My Dad, of Irish blood, would say “If a circle forms ’round the moon, ’twill rain or snow soon”. Until this week we have enjoyed warm sunny weather (12-18) but now rain and occasional snow flakes have arrived. Intuitively, my friend Chi Mai sent me this photo by Michel, of art students outdoors sketching in China; dressed for the weather and focused.
Photo by Michel Goossens, Plein Air China, 2015
For myself, plein air makes me paint in the moment. I lose track of time. I become responsive to the elements and answer back. There is a strong cool wind, the sun is low but gives warmth. I sit on the bank of the Soulanges Canal looking east. Time to sketch quickly. The sun will set soon. By the end of the month one hour of daylight will disappear.
Coteau Landing, Soulanges Canal Aquaduct, watercolour, 2015
One week later I return to the canal and paint towards the west. The canal water is dense and opaque with little reflections. The trees along the shoreline have lost their leaves and the brilliant colours have passed.
Coteau Landing, Soulanges Canal, watercolour, 2015
Coteau Landing, Abandoned Canal, watercolour, 2015
There is still time to paint and enjoy the last flowers of the season.
Gift of Summer, watercolour, 2015
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