A Finished Project : Sanctuary

These are the first six paintings of my Sanctuary Project.  Last year I painted at an orchard everyday and I found it to be a pleasant experience.  I was considering where to repeat the process when Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary in Easthampton, MA asked if I would like to show my work at the center.  Yes, of course!!  I love the sanctuary and now I get to spend lots of time there with special purpose.  There will be more paintings to come along!!!  My show will be in August, 2016.

This is a new process for me!  I am getting ready for a trip to Europe and I wanted to travel light with my painting gear.  

• I needed an easel that would pack up easily and stow away in a back pack
  
• I needed a light weight platform to which I could clip my canvas
  
• I replaced my panels with canvas sheet for the weight issue
• I switched my paint selection to a fast drying oil manufactured by Griffin

At first I wasn't totally happy with the results.  Some of the paintings felt lackluster.  Then I decided to gesso the canvas sheets with a gesso tinted a light yellow ochre.

I did like the results. The paintings were dry to the touch the very next day, and they were supple. 

More about my tripod setup in the next entry!!