This is a plein air sketch from my rental backyard in Maine, which has a big, red umbrella as well as a massive oak tree for shade. At certain times of day the umbrella gets shaded by the oak tree, which creates a neat value contrast underneath. While I didn’t get the pass through lighting just right, its always satisfying to get an object like an umbrella properly drawn.
On a compositional note, I definitely will look to do a future painting of an umbrella from this underneath perspective. I really like the mystery it creates whereby the viewer has no idea what’s happening on the table, or even in the background below 3 or 4 feet. Oddly enough, the lack of a “bottom” seems to continually redirect me back into the composition. Does it work that way for you, too?
This study doesn’t make the cut for a “real” painting, but it was fun to draw, so perhaps I might try another angle one day soon. In the meantime I’ll keep an eye out around town for a bright, colorful patio umbrella for a proper painting effort.
#artbern #berntx #crashboomzip #abplanalp #austinartists #atxart #portlandmaine #landscapesmaine #maineart #portlandmaineart #southportland #southportlandmaine #capeelizabeth #pleinairaustin #umbrella #drawing
Art Bern 
Bern, your paintings are gorgeous, but your black and white drawings are exceptional. Your penciled oyster shell is framed on a wall in the computer room. This newest one may soon show up, believe it or not, in one of the bathrooms. Hey! Some of us need artwork to enjoy when we’re otherwise occupied.
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Thank you, whomever you are, for your kind words! I love drawing, so it’s a good thing it’s an integral part in preparation for a painting. I have reams of sketches for paintings past, present, and never to be tried.
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Dear Bern,
The above mentioned drawings are enjoyed by the denizens of Knapp’s Cat House…. some more than others. These girls definitely need an intense course in art appreciation.
Hugs
m
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