Is it a Paint Out or a Party?

Tomoka State Park

I spent this past weekend with the wonderful artists of the Florida Womens Art Assoc. at the Tomoka State Park in Ormond Beach, Florida.

It was our annual paint out or artist party, whichever you prefer to call it. I took this picture at about mid day on Saturday. What a beautiful day!

In the morning we were able to watch a demonstration by Ruth Vines which was as entertaining as it was informative.

Then in the afternoon I did a very small painting of the scene on the left. Using a limited Zorn like palette gives the scene more mood don't you think?      

"Tomoka Boat Ramp" - 5"x 5" - oil - Leah Wiedemer

This one sold soon after I brought it into the recreation hall we were using and put it on the table. The thrill never ends when someone hands over hard earned cash for one of my paintings. I'm very grateful for my collectors.

There was still time to watch another demonstration. This time it was a portrait demo by Kathleen Lusby. One of our members posed in period garb for Kathleen. I appreciated how she took the time to teach and explain why she made certain choices.

At the end of the day we had a pot luck supper and elected our new officers.

Since I'm currently living like a gypsy while we wait to close on a house one of our members very kindly let me stay the night at her house. Artists are such fun! I had the best time wandering through her home and admiring all of the beautiful art work. Thank you Babs for your wonderful hospitality.

Sunday was a bit gloomier, but I was still able to paint outside during the morning hours. So I did two more mini paintings.

"Rain on the River" - 5"x 5" - oil - Leah Wiedemer

"Kayaks at Rest" - 4"x 3" - oil - Leah Wiedemer

 Did I mention that these first two canvases had been prepped with super heavy body gesso? I like how it adds texture and makes the paint look thicker than it really is. You can really see the difference by comparing it to "Kayaks at Rest"

Marilyn Masters did our final demonstration in the afternoon. The good people at the Tomoka State Park had 3 re-enactors come in period regalia to pose for us. Marilyn painted a man dressed as an East Florida Ranger and invited us to paint along with her.

Well, I couldn't resist taking her up on her invitation to paint a live model.

Here is a shot of our model James.  And below that is my portrait attempt. I think I'll work on it a bit more and then maybe I'll give it to James as a thank you for posing so long for us. James explained that the tri cornered hat he has on is slightly inaccurate in that the trim should be white and not yellow. I promised to change it in the painting after it dries a bit.

East Florida Ranger - oil - 8"x 10" - Leah Wiedemer

So that was my weekend. A paint out and a party all in one.  I love hearing from you so please leave a comment.