Sometimes...

Sometimes...painting is showing what you know, proven skill...dazzling the eyes of the viewer.  Sometimes...painting is a journey exploring a subject, seeing more...wrestling and fighting with yourself seeking to isolate the necessary from distraction.  Today...with about 1-1/2 hours on hand, I chose a mundane subject...a spot off a road, ruts from an ATV trail...with a bit of water streaming by...

This is one of those I'm not immediately satisfied with.  A good study, opening my eyes...but yet, more simplification is needed.  I may play with this one some in-studio...using the reference and plein air study, eliminating unnecessary visual voices and arriving at the essential.

The water comes off as an important actor on this stage, as does the grass...one not more than the other...

Rather than defeated, not so much discouraged, I have found something to peak my curiosity and interests.  A challenge to come to better terms with.  Resolving this to my satisfaction, will help my eyes and decision making capabilities stronger in the field.