Happy Spring Equinox!

Yes, I know it's the Winter Solstice, but don't you really want it to be Spring right about now? Well, allow me to fulfill your wish for a moment.

I've posted plein-air paintings here from time to time. But it has been a long time, and that is simply because I haven't gotten out to do much the past 2 years. In fact, I haven't really done any, period. I did go out last Spring, though. It was cherry blossom viewing time, and we headed out for a picnic in Central Park. I brought my paints, my wife brought the sandwiches.

Sheep's Meadow was packed. As I sat down, I thought to myself, "No way, too many people." I thought about trekking out to a quieter forested part of the park, with buildings peeking up behind. But I figured that's precisely the sort of thing I shouldn't do--run away from something. 3 or so hours is usually a tough squeeze for any scene, much less when there is an ocean of people around you, constantly moving and changing. Whatever, I figured I didn't need to finish. So I sat down to paint.

You'll notice I'm sitting in the shade. Last thing I needed was to have a shifting bright light over the canvas, and to get all hot and uncomfortable.

Naturally, I didn't finish before the light got irreconcilably different from when I started. I snapped photos and subsequently left the painting sitting around for a few months...neglected...sad.... Mainly, I needed to paint more little teeny people. I pulled it out once and got back to work for a bit but didn't manage to finish it until recently, just in time for the first major snow of the year. It was a challenge to maintain the loose handling of painting outdoors while at home, when I'm tempted to tighten up with all the time and controlled lighting available.

And with this, I leave you for the balance of 2009. You have more fun and interesting things to do between now and Jan.1--so go do those things. Eat lots, give lots of hugs, and be safe. See you in 2010!

9x12" Oils on canvas