Belle MFA

The summer of 2010 has been very hot and humid here in Missouri. A refreshing break in the weather occurred on August 26 with clear skies, cooler temps, and low humidity---a perfect day to paint en plein air!

I went out for a drive, not sure where I wanted to go or what I wanted to paint. It is usually wise to know where and what you want to paint before leaving the house. Otherwise you may spend the entire day trying to find that perfect spot and never find it. I was nearing the end of my search, ready to head home empty-handed, when I spotted an old feed mill. The rusting, unused rails of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad still run through the town. The remains of the spur tracks that once "fed" this feed mill were poking out from under several layers of asphalt. These tracks, severed from the main line, have not been used in 30+ years and will probably never be used again. It was a scene just begging to be painted. At last, I found my inspiration!

This watercolor was painted on location in the town of Belle, Missouri. There was no evidence of activity at the feed mill. I am not sure if it is still in business, although it may be. I set up my easel next to a storage building that may have once received rail service too. I chose this spot for the cool shade provided by a cast shadow from the storage building. Several cars and a few kids on bicycles passed by, but no one stopped to talk. It was a beautiful and peaceful painting experience--one I will never forget.

D. Tom Conboy