Plein air painting in the heat

Key Biscayne Cap Florida, September 2011, more than 95°F.

I want to paint this lighthouse from an angle that includes a view of the sand, sea, grass, palm trees.

After one or two quick sketches, I feel ready and set up my easel. My large stretched canvas is 1 1/2″ thick and is quite heavy at 24″x30″. The blustery wind makes it move and I fear it will fall over. I must hold the easel with my left hand to steady it. The sun is quite hot and the sand is reflecting its heat on me. After two hours of standing, I cannot stay any more. I need to rest in the shade. The sun is moving and the colors have changed. I have to stop for today.

The best way to capture the light is to paint directly in front of the scenery. Even if it’s inconfortable, plein air painting is the only way to capture what I want. 

Clic on the picture to see the full size of the painting.