It was serendipity that made us turn down a dirt road in hopes of finding something interesting and when I saw this osprey nest I knew I had found it. I took several photos and looking at them later I discovered a few had autumn trees/leaves in them. I knew I was meant to paint this one.
Osprey frequently make a nest on the top of the electrical structures and they are so distinctive with their large twiggy nest. I'm not sure if the electric companies do this on purpose for the birds or not, but since they are all near the lake, the osprey use them a lot.
I used masking for the autumn leaves and a razor to highlight the twigs in the empty nest. This was a very fun and satisfying painting.
I want to thank Laure for making this challenge available to us struggling artists. It has been an awesome challenge and a personal commitment to improving my art.
I am so happy I did this as I can see how I have improved and how I can improve even more.
Thanks to everyone for their support.
Edited: I just noticed that if you click on my name in the label it will bring up all my paintings or you can click here for the gallery on Flickr.
6 comments:
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
Awesome job, Teri, and a wonderful image to cap off a phenomenal run of 100 paintings! I look forward to seeing where you go from here and what new "challenges" you come up with!
#100- WOW! That seems a long way off for me! I love the nest and the way you kept the lights for some sparkle. I have many osprey nest photos from Long Island but haven't painted any yet. I like the way you have the leaves near it to let it be high but not just a nest surrounded by sky.
Sheryl
100 Paintings!! Woo hoo!
...and a wonderful 100th painting it is. I love ospreys, and to find and paint a nest is so special.
What a nice finale to your 100 paintings!
I'm going to miss your presence on the challenge.
Power companies put up extra supports, hoping the osprey will nest on the artifical platforms rather than on the poles -- much safer for the ospreys.
Teri CONGRATULATIONS!
I have been looking at your 100 picture gallery...and read through your chat with Linda...actually one can see the progress and learnings that you mention!
The last one is so wonderful! I love the colours. I saw osprey nests for the first time in Portugal last year, and you have done such a wonderful job of the subject!
I am inspired to paint everyday as well, and in spite of a seriously busy schedule will make time to do it!
Thanks everyone.
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