Happy Halloween

"Beach Side Pier", 10 x 9.5", oil on board

I painted this from a photo I had taken after hurricane Sandy & the 'frankenstorm' that hit NC Outer Banks two years ago.   I had drawn this onto a board then, but just got around to painting it this week - spooky.  I've started a series of small seaside themed paintings in preparation for a show this January in Asheville, NC.   More details on January's show in the coming weeks, in the mean time I'll be sharing some new work.... and painting on.

Over the Dunes

Over the Dunes,  9x10.5", oil on wood panel

This was one of the small quick paintings from our week on Hatteras Island.   Our morning commute; a walk over the dunes to some serious surf fishing.  There is a very special feel to the Outer Banks; bare bones, vulnerable, raw nature...it's a stripped down version of life that is at the same time a very full life.

Under Avon Pier

Under Avon Pier, 10x10", oil on board

I feel so fortunate to be working from the Outer Banks this week.  A refreshing change of scenery and subject matter.  I did a painting of the Avon pier last year from a different angle.  There is a wonderful, dramatic contrast between the white sea foam, the deep tones of the pier posts and the long shadows cast on a sunny fall afternoon.  I feel like I am there.

Moonlight over the Outer Banks

14x32", oil on board

I had reworked this piece as I wasn't happy with the balance in the composition. I am happy with the results, which is not always the case.  You can see the earlier version posted, November 1, 2009.

Fisherman's Boat, Soundside

Fisherman's Boat Soundside, oil on board, 9.5 x 9.5"

This was painted from a scene on the Outer Banks, Pamlico Sound.  This was donated to a silent auction benefiting Claxton Elementary in Asheville.

Lunch Hour on the Surf

7x7" oil on board

There is something exciting about seeing a fully loaded van at beach.  It just screams adventure.

Pamlico Sound

8x8" oil on board

We got the chance to do some canoeing on the sound and enjoyed a beautiful sunset.  It is quite a contrast to the often fickle surf. Quite lovely.

Surf Search

8x8" oil on board

The beach next to Hatteras light house is one surfers and fishermen flock to.  I caught a couple on their way out for the afternoon.

Avon Pier

 

8x8" oil on board

The end of October is a fisherman's frenzy on Hatteras.  This is Avon Pier, which was hit hard by a nor'easter a couple of years ago.  It's not one for the faint of heart.  I hope these fellas (and  mamas) caught dinner at least.

Surfside Birder

7x7" oil on board

I have decided one of my favorite things is watching our little boston terrier-mut run on the beach chasing the seagulls and sandpipers.  This was one from our fall trip to the Outer Banks... go get'em Posey!