Capturing the Essence of Summer: Plein Air Paintings Along the Connecticut Coast
As the warm breeze caresses the coastline and the sun gently kisses the horizon, there’s a magical allure to the New England coast that beckons artists and nature enthusiasts alike. In this blog post I’d love to share just a few of my favorite Plein air paintings along the Connecticut Coast. I sought to capture the essence of summer along the picturesque Connecticut coast, where every stroke of the brush reflects the tranquility and beauty of these serene landscapes.
One of the most enchanting aspects of plein air painting is the opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural surroundings, to feel the rhythm of the waves and the dance of the sunlight on the water. It’s a visceral experience that infuses each brushstroke with a sense of immediacy and authenticity, allowing me to convey not just what I see, but what I feel in the moment.
Among the highlights of my collection is a mesmerizing sunset painting titled “Sunset over Grassy Island, Guilford, CT.” Positioned in Madison, overlooking the Guilford Marina, this piece captures the fleeting brilliance of the sun as it’s about to dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the tranquil waters of the East River.
The interplay of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and serenity, inviting viewers to lose themselves in the peaceful embrace of nature. This was painting at one of our favorite hidden gem spots. It’s a boat launch off of Neck Rd. in Madison. It’s a quiet back road, winding along the coast, so many of the houses here have incredible waterviews and equally magnificent sunsets.
My husband will set up his fishing gear and I’ll set up my plein air painting easel. often times I would work right out of the back of the SUV. This night, the tide was coming in and it was high, which posses a danger because the little dirt path often gets flooded and it to me seams dangerous to cross, but not Dean. So we took our chances, stayed just a bit later than we should have, he caught a few fish and I captured this beautiful sunset.
In this plein air piece, “Still Summer in New England,” I sought to evoke the timeless beauty of the Thimble Islands, another hidden gem of the coast of Connecticut. The Thimble Islands are a group of small islands located off the coast of Branford, Connecticut, in Long Island Sound. Consists of over 100 islands, most of which are privately owned. They are known for their scenic beauty, historic homes, and unique geological formations, making them a popular destination for boating, sightseeing, nature lovers and of course, plein air painters.
Anchored by a solitary sailboat, framed by the distant shoreline, this painting encapsulates the quiet grandeur of a summer afternoon spent on the water. With each brushstroke, I endeavored to capture the play of light on the rippling waves and the gentle sway sea grass, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of tranquility and reflection.
“View from Pinkney Park in Rowayton, CT” offers a glimpse into the bustling harbor life, where crimson bottom lobster boat bobs gently in the water. Joining up with the Fairfield County Plein Air Painters on their weekly paint outs. I knew this was a scene I was excited to paint. Rowayton is this quant little village with shops and restaurants that line the waterfront. Easy access to the dock makes it another perfect place for summer in New England.
Across the shimmering expanse of water, a small inlet beckons, its tranquil waters mirroring the soft hues of the sky above. Through careful observation and a keen eye for detail, I sought to capture the vibrant energy and timeless charm of this coastal community, inviting viewers to explore its hidden corners and discover its untold stories.
Finally, “Gardens at Owenego Beach and Tennis Club” transports viewers to a secluded paradise, where lush gardens cascade down the hillside, overlooking the steel blue waters of the New England Coast. Here, amidst the vibrant blooms and verdant foliage, lies a sense of serenity and renewal, a refuge from the chaos of the outside world. With each brushstroke, I endeavored to capture the ephemeral beauty of this hidden gem, inviting viewers to bask in its tranquil embrace and find solace in its timeless allure.
The Owenego Beach Club, located in Branford, Connecticut, has a rich history dating back 176 years!
The Inn boasted stunning views of the Sound and provided guests with access to a sandy beach, tennis courts, and other recreational activities. Throughout its early years, the Owenego Beach Hotel welcomed visitors from near and far, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Over time, the hotel evolved into the Owenego Beach Club, transitioning into a private, member-owned beach and tennis club. Despite these changes, the club has retained its historic charm and continues to offer members and their families a serene retreat along the Connecticut coastline. Owenego is a popular location for seasonal weddings and the club offers special events that are open to the public.
Today, the Owenego Beach Club remains a cherished landmark in Branford, serving as a gathering place for members to enjoy the natural beauty of Long Island Sound, participate in recreational activities, and forge lasting memories with friends and loved ones. We joined Owenego two years ago and absolutely love spending time there.
In each of these paintings, I sought to capture not just the physical beauty of the Connecticut coast, but the intangible essence of summer itself – the warmth of the sun on your skin, the sound of waves lapping against the shore, the scent of salt in the air. It’s a celebration of nature’s boundless beauty and a testament to the enduring power of art to transport us to places of wonder and enchantment. As you explore these canvases, may you find yourself immersed in the timeless splendor of the New England coast, where every brushstroke tells a story and every sunset whispers of endless possibilities.
Shop Prints of Plein Air Paintings Along the Connecticut Coast
All of these original paintings have sold but prints are available in my print shop. Head over to the print shop to check out these and many other originals and prints.
