I look for several things. I first look at the location. Does it interest me? Will it challenge me? How many painting days are there? Is this event a quality event? Has it been successful in the past? If it is new, who is organizing it?
Germanton Gallery has sponsored "Painting North Carolina" for over 6 years. It an invitational event. Artists are on their honor to paint anywhere in North Carolina in plein air.
I like this event because I can paint anywhere for the week and I enjoy the camaraderie of the other artists. I also appreciate all that is done by David and Judy Simpson, the gallery owners, for the artists. They understand the time and expense artists must spend to participate in this event.
This year my painting buddies and I were invited to paint at Mary Erickson's "High Ridge Gardens", a remote bird sanctuary and artist's retreat. It was a peaceful but challenging location. Some places don't have "built-in views". They speak to you in whispers rather than "kodak moments".
I was inspired by lights and shadows as well as pathways. I looked for the color and value changes in the myriad of greens that were there. I completed 6 paintings in 2 days which was amazing..fortunately we also had perfect weather and the light lingered. More to come...
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