The Soft Approach - New Southwestern Landscape Painting from Camp Verde, Arizona

The Soft Approach, Oil on MDF, 12 x 24 inches
Copyright 2017 Mary Gravelle.
The painting does not have the green background around it.

One of the first things I did when I moved into my new place in Camp Verde, Arizona was to paint. I have a fantastic 360 degree view of mountains that seem to reach into eternity. Every window in this place offers inspiration for many paintings to come. I set my easel up to look out my kitchen window.

I painted The Soft Approach with oil paints using my fingers. I have not painted in oils for many years. I found it was easier to put on a latex glove and just dive into the paint full strength. I had forgotten the joys of mixing paint directly on the canvas. I had forgotten the joys of painting wet on wet. I used a lot of paint!

I call this painting, The Soft Approach, for a several reasons. First, the oil paints, being painted with my fingers made it impossible to get straight, crisp edges. I was seeking this new approach. My acrylic landscape paintings seem to have harder edges. I wanted to try something different. The landscape itself looks soft with its rolling hills sitting at the foot of the taller, large, looming mountains behind them. It's like a gentle invitation to the imagination of expansion within oneself. The other reason for this title is the final result of the painting. It looks soft in the way the paint is laid on. It looks soft in its application of colors and shapes compared to most of my vibrantly hued landscapes.

The Soft Approach, Oil on MDF, 12 x 24 inches
Copyright 2017 Mary Gravelle.

This oil painting is still drying. It will be available for sale in about a month. Once it is dry, I will varnish it. Then, I'll put it up for sale on my website. I will let you know when that happens. If you want to pre-buy it, just let me know! Email Mary@MaryFineArt.com. It would be my pleasure to reserve it for you.

Below are a few in-process photos.

In-process photo
The Soft Approach, Oil on MDF, 12 x 24 inches
Copyright 2017 Mary Gravelle.

My paint pile after completing this painting.
The Soft Approach, Oil on MDF, 12 x 24 inches
Copyright 2017 Mary Gravelle.

About the Author

Mary Rae Rush (Mary Gravelle) is an artist, author, and creativity catalyst and consultant. She resides in Sedona, Arizona with her loving and efficient assistant, Sir Kitty. Her other services are Sedona Art Hikes and Wisdom Painting.

Contact her today with painting commissions, requests for creative work, consultations, or one on one coaching sessions. She is happy to paint something just for you. Or she can help you delve into your creativity and come out with your own unique expression.

Inquiries

Inquiries can be made through the contact page.

And, as always, I would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment below. 

Until Next Week

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