My untrained painting technique is rather hit-or-miss. I do not make preliminary sketches or devise complex compositions or harmonious color schemes before painting. I work from an original photograph, usually a rural landscape, and build up my painting on canvas with thin coats of water mixable oil paints. I make many of my decisions about composition and color after I begin painting.
I began oil painting as a spare-time activity many years ago to distract from the many rigors of a stressful career. However, painting with oils in a poorly ventilated space may have contributed to a life-threatening illness that forced me to stop painting for several years on the advice of my doctor. I began painting again with doctor approved water mixable oil paints (no more hazardous chemicals) while confined at home by the COVID-19 pandemic. I am blessed now to be retired and in good health. Today I paint mostly for my own enjoyment, finding inspiration in the natural splendor and tranquility of the Hudson Valley.
