30 in 30 Challenge, Day 20, "On Its Way"

On Its Way, 3x2in. Oil on linen/board.
Painted En Plein Air in Plymouth, Nova Scotia.

Available Here

On Its Way

"Autumn is on its way, weaving bits of color into the last of summer greens. "

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©


I enjoy sitting out in my screen tent in the morning as summer comes to an end. The light is really pretty and enough light comes into the tent to make it warm. The tent is on a wooden platform so it is more like a doorstep. While I was sitting with my tea, I took note of the light on the trees and bits of color in the leaves just beyond the tent. Yes, I thought this would be my subject for the day.  

The realization that fall was definitely on its way really struck me. I am in disbelief--where did the summer go?! I like the fall with its gorgeous color, as long as the weather stays warmer so that it is more pleasant to paint on location. 

My Persian cat "Marlee" came to visit while I was painting. She likes to nose around both in and outside the tent. She is good company and makes me laugh. This is a very small format for this particular subject, but in the end it seemed to work. 

A photo of Marlee in my indoor studio on the ledge. She jumps up here!

Hoping you are finding quiet times in your day to notice and take pleasure in your surroundings!

Warmly,
Debbie

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30 in 30 Challenge, Day 4, "Hints of Fall" Diary of Plein Air Painter #29

Hints of Fall, 4x4in. Oil on linen/board. $75
Painted En Plein Air, MacLellan's Brook, Nova Scotia.

Available Here

Hints of Fall

"With subtle hues of red emerging within bright greens, hints of fall prevail."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©

It was a beautiful morning when I set out to paint this one. I ventured out to one of my favorite haunts, MacLellan's Brook, Nova Scotia. I felt like I had entered a different world. It was so peaceful as nature hummed along around me. The following is my plein air diary I wrote after I finished my painting. I hope you enjoy my account!

Diary of a Plein Air Painter #29

It has been awhile since my visit to the brook. Hints of fall prevail as subtle hues of red begin to emerge within bright greens. Summer weather has finally returned after a bout of cold and rainy weather. 

When I first arrived, I took my time observing and exploring interesting spots spread out around the area. It is a larger area, so I sometimes drive my car between different locations on the old farmstead. I have selected several spots that would make good subjects. These areas are tucked away in my mind for future plein air session this fall.

Today, I decided to paint a group of trees that caught sections of the bright morning light. I like the mystic of the inner woods in the background. A thin branch with foliage steals the show, as its illumination contrasts with the forest behind it. I like its swooping motion and the lit foliage below it. 

It is important to not make the dark color around the background trees too dense. Washes help maintain a sense of space and depth. As I progress in my painting, a meditative state develops. The gentle sounds of nature, the babbling brook and warmth all contribute to a state of calm. Here is where the gifts lie. The chatter of the mind slows down and only the present moment holds importance.

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. I believe it was a Kingfisher that came to visit several times during my stay. He nosily announced his arrival as he flew from tree to tree. Overall, it was especially quiet and peaceful here today.

P.P.S This year I am elated knowing I will not be returning to my teaching job. It is so freeing to know that I will be able to continue my plein air adventures into autumn. Doing a little happy dance here today! 

P.S. Please feel free to comment or join in the challenge if you are an artist! 

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30 in 30 Challenge, Day 2, "Glistening"

Glistening, 3x2in. Oil on linen/board. Painted En Plein Air in Plymouth, Nova Scotia. $55 Available

Available Here

Glistening

"A small apple slice comes alive; glistening in warm light."

Debbie Lamey-MacDonald ©

This was painted En Plein Air on my back doorstep. The apple was from an apple tree that is on our property.  I love how this little slice just seemed to come alive on the shiny side table while it sat in the sunlight. 

I have included a picture of what this small painting looks like on a miniature easel. The   easel is included with the painting when purchased. These little miniatures make great gifts for birthdays, Christmas, weddings etc. Or just to make someone feel special!

Besides participating in the 3o in 30 painting challenge, I am working on a commission. Last night I had a great painting session. Little dancing going on between painting. A plein air artist has to keep in shape to carry all their gear! lol

Have  a super day! See you tomorrow.

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. Please feel free to comment or join in the challenge if you are an artist! 

Quick Links:

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