Northwoods Paradise ©

Oil on canvas on panel, 6"H x 8"W
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Still Waters ©

MainStreet Art Center in Lake Zurich, IL offers a variety of workshops conducted by accomplished artists from all over the USA.  I attended a Dawn Emerson workshop in early November.  One of the exercises Dawn taught included using a single reference photo to create a series of paintings: different sizes and compositions.  This small masterpiece, Still Waters, is first in a series.  I used a reference photo I took in Ely, Minnesota this fall.

Oil on canvas on panel, 8x8"
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Oil Rig ©

Near the most southern tip of Illinois outside the quaint, small town of Fairfield, I participated in a plein air competition this fall. It rained most of the day, but that didn't deter me from painting this lovely landscape complete with oil rig!  Oil rigs fascinate me. I just love that we are drilling for oil in our own state!!

Oil on canvas on panel.  10x10"
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Grandpa's Farm ©

I painted this small masterpiece during a plein air workshop.  I had fun creating an interesting composition while incorporating all of the junk you usually find around farms. Great time had by all!
Oil on canvas on panel. 10x10"
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October Morning ©

On a crisp October morning, I was drawn to this magnificent scene on the grounds of Willow Creek Church. I think I used my palette knife more than my brushes. I love the little surprises you get with a palette knife.  It was the perfect tool for capturing the many textures of the grasses covering the ground. 

Oil on canvas on panel, 10x10"
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Ray's ©

I discovered this cute hot dog stand in Fairfield, Illinois during a plein air event.  Rumor has it that they have the best French fries in the county.
Oil on canvas on panel.  8x8"
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October Hike ©

Last weekend I participated in a Plein Air event in Fairfield, Illinois. I was driving around the back roads of Fairfield looking for a place to paint when I drove by this beautifully lit, winding  path. The scene became my inspiration for this small masterpiece.  It was a rainy day with no sign of letting up, so I decided to paint inside my car: a small Honda Fit!!  It's amazing what you can do when you put your mind to it.   

As a painter, I always look for contrast in color and light when choosing a plein air location.  Even though it was raining, the fall leaves were illuminated.  I am pleased with the results.

Oil on canvas on panel, 8"W x 10"H
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