Octagonal window … steeple project

The window mentioned in the title isn’t the most prominent feature of this church, but it stands-out in this story as important because it represents a first for me. And, while not “most prominent”, it is one of several key features … and simply a fun shape. I’ve admired this church and steeple several times before – I pass it once a month or so. It’s what I’d summarize as a pleasant looking, country church … and one I’d like to add to the Steeple Project.

As I’ve said elsewhere, these renderings are not meant as portraits of specific churches or steeples. They are not intended as visual promotions of specific denominations. Most, indeed are visually inspired by specific, existent churches … and by their architectural and spiritual purpose. For most paintings, I begin with a snapshot of a church/steeple that I pass-by: sometimes a good, composed photo with my Nikon DSLR … and sometimes (most often) with my wonky phone camera thru a car window.

The latter methodology is the case with this painting. And, a crummy photo at that. But, I’m used to that and can get most detail I need from it. However, the little octagonal window – I cannot see any detail. I don’t know if it’s stained glass or standard window … and if the first is the case, what colors are present, what shapes are there, what story does it tell? That, I’d like to know – even though I’m confident its size in my painting will not allow me to show much. But, though I freely exercise “artistic license” 🙂 I also would like to have any detail I show – however tiny and soft – be accurate and true.

To that end, and here is the “first” I spoke of above, I actually contacted the church to ask what the octo window depicts … colors/images/etc.. I’m currently waiting for info.

Meantime, here is the initial sketch:

And with that, I’ll post thus far … and add more later.

Blessings –

Later … well, as I mentioned, I tried to contact the church (via its website email), but haven’t heard back. They’re most likely short staffed and spinning to meet ends. No worries. I decided to paint the window with a cross – no way to loose with that choice – maybe a bit in accuracy, but on-target in context.

I’m about finished, but cannot do-so completely until I get back home (currently on the road) and get final photos.

Ok, back in the studio. I like the piece, it’s a straightforwared look at a straight-looking church … sound, solid, and uplifting. I’m particularly happy with the trees in this one. I didn’t work at overly, and I think that shows favorably. Here’s the final painting: