Painting Expedition to Rock Run

Alice Kelsey and Jeanne McKinney Painting at Rock Run

What a fine day! Yesterday, I went exploring and painting off the beaten path north of Williamsport. Fellow pastelist Jeanne McKinney, and I found a swift freestone stream, and painted on location throughout the day. My husband Tim helped out by 'testing the waters', flyfishing in pocket water and pools, as well as taking many spectacular photos of the stream, and the artists painting. Thanks, Tim!

I was struck by the tumbling, rumbling, rocky character of this stream, so different from the spring-fed limestone creeks near home. The water pounds over ledges, carves rock as it glides insistently, swirls kettles, and churns channels. The colors are remarkably different as well- pinkish, blueish rocks, and a glowing cool light green at the head of pools. We painted a run in the morning, and a junction pool (where a tributary enters) in the afternoon. Along the way to settling on these sites to paint, we saw a large waterfall (heard it pommeling down even before we could see it), and a little snake- great outdoors! The paintings which I brought home seem to have the colors, and feel of the current, and I'll work on them a bit in the studio as well to balance elements to a satisfying wholeness.

Demo Done!

I enjoyed sharing my artwork, and demonstrating the pastel medium during last weekend's 'Art in the Square' outdoor arts and crafts festival. Many thanks to Longwood Art Gallery for inviting me to do this demonstration!

It was an unusually chilly day, and I definitely felt in touch with the elements as I set my easel and pastels up on the sidewalk outside the gallery! My experience with outdoor painting, and appropriate gear and attire sure came in handy- I was grateful for my windproof pants, vest, and jacket, topped off with a ski cap. I sure hadn't expected to need all these layers in late April in Chester County! I enjoyed talking with passers-by about pastels, art in general, and my in-progress painting, and sense that people were excited about the beauty of the medium. In between talking with interesting people, and rubbing my hands to stay warm, I managed to nearly complete a pastel of a stream close to home. I also appreciated the kind and positive feedback from people about my work. All in all, it was a wonderful day, taking my art out in to the world!