Oranges After the Rain. Original oil painting.
I took the reference photo for this painting looking up into our orange tree after some morning rain. I was drawn to the depth of the foliage and the way the water drops were still running off the oranges - clementines, actually, or "naartjies" as they're called here (pronounced "nahr-cheese"). So while not much is moving, it is still an action shot.
This picture developed in layers - first a broad block-in with a palette knife followed by more value and colour work, and then detail. Always a challenge to get the waxy texture of the peel.
I'm pleased that this composition came from an unexpected discovery walking outside, capturing a moment in nature that would likely have vanished at the first breeze.
May 2022.
Original artwork oil on linen panel 43cm x 31cm / 17" x 12".
I took the reference photo for this painting looking up into our orange tree after some morning rain. I was drawn to the depth of the foliage and the way the water drops were still running off the oranges - clementines, actually, or "naartjies" as they're called here (pronounced "nahr-cheese"). So while not much is moving, it is still an action shot.
This picture developed in layers - first a broad block-in with a palette knife followed by more value and colour work, and then detail. Always a challenge to get the waxy texture of the peel.
I'm pleased that this composition came from an unexpected discovery walking outside, capturing a moment in nature that would likely have vanished at the first breeze.
May 2022.
Original artwork oil on linen panel 43cm x 31cm / 17" x 12".
I took the reference photo for this painting looking up into our orange tree after some morning rain. I was drawn to the depth of the foliage and the way the water drops were still running off the oranges - clementines, actually, or "naartjies" as they're called here (pronounced "nahr-cheese"). So while not much is moving, it is still an action shot.
This picture developed in layers - first a broad block-in with a palette knife followed by more value and colour work, and then detail. Always a challenge to get the waxy texture of the peel.
I'm pleased that this composition came from an unexpected discovery walking outside, capturing a moment in nature that would likely have vanished at the first breeze.
May 2022.
Original artwork oil on linen panel 43cm x 31cm / 17" x 12".