Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Lavender Layers

Lavender Layers__6x8 oil on linen panel___$150 wet!! ...sketch included


Yesterday's post was a painting at this same location, the lavender fields at Becker Vineyards in Fredericksburg, TX. Just as this is not a banner year for our bluebonnets, it looks like the lavender crop might be sparse, too. But then, maybe lavender plants peak later in the spring....for now, the plants are not very big or lush, but I like the scruffy colors in the foliage with just hints of blooming flower. Sometimes a BEAUTIFUL, thick growth of blooms can look too "fantastic" in a painting...bordering on "cartoonish"...like yesterday, I painted this from my sketch, (below). See the difference in composition?




5 comments:

Susie Morrell said...

Although I don't comment often... I do so love your paintings! I love the way they just show up in my email box and inspire me to paint as well. I am a busy mom of 4 and am trying to find a few hours each day to pursue my passion. With your inspiration and that of other daily painters I continue to meet the challenge of painting daily... or at least visit my studio to sketch, compose, create...

Marie Theron said...

I love these paintings of the lavender fields! Maybe it was a dry year, yet it makes a very good colour composition, better than overly full bushes! I hope you keep those sketches too, they are very appealing!

Susan Roux said...

Your palette here is scrumptious! I really like the feeling you captured. This would be amazing large. Are you considering painting it big? I love the look of lavender fields, though I've never had the privilege to experience them.

Dee Day said...

Virginia, I love the lavendar fields. Maybe I'm just weird, but I like the Deere in the Lavender a bit better for two reasons. Your palette is always beautiful, but I do like a bit more texture which I could see in the tractor and lavendar. There both well done, but I
will give a not to the Deere in the Lavendar. Doesn't look cartoonish to me.

Unknown said...

Such great color control. You mentioned how the bushy lavender plants can wind up looking cartoony if you aren't careful, but since you have such a wonderful palette, it kept them from getting out of control. I just found your blog, and I'm really enjoying it!