I’ve begun doing small oil studies on paper prior to alla prima paintings. The paper is Arches 300 lb cold press watercolor, primed with two or three coats of acrylic matte medium. Doing a small color sketch provides a map before beginning a larger painting. A value study thumbnail, done in pencil or pen, is also helpful to break the ice of a new location and make some rough calculations of what to include.
I am finding the whole process of working outside feels rushed. One becomes acutely aware of the relentless progress of the sun, and when the last hill rears up in front of it, the lights go out and the game ends rather abruptly.
ABOVE: Cellar, oil on paper, 3 x 3.5 in. (7.62 x 8.89 cm), 9.13.08
Cellar, oil on linen, 11 x 14 in. (27.94 x 35.56 cm), 9.13.08