A Warm Summer Day
- Eric Buechel
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
A Warm Summer Day
Oil on Canvas
20" x 24"
2004
American Impressionism
A Warm Summer Day was created during the renowned 127 Yard Sale, an event often referred to as the world's longest yard sale. This extraordinary sale stretches across six states and covers nearly 700 miles, attracting treasure hunters and bargain seekers from far and wide. The painting itself was completed just north of the Walmart in Crossville, Tennessee, a location that served as a bustling hub during the sale. My brother, eager to take part in this unique event, rented a space in someone's yard, setting up camp with the hope of making a few sales from his collection of items. He brought along his usual merchandise, which he typically sold at local flea markets, a mix of eclectic goods that ranged from vintage finds to handmade crafts.
In preparation for the day, I decided to contribute to our little entrepreneurial venture by bringing along several of my paintings that I had completed over the years. To draw in visitors to my area, I set up my easel and began painting a landscape scene that captured the essence of the warm summer day with unwavering dedication. In my opinion, we couldn't have chosen a better spot for this creative endeavor. The area featured a charming small pond, surrounded by lush trees and vibrant shrubs, creating a picturesque setting that was both serene and inspiring. The sun blazed overhead, hot enough to fry an egg on the pavement, and during those two sweltering days, the temperature soared to a staggering 90 degrees. The air was still, with no wind to offer relief, and the humidity was so thick it felt reminiscent of the sweltering heat of Fort Lauderdale in the middle of August.
Despite the oppressive heat, I managed to complete two paintings over those two days, which I considered a significant achievement under the circumstances. Unfortunately, there were no sales to speak of, but the experience was far from disappointing. Many curious onlookers stopped by to watch me paint, fascinated by the process and eager to engage in conversation about art and creativity. Their interest provided a refreshing break from the heat, and I enjoyed sharing my thoughts and techniques with them.
Since that memorable experience, I have hung this particular painting in my home, allowing it to serve as a daily reminder of that warm summer day and the joy of painting outdoors. I have exhibited it a couple of times, and each time it evokes fond memories of the event and the people I met. Recently, I took it out of storage, revisiting the feelings and stories behind it, and decided it was time to share the narrative that surrounds this piece. The painting has a sketch-like appearance, which I find particularly appealing, characterized by plenty of quickly made brushwork that captures the spontaneous essence of the moment. I would describe its style as having an American Impressionist look, reflecting the light and atmosphere of that summer day.
It’s hard for me to believe that over 20 years have passed since I painted it, marking it as the first en plein air, or plein-air painting, I completed after moving to Tennessee. This summer, I am planning to immerse myself in outdoor painting more than I have in the last few years, aiming to loosen up my brushwork and embrace the spontaneity that comes with painting in the open air. I look forward to capturing new landscapes and experiences, hoping to create more memories that will inspire future works of art.
A Warm Summer Day
By Eric Buechel
Golden sunlight spills across the land,
Painting shadows where the tall trees stand.
Gentle breezes whisper through the leaves,
As nature dons her summer sleeves.
Fields of green stretch far and wide,
With daisies dancing, side by side.
Children laugh and run with glee,
Chasing dreams beneath the old oak tree.
Rippling waters glisten in the light,
Where dragonflies take graceful flight.
Picnics spread on blankets bright,
As families gather, hearts feel light.
As day gives way to evening's glow,
The sky ignites in hues that flow.
Stars awaken, one by one,
To bid farewell to the setting sun.
In the warmth of summer's embrace,
Life unfolds at a gentle pace.
With laughter, love, and skies so blue,
A warm summer day, forever true.
Eric Buechel Fine Art
P.O. Box 277
Pleasant Hill, Tennessee 38578
931-881-7806
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