Quick Paint Competition

 

Down by the River 8x10

I finally took the leap and participated in my first event with local Plein Air Between the Bluffs Quick Paint Competition. It was invigorating. The heavy rain stopped in time and a light drizzle added to the challenge of depicting atmosphere. Also thanks to my husband who was watching the clock for me and for moral support. 

How it works, is each artist has 2 hours to paint, frame and turn in their work. Panels are stamped prior to entering the competition which began at 10am on Saturday the 12. You could paint anywhere in the area but remember the farther away you go the longer it takes to get to the turn in station. Afterwards they are judged and prizes are awarded. Thanks to the La Crosse Society of Arts and Crafts and the Between the Bluffs Plein Air organization.

 

 

This years event is just the quick paint competition due to Covid pandemic and usually comprises a week long of painting by many more artists culminating in a gallery celebration at the end of the week. Maybe next year I'll be ready for a full event.

Being my first event I was of course anxious and needed to prepare. I scouted out a site to focus on. I made sure I did this at the same time of day 10am so I would see the shadows. Of course that would be under the assumption it would be a sunny day. I took lots of photos so I could go back to  my studio and sort through the options.

I found what I was looking for, some level ground out of the way of people using the park and not to far from the turn in station.

In order to see if I could make it happen I sketched from the photo I decided on and then did a painting in my studio to see if I could accomplish a painting in the time allowed but with out the stress.

Riverside Park 8x10

 

 

Thinking I had a strong composition I just hoped for good weather. Now I had to do a practice run on site and with all the elements of weather, onlookers and what ever else might distract me.

Fortunately I had a beautiful day and many kind people to cheer me on. One thing I did differently was to try it horizonally. You can really see how different one location can change due to the weather and from being there in person to painting from a photo.

La Crosse's Riverside 8x10