Saturday's Study

Today I went painting with William at Whittier Narrows. Allen and Bill were along as well, and Rich came by for a visit on his way out. William had been worried that it might be too hot, but he found us a wonderful spot in the shade at the edge of the lake. Across the lake a heron sat in its nest. Young geese came by for a look, but when their mom called they went back in line and into the water. Other water fowl were spotted, but since I am not educated in that species, I could not tell you what they were other than one had a blue beak.
It is difficult sometimes narrowing down what I am going to paint. It is all so beautiful that I figure if I just pull back, view it from a distance, I can put more into my painting. This however does not make for a strong painted. A dark shape, near a light will have the contrast that I powerful.
The others were in agreement that I had a successful painting here, but of course, as always, there is much I would change.
But then again.... it is just a study.
9x12 oil on canvas board