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Seeing beauty in the world around us, this look at the landscapes of New Jersey artist David Henderson showcases almost fifty paintings inspired by light, land, and changes of the seasons. Included is a still life painting progression from first color, to finish, a word on commissions, working "en plein-air", and limiting the camera to a reference tool. All art begins with seeing, and every painting is a journey.
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This book is intended to be a snapshot of the method, materials and process of my work. Little can be understood of an artist's methods by seeing the finish work alone. While I design my work using photographic reference materials, photos are not part of my painting process. I construct all my own surfaces using wood reinforced Masonite panel, which is then sealed with three coats of blocking primer, over which is applied three coats of gesso. This provides a smooth working surface, with unsurpassed permanence.
I begin my paintings with a white surface, and work freehand through the entire painting. I will use photo reference in very much the same way I would regard a live scene working en plein-air. The luxury of the studio is a relatively constant work environment. Painting is not magic. Drawing has always been my strength, and this direct, unguided approach frees me to construct the final work with the very freedom to change and create that drives me as an artist. Light can change, trees move, rocks appear...suddenly there might be a bird! I am never tied to the image that is there, but rather I love to explore the feeling a place gives me, and all it can be. I've heard many artists say: "...just paint what is there..". I believe the purpose of art is to bring more to an image that what is simply there. When work is infused with passion, only then does it rise to art.