Thursday, August 29, 2013

Portrait of a Maple Tree




Maple Tree in Shade  Oil on panel  5x7in  © Jim Serrrett


"A tree against the sky possesses the same interest, the same character, the same expression as the figure of a human."  - Georges Rouault



This amazing Maple tree is just out the studio widow, I have observed it in every type of weather and it always impresses me. I was interested in the relationships between the shadow and sun lite areas of the canopy.  The balance of light and dark foliage is described by small color note changes in a fairly complex pattern which looked like a good painter’s problem to solve. To paint the maple I set up my pochade box easel outside in the shadow of the eaves of the house along the drive way and painted this sketch in multiple sittings, by returning at the same time and under the same weather condition.

While dealing with the inherent challenges in painting this subject, as I slowed down and observed, I really began to connect and appreciate this beautiful tree, finding a lot of personality and spirit in this maple. The piece became more than a landscape study and became a portrait of a tree.




To View Work - Click on image to enlarge. Scroll through all images with light box.



Explore - Question - Learn - - Enjoy, Jim