I made these paintings, titled laconically “Tree” and “Summer Field” for a painting class in college. I remember during the class critique, my professor thought that my color choices combined with the movement in these paintings was reminiscent of Charles Burchfield‘s landscapes.
At this time I was still new to oils, having dabbled in them, but being more familiar with acrylics up to that point. Painting in layers and glazes, though now a standard technique for me, was not yet in my repertoire. Today, I might wait for the first layer to dry, then switch to a smaller brush to add detail in subsequent layers. Then, I was working with one large brush and all in one go. So these paintings have a rough, blurry feel to them. But I think it works. There is something to be said for the fresh approach of an inexperienced painter!
Tree. 36″ x 18″, Oil on Canvas, © 2004 Cedar Lee
I do love these sunny paintings. The way the young tree is bending backwards, it looks like it’s dancing.
Summer Field. 36″ x 18″, Oil on Canvas, © 2004 Cedar Lee
My favorite part of “Summer Field” is the way the sunlight falls on those wildflowers in the foreground. And, notice the bees!
I intended them to be hung side by side as a diptych. I sold the set for $1,000 and the new owner chose to get them framed.
Cedar Lee paintings “Tree” and “Summer Field” framed
In more current news, mark your calendar: I have a Spring Sale coming up May 8-14!
I will be offering free shipping within the U.S. for all my available paintings, even the heaviest, large-scale ones.