The Need for Solitude

"Solitude" mixed media, 16x20 on illustration board

I've been spending a lot of time walking this summer, particularly through the woods all around Port Townsend. The rhythm of walking, the quietude, the sights to be found: all these things quiet my mind like nothing else can.

This piece began as a failed watercolor; it was not very interesting. I added layers of charcoal and clear gesso to the piece which gave it depth and the illusion of having detail. The final coat is an oil glaze to further enrich the surface.

Happy walking and painting,
Dawn