We are going through an unprecedented time. The coronavirus has changed the way we live our lives. I have been able to get out to paint a little but have suffered some lack of motivation in the wake of so many lives being lost here and abroad. I am still very grateful to have my work which I can do while homebound. Continuing my “stream study paintings” which are ongoing. Most are from local places near where I live. I have also decided to return to the still life which I love doing and for the life of me do not understand why I don’t do more. Please stay safe everyone and I enjoy hearing from you and seeing what you are up to.

I was inspired by Sadie Valeri’s videos on developing a painting using the grisaille method. I use this technique extensively especially if the subject matter requires more drawing considerations. It is a great way to develop the forms tonally first and adding color sequentially in order to represent the local color. My palette is Vandyke brown (normally would use raw umber or burnt umber) ultramarine blue, burnt sienna and white. I use this exclusively for the first couple of passes. Later on I added cadmium yellow, yellow ochre, terre verte and alizarin crimson for the subtle colors in the jar and cheesecloth. I wanted to show the progression from warm to cool as much as light to dark. I am pleased with the results and can’t wait to paint the sourdough bread that will come from this starter. The painting is called “Josh’s Sourdough Starter” oil on linen panel (8×10)