My Process:
My paintings are usually cumulated through two or three visit to the same location at the same time of day with the same kind of atmosphere/weather, over the period of a few weeks. The first time I find and visit the location I gather all sorts of information. This includes recording the common local colors and making many kinds of drawings that capture various aspects such as light and shadow, spatial separations, specific details, textures, and compositional patterns. I then returned to the studio where the local colors are examined and manipulated in various way, usually into rich vibrant color combinations that when interacting produce the illusion of the local colors of the area. From the drawings, I form fragmented under layers. These under-layers are covered/masked and sit at various depths of space, which are later excavated, removed, and revealed during the additive process. Different layers and different processes are employed to produce various kinds of painting languages that mingle and ultimately form an illusion of the space. All the under layer information is then recorded and painted over. After building an under structure, making preparations, and formulating a tentative plan of action, I take the painting back to the site to paint the (additive) plein-air stage of the painting. Generally I do the onsite painting in one day, yet sometimes I take it back for a second day. I add and subtract paint in a more instinctual manner onsite, backed with my tentative plan of execution and a staged pallet. My plan and pallet are pre-formed to work with the under-layers. By doing this, it creates a harmonious space and light. The onsite day is when the painting forms and/or "comes alive."Woody Shepherd, my process 2007