Friday, May 17, 2019, began a two day competition, the 8th Annual Fuquay-Varina En Plein Air Paint-Off. This was the fourth year I have participated. Once again, the Downtown Association hosted a great art experience for our community. Thanks to all who contributed your time and energy. A special thanks to my sponsors, Commissioner Marilyn Gardner and the Fuquay-Varina Women’s Club.
I was assigned the current library at 133 South Fuquay Avenue, which will be relocating to 130 North Judd Parkway. I had scouted the site earlier in the week and decided to incorporate figures into the scene using photos of volunteers who visited the first day.
The first two hours I sketched the library with pencil onto my 30” x 40” canvas, stopping frequently to solicit photos from library visitors or explain the event. I decided I wanted to use the lighting at 11 AM, following Baby Story Time. By midafternoon, I had collected all the images I could use to show figures in the middle ground.
I used three acrylic colors to fortify my pencil lines and create an underpainting wash.
I began using oils to define the trees and sky for the final hours of Day 1.
By noon on Saturday I had begun developing my figures and the background.
I continued to have a lot of interest and support from the community through the day, although I didn’t chat as much, since our 5 PM deadline approached. This family was one of several who returned to check my progress. They had posed as models for me in the Crepe Myrtle tree the day before.
At 4:45 PM I signed the painting, ready or not, time was up for the competition. I walked (it was too hot to run) across the street to the new Arts Center at 123 East Vance Street to submit my entry.
The artwork from the Fuquay and Varina districts were displayed for public viewing in the auditorium. I was honored with the support and encouragement from family, friends and visitors to the library. I received Peoples Choice Award as a result of their votes. Thanks to all of you and Eric Christofferson, owner of the Teacherage, who purchased the painting in the auction. The Community Library has a special place in the hearts of many residents. We are very grateful for a new facility which will provide more extensive services to our town as the Fuquay-Varina Branch Library begins its own story.