The Lighthouse

The Lighthouse, 10 x 8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2021

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The St. Simons Island Lighthouse is the subject of books, legends, and many, many paintings! I have personally painted it several times, and felt an itch to give it another go during the holidays! The afternoon light on its circular form was just too pretty to pass up. 

A little history... the Lighthouse was built in 1872 to replace the original one that burned down during the Civil War. It's one of five surviving lighthouse towers on the Georgia coast, and it still protects navigation in the St. Simons Sound. Its beam of light travels as far as 23 miles out to sea! Besides that, it has a beauty and romance that is just so alluring... Never gets old! :)

Upcoming workshops:

St. Simons Island, GA - April 8-10

Austin, TX - May 14-15 (full w/wait list)

Click here for registration information.

Palm Trio - Fix it Friday #15

Palm Trio, 10 x 8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2020

Available

This grouping of trees was the subject of one of my class demos several years ago. It's on the beautiful grounds of Laguna Gloria (a place I have missed in this crazy spring.) There is always something that catches my eye, and on this particular morning it was the light on these three trees! But... well, see below...

BEFORE

AFTER

CHANGES:

Problem 1 - All three palm trees seemed to be growing out of the exact, SAME spot. 

Fix 1 - Separated the bases of the trees allowing each to be firmly grounded. 

Problem 2 - The understory of the trees looked like boulders piled up.

Fix 2 - Darkened and cooled the understory allowing it to recede into the distance.

Giving the trees each a space to live in and correcting the values in the background grouping relieved a huge tension that plagued this painting. 

OBSERVATIONS:

It's not unusual to become a bit intoxicated with one element of a painting and completely miss something major (like those tree bases). Focus on one thing preoccupies our mind and attention, and we completely forget the other stuff. The more we paint (or do anything) the better we get at bringing all the elements together. It takes paying attention and practice! 

One friend suggested that maybe I am too hard on myself in these Fix-its. I want to share my answer, because it explains why this whole process helps me...

My ultimate goal is to learn, and to catch these things the first time around. Revisiting with an objective mind helps me discover problem "trends" in my work. Forcing myself to make the changes is like a science experiment... I start with a hypotheses and a prediction, and the end result proves my hypotheses right or wrong. 

Thank you, CP!

Click Here to see Fix It Friday #1

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #2 

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #3

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #4

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #5

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #6

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #7

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #8

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #9

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #10

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #11

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #12
Click Here to see Fix it Friday #13

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #14

Fix It Friday #6 - Palm Tree Promenade

Palm Tree Promenade, 8 x 8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2020

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This little plein air piece was so fun to paint, and I was happy with it. Then... on closer look... I started seeing little nits. Hmmmm, why do we always have to take that closer look? This one fell into the "while I'm at it" category. I didn't change much, but I do like it so much better!

 BEFORE

AFTER

CHANGES:

Problem 1 - The sky plane was not separating out from the other planes enough.

Fix 1 - Added more layers of clouds to get added light into the sky.

Fix 2 - Lightened the sky at lowest point on horizon.

(Fix 1 and 2 - Lighter sky pushes it farther back from the mountain.)

Problem 2 - Palm trees on right were clumpy and too evenly spaced.

Fix 1 - Added a bit of sky top edge to break up the foliage clumps.

Fix 2 - Broke up the Per•fect•ly E•ven spaces where the palm trunks enter the foliage, by changing the direction of just the middle tree trunk.

OBSERVATIONS:

Sometimes little nuances can make all the difference. A small value shift in one area allows the whole piece to make more sense. Likewise, making sure that spaces are more random and irregular removes visual monotony. As I have said before, I hope that taking the time to observe and analyze these "issues" will help me avoid repeating the same errors over and over. 

Click Here to see Fix It Friday #1

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #2 

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #3

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #4

Click Here to see Fix it Friday #5

Palm Breeze

Palm Breeze, 8 x 6, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2019

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As a practice, I carry extra, small canvases out into the field; and I highly recommend it. They are great for focused studies of specific subjects, and perfect for shorter painting sessions when time allows. This piece hit both of those categories. I was about to load my car after my morning painting session, when I looked up to see this combination of shapes and textures. I love palm trees and clouds, and am always game for observing them both more closely. I had the time, and decided to give it a go. Always worth it!

___________________________

Start planning now...

2020 PLEIN AIR WORKSHOP INFO:

March 30-April 2, 2020 - Wimberley, Texas

April 16-18, 2020 - St. Simons Island, Georgia

May 8-9, 2020 - Austin, Texas

SEE DETAILS ON MY WEBSITE: laureldaniel.com 

Palm Tree Promenade - painting in Laguna Beach!

Palm Tree Promenade, 8 x 8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2019

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This parklike setting overlooks the ocean in Laguna Beach, and has a constant breeze off the water. It was particularly stunning when the sun came out and made everything sparkle! 

