If you’ve ever wondered what plein air or alla prima painting is, firstly, you’re not alone and secondly, I can help!
Most of the work in my new exhibition Realms and Ranges, which opens tomorrow, was made using these techniques - either painted in the open air (plein air) or all at once (alla prima).
This was a very deliberate decision… these techniques afford the paintings a feeling of freshness - the marks have energy and vitality. Both require full attention, a sure hand and confidence to make quick decisions. Working like this creates the ideal conditions for flow - the complexity of the challenge and the level of skill have to meet to achieve the outcome I am seeking.
As I was making the paintings for Realms and Ranges I recorded some of the process to share with you. This is in the video below for you to see.
If you are coming over the weekend, I look forward to seeing you very much. I am excited to have local musician, Pamela Fisher performing at the drinks and canapés on Saturday between 4 and 6 pm.
The exhibition is open both Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm at 12 Jamison St, Blaxland.
As always, your friends, family and children are welcome too!
As autumn arrives I consider what I may experience as I paint in the vast, dry landscape of the desert.