Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Daily Painting Practice in Maine = Plein Cold Air Painting - Sears Island Maine

Oh Baby it's cold outside!

Going out in the woods to paint in the cold snowy weather has always been something I have wanted to try. Some of my favorite  artists have all done it so I couldn't come up with an excuse not to.

Since we had a beautiful snowfall the day before and the weather was below freezing I knew the snow would be there. I made my way to Sears Island. 
Sears Island, Searsport, Maine -Low tide in winter
The island has several hiking trails but first I had to reach them...

Sears Island entrance
This is the view from the entrance. It's 7:30 Am and there are already footprints in the snow. You can't drive in.... you have to hike.

Sears Island trail
 I'm about half way to my spot. and now there are only  footprints from the creatures that live on the island.

Plein air in Maine
Two things I should have given more thought to before leaving the house. One, maybe not the best day to try my old french easel with a larger canvas, and two, I need warmer boots.

Just starting but about frozen
I knew I should have started with a small canvas.. I got this far and my toes were about to break off.

Sears Island 
I'll finish it in the warmth of my studio.

4 comments:

Amy Mann said...

I have one thing to say to you: Chemical Hand Warmers! Put one in each boot, in both gloves, your shirt pockets, your hat... toasty warm! (I painted outdoors in 15 degrees and 20 mph wind for two hours!)

Anonymous said...

Hi
Check out Stapleton Kearnes blog, he has "snowcamp" painting workshops and has listed the best clothes/boots to have to stay warm and paint in the cold.
Best,
Ann

Kathy Jurek said...

You're brave, Peter!

Peter Yesis said...

Amy - Thanks for the suggestion. I just tried one and I will definitely get somemore before trying that again.
Ann- Thanks for the heads up on Stape's snowcamp. If anyone knows how to keep warm it would be him.

Hello Kathy- Not so brave, maybe just a little off the deep end.