“Summer Starts at the Owenego” 12 x 16″ oil painting, painted en plein air at Owenego Inn, ©2024

An Evening at Owenego Inn: Capturing Beauty on Canvas

This past Tuesday evening around 5 PM, I found myself at the Owenego Inn in Branford, CT, ready to immerse myself in the beauty of this cherished location. For over 175 years, the Owenego Inn has been a beloved spot, and my husband Dean and I have been proud members of the Owenego Beach and Tennis Club for the past three years. We absolutely adore this place, and it’s become a sanctuary of sorts for us. The blend of history, charm, and natural beauty makes it a perfect setting for plein air painting.

A Historical Gem

The Owenego Inn is steeped in history, having been a landmark for over a century and a half. Established in the 19th century, this inn and club have witnessed generations of families enjoying the scenic views, pristine beaches, and the vibrant social life that it offers. The inn itself exudes a timeless charm, with its classic New England architecture, beautiful gardens, and black and white striped awning that adds to its seaside vibe.

The Perfect Setting

On this particular evening, the atmosphere was simply idyllic. As I set up my easel, I noticed a yoga class taking place nearby. The participants were perfectly positioned, facing the ocean and surrounded by the lush gardens. It was a serene scene, perfect for a relaxing yoga session. The gentle sounds of the ocean, the soft rustling of leaves in the breeze, and the distant calls of seagulls created a tranquil soundtrack to paint by.

Capturing the Moment

For this painting session, I chose a 12 x 16″ canvas. In retrospect, I wished I had brought a larger canvas to capture more of the expansive water view in the background. Next time, I will definitely bring a bigger canvas to do justice to the breathtaking scenery. I worked in acrylics, a medium that I prefer for outdoor painting because it dries quickly. This way, there’s less mess when packing up and transporting the painting back to my studio. Back in my studio I refine the painting with a layer of oil paints.

The sky that evening had soft, wispy clouds, adding a delicate touch to the composition. The water was a bit choppy due to the wind, which added a dynamic element to the scene. The gardens were in full bloom, providing a burst of color and life. The black and white awning of the Owenego added a charming, coastal touch to the overall composition.

Painting Details

The painting, now complete, captures the essence of that peaceful evening at the Owenego Inn. It will soon be available for sale in my online shop. Additionally, I am offering prints in various formats. Whether you prefer fine art watercolor paper, luster paper, or a canvas print, there are several options to choose from.

If you select a print, I highly recommend including matting. This ensures the print will be shipped flat, avoiding the need to press it after removing it from a shipping tube.

Final Thoughts and Invitation

Painting at the Owenego Inn was a deeply rewarding experience. The combination of historical charm, natural beauty, and a serene atmosphere made it an ideal location for plein air painting. Each visit to the Owenego inspires me anew, and I am already looking forward to my next painting session there.

If you love this painting and the serenity it conveys, please visit my online shop to purchase the original or a print. Moreover, if you have a favorite summer vacation spot that you would like immortalized in a painting, feel free to contact me. I would be delighted to create a commissioned piece that captures your special memories.

Thank you for joining me on this artistic journey. I look forward to sharing more beautiful moments with you through my paintings.
Linda

To Purchase

Go to my online Gallery and Print Shop – Here