Painting introduction of the week- "View from Goldsmith's"

I wanted to feature one of my paintings each week and tell you about my inspiration and process. The first watercolor painting I'd like to share is a landscape called "View from Goldsmith's" This piece was done En Plein Air which means painting in the open air. It's not easy to paint watercolor out in the elements as I learned in doing this one, my first piece created in this manner. The beaches here on Eastern Long Island provide this watercolor artist so much inspiration. So to be sitting on the beach painting was truly amazing. I signed up for a Plein Air painting class with the Southold Recreation Department for 4 sessions painting in various locations in town. This was our first spot, Goldsmith's Beach in Peconic.

I decided to face east and paint the point of land that Horton Point Lighthouse is located on. This also included my neighborhood beach in the distance Kenney's Road Beach. When you paint outdoors it's all about chasing the light. You need to sketch and move quickly as the sun is moving, the wind is blowing, drying your paint and the clouds are constantly changing as well. While I was painting this piece a little sunfish sailed into view so I included it in the composition.

This painting also holds a special place in my heart as it was the first original watercolor I ever sold. I vividly remember the day the shop owner contacted me, and half of my heart was heavy I thought OH no what have I done! I will never see it again but the other half of my heart was happy that someone will enjoy my piece for years to come. Each painting is a piece of me, like a child and part of my soul. I love to paint and share my art with the world.

The View from Goldsmith's" is currently available as a print in my shop and has proven to be a best seller. To see more about this piece go to my Shop