As we walk through life, from challenge to opportunity, from tribulation to titillation, hardship to bliss, through love and heartbreak, as if through the rifts, jungles and savannas of an untouched continent, the number of dangers and wonders we unknowingly pass, are huge.
Perhaps it is better not to know of all the dangers we nearly tread on, the snake, thorn or landmine, the temptation or bad decision.
I shake, imagining all the wonders I might miss, the great opportunities, the omen that confirms, the sign that persuades the decision, the butterfly in chrysalis, the dewdrop, the leopard.
I have a vision. In this painting, we observe the elusive observer, peacefully observing a spectacular wonder in the distance.
To capture the essence of this vision I am working as fast as my skill permits and so I find myself venturing into a dusty twilight scene with surrealism and impressionism enraptured in a mating dance!
On day two I spent most of the time working on the mid-distance detail and getting the color balances right in the light and shadow parts of the mountains, gradually and carefully approaching realism.
In truth, I was still searching for the elusive leopard. I knew she would eventually come rest in the shade on the cool rocks in the foreground.
With half a day of light left, I found her and very quickly had to capture her shape and weight in pathes of light.
The mission today is to bring realism to the dappled shade in the foreground and the way it falls over the leopard’s frame. Her personality will radiate as soon as I sort out her temple.
I doubt I will get to the drama in the sky today…
Two day’s work so far. The painter is satisfied.