Lowcountry Lamentation
May 28, 2022
My first painting from a recent trip to Savannah is a moody one. The storm had just raged through and a few clouds were lagging behind. The ground was wet, and the fresh water smell on the salt marsh was distinct. The sun was still hiding behind the lingering clouds. “Lowcountry Lamentation” seems to fit the mood.
There are three more paintings from this trip taking their turns on the easel now. Oddly enough, they are from the following day, which was filled with blue skies and breezes. Here comes a new collection – from Savannah this time.
Stay tuned…
For those of you who came to see the rest of the story, here is the beginning. From intial sketch to blocking in, this painting was moody. I think I was too. Going to Savannah was a happy occasion. I delivered a large painting and saw my family. We had superb time together. But lingering just like the storm was my grief from the loss of my friend Mary. She lived in Savannah, and I had hoped to see her when I made my trip. She was already gone. So, “Lowcountry Lamentation” is a combination of the marsh, the storm, and the artist all rolled up in one.
Here are a couple of the progress shots of how the painting developed.
Thank you for your interest in my painting practice. It is nice to be able to show you the work right off the easel.
Michel
P.S. If this painting connects with you, please let me know in the comments below.
My studio is at Stormwater Studios in Columbia, SC. To learn more, the link is just below.
10 Comments
Very powerful scene. Can feel the loss and sadness.
Thank you, Roxanne.
Your loss is palpable. And “lamentation” is an evocative word.
Yes – lam·en·ta·tion
the passionate expression of grief or sorrow; weeping.
“scenes of lamentation”
Moody and poetic and beautifully painted.
Thank you, Ellen. You know my work more completely than anyone. My true friend. Thank you.
Did you sketch in with paint or charcoal?
For me, always charcoal.
Very powerful, Michel… on many levels… Thank you for the progress photos too..7 Take care..
Thank you, Virginia. I know we share the loss. This painting helped me understand how I was feeling and showed me a way to move forward. I see similarities with your new Edisto paintings. “Let’s dive in.” : )