Back for More

I just had to go back to Los Olivos and paint at Clairmont Farms again. This time, I went out deep into the fields... the owners told me how to find a path that would lead me to a chair set under a big oak. Perfect! I wound my way through the rows, buzzing honey bees zooming in and out. I was of no interest to them as there was lavender all about!

The shady spot under the oak tree was perfect with dappled light filtering through it's sprawling limbs. It was windier today and each gust carried the intoxicating perfume of the lavender. Beyond the fields, I could hear horses nickering and calling to each other. I love that sound!
This is a larger piece.... almost 17" wide by 7" deep. I love the contrast of the grasses at the base of the trees with the expanse of lavender. The trees in the distance just seem to rise up out of the color. I look at this painting and I swear I can smell the lavender!

Sights & Scentsation

Yesterday, I returned to paint at Clairmont Farms in Los Olivos. The entrance to the lavender farm is a long driveway lined with very old olive trees... their lacy leaves rimmed in sunlight with hints of purple peeking through.
Beyond the trees was a "sea" of purple. Truly, it was like looking out on a large body of water with the deepest hues of purples, blues and pinks where the sun was hitting the tops of the blooms. The smell was intoxicating and the occasional breeze would make it even more intense. Rising up out of the purple were stately old oak trees their trunks in shadow and sprawling shapes silhouetted in the light.

I set up my easel and was transported into this world of scent and sensation. Cars came in and out and people stopped by to look at my painting. The shade of one of the olive trees was the perfect spot.

But all the while, I was consumed with the smell of lavender as I painted. Enjoy the painting and, if you have lavender sachet handy.... sniff, and then take a look!