Auburn Painted from the Parking Lot

My advanced painting class wanted to paint out of doors so we met in Old Town Auburn and looked around for scenery that caught our eyes. Some of my students found a creek and painted rocks and rushing water and did a great job. I sat in the parking lot with one of my favorite students, Chuck Young and painted this old house. I am always trying to get my paintings to look as if I just dashed them off and I was fairly happy with this one. What do you think?

Paris Painted in Rocklin

My friends and I have had several discussions lately about Paris. So, I dug out this photo I took when I was there 4 years ago. I've looked at the photo many times without the impulse to paint it. Suddenly, last week, the impulse to paint Paris occurred. My Monday class and I all painted from the photo. I finished my painting Sunday while watching an old 1950's Frank Sinatra movie. Now when I look at this painting I will forever think of Frank. When you look at it what comes to your mind? I hope when I go to Paris after my workshop in October I can afford a hot chocolate and pastry at this cafe.

Arched Porch in Cortona

Walking up a hill in Cortona on a fresh, spring morning this April, this porch caught our eye. The sun was hitting it just right and it was lit perfectly for a painting. We took some quick photos and resumed our walk up to the Church of Santa Margharita to see the 300 year saint whose body rests there. This week I've been trying to paint the porch using some photos as reference. What do you think?