Too many times, I’ve come across a scene worthy of memorializing as an oil painting, but didn’t stop to capture it in that moment. When returning, something changed (e.g. weather, building torn down, field plowed). I live on Mare Island and when I was on my bike ride today and saw a new ship in port, I felt it would make a beautiful painting. This afternoon, I dropped off my bike and went back with my paints. The Naval boat may be gone tomorrow, but this plein air piece captures the essence of Mare Island.
Mare Island Naval Base, 11 x 14 plein air painting
In addition to learning the lesson of taking action, I’ve also come to understand the importance of “artistic license” and editing a scene. This painting unifies with basic shapes that allows your eye to travel smoothly through the painting. The photo below of the actual scene is more choppy. A closer view that eliminates the white metal structure enhances the painting. Remembering “less is more” is a good lesson to remember.
