Back to Powder Point Bridge

Powder Point Bridge Kayaks - Stage 1

My paint out destination today was a past favorite, the Powder Point Bridge in Duxbury, MA.  The temporary placard at the base of the bridge stated that the beach side parking lot was full.    I was forced to settle for a shore-side parking spot looking east across Duxbury Bay.   It turned out to be a fine spot and with my full sized picnic umbrella to shield the sun, it was perfect.

Staring out at the long, wooden bridge, I again marveled at the length and design.   See the my previous Vezina Art blog post if you are interested in a map, and some history on this marvelous structure.    Powder Point Bridge  

Powder Point Bridge Kayaks - Stage 2

I've painted the Powder Point before but never was as satisfied with the overall result as I was with this painting.   The dimensions of the linen on panel canvas (12 inches by 24 inches), was suitable for the long horizontal span and may have made the difference.     Although there was a constant stream of cars and people driving and walking across the bridge, the large size of the railings obscured them such that they didn't stand out prominently in terms of interesting elements for the painting.   I decided to add two kayakers in the water.  The spot where I was set up evidently was a preferred spot for launching kayaks and I saw several leaving and returning at the bay shore just in front of me.

After a couple of hours of rising temperatures I finally packed up.   I had not finished my sky; it was painted but I hadn't added the gorgeous summery clouds (see Stage 2 photo).    When I got back to the studio, I reviewed my reference photos and cropped a group of clouds that I liked.   My goal was to counterbalance the heaviness on the left side of the painting with a strong cloud pattern on the upper right.

If you ever get a chance to get to Duxbury Beach, plan on entering from the bridge.   It is truly amazing!

Powder Point Bridge Kayaks