A few of you have asked what took me to California... well, lucky girl that I am, I was invited along to an annual conference with my husband. This was our 5th year and it's always fabulous! He did have meetings, but don't worry that he missed out. His afternoons included wonderful golfing opportunities, which he very much enjoyed! Everyone got to do what they wanted! :)

2019 PLEIN AIR WORKSHOP INFO:

Nov. 8-9, 2019 - Austin, Texas

Contemporary Austin Art School, FULL - Register for waitlist here 

2020 PLEIN AIR WORKSHOP INFO:

March 30-April 2, 2020 - Wimberley, Texas

Contact Helena Hauk, Wimberley Artists Workshops, 800-327-1913

April 16-18, 2020 - St. Simons Island, Georgia

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

Beachfront Palms - Show Tip #19

Beachfront Palms, 30 x 24, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2016

Sold in Solo Show, "Chasing Color, Finding Light", Davis Gallery

H A P P Y   E A S T E R !!!

I used to be afraid to paint palm trees and now they are my favorite. What made the difference? Observing and practicing. For the last three years, my daughter and her family lived in Hawaii. My visits with them included many a foray outside, to plein air paint along the coast or at the beaches near their home. It was a perfect opportunity to study the behaviors and personalities of palm trees... and study I did! This scene is from the Georgia coast, where my palm lessons continue to be applicable. 

Show Tip #19 - Celebrate Growth

As I painted the scene above, I reflected on how I no longer avoid or "edit out" palm trees when I am painting. In fact, now I look for them and choose them as subjects! It made me happy to see that progress, and yes, I did a little happy dance! We all make little advances every day in whatever we are doing. Sometimes success is immediate and obvious, and other times it is slower and incremental. And there are also times when we are so intent on the next hurdle that we just forget to notice where we've been. It is really important to pay attention and give ourselves a pat on the back when we see growth. Look for it. It truly is cause for celebration (and great inspiration to keep going for that next hurdle). 

Here are links to other Show Tips:

Tip #1 - Stock up on Supplies
Tip #2 - Set up Deadlines
Tip #3 - Determine Subject Matter

Tip #4 - Work in Series

Tip #5 - Establish a Schedule

Tip #6 - Be Kind to YOU

Tip #7 - Follow your Heart

Tip #8 - Stay Flexible

Tip #9 - Whistle While You Work

Tip #10 - Fight Through Fears

Tip #11 - Take Notes

Tip #12 - Know when to Quit

Tip #13 - Stay Updated

Tip #14 - Balance Effort and Ease

Tip #15 - Assign Tasks

Tip #16 - Step Back
Tip #17 - Sign As You Go

Tip #18 - Take Your Best Shot

Painters - join me at this Plein Air Workshop:

April 28-30, Anderson Fine Art Gallery, St. Simons Island, GA

Contact Info: Mary Anderson, 912-634-8414

Tropical Dance - Postcard from Hawaii

Tropical Dance, 8 x 6, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2015

Click to purchase $120 + $16

Available for shipping March 18

One of my favorite things about Hawaii is the way its palm trees sway to the rythm of incoming trade winds. I never tire of watching this well learned dance of nature. 

Please join me for these upcoming Workshops:

March 26-29, 2015 | Plein Air | Austin, Texas (FULL with wait list)

April 30-May 2, 2015 | Plein Air | Click here to register: St. Simons Island, GA

Windblown - Tree Gesture 3

Windblown, 8 x 6, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2015

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These Hawaiian palm trees grow in an environment that gives them their own distinctive style, even among other palms. The trade winds constantly blow and bend them, but they resiliently continue to reach skyward. And they are so different than the compact monkey pod trees growing below. Every tree has its gesture! 

Please join me for these upcoming Workshops:

March 26-29, 2015 | Plein Air | Click here to register: Austin, Texas

April 30-May 2, 2015 | Plein Air | Click here to register: St. Simons Island, GA

Island Club Breezes

Island Club Breezes, 12 x 9, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2014

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Jekyll Island is one of the barrier island on the Georgia coast and the Jekyll Island Club Hotel is at the heart of it's history. Designed by Chicago architect Charles Alexander in 1888, its turret, extensive verandas and bay windows are typical of the Queen Anne style. It was the scene of many important historical events; including the very first transcontinental telephone call in 1915, and the founding of the Federal Reserve Act win 1913. It also offered a lavish southern playground for the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts back in the day. It must have been quite spectacular… Oh, if walls could talk…

By the way, it's still a wonderful place to stay. Those verandas are available for afternoon reading and the front lawn is set up for some serious croquet, so bring your mallet. :)

Mountain Fog - Hawaii

Mountain Fog, 8 x 6, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2013

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This is another painting from my misty day on Oahu. I love how fog settles on the mountaintops and mystically creeps down into the canyons. It's kind of primal looking and always makes me start humming the theme song to Jurassic Park. :)

Sadly, my fun to Hawaii came to an end on Saturday. Of course, I am happy to be home, but I hated to leave! I have more island paintings yet to come, so please stay tuned. 

