(Ormond Beach FL)
When I left work for the last time, I headed straight for a state park about an hour and a half away. I was worried about getting a site when arriving so late in the day. But, there was no problem as it was past tourist season.
Tardis at Tomoka State Park
Backing Tardis into this jungle like site was not difficult. But, getting level was more of a problem in the hard packed shell and sand; never did get it quite right. I expect to improve with more experience. It was hot and humid and soon it began to rain. But, I had electric and the air-conditioner kept me comfortable.
Morning fog at Tomoka
There is a reason this is considered a semi-tropical zone. Being in a coastal marsh with dense vegetation and afternoon rains only adds to the feeling. Venturing out in the morning was the only sane time to be hiking to see the sights. It was a short excursion, to get a few photos, because it was not suitable for painting in these conditions.
Inlet at Tomoka
In times past I’ve enjoyed painting the fabulous scenery that surrounds this park. There is a popular scenic drive locally called The Loop that meanders through the backwaters. My painting “Primal Ormond” is typical of the area.
‘Primal Ormond’, 8×10 oil on linen panel
On my last day here, I went to the grocery, filled up on propane and had a late lunch with my artist friend on the deck of a charming riverside bistro. Then it was down the road to my next camp along the plein air journey.
Camp: Tomoka SP
Scene: Jungle like marsh island
You’re off and away! Nice painting. Where are you going to have room to keep them?
Hi Key: Thanks for the compliment on the painting. There are lots of cabinets in Tardis. And, I’ve found some clear plastic bins that fit perfectly in them. I will be painting small, no larger than 9×12″, so I’m pretty sure they will fit. If I can sell them along the way then great. If not, I can off load them at friends or family when I visit. Those that don’t make the grade will make great kindling for the campfire.
Congratulations Brother-in-law. Have fun.
Hi Pleinguy — I just had a thought…
Now that you are formally starting your adventure perhaps you should consider writing a ‘picture’ book as you go. It could feature your paintings and your related inspirations. It wouldn’t need to be a wordy novel but could be more of a travel guide in paintings. For example, in my region an local artist published a series of popular “sketchbooks”. They feature his pen&ink drawings of landmarks along with brief commentary. In the 1970’s & 80’s he published several such books through a small local publisher — and they are still being sold today. They must be in their 20th editions by now. I think they are mostly being sold at gift-shops to tourists wanting a more artistic souvenir of their visit to the region. It must be nice for him to continue to get a income from work done decades ago! In your case I can imagine, for instance, your book called “Florida Inspirations” being popular with snowbirds, tourists, and Floridians proud of their state. I’d suggest in your travels looking at the kinds of books being sold in gift-shops and who is publishing them. You might well find a quality publisher with good distribution who could be approached. Or you could self publish but distribution might be a bit of a chore.
On a related point, I wonder if you were working on such a book – would many of your travel expenses become tax deductible? Publishing a book might also get your work more widely known and increase the price you can get for originals or prints.
Anyways it is something to think about! — Regards, Ross
Ross: A picture journal sounds like an interesting idea for a working stiff. But, since I have just retired, working on a book is not something that would entice me back; and doing a book is darn hard work. My plan is to wander, stop when something interests me, and paint whatever I want along the way.
Good answer! — Regards, Ross
Good idea Ross, I’m retiring with little finacial rescources so it may be just the ticket for me.
Pleinguy, It’s sweltering 92 degrees here in the Miamivally in Ohio humid as all get out. I feel like a fat lazy lizard. I did a cute decoupage and hand painted travel case 3 days ago and its still tacky.
Yikes Dragonfly! It’s hotter and muggier up your way than down here. Guess I need to stop complaining. Good to hear you are creating things still. Now, if you could just get down to the place in NM sometime this winter that would be swell.
You will get the leveling down. Try leveling on damp grass and then it rains more at night. I love a level cement pad. I will hopefully get more of them as I travel over to the Smithsonian.
I experienced leveling the rig on wet grass once; and yikes is that hard. I agree nice level hard pads are great. But, they don’t often come with rural sites. Enjoy your time at the Smith.