Vineyard Shadows

I am always intrigued by a scene that provides contrast in light and shadow. Above this California vineyard grow a row of oak trees with their large trunks and overhanging branches. The trees cast interesting patterns with their shadows on the warm ground plane. The sun was shining brightly on the distant vines, which were turning gold in the autumn season. I painted the shadows a lavender/gray to complement the vineyard colors. I began by creating a plein air study, discovering how I wanted to handle the play of light. Back in my studio, I then used the study and my photos to make this painting.