New-Fallen Snow

Recently a winter storm hit a large part of the US — including the midwest where we live. Predictions were that we’d have between 6″ to 8″ of snow, as well as bitterly cold temperatures. We definitely got the cold, and yes, we had icy sleet and a bit of white stuff on the ground, but not nearly as much as had been forecasted.

I am so happy that my husband did not have to get up, get out, and go to work! Instead, we were able to spend a few quiet “snow days”, warmly tucked away inside our house. He worked on a few little projects, and I enjoyed my mornings in the studio.

Since winter was very much on my mind, and since I was wanting to put together a painting for the upcoming art show hosted by the Blue Springs Art League, I mentally conjured up a scene of new-fallen snow. That’s the title I’ve given to this oil painting.

 

This is not an especially “award-worthy” painting, but I probably will frame it and enter it in the coming show, simply because it’s what I call an honest and authentic painting. This is how our world outside looks right now. Even more, this painting represents my thoughts and feelings on a winter’s day.

I like the very subtle color variations in the sky, in the snowy foreground and on the trees, too. For me, that’s enough to make this a painting I enjoy. As far as all the “academics” go — all those things judges will be looking for — it’s lacking. There’s not a strong focal point. It’s not an interesting composition. It’s certainly not very original. Still, I’m pleased with the painting, and I’ll be happy to see it hanging on display at the show.

This, I suppose, is a good illustration of painting for myself, doing something I like, not painting with the hope of impressing anyone else. The upcoming show is all about being who we are now — with all paintings done within the last 24 months. This simple scene of new-fallen snow does represent me, here, and now.

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