Maine – Jacqueline Newbold

Ruby-throated Hummingbird, A Peek Inside My Watercolor Journal

July 16, 2011 Artist

There are at least two female Ruby-throated hummingbirds coming to the feeder at our camp, Tern II. Each one has a different personality. One likes to sit and perch at the feeder, taking long drinks of sugar nectar. The other never perches and seems more cautious, always suspended in flight and looking quickly around after each quick sip. While I paint, I hear the lobster boats in the distance and a Thrush or Warbler singing in the background. The tide is moving in.

Painting at the Marina

July 13, 2011 Artist

On most Mondays, the Plein Air Painters of Mount Desert Island, Maine, meet at different locations around the island. On Sunday evening, local artist and author Gail, sends out a email with the painting location for the next morning. Last year was my first year of joining the group and I had the pleasure of doing so again this year. We met at the Northeast Harbor Marina. That meant boats, boats, more boats and water; both of which I am not very familiar at painting coming from the high desert of Central Oregon. First I did a warm-up in my watercolor journal. I pick a smart looking red boat to paint. This was fun, small and spontaneous. Then I attempted a 1/4 sheet watercolor painting. By the time I started, I had less than an hour to finish before the group stopped painting for critique and picnic lunch. So I did not get very far with my larger painting as I felt it was important to get the shape of the boat somewhat correct. I will share with you my journal entry: