Wednesday, March 7, 2012

"Ribbons In The Sky"

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

I've wanted to paint this subject for a long time. If I could easily pull off a highway when I see these huge overpasses, and take tons of photos while cars and semis are whizzing by me at 80 mph - I'd probably have painted this long ago. I love these strong, majestic structures. This is in Springfield, Virginia - the starting point for our way home.

This new painting happens to be the last of my series ATL to NYC & Back - the 50th piece. I had a hard time deciding on the last image - it was either this or our pups, Zac & Joey. They're a part of the story, although they didn't come into our lives until two days after we returned home. After spending ten days in New York City, we developed such strong dog-envy, petting just about everyone's dogs we met on the streets and in the parks. We missed that part of our lives. On the way home, we both decided it was time and two days later we adopted Zac and Joey.

But...... I really wanted to paint this subject and thought it was somewhat symbolic of the end of our trip. And knowing I'll create a book of this series, Zac and Joey will be included on the back cover. Cool beans.

I want to share some thoughts about doing this series, what I've learned, etc - I'll do that in a couple of days. For now I've got to start on that book.



18 comments:

Maria Bennett Hock said...

Love the colors...the yellows and blues. And love the story...can't wait for the book to come out!

Unknown said...

This composition is so strong, really great job with this, Karin. I've also really wanted to paint scenes like that, Greg Gandy has some fantastic examples. I love the grittiness that can be so beautiful.

Regula Scheifele said...

Karin, you are really on a roll right now - wonderful painting. Reminds me of a similar overpass in Phoenix, AZ...
And I just love the title...

Melle Ferre said...

These recent landscape works are so powerful! The light in them is so vibrant...thanks for sharing.

Erica Keener said...

I thought I was the only one with this fascination! There is an overpass near me that I'd love to paint, but I am always either the one driving or I've forgotten my camera. I love this entire series, it is making me miss New York.

Douglas Hoover said...

Karin,
Your composition is spot-on with this painting. You make overpasses look exquisite!

All the best to you,
Douglas

Linda Popple said...

I LOVE this! The colors and the light are amazingly rich. The shapes and composition gives your painting an abstract quality. And, of course, the title is perfect. Looking forward to the book!

Roger Ã…kesson said...

A simple subject and composition, but that is what gives it that crisp graphic edge, very nice done. I love it.

Sunny Avocado Art said...

There have been so many times I saw a perfect painting opportunity while hubby drove too fast! I wish my eyes and brain could keep the vision...but alas they are always lost. Your painting is wonderful, as they always are. Very graphic!

Mary Sheehan Winn said...

I'm with you. These are spectacular structures on their own. Fabulously painted!

liz wiltzen said...

FAN-tastic! Love this one Karin.

Michelle Arnold Paine said...

I also love the curves of overpasses -- and agree that the danger-factor is UNFORTUNATE.Wonderfully composed and beautiful colors.

Anonymous said...

I could live with your images on my wall and never tire of them.
There is a bit of George Nick and Hopper going on but you clearly make it all your own.
If I had millions I would buy all your work.
David, NYC

Amy Hillenbrand said...

The blues in this one are spectacular. I can see why you wanted to paint it the curves are very seductive. As always you made a very ordinary subject come alive with your paintbrush.

carol morgan carmichael said...

What a treat catching up with your blog. I have missed tons of awesome paintings. Who would have thought overpasses would make such a great painting? You did.
Love "tea time"....all of them! You've got that special something!

Unknown said...

Great job on the sky gradation.

Terry Strickland said...

I love the abstract quality of this, well done!

Karen Bruson said...

Love this.