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The Southampton Arts Center was host to a number of hands on art experiences this summer. In June, I attended a plein air workshop with Howard Rose which was co-sponsored by the Bridgehampton Museum. The Bridgehampton Museum once again hosted a series of summer plein air workshops every Saturday from 10am until 1pm from June through September. Collaborating with other area museums added an expanded portfolio of inspiring painting locations. Painting in the Southampton Arts Center's beautifully renovated gardens was a joy. The recent renovation was thanks to a gift from the Paulson Family Foundation. 

To begin, Howard led us around the garden challenging us to look for a painting design with contrasting light and shadow. "There are hundreds of paintings here." he said, pointing out beautiful vignettes with every step.

I chose a spot just off one of the arched gateways with the bright sun hitting the front of the museum. My painting spot was in dappled shade, not too hot and no need for an umbrella. Finding ants in my paint box gave me a start reminding me of the richness of the plein air experience if I chose to experience it. Ha HA!

"The Old Parrish", Southampton Arts Center
Oil on Canvas, 10" x 10"

The next time I was back at the Southampton Arts Center it was for a series of workshops on Wednesdays in July with Brendan Johnston . In an addition to the flourishing garden, we were surrounded by sculpture. Most notable a bunch of silver swimming suits on stands. At least that is what it looked like to me. I loved them. The Southampton Arts Center site description of the installation, "Rachel Lee Hovnanian's Mind the Body installation transforms the silhouette of protective armor into a meditation on the dynamics of power, identity, feminism, and hierarchy." One of the artists included one in her painting. 

Brendan Johnston with an array of supplies and examples of work.

Brendan began with an introductory demo.

Getting to work.

I was intrigued by this view. Getting the architectural angles correct was the most difficult for me. Then of course it was the realization that the at the time of day that I was painting, the entire view was in shade. At the end of my painting session sunlight crept over the roof and gave the view just enough of a kiss of light. Yes! Just what I needed to include. This painting was a challenge, but a satisfying one. Lots of mixes in the burnt sienna, cadmium red families to play with in the attempt to recreate a representation of pottery, brick, and stone. 

"The Old Parrish (Red Door)" 
Oil on Gessobord, 12" x 9"

One morning we met Brendan at Lake Agawam Park.

The morning started out hazy. The view across the lake to Gin Lane and the Southampton Bathing Corp just a hint on the horizon. I opted for a closer view, towards the mostly obscured homes amongst the trees along the lake.

Beginnings

We only had one day painting at Lake Agawam. The next class session was met with drizzle in the morning, so we kept our fingers crossed and met back at the Arts Center. Luckily the weather fined up for our last day in the garden.

"Lake Agawam View"
Oil on Artefex Panel, 9" x 12"

I am grateful to the Southampton Arts Center and the Bridgehampton Museum for providing the opportunity to paint with outstanding artists and educators. I LOVED these workshops. Thank you Howard Rose and Brendan Johnston for sharing your art, inspiration, and creativity.