CROSSROADS

“CROSSROADS” is a semi abstract, imaginary landscape. It was painted with just two colours – Payne’s Grey (Cotman) and Transparent Yellow Oxide (DS). I used Arches rough paper, 140 lb. I didn’t have a precise plan before painting this, only that it was going to be a loose style landscape. As the landscape emerged through the brush strokes, I felt it needed a pathway. So I added one, then another and finally ended up with a cross roads. This painting is now in my sketchbook. It measures 19 cm x 14.5 cm.

This little painting is significant and very poignant, as I am at a “crossroads” in my life right now. Life has thrown me and my family a “curve ball” in late November 2023. So now I have some big decisions, life changing decisions, to make early in 2024. On the one hand, my future is a little uncertain and daunting as I don’t know yet quite how things are going work out. But on the other hand, there are going to be new opportunities, new horizons and potentially, a better (very different!) way of life for me. I haven’t quite got my head round it all yet! Which path am I going to take on that “crossroads” above?

Above, in my sketchbook, are three abstract landscapes which were inspired by Lois Davidson Art. I have joined Lois’ Patreon Group. The colours I used for these were: Raw Sienna Light, Ultramarine Green Shade, Burnt Umber and Payne’s Grey. I like how these colours work together.

Here we have more abstract landscapes inspired by Lois Davidson. I’ve used a much cooler palette here: Buff Titanium, Ultramarine Green Shade and Payne’s Grey. These colours give me a winter feel, with cool air and maybe a little frost and snow. The landscape in the top left corner is the only one that I have added any detail to. It needed a little something “extra”, and a winter tree was enough.

I’ve only been in Lois’ Patreon group for a very short time and already I’m learning new things and have fresh ideas to move forward with in my art journey. Happy days!