Work Begins. Umbria, 2023

Much has happened in the 4 months we've been away from Umbria. The big change is the closing of the gallery back in California. We had planned to make this move for some time, and we are happy about the decision. Being here without the extra stress is wonderful. For both of us.

Johnny has been really looking forward to working here, both in his studio and out in the country side. He is planning on shipping home both large abstract paintings and a bunch of smaller plein-air pieces. We have a couple of side trips planned, so there may even be some plein-air work from Venice and Paris...fingers crossed.

On arrival, Johnny always takes stock of what he left here in the studio, and what he'll need to buy in the next week or so. He loves those first moments here...checking it all out...

The painting on the wall never made it back last trip.

Checking stuff out.

When we arrived last week, the weather wasn't the best, but it's March, so we;'re used to grey skies and cooler temps. Still, Johnny started sketching, and the sun has popped out here and there.

Stopping to sketch on a recent morning walk.

Taking photos for reference.

Usually, he'll do several sketches that get color later. These will have either watercolor or gouache added, or maybe not. Sometimes the sketches remain 'black & white'. They will be nice matted and framed at some point.

Adding color on a sunnier afternoon.

Sunday was lovely, so we planned on a drive around the area to set up for oil painting. The amount of stuff needed to paint plein-air takes up the entire trunk of the car!

Admittedly, it's not a huge trunk...but still.

Set up and ready to paint. 

These are very old stone walls that once surrounded this small village.
Johnny loves the history in this area.

A perfect day to paint outdoors.

A good start.

When we came back to the studio, Johnny continued working on this piece. He decided to take out the olive tree. He feels this makes a more dramatic composition.

He thinks it's done now.

 

That large oil painting that was never sent back last year...he's already reworking it...

Johnny's larger abstract paintings are now represented by Westbrook Modern in Carmel, CA.

The smaller plein-air paintings will be represented through us, as well as The Carmel Art Association in Carmel, CA

Follow Johnny on Instagram: #johnnymackapodaca