We love to hear from the Plein Air Today community! The following is part of a series that spotlights an artist who loves painting outdoors.
Today’s feature is from Hema Gupta.
One year I attended a plein air event in Absecon, New Jersey. My son, who had recently started driving, accompanied me on the trip. Once we arrived, we cruised the area so I could find some boats to paint.
Just off the main road, we came upon a boatyard. There were a few small boats and a tiny restaurant that was closed at the time. I was very excited for the location, as I had the place almost to myself, except for a man working on his boat. I told my son he could drive around the area while I painted.
Having decided on my composition, I set up my tripod/easel and started to draw. It must have hardly been a few minutes when by chance I dropped my pencil. As I looked down to pick it up, I was shocked to see that the water had risen and my shoes were covered up to my ankles. My bag which was on the ground was soaking wet.
I gathered my stuff, and moved back. I was determined to paint, but I kept a close watch on the water as it continued to edge closer and closer and I moved back as needed.
When the man got in his truck and drove by, I stopped him and asked if I was okay in that spot and if the water would reach there. He nodded that I was fine, and drove away.
As I was finishing up, however, the entryway to the lot had become covered in water and I realized that it may be tricky to have my son drive through it. I quickly called him, packed up, and waited for him on the main road. In my haste, I lost one of my favorite brushes.
I had heard of artists in such situations before. What a day it was! We had a hearty laugh as we drove to a nearby Dunkin, where we got a hot coffee while I put out my socks to dry on the dashboard.
I really enjoyed the experience and also ended up winning best seascape/marine for that painting!
Connect with Hema Gupta on Instagram @hemaguptapaintings.