See more Small Works.

Misty Coastline - Hawaii

Misty Coastline, 8 x 6, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2013

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Even foggy, voggy days in the Hawaiian islands capture the imagination. The mist settles in and adds a quieting layer in the atmosphere. On this morning, it grayed everything out to a lovely soft pink. 

See more Small Works

Waterfront Lanai - Hawaii

Waterfront Lanai, 9 x 12, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2013

Greetings from Hawaii! I am here in Kaneohe Bay on Oahu, visiting my daughter and son-in-law for Thanksgiving. Of course, I just HAD to come a week early to get some painting in as well. :) It has been wonderful all around - having time with my kids and being inspired by the sights and scents of paradise. Each morning has greeted me with new and wonderful scenes that I will share with you over the next few days.

Can you imagine sitting on your lanai (back porch) and seeing this view every day? I don't know who lives here, but they sure are lucky!! Here was my view...

Marsh Breeze

Marsh Breeze, 16 x 12, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2013

Standing on the edge of the marsh is delightful when there is a breeze blowing across the water. It keeps the humidity and mosquitos away (two very important functions). The morning I painted this scene I had breeze AND shade, and it was absolutely heaven!

Side note: I will be painting on St. Simons Island on the Georgia coast for the next few weeks. (St. Simons has been an important family gathering place for many years.) I will be posting a little more often during this time. Please read along and join me in my daily painting adventures.

Pier Breezes and 2 workshop openings!

Pier Breezes, 8 x 16, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2013

Available at Anderson Fine Art Gallery

Due to last minute cancellations, there are now 2 spots available for my upcoming workshop in St. Simons Island, Georgia. If you are available and want to spend some great time outside painting, please come join us!!! Here is the information:

En Plein Air - Composing a Strong Landscape

May 20 - 22, 2013, Monday-Wednesday, 9am-4pm 

Anderson Fine Art Gallery

St. Simons Island, GA

$400

Workshop Description: Focus on good composition and the strategic placement of natural subjects found in the landscape. Learn to design pleasing, dynamic entrances and exits in your paintings, and practice composing "on the fly" in the plein air tradition. We will meet at different sites on the island, and each session will include a demo and a critique. 

To register, please contact Mary Anderson

 Anderson Fine Art Gallery, 912-634-8414

Cottage Light, 9x12, L. Daniel © 2013, SOLD

Chinaman's Hat

Chinaman's Hat, 6 x 8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2013

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This little island is actually named Mokolii but it is called Chinaman's Hat because of it's shape. Apparently, it's possible to swim or paddle over there at low tide; and there are some sea caves and a couple of beaches to explore. (However, the brave explorer would not want to get stuck there if the tide begins to come back in!) The trade winds were blowing fiercely the day we were there, so viewing it from the beach park was good enough for me. 

Tropical Moon

Tropical Moon, 6 x 8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2013

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Palm trees are so seductive. The angles, the liveliness, the whimsicality... everything about them is interesting to me. But silhouetted against the full moon, it is all about the shapes - so unique and so recognizable. 

Rocky Inlet

Rocky Inlet, 6 x 8, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2013 

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Here is another "postcard" from Hawaii from me to you - sent from my home of course! On a trip up to the north shore of Oahu we discovered many beautiful beaches. Some are famous for great surfing (Sunset and Pipeline) but this rocky inlet is a favorite spot for sea turtles to hang out. Unfortunately, we missed the turtles but we did get a dose of that gorgeous, warm afternoon light!

Bending with the Wind

Bending with the Wind, 8 x 6, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2013

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It has been exactly one month since my last post. Time flies! I never meant to be away so long, but February flew by with a big celebration for my parent's 60th wedding anniversary followed by... a two week vacation in Hawaii!!! Our daughter and son-in-law moved to Oahu in September and we finally got over to visit them. 

Time and scheduling didn't allow me to paint while I was there, but does it count that I dragged my easel all the way to two islands and back? I was planning paintings in my mind the whole time. Every view is a painting in Hawaii. Over the next few days I will be posting some of my favorite scenes. These are my postcards to you. Aloha, my friends!!

Three Palms

Three Palms, 10 x 8, L. Daniel © 2012

It's officially Spring now and the best plein air season is well underway here in central Texas! Everything is turning green again and the wildflowers are out on every highway and byway. This piece was my demo for my plein air class this week. I wish I had thought to take step by step pictures but... well, didn't think of it. I did, however, promise to post the final product. Here you go, guys! Great work this week! :) 

Blazing Palm

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.


See more Small Works