Behind the Scenes with Susan Abell

Every sunset brings the promise of a new dawn . Ralph Waldo Emerson Do you have a favorite way to end the day when you’re on vacation? Perhaps a ritual so to speak

Do you have a favorite way to end the day when you’re on vacation? Perhaps a ritual so to speak.

If you’re like many people, a coastal sunrise always seems like a real treat at day’s end. The ideal ending to the perfect coastal day can be especially spectacular.
The inspiration for this sunset was a glorious sunset witnessed on Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. This coastal sunset did not disappoint.

As my husband and I quickly made our way to the beach walkway overlooking the beach, we noticed quite a crowd had assembled on the beach. Not surprising, since the sun had begun to slowly drift below the horizon and the daylight was quickly fading. I began to snap a few pictures, alternating between my iPhone and camera, not really sure I would capture a good image at this point. Due to the number of other spectators gathered for the moment, we decided to remain on the walkway, which proved to be an ideal vantage point. I continued my picture snapping frenzy, not sure still not sure the results would yield a single decent reference photo.

While the human beach visitors gasped in delight at the magnificent sight unfolding before us, apparently it looked like a trio of shore birds had situated themselves to enjoy the spectacle as well. This was not obvious during the moment at all. The birds were not even noticeable as purple shadows had overtaken the beach during the fading light. Later, when I closely examined my pictures and zoomed in on the foreground, I found a unique addition to the scene. To my delight, the shore birds offered an interesting twist to just another sunset painting.
A beautiful ending to a perfect coastal day. Completed in multiple layers of vibrant color-the best way to recall the splendid moment enjoyed by people and birds alike.

Trips to Florida’s Gulf Coast always offer much in painting inspiration. All along the beaches of highway 30a, in between Destin and Panama City, quaint coastal communities dot the landscape, offering a range of laidback beach visit fun. The biggest draw to the area would likely be the brilliant blue-green waters bordered by white sugar sand beaches. For a change of pace, the nearby state parks offer additional outdoor opportunities, including coastal dune lakes. The wide range of possible experiences in nature is limitless, with inspiration a natural outcome.

Time spent in nature is always time well-spent.

A few other works inspired by visits to Florida’s Gulf Coast can be viewed @susanabellart.com

Thanks for reading!
Susan

Where is your favorite escape place? Is there one place that just thinking about it brings a smile to your face?

If  you are like many people, relaxing on a beach may be your favorite place. Whether watching the incoming the surf or padding along the sand, beaches offer the kind of retreat we often need. 

The particular day on Florida's Gulf Coast that inspired this work was no different as my husband and I settled in for a quiet, beach morning. Or so we thought. The sun was shining brightly on this mostly cloudless day as the waves gently lapped at the shore. Among my favorite beach activities on days like this is bird watching. Little did I know, a real show was about to transpire before us.

Suddenly, I noticed a pair of shore birds right in front of me engaged in some kind of dispute. Apparently, one of the birds had found a tasty morsel and was not eager to share with his pals. A third bird decided to get in on the action as well and quickly headed to join the beach debate. The squabble somehow seemed very familiar as I snapped a few pictures. To this former elementary teacher, a playground conflict may not be much different. Fortunately, these birds resolved the issue, or at least the fellow with the treat escaped his buddies' clutches. Sometimes you just don't want to share!

Capturing the amusing scene first required painting the light blue sky and the beautiful blue-green waters of the Emerald Coast as a backdrop. I knew I wanted the two birds as the main focal point as the surf rolled in. Including the third bird added to the playground dispute scenario. Layering in the beach sand and waves completed the scene.

For me, observing  birds in a coastal environment is a fun way to relax at the beach. I'm also left with a little painting inspiration. All in a day's work. :)