“Canyon Palms,” by Elaine Mathews, 2011, oil, 30 x 40. Collection the artist
“Painting in the desert, as beautiful and inspiring as it is, presents its own set of challenges for plein air painters,” says Elaine Mathews. “For instance, the clarity of the desert allows for miles and miles of visibility but that can be a problem for an artist who likes painting atmospheric effects. In addition, colors tend to be washed out and values lose their contrast under the intense mid-day light. Additionally, heat is a problem for both the artist and the paint. The artist can become dehydrated and tire quickly, and the paint can get sticky and difficult to manipulate. These are some of the challenges of painting out-doors in the desert, but they are not insurmountable problems.
“Path,” by Elaine Mathews, 2011, oil, 30 x 30. Collection the artist
Finally, a word to the wise: Be careful when backing up from your easel! Cholla, which are cactus covered with fine needles, easily become detached from the mother plant and find a new home in clothing, shoes and hats. For more information, visit www.elaineartist.com.
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