The Gamble House

On Thursday we met at the Gamble House in Pasadena for our plein air paint-out.  The Gamble House is magnificent and is a National Historic Landmark.  The house and its furnishings were designed by Charles and Henry Greene, and it's considered to be America's Arts and Crafts masterpiece.  It was built in 1908 as a home for David and Mary Gamble of the Proctor & Gamble Co.  Fortunately it is open for public tours!  

It was a bright day and not too hot yet.  Looking at the house as a subject to paint, well, it is complicated.  The house shows Asian aesthetic influences with its