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Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Diving into the Deep End


"Lemon Study" original oil 6x6"

This will be my last still life post for a while as I have a new and different project on the go. I've been feeling a desire lately to do something that requires discipline, commitment and single minded focus - and will hopefully advance my painting skills. On April 9th, I began a quest to paint 100 plein air paintings in 100 days. Not one a day necessarily, but 100 in a 100 day period.  I've chosen plein air because that is where I feel my painting will most benefit at this time, 100 paintings because I'm fairly certain that's a good number to figure out some things I haven't yet, and 100 in a 100 because I like the ring of it.

So far it has been immensely challenging, and wonderful to spend so much time out in the mountains painting. If you are interested in following as these paintings come to life, please check back or enter your email at the right (if you're not already subscribed to my blog) to be notified as they are posted. I will begin posting them one a day starting on May 1st.


Leaving tomorrow for Scottsdale, AZ to do a few days of plein air in the desert and take a 3 day Nancy Crookston workshop. I have wanted to study with Nancy for some time now, so I'm really looking forward to the trip!
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13 comments:

  1. UnknownApril 21, 2010 at 8:16 AM

    I love your work and often come by to have a look. Through your website I discovered Karin Jurick and her challenges which helped motivate me tremendously. Thank you for that. I think I'll try to jump on board the 100 plein air in 100 days! What a great idea!

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  2. Tracey MardonApril 21, 2010 at 8:16 AM

    Have a wonderful time on your trip and I can hardly wait to see your 100!

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  3. Linda PoppleApril 21, 2010 at 9:06 AM

    Great idea! I'm sure you will learn a lot. I'm looking forward to seeing your plein air work. Have a wonderful time in Arizona!

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  4. Alice Saltiel-MarshallApril 21, 2010 at 9:09 AM

    Bravo for taking on 100 in 100!
    I look forward to seeing them and hearing about the workshop with Nancy!
    Safe journey, happy trails and painting ... ENJOY!
    Love to you (and Sarah and Gaye as well) xox

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  5. liz wiltzenApril 21, 2010 at 9:11 AM

    Hey Barb, that's so great! Let me know how it goes. I am sure finding it's requiring discipline to get out there this much, but I find goals really help me with motivation. And I always LOVE it once I'm out there.

    Anyone else who's thinking about jumping on the bandwagon, if 100 in 100 isn't manageable, you could still do 10 in 10 or some other variation that's realistic for you.

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  6. Ruth AndreApril 21, 2010 at 5:09 PM

    Taking the time to paint 100 plein air works will be an exciting endeavor. Looking forward to seeing your new pieces. Very nice still life today.

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  7. ElaineApril 21, 2010 at 7:46 PM

    What a great idea, 100 in 100. I can't wait to see what you do. I love your work. You have inspired me to paint "almost-daily" paintings. Thank you.

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  8. LindaHuntApril 21, 2010 at 7:46 PM

    I am excited to see your new work. This painting is just wonderful. The light and value structure is perfect. Love that glass baking dish!!

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  9. Bobbi HeathApril 21, 2010 at 8:00 PM

    Liz, can't wait til you start posting them! And the idea of doing 10 for 10 is great. I'll give it a try.

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  10. Erica KeenerApril 23, 2010 at 1:12 PM

    I will miss the little still lifes, looking at your work has helped me recognize what was missing in my own. Thank you for that! Good luck with the 100 in 100, I might try my own, albeit abreviated, version.

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  11. Lori BonanniApril 23, 2010 at 1:54 PM

    Hi - Just discovered your blog! The lemons are wonderful - can't wait to see your plein air posts.

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  12. Gwen BellApril 24, 2010 at 11:05 AM

    First of all, the lemons are luscious. Great job on the glass as well.

    What an exciting exercise and what a gorgeous time of year to pursue it! Have a great trip. I'll be back often to see your 100.

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  13. SUSAN RODENApril 25, 2010 at 11:29 PM

    Scottsdale is one of my favorite places Liz! Sure you will have a great time and wonderful painting opportunities.
    I will be looking forward to seeing your 100 landscapes.

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