Assignment -- Copy a Master

"Bordighera" by Claude Monet  (25 1/2" x 32") On display at the Chicago Art Institute

Assignment -- Copy a Master  (Acrylic, 24" x 30")

Nostalgia time:   If you're going to do something crazy, at least make it worth your while.  This was the first painting class after a 38-year hiatus, and the final assignment was to copy a master.  Of course I picked Monet.  It was an interesting undertaking to say the least.  I lost track of how many trips across the studio I made in an attempt to get far enough away to see if it was working.  I think Monet's reputation is safe.  And I'm also reasonably certain that my next career will NOT be as an art forger.  But it was fun.

Still Life In Blue

"Still Life In Blue"  (Acrylic)  © C. Eastwood, 2009

This was actually one of my first paintings when I made the decision to try my hand once again.  I stuck it away at the time and just rediscovered it.  I can remember sweating bullets over the thought of painting a checked towel that reflected in the pitcher.  That's another good thing about taking a class...the instructor makes you paint things you wouldn't necessarily try on your own.

Haleakala Afternoon

"Haleakala Afternoon"  (Acrylic)  © C. Eastwood, 2011

Another painting of Haleakala -- this time in acrylics.  And if you think the colors are crazy, then you haven't seen the crater in the late afternoon sun.

Sunny-Side Up

"Sunny-Side Up"  (Watercolor) © C. Eastwood, 2011

These are the most amazing poppies.  They're about 5 inches across with bright yellow centers and ruffly white petals.  Their common name is a "fried egg" plant -- hence the name of the painting.