Plein Air Painting along the Myakka River

Over the past few weeks I've had several days of plein air painting. Just recently the weather has returned to Florida norms, but when we were out painting it was pretty cool, well for Florida anyway. I am very fortunate to live just a few miles from the Myakka State Park. It is an excellent representation of "the real Florida." Nature rules here, with alligators crossing your path, wild boar, deer, and armadillos rummaging around for food, and the occassional panther or coyote. The park is a magical place.

We were lucky to have access to areas not usually visited by the public. So the nature was left to us. As I painted, armadillos ventured out from cover. There has been a lot of rain this winter and the park is flooded in many spots, bringing the animals closer to paths and roads.

At the edge of the prairie I set my easel. I generally work on objects very close up. Here I decided to paint the vista. This is a real challenge for me, not only did I work on a much smaller surface than I usually do, 12X12, I also have a real hard time with greens! But when all was said and done, it was a marvelous day with friends, painting the beauty around us. I was happy with my final result.

Myakka Prairie 12X12 Oil on board

Evelyn McCorristin Peters 2010

We also had the occassion to visit the grounds of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. We set up by Cà d'Zan Mansion where I sat upon the ground to paint the Banyan Trees. It was a cloudy and misty morning and so quiet. The feel of the atmosphere came through in my work.

The next piece actually took two visits. The first attempt was ended abruptly by rain. This is a beautiful spot. My friend and artist Jean Blackburn has a wonderful cabin in the woods around the Myakka River. I always love to come here where the river winds its way through the woods. I was very happy with the outcome of this piece. The first day the river was low and the clouds were dark.

The following week the river had risen, submerging a large portion of the fallen Cabbage palm. The sun was also out! I managed to bring it all together.

Here is the finished piece!

Fallen Cabbage Palm 16X16 Oil on canvas

Evelyn McCorristin Peters 2010

I also had the time to do a few quick sketches out on Siesta Key, the most beautiful beach!

Looking forward to getting out again next week!

For those interested in learning more about Landscape painting I've recently discovered a new book Landscape Painting: Essential Concepts and Techniques for Plein Air and Studio Practice It's really terrific with lots of exercises and great reproductions from various artists. Give it a look!

Next blog post will cover brush cleaning, toxins in paint, and oil mediums. They have all been a hot topic on Twitter lately!







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