Sometime back, I did a painting of what I called a Mission-style church steeple (Mission Style … steeple project Sept. 11, 2022). I grew up in Southern California. In what might be determined by someone with a deeper understanding of architectural styles (which is to say, any architectural sense at all), that my inclination to define these styles as “Mission” or “Mexican” is a well-intentioned, fondly recalled … yet perhaps ill-informed bit of wisdom. Happy to stand-corrected if need be. Meantime, it works for me 🙂
That said: here, we found a less-formal, simply-architectured edifice that has (again, to me) a “Mexican/Mission” feel to it. Clues, for me, include a stepped-design pitch with flat horizontals (instead of roof lines running straight to a pointed pitch), white painted stucco (faux adobe, if I may mix language references) facade, brightly colored trim boards … a stout and substantial presence.
Above: the beginning sketch … poorly lit … but, a peek at the start. A very simple look. I guess one needs to stretch a bit to find the actual “steeple” of it. However, it does have much of a high-point, but it is a purposeful vertical reach – adorned with a cross … so, this artist declares a certain steepleness to it – and, as-such, worthy of a little painting.
You’ll note a tree branch included … it is a purposeful, if not fully accurate, inclusion … an homage to the church’s neighborhood which was named for its incredible oak trees …
The detail above: yes, I’m including the turnbuckle/guyline. 🙂
And, below, the final. I’m very happy with it. A simple facade, but the blue eaves define well against the hint of stucco texture. From a growing artist’s technical perspective, I’m Very happy with the windows – especially regarding the glass. I think I’ve finally found a great look for window glass. My original temptation was to leave they white – glass is clear, yes? However, if you look at houses/etc from the outside, the windows are usually very dark with the defining look being how much and how bright the reflections are. I like how I’ve defined these.
And, below, a detail:
… this painting for sale in my Steeple Project Gallery …
otcarts.com 