Entries Tagged 'Landscapes' ↓

The new show “Historical Memories”, begins May 6, Wednesday, at ArtBeat Gallery, Manassas, VA. I recently walked sections of the Manassas National Battlefield to get some ideas for the new show. I also searched re-enactment photos to find replica uniforms and ideas. I decided to have two paintings represent two armies that fought. I still wonder how such a war took place and the carnage that resulted.

The Chapman Mill, later known as the Beverly Mill, was built in 1742 by Jonathan Chapman and son Nathaniel, on what would become the Prince William and Fauquier County line, which passes through the mill. In 1858, the mill was enlarged to seven stories. According to historic records, the mill ground cornmeal and flour for American troops during seven wars. During the Civil War, the Confederates turned the mill into a meat curing warehouse and distribution center. Confederates destroyed the mill after the First Battle of Manassas to keep it from advancing troops. In 1876, the Beverly family restored the mill. In 1998, fire destroyed the wooden interior and roof and what remains are the stone walls. Efforts have been made to re-build the mill.

This watercolor painting is based on my internet research and a short field trip to see the remains of the structure. I also walked the trails to get a sense of the run/water, land, roads and railroad line that made this such a historical site.

The plan was an impressionist image of the ocean shore. I used a limited color palette, but needed, in my mind, a shot of energy. A bit of cadmium yellow for the sunset/sunrise in the otherwise cloudy sky, and aqua blue/green mixed into the sky, ocean and shore. My tools were brushes from 2″ flat to #10 round and palette knife for rich thick textures. Paint was often mixed on canvas, with small amounts of water as      needed. Some paint came  right from the tube onto the canvas. I had to paint outdoors at first to get my base done. I don’t have enough room indoors for this 24 x 48 canvas….maybe someday, somewhere a studio awaits! I finished indoors with an easel that seemed overwhelmed, but it worked. This happens to be the largest canvas I’ve ever done but it was a commission too.