Come On In

Pastel, 12x9, Plein Air

This was my effort for the Romanza on Aviles annual plein air event.  This doorway opens to a quiet, green garden - an escape from the crowds and heat of the street.  I find these images mysterious and inviting.

15 Bridge Street

Pastel 12x9 on UArt

I have been captivated by this garden gate which I pass almost every time I go to St. Augustine.  Painting it was a challenge.  I had to work from reference photos and memory because of the restrictions place on plein air painters in St. Augustine.  The ornamentation is the critical feature though it is not the focal area of the painting.  It had to be accurately drawn but not overpowering.  I subdued the dominance of the form by keeping its value nearly the same as the background.  The perspective is also important and a little difficult given the short viewing distance and the straight-on angle of presentation.  This painting was completed using NuPastels almost exclusively.
What I hope people will see in this picture is the gate itself.  It stands slightly ajar letting sunlight out and inviting us in.
I left the door handle of the first presentation.  Took another photo in better light 5/29/16.