If you're a landscape painter, presumably you have a love of the land, a passion for the way light and form makes shadows, a fascination with colors at different times of day, and a determination to rise to the challenge of atmospheric perspective. But is that all there is?
That's a question I often ask, especially when I produce a landscape painting that is perfectly, technically excellent but lacking in spirit. Is it because I'm not really connecting with the spirit of the place? Am I so focused on the mechanics (including sunscreen, bug spray, and the nearest bathroom) that I'm not really feeling the place? Does it make a big difference when I am en plein air (on site) vs. working from a photograph?
I do love landscapes. I am awed by the beauty of God's creation. I also love the man-made elements of landscape, especially when a building seems to nestle into the landscape as though God himself put it there. But I'll admit, I often don't take the time to drink up the scene; to smell it, feel it, and consciously consider what's special about it (other than the artistic considerations of composition, light and value).
Maybe that's what I'm missing. So, here goes another process experiment.... Tomorrow, I will take five minutes to meditate in place, allowing the setting to register with all my senses. Then, we'll see what happens. Meanwhile, I'm posting my latest plein air piece in the Daily Art album.
I also have trouble with landscapes because somehow a couch, a cow or some other crazy thing seems to sneak into them somehow. But I love other peoples landscapes, Judith Cunningham, Becky Joy, and lots of the landscape painters at the Phillips Gallery. Good luck in your meditation. You already do nice landscapes.
Posted by: Jerry Fenter | July 28, 2009 at 05:26 PM