When its 11 degrees outside!
Since its been so cold recently I've enjoyed working on some large studio pieces using reference photos from last summer. When I do a large piece (in this case 24x36") it helps me to use a value wash after I tone the canvas. This lets me work with the shapes - wiping them out and changing things when necessary - until I like the composition. In this case I used burnt umber and viridian but couldn't help myself putting in some of those blue reflections at the bottom. After that dries (use turpentine instead of OMS and it will dry faster) I choose an area to finish "in one go". Then move to another large area the next day. This is because I like to work wet in wet when ever possible.
Below is the finished painting. I used my biggest brushes and took about 2 days to complete it. I really enjoyed working so large for a change and hope to do it more often.
I find it difficult to get a good photo of large pieces. This one has a glare on the upper left hand side which washes the deeper colors out a bit so I'll have to try again some sunny day. If you have any advice - I'd love it if you'd share in a comment below!
