This is a revised version of this painting. I still have trouble photographing larger pieces. I think I will have to invest in some photo umbrellas to help resolve that issue.
This painting was created using my smaller (11"x14") painting "A Creek in the Hills" as a reference. I also used photos taken near Johnson City this past April. It's very difficult to get the spontaneity in a larger piece you can get in smaller works. Painting trivial details tends to make paintings look contrived and tightly rendered rather than "painted". It all depends on what you like and what you strive for in your work. Personally, I would rather paint loosely and more interpretively. I consider myself a realistic impressionist rather than a pure realist. I want to achieve the look of realism with the brushwork of impressionism. I have much to learn but the pleasure is in the journey.
