Laurel Ridge Farm/Daffodil Fields

Had to make a quick trip to Laurel Ridge Farm and see the daffodils. This farm is a site for the CT Plein Air Painters, and is spectacular this time of year. I marked my calendar for April 8 (to keep watch) but this is the first chance I've had to get there. Friday may be the only time I have to paint on location here as it is a bit of a drive for me. Very early morning seems to be the best light. There seems to be more whites this year, but maybe the yellows have come and gone.

I drove down the road and the farmer was using an ATV to round up the cows.

Spring in My Little Garden

Not wanting to be totally a landscape painter, I planted a few lovely things in my garden. These beautiful tulips are stunning in the morning light. I planted these bulbs about three years ago, and I'm surprised the deer haven't lopped off their heads! Gourmet salad threats for deer. I also planted some pansies, deciding this year to plant them in groups and by theme. I want to continue my flower watercolor series. Oscar the cat came to visit me. I'm looking forward to having fresh herbs and some lettuces and greens. While he has his eyes on the birds at my feeders, I'm sure Oscar has plans for some of my herbs, too!

Went back out to Smyrski Farm after work today. Have thoughts of at least a dozen more paintings there. I made five paintings, but only one will make it into a frame. Made plans to go to Lily Preserve on Sunday.

Spring in New Milford CT

This looks like a morning photo, but is late day. Stunning view looking down Lake Lillinonah. Yesterday the wind calmed late in the day, and I came across this scene after I completed another painting. My painting of the day was satisfactory, but I painted in watercolor and thought about painting in oils. I didn't stick to my original thought for the painting and was disappointed with the final product. So, today I must make a decision . . . paint the daffodil fields in Litchfield or give this scene a try or paint right here at home. Springtime in my own yard is pretty, too!

Weir Farm, Ridgefield, CT

Another stunning spring day here

in CT!! Spent the whole day with a

group of plein air artists at the historic Weir Farm in Ridgefield, CT. A light breeze kept the few bugs away. The forsythia were in bloom and a few daffodils. The tree groups in the forested areas still have their red veiled look. Wet ground and some puddles. I think I heard peepers all day! My favorite view was an apple tree against a stone wall with a huge puddle in front of it. Had I painted it, and I don't know why I didn't, the painting would have not had sky above, but sky in the puddle. High horizon. My friend, James, finished a challenging painting of Weir's studio and the meandering pathway through the field. I struggled to finish my watercolor . . . so tempting to cover the white spaces. I think my early design leaving the barn roof nearly white was a cleaner more exciting painting. But, the painting I finished shows the spring light and color. I may do another of the same scene and keep the graphic design simple but strong. Later in the day, I spent an hour sketching and planning for another trip to this magical place. I have morning sketches and late day sketches. Took some time lapsed images of the final painting and will post "the movie."