
I work in Salem, MA and I often stop at a park about 10 minutes away, sometimes bringing sketching or painting materials. I worked on this for about an hour and then realized I was beginning to get very chilly and the clouds were moving in. It's almost always windy at this park. One of the reasons that this is one of my favorites spots is that many islands are visible including Great Misery, Little Misery, and Baker's Island. Another incentive is the very good popcorn and ice cream available there. A few years ago I took a ferry to the Misery islands- they are very beautiful.
I learned a few things during this short painting session:
Don't stop after the first thumbnail sketch no matter how great you think it is. Do at least two more and you'll probably find a better composition.
It is pretty easy to mix up a decent yellow ochre. I forgot my tube.
Pre-mix your palette, there are less chances to muddy up the painting.
Use a small palette knife to pre-mix colors- it saves on paintbrush wear and tear, and no need to use any solvent.