In Twisp, WA today attending a workshop by Mitch Albala. We are painting landscapes and following his instruction with by using two colors to create a block in work. Working with a toned background we then create forms, focusing on the large shapes. By 11:00 the sun is too high to see shadows so we will return tomorrow morning to complete this work.

I completed this scene this morning but found there wasn't enough value contrasts to make this interesting.

Another scene completed in the Methow Valley. I loved this particular work.

The beautiful San Juan Islands invite bicycling and painting so on Saturday I got my gear together and headed out to Lopez island. This was done on site first on a sketch pad then followed by replication in my studio.

I have learned the value of painting on paper before canvas. I take my sketch book on my painting expeditions but use oil paints instead of pencil to create the design I will then do on canvas. It's best to keep these studies small (5x7) and simple so it takes no longer than 20 minutes or so. This helps me decide on color, perspective and composition before committing to canvas. Try it out; paper is easy to throw away!