of my favorite painters - little jewels I am sure! If you are in CA, drop by the gallery and see the exhibit!

"6 Inch Squared"

Sale and Exhibition April 16 - May 6.

Gala Reception April 16, 5 - 9 pm.

Randy Higbee Gallery, 102 Kalmus, Costa Mesa

800-506-7624

Blinding Light (enlarged)

2011-04-13T17:05:00.001-05:00

Blinding Light, L. Daniel, 18 x 18

This early morning sunrise transformed the water off the gulf coast of Texas where I was painting last fall. It was one of those moments that compelled an unplanned stop on the side of the road to take it all in. This piece is available in my current show at the Davis Gallery.

Click HERE to visit my web site and see the complete collection of work in the show.

Opening Night at the Gallery!

2011-04-10T13:06:00.000-05:00

Ocean Beach (diptych), L. Daniel, 24 x 48

Last night we had a wonderful opening reception for our exhibit, "ON SITE: The Appeal of the Real". This three person show includes Julie Davis, Stephen Parker and me, and it is on display until May 7 at the Davis Gallery. We had a wonderful turn out, incredible support from collectors and friends AND we had fun! Thanks to all who came.

Now off to the gallery talk and then I am headed to the beach... :)

Here are some pictures:

Stephen Parker, Me, Julie Davis

See a complete preview of my work in the show on my website: www.laureldaniel.com

Golden Fence Line

2011-04-08T20:10:00.002-05:00

Golden Fence Line, L. Daniel, 24 x 36

The Texas Hill Country is so beautiful in the spring - the wildflowers emerge and it's like a wonderland. I love driving down the back roads and finding unexpected spots to paint and do it whenever I can. This year has been rather full with preparations for my show and our daughter's wedding, so this piece was actually painted from a study done last spring. I can't wait to get back outside painting again - next week!

Visit my website for a preview of my work in the Davis Gallery show.
Exhibit Opening Reception - this Saturday, April 9, 7-9 pm.
Reviewed by American Art Collector, April issue (p. 104).

Marsh's Edge (enlarged)

2011-04-07T22:47:00.000-05:00

Marsh's Edge, L. Daniel, 24 x 24

This is another large piece that is in my current show. I guess it's pretty obvious that I love the marshes on the east coast - and I love to paint them. Next week, after my opening at the gallery, I will be heading back to Georgia for a few weeks of painting and relaxation. I will drive by this spot every day while I am there. :)

Please visit my website to preview all my work in the Davis Gallery show - opening reception Saturday, April 9.

On another note, I want to thank Andrea Erins for including me in her top 15 painting blog list! Read the article and see her other favorites: “Inspiration Meets Canvas: The Top 15 Oil Painting Blogs” (click title to view). What an honor - thank you Andrea!

Morning Breaks (enlarged)

2011-04-05T22:16:00.001-05:00

Morning Breaks, L. Daniel, 18 x 36

You might remember this scene... in January I posted two small studies I painted in preparation for this larger piece. It always helps me to try different angles and compositions before starting a large canvas. In this particular case, I so enjoyed that process; and lingering for a few days with this deserted country road and silhouetted chapel. This is one of my favorite pieces in my show at the Davis Gallery that opens this weekend.

Please visit my website for a preview of all my paintings at the Davis Gallery.
Read my show review in the American Art Collector, April issue (p. 104).

Show info: (I wish you all could come!)

Honorable Mention @ Salon International 2011!!!

2011-04-02T22:32:00.000-05:00

Hillside Wonder, L. Daniel, 18 x 18

Honorable Mention at Salon International 2011

I've just returned from the festivities of the annual Greenhouse Gallery Salon Show in San Antonio, where my painting won an honorable mention. WOO HOO!!! I am so honored and thrilled to receive this recognition!!! You will see my smiling face in the pictures below. It was a great time of seeing great art and meeting up with wonderful painters. Yes, I am still grinning! :)

Smiling with my ribbon!

...with the competition judge Daniel Greene...

...with new and old artist friends at lunch - so much fun!

Left to right: Cynthia McBride, Jeannie Breeding, Jeanne MacKenzie, Michelle Borgwardt, Paula Holtzclaw, Christine Drewyer, Peggy Immel, Joan Breckwoldt, me

Abandoned Dock 2

2011-03-31T21:36:00.001-05:00

Abandoned Dock 2, L. Daniel, 18 x 36

This is one of my favorite places. It's one of the first sights I see upon arrival at the Georgia coast; a sight that causes all those feelings of excitement that come with beach vacations and long anticipated getaways. It never ceases to inspire.

Available in my upcoming show at the Davis Gallery.

Please visit my website for a preview of all my paintings in the exhibit.

Read a review of my show in American Art Collector April issue (p. 104).

Help Japan Auction #2 - Marsh's Edge Study

2011-03-29T21:11:00.004-05:00

Marsh's Edge (study), L. Daniel, 6 x 6, SOLD

I am so proud to share that the artists of Daily Paintworks, my online gallery group, has raised over $20,000 for aid to Japan in the first week of painting auctions!!! I am so excited that I am putting another small painting on the auction block. Click here: Help Japan Challenge to place a bid and help me make a difference in this great tragedy.

This piece represents a "home away from home" for me. The marshes along the Georgia coast are a magical place that I have come to know and love over the last 32 years. It's the home of my husband's family and a true place of my heart. I don't know who lives this house, but they sure are lucky to call it home!

Proceeds of this sale will go to "Save the Children for Japan" recovery efforts.

Glorious Morning (enlarged)

2011-03-26T22:20:00.002-05:00

Glorious Morning, L. Daniel, 18 x 36

This is a studio piece inspired by a smaller, early morning painting finished at the edge of Lake Austin. I did a series of sunrises back in November, and this was my favorite "moment" of the morning. This painting will be included in my upcoming show at the Davis Gallery.

Please visit my website for a preview of all my paintings for the exhibit.
Read my show review in American Art Collector April issue (p. 104).

Flying South

2011-03-22T23:26:00.001-05:00

Flying South, L. Daniel, 30 x 30

This painting of the beach at dusk will be in my upcoming show at the Davis Gallery here in Austin. And yes, there is actually a flying "V" of silhouetted birds in the sky. I may have imagined the flight direction, but South seemed appropriate. :)

Please visit my website for a preview of all my paintings for the exhibit.

Read my show review in American Art Collector April issue (p. 104).

Help Japan - painting for auction

2011-03-20T18:05:00.002-05:00

Hillside Wonder (study), L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

My gallery buddies at Daily Paintworks are hosting an online art auction to raise funds for relief efforts in Japan, and this piece is on the auction block.

Please visit our site and click the Help Japan Challenge link to see wonderful paintings by participating artists and have some fun with the auction! Remember all the money will go to helping the people of Japan.

A little bit of background on the auction theme: Artists are invited to submit/donate a piece that represents "home" to them (it's not too late, artist friends). I chose this big sky of Texas because, for me, it represents both a sense of power and a feeling peace. This is my greatest wish for the people of Japan right now... power to rebuild and peace on the way.

Proceeds of my sale will go to the Japanese Red Cross Society.

American Art Collector Article!

2011-03-18T15:19:00.003-05:00

Afternoon Overlook, L. Daniel, 36 x 18

I am so excited to share the news that the April issue of American Art Collector magazine includes an article about my upcoming show at the Davis Gallery! This is a great honor for me; and very encouraging in my journey as a painter. My Barnes and Noble doesn't have it yet, but subscription holders are beginning to receive it in the mail, so keep an eye out. WOO HOO! :)

This piece was inspired by some plein air work I did in California this year. I was caught by the mass and scale of these trees that thrive along the coastline.

Please visit my website for a preview of all my paintings for the exhibit.

Read show review in American Art Collector - April issue (p. 104).

Exhibit Preview - Emerald Sunset

2011-03-15T20:46:00.001-05:00

Emerald Sunset, L. Daniel, 30 x 40

My show at the Davis Gallery opens in April (reception April 9) and I am finally ready to begin sharing the paintings I have been working on these past few months. Most of the work will be larger studio pieces that were inspired by my painting experiences in the field. I am pleased to be joined by two fabulous artists and friends, Julie Davis and Stephen Parker.

Please visit my website for a preview of all my pieces for the exhibit.

2011-03-11T21:10:00.003-06:00

Pastureland, L. Daniel, 8 x 6, SOLD

I kind of fixated on these spindly trees... they were in the last painting I posted, but seen from another angle. They were just so quirky and full of personality.

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Misty Lake Study

2011-03-09T20:04:00.003-06:00

Misty Lake Study, L. Daniel, 6 x 8, SOLD

This atmospheric valley, seen through the lone backlit trees, had a soft and completely irresistible glow to it. Misty edges always catch my fancy... :)

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Plein Air Demo - Garden Portal

2011-03-03T22:47:00.006-06:00

Garden Portal, L. Daniel, 8 x 8, SOLD

Yesterday my plein air class started. It's a little bit early yet as spring is just beginning to make an appearance here; so finding this lovely green spot on the grounds of Laguna Gloria felt like a huge gift. This piece is the finished demo from class and below is an incremental record of the process. I actually painted the ones below ahead of time for easy reference, and promised to post them here for my students. Hope it's helpful!

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"Garden Portal" - Landscape Demo

(images below are 6 x 6)

1) Line and mass block-in

Using Burnt Sienna and French Ultramarine, I blocked in simple shapes and values. This dark underpainting established my composition, laid the foundation for my darkest darks, and gave me an overall map of where I was going. A big step back before moving on helped make sure the composition was working.

2) Shadow family in uprights

Working dark to light, I painted the relatively darker areas of all the verticals in the upright plane. It's important to constantly compare one to another as all color is relative. Notice that the large, simple masses have no detail - this is very important. At this point in the painting, establishing temperature and value are the main goal. Save details for the end.

3) Light family in the uprights

Staying in the upright plane, I laid in the sunlit areas of my subject and began to break up the large masses with small value shifts. I purposely chose to work out all of the color and value relationships in the upright planes first. Once I got those working together, I knew where I needed to go with the sky and ground planes.

4) Sky and Ground planes, plus final touches

I saved the sky and ground planes until the end so that the other values could help me determine how light I would need to go. Since the sun is in the sky, that will most often be the lightest plane in any painting. The ground reflects the sky and is the next lightest plane (thank you, John Carlson). I also went through and broke up the masses a little bit more, being careful not to overdo it. The highest highlights are the final touches saved till the very end. Yes, delayed gratification, but totally worth the wait.