Ironweed
Camera: Nikon D5000
ISO – 320 | f/11 | 1/60
48mm Focal Length
Author: Mark Hewatt
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Drawing Historic Rockwell Church
I am sharing a new graphite piece today that focuses on a local Winder landmark: Historic Rockwell Church.
This drawing is derived from a reference photograph I made several years ago with my Nikon. The image was captured during the golden hour of a late summer afternoon, a moment when the light is harsh yet warm, casting deep shadows that define architectural forms.
For this study, I used Mitsubishi pencils on cold press paper. Working purely in graphite required careful planning of values to contrast the delicate, aging white woodwork against the dense, almost impenetrable wall of foliage behind it. I wanted the texture of the wooden siding and the foundation brickwork to feel tangible, as if you could reach out and touch the history etched into the building.
It is a quiet study of structure, light, and endurance—a moment in late summer frozen in graphite.
Technical Details
Medium: Mitsubishi Pencil, Derwent Graphite
Surface: Fabriano Hot Press
Dimensions: 9×12 -
Little Mulberry Stream
This delightful painting transports us to an enchanting autumn forest. Imagine strolling through a sun-dappled woodland, the ground carpeted with golden-yellow leaves. The trees, their branches bare, stand tall on either side of a crystal-clear stream. Moss-covered rocks peek out from the water, adding a touch of ancient wisdom to the scene.
The artist masterfully captures the essence of seasonal transition. It’s as if summer has whispered its goodbyes, and winter waits patiently in the wings. The warm yellows and oranges of the leaves harmonize with the cool blues and greys of the stream. Nature’s dance unfolds before our eyes, and we become part of this serene moment—a fleeting pause in the eternal rhythm of the forest.
Technical Details
Medium: Acrylic
Surface: Stretched Canvas
Dimensions: 9×12 -
Birds at Sunrise
This vibrant painting transports us to a tranquil natural landscape at sunset. Imagine standing amidst tall, slender trees with textured bark, their branches reaching out like nature’s own artwork. The ground beneath is adorned with golden-hued grass and small shrubs, casting a warm, autumnal glow. The artist’s thick brush strokes add richness to the scene, making the trees and grass almost tangible.
But it’s the sky that steals the show. An awe-inspiring sunset paints the heavens with shades of yellow, orange, and red. Silhouettes of birds soar against this vibrant canvas, their dark forms contrasting with the bright sky, creating a sense of movement and freedom. In the distance, more greenery lines the horizon, completing this picturesque setting. It’s a captivating blend of colors and textures that evokes both tranquility and awe.
Technical Details
Medium: Acrylic
Surface: Stretched Canvas
Dimensions: 9×12 -
Woman in Chair
Comfort and Solitude Our mystery person, their face hidden from view, reclines in the chair. Their striped top hints at casual elegance, a deliberate choice for this moment of respite. The sunlight dances across the room, casting elongated shadows on the floor. Perhaps they’re lost in a book, savoring the quietude, or simply drifting into daydreams. The blue wall envelops them, cocooning them in a haven of memories and forgotten conversations. It’s a snapshot of serenity—a pause button pressed in the symphony of life.
Technical Details
Medium: Acrylic
Surface: Stretched Canvas
Dimensions: 9×12 -
Smokemont
In this picturesque scene, a winding road stretches out before us, beckoning with an air of mystery. The asphalt, painted in a soothing blue hue, seems to whisper secrets of distant destinations. Yellow lines guide the way, promising adventure and escape. The trees on either side stand tall, their branches reaching out like ancient guardians. Some are bare, their skeletal forms etched against the sky, while others cling to a few remaining leaves, defiant in the face of impending winter. The road itself is a silent storyteller, inviting us to step onto its path and discover what lies beyond the horizon.
Technical Details
Medium: Acrylic
Surface: Stretched Canvas
Dimensions: 11×14 -
Hodges Mill Field
This image is like a breath of fresh air, capturing the serene beauty of the countryside. The golden hues of a field, rich and warm, stretch out to meet a sky painted with soft blues and whites. Hay bales, scattered artistically across the field, add an element of rustic charm. They’re like nature’s own sculptures, standing as silent witnesses to the changing seasons. A white fence runs through the landscape, leading the eye to a cozy house nestled amidst lush greenery. It’s one of those homes that looks like it has countless stories tucked away within its walls.
The sky is a masterpiece in itself – clouds dance gracefully across it, casting shadows and light in an intricate ballet. There’s something about their formation that stirs up a mix of emotions; they’re both dramatic yet peaceful at the same time. The trees stand tall and proud against this backdrop, their leaves rustling softly in an unseen breeze. Every brush stroke on this canvas tells a tale of nature’s timeless elegance; it’s a scene that makes you want to step right in and get lost for awhile.
Technical Details
Medium: Acrylic
Surface: Stretched Canvas
Dimensions: 18×24 -
Roadside Barn
Nestled within this pastoral landscape stands an old barn, its wooden facade weathered by years of sun, rain, and snow. The once-blue paint now peels away, revealing the raw texture of time. This barn has witnessed seasons change, heard laughter echo through its rafters, and sheltered both livestock and memories. Wild grasses sway around it, their delicate dance a testament to nature’s artistry. And beyond, a canopy of trees stands tall, their leaves whispering secrets to the wind. Here, in the heart of simplicity, the old barn stands as a silent witness to life’s ebb and flow.
Technical Details
Medium: Acrylic
Surface: Canvas Board
Dimensions: 9×12 inches
