Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Virtual Paintout - My 'Hood


9 in x 12 in Canson 90 lb Cold Press watercolor paper, Winsor & Newton Gouache
I had this "feeling" last week the next Virtual Paintout would be the Bay Area. I was right.

I loved Corsica the subject of January's Virtual Paintout. I explored nearly every inch of the island that I got to recognize the locations of the paintings people created. But the place where you were born and raised and lived your whole life - hmm a real challenge since I know it so well (I forget how stunning the Golden Gate Bridge is especially since I commuted over it twice a day every weekday for years).

As for subjects - Google Maps does have the street views of both DH's and my cars parked at work. Not the most scenic views of Oakland and San Rafael.

I decided to keep within a mile or so of where I live. Unfortunately the Google Map of our street and apartment is not so exciting. I went for the statue of Sir Francis Drake located on Sir Francis Drake Blvd at Larkspur Landing just down the street a bit. Mt Tam is located in the background. Very,very local. I have written about Larkspur Landing previously. The statue is by Dennis Patton who created another sculpture a couple of blocks from our home which is also on Google Maps (I may paint her).

Sir Francis Drake is said to have landing briefly here and left a bronze plaque.

Welcome to my Bay Area ,Virtual Paintout folks! Have fun and visit often. Let me know if you need directions.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

One comment for multiple posts- what a great collection of unique, colorful art! I love your style.

Autumn Leaves said...

This is a wonderful painting, Suzanne! What a fabulous street view find too.