Simplifying Detail

Hello all!

Most days, I go over the same movements, strategies, and hurdles painting. Seeing significant progress is usually minimal, even nonexistent at times. However, once in a while, there is a breakthrough. (And moments like these are what keep me and other artists on track!)

2020-L40-Unger-HouseBoatDock-8x10 / House Boat Dock / Oil on Canvas / 8”x10” / Cassi Unger

While painting, ‘House Boat Dock’, I seemed to have gotten one of these breakthroughs. Composition and detail can be tricky to showcase while painting outdoors. Therefore, with the environment changing moment to moment, I practice each session to be assertive in my decision making- because time is of the essence! :)

In the past, I’ve shied away from adding too much detail in a piece outdoors by simplifying the subject matter. Here, I tried to get all the detail I could, and, with great effort, it translated well.

*Happy Dance*

And here’s a palette shot. I got to mix lots of new blues and greens during the session.

Here is one last shot from the location. Look at the clouds- they were unreal!

Have a colorful day,

xxCass