 |
| A collage I made earlier this year. I only wish I looked that stylish painting outside. |
In the beginnings of summer, the Knoxville Museum of Art hosts its annual fundraiser. For the past several years its been a sale of plein air paintings painted the day of and the day before the show by area artists. Last year was the first time I participated in Artists on Location. I'd never attempted plein air painting before, but one of my co-workers is the chair he and talked me into it.
I was enthusiastic, and went at it with such gusto. I made three paintings. One even sold! However, I came away with a few battle scars.
 |
| The only patch of sunburn. I earned my plein air wings. |
Most of the time, painting is a full-body contact sport for me. At the end of the day, I was completely covered in sticky, black oil bar and white paint. I showered with my dish soap for a few days in an attempt to cut through the linseed grease and grime. I also still have white fingerprints all over my trunk and car doors. Here are some of my pieces from last year.
 |
| Gay Street Trains |
 |
| Under the Gay Street Bridge. |
This year, I took the easy route, and decided oil painting outdoors just isn't for me. I have been watercoloring more than I have in the past, and decided to give that a go. I made these paintings last year as gifts for people, and the style suits making quick paintings. (Especially when I don't want to be wearing half the paint in the end.
 |
| A sweet little Memphis bungalow. |
 |
| CK's, A Memphis institution |
On Sunday I painted the Pease Furniture Store in the Vestal neighborhood of South Knoxville. Here's my view from across the street. I've always loved the lettering of the sign, and the time-warpy feeling I get whenever I drive by.
And here's the finished piece.
I took advantage of the long weekend and was able to make a second painting. This is the Cal Johnson Building in Downtown Knoxville. It's next to a parking garage I use frequently, and I've always admired its beautiful (broken) windows. It was just added to Knox Heritage's Fragile Fifteen list.
Here's hoping it sees some better days soon.
