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In my previous blog post, I said imagination can be one of the important ingredients in my creative process.  But I was talking about my studio paintings.  What about when I work en plein air?  When I paint the subject that is in front of me, does imagination influence my vision and painting process?  I believe so.

I remember, when I just started painting outdoors, I was trying to describe faithfully or report in my painting what my eyes saw.  But as I had more experience, I was begininng to digest the visual information to edit and to make my own story in my work.  Imagination has to play a role for me to be able to do that.

In fact, the imaginary process may be already starting before I actually paint.  When I am outdoors scouting around for a spot to paint, I may be looking more with my mind's eye.  It is hard to tell when I switch to the imaginary mode but when something makes an impression strong enough for me to stop and observe, I am already imagining in my mind all sorts of things: what colors to use, which objects to focus, how to create a certain mood, etc., etc.  I think a successful plein-air work is one where imagination and visual perception go hand in hand.

Painting en plein air in the rain, Bordeaux, France - rain drops added lovely textures in this painting.

Rainy Day, Bordeaux, France I

Media: Original watercolor on paper
Image Size: 15.5 x 11.5 inches (39 x 29 cm)

Frame/Mat: No

Purchase: Sold

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