Journey of Light

I haven't lifted a brush in almost two years, I have always had an excuse, not enough light, not enough time, no space, etc.. Well I squashed into the study/gym/ironing room, got lots of light going and prepared myself with the essentials: music, biscuit and tea.

So here is the blank canvass, Its a bit dusty and marked but the drawing is clear. I drew the picture three or four years ago (time really does fly!) I haven't really had much experience with seascapes, bur I fell in love with this picture when I first saw it and knew I had to paint it. So anyone who follows the journey will hopefully see what I saw and a bit more as it appears.

My challenge to myself is to post before, during and hopefully a finished painting that will work. I am taking a bit of a risk, if it flops, well I am trying not to think of that, so I will be positive and share the journey of light and see what happens

The Journey begins...

Paint on the canvass, this is always the hardest part for me, the first few strokes, The first session done, I am still getting the feel of the paint and the brush in my hand, there is something very comforting about the smell of turpentine and oil paint, familiar and friendly. I am not sure of how the picture wants to be painted, the original is really just a basic guideline and soon the picture will show me what it wants to become. I am looking forward to the second session to see, I am still unsure as I don't know the picture yet.

Session two: Working into the sky still a little way off but starting to work the way I want it, the painting still is busy defining itself.

Session three: After a break for a couple of years (I am still not sure what happened, went back to that dark place again I suppose) Anyway picked up a brush, its started alright considering the gap. Started having issues with my paint, cheap and old, it just didn't want to do what I needed it to do.

I needed to do something to give me the kickstart I needed, so I raided my computer fund, bought a whole new selection of paint and new brushes, tossed the old stuff aside and tried again.

Session four: Still unsure of my self, but what a difference new paint and brushes make, the picture is starting to talk to me.

Session five: Finally a little bit of light, starting to feel something after a long, long time. The picture is starting to show me how it wants to be treated.

Session six: Working the sand and starting on the waves, this is a first for me doing waves so I am discovering them as I go.