Niagara, prep sketch

[Brad M.]

This is a preparatory sketch I did for a larger studio painting I'm starting.
I usually do a plein air study for my paintings, but on a recent trip to Niagara Falls I only had my camera.
So I used the photos to figure out a composition, and then did this 8 x 12 study alla prima as if I was working en plein air. I tried to put in the colors and values I remembered rather than the ones on the photos.
I'll post the final painting when I finish it in a few weeks.
Until then;
Niagara Falls; study oil on board 8" x 12"

[onefinepint]

This is a lovely painting. I like the way you've created a sense of standing right there in the water.

[viking57]

Hi Brad,
Wow, if this is Alla Prima work I can't wait to see the studio version. Well done!
Ron

[ejtupi]

Ron said exactly what I was feeling: Many artists would have posted this as a finished work and been rightfully proud to do so. Can't wait to see the eventual piece. Great foundation!

[Julianne]

This is great as is! You certainly got the 'on location' feel to it.

[Brad M.]

Originally Posted by onefinepint

This is a lovely painting. I like the way you've created a sense of standing right there in the water.

And i hope it feels like you are about to go over the edge

Originally Posted by viking57

Hi Brad,
Wow, if this is Alla Prima work I can't wait to see the studio version. Well done!
Ron

Now I really feel the pressure to do a good painting.
Thanks.

Originally Posted by ejtupi

Ron said exactly what I was feeling: Many artists would have posted this as a finished work and been rightfully proud to do so. Can't wait to see the eventual piece. Great foundation!

Without a plein air sketch I felt I needed to work out some of the aspects of the painting without the need to have it look "finished". Glad you like how it came out.

Originally Posted by Julianne

This is great as is! You certainly got the 'on location' feel to it.

I guess all that time painting plein air has paid off.