The light of the season

Exploring the atmosphere and color of Fall

Fallen leaves and the sounds of chirping birds are all around. Two squirrels chase each other across the grass, past the fat dew drops shimmering on a lone fallen leaf and into a tree adorned with vivid yellow leaves shivering in the cool breeze. I sit under the deep blue sky, the warmth of the sun welcome on my back.

Fall is my favorite time of year—filled with dark clouds and sun-lit trees, hot tea, cozy blankets, and the smell of fresh baked butternut squash pie. And the knowledge that this is a brief, precious time before the cold north winds move in for the winter.

Creating atmosphere

I love vivid colors, especially paired with something like black or grey:

Exploring atmosphere: I’m looking a how the light and colors seen in the distance meld into what we see up close.

Exploring the properties of watercolor: Painting wet paint on wet paint and seeing what colors merge.

Color meditations: I love starting a painting session without a specific plan—opening myself up to play. First, adding some colors and shapes, then responding with contrasting shapes and colors—a dark, thin line versus a soft, large, light area.

Defining light: Exploring making areas feel like they are glowing.

Abstraction to landscape: I started with some random shapes, then responded to them with their opposite: “Here is a small, light shape. I’ll add a dark, large shape over here.” I continued until I found the shapes and colors exciting. Then, I slowly shaped it into something recognizable.

Playing with three colors: I wanted to finish off some bright pink, dark red, and deep green paint. It was fun to see how far I could take those colors. Then, I brought in some yellow and a touch of blue for balance.

I hope your Fall is treating you very well!

Sending my love,
-Tamara