Antigua, Guatemala

This work, in progress (many features of the figures and highlights throughout are to come), started some number of months ago from a photo given to me by my daughter Heather and her husband Jeb.  The right edge spills over onto the deck where I took the picture.  The right edge actually ends with the attendant at the right side in the lovely red sash.

During their many travels, they especially admired and enjoyed Antigua, Guatemala. The town sits next to an inactive volcano (seen as the mountains in the background rise up).  The beautiful arch is a graceful structure supporting the tower which seems to protect the town and its people.  Santa Catalina Arch seems to bring the town together with its spectacular and vibrant color.  From the colorful woven tapestry to the beautiful serpentine columns and cobble stone roads, the eye travels from one marvel to the next.

My largest format taken on so far, this oil on linen canvas panel is 40"x 30".  With two draft drawings completed, I started the initial work with a nice burnt umber under painting.  The perspective took many adjustments as did the color harmony.   During the project Heather and Jeb mourned the loss of their two beloved cats Murphy and Bella. They now sit under the watchful hand of Heather and Jeb, by their side.  When finished, I will post the final work.  Enjoy!!