Yesterday, I spent a great afternoon painting out with my Rockport Plein Air painting friends. The sky was overcast, but you could still see cloud formations. It is always a challenge to bring out more color on such a day. I started with an alizarin crimson/raw umber combination for toning the canvas. Used this combo throughout the painting for darkening areas, or underpainting the palms and grass. Painted about one and a half hours just trying to capture the feel of the day. I was pleased with it, but if I make a studio painting I will probably increase the size of the palms and boats.

It is always fun to paint with friends. The best part is the critique afterwards at the art center. We call it Wine and Whine.