A Painting Trip to the Sierra's - Paint Day 1 - am.

I'm up near June Lake in the Sierra's on a plein air painting trip with friends. We are staying at a lovely cabin by Gull Lake.

This morning we woke up early and drove to Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National park. The morning air was crisp and at 7:30 in the morning, fairly quiet.

I set-up my paints and got ready to paint.

Since I paint with a palette knife, I've actually started using my easel flat...makes it easier to get the paint to the edges. I use Alla Prima Pochade -- it's designed with a magnets, so it's easy (but surprisingly sturdy!) to move this easel up and down.

Here's my 8x10 sketch...I'm fairly happy with it...need to do a few refinements...but the wind came up the light completely changed. When that happens, we have a choice: either "chase the light" (which never seems to work) or finish it up later.

After we left the area, we drove by Mono Lake -- since it was after lunch, the light wasn't quite right. We're back in the cabin, I'm looking out the window at the lake beyond. Around 4:30 we're headed back out to paint Mono Lake at dusk.

Happy Painting!

Please visit my website for information on upcoming events and shows.
www.ChristineBeirne.com