Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Mission San Luis Obispo



I totally forgot to post this painting last fall. I took a mini-vacation to San Luis Obispo to 'recharge' and also spend a little time with two of my sons (one a student at Cal Poly and the other in for a visit).  During my time away from home I wanted to do some painting.  One day I walked from my hotel into town, with my art bag slung over my shoulder, determined to paint something on the spot. But.... I do get a little intimidated... and usually return without having painted.  This time I walked into the Mission Plaza and to my amazement (and pure coincidence) I walked right into an art event -- the San Luis Obispo Plein Air Festival. Many artists had gathered to do some painting 'on the spot' and they were just finishing their paintings. The plaza was full of people as there were many spectators. While the artists cleaned up their things and headed over for the official judging... I started talking to myself.... "Claire - sit down and paint something .... just do it!!".   Finally I got the courage to sit on a small stone fence, get out my supplies, and paint the San Luis Obispo Mission directly in front of me. When I finally got started then I began to relax and enjoy the process. I did it!

7 comments:

Carol_W said...

I think it looks just like the Mission, Claire. Certainly enjoy your sketch as well as the memories of being there with you.

Kathy A. Johnson said...

Lovely painting, Claire! And what a nice surprise to come upon all those other artists. I'm glad you overcame your inhibitions and joined in.

Unknown said...

Mom, never be intimidated, your art work is wonderful, it hangs above my wine rack paying tribute to the tour de France and it adorns all my home brews, adding another element to each beer. Keep it up, its your passion and its beautiful!

Autumn Leaves said...

A lovely and clean little painting, Claire. I was immediately struck by the freshness, both of the painting and of the day. This place has a mood, and a serene one at that. Perfect!

Mary Paquet said...

I agree with our blog friends and your son, Ryan, your artwork is beautiful and very uniquely yours. The result of you plein air experience is very successful. When one sits amid the atmosphere, there is a unique quality that shows up in the work. Lovely!

Laure Ferlita said...

YAY, Claire!!! It can be so intimidating to sit down "out in public," no less, and let the world see us at our craft.

But, oh, Claire, this is fabulous and so worth it! Bravo!!!! to you for giving yourself that stern talk and actually putting brush to paper!

BTW, the more you do it, the easier it becomes!

Krista said...

Jumping up for joy for you, Claire, for doing it!!! I see your son is very encouraging of you as well. Absolutely fabulous sketch!