Here is the initial block-in of the two birds—so fun and loose in the early stages. The ground color is a neutral-to-cool mix of Paynes and white. Funny how it seems so warm once I started putting the blues on the canvas.
Since Thanksgiving, I’ve been painting these little long-distance travelers. They breed in the summertime—only in the upper arctic—but you can see them running with the waves like little wind-up toys at your favorite beach year-round. The ones you see in the summer are non-breeding birds.
I just finished the top painting this morning. I still have a nice collection of reference photos from that Narragansett trip, and I think I’ll paint some more.
I want to take a moment to thank you all for supporting my art. Looking back at the number of paintings sold this year fills me with gratitude. Looking at the gallery page of sold paintings on my website surprises me to no end. Who knows what 2022 will bring, but I sure hope to continue my studio time painting, my field time exploring, and gathering reference. It’s because of you that I can finally pursue my art.
Have a safe and happy holiday season!
I sincerely hope that you are surrounded by loving friends and family this season, and that you are filled with a spirit of kindness and joy. With so much reason to live in fear, I’m wishing you good courage and the strength to make this world a better place.
