The Stars at Night

"The Stars at Night" 45" x 60"

​Back in early 2019 in planning paintings for the 2020 show at InSight Gallery, I decided I wanted to paint a moonlit longhorn scene. I got inspired after seeing such a scene after a long day of reference gathering. 

Studio windows are installed, but finish work postponed to not interfere with show schedule.

I waited for well lit nights to do some plein air color studies. As I designed the piece I realized the size needed to be substantial. 
With my sketch on paper, I begin sketching on the gessoed board with paint. Diagonal lines in pencil make it easier to scale.  

After the initial sketch is in place, I pay closer attention to anatomy. I continue to refine. 

Now I begin to put a wash down. This will give a warm undertone. 

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Jumping forward I begin to refine in color. I continue this process until completion. Although the scene is serene, I wanted a shimmer and movement in the light. Western history and cattle lore often centered around the night watch. The stars are bright on this night, but the longhorns take center stage. 

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Insight Gallery
The West & The Wild 
Brian Grimm & David Griffin
Reception May 1, 2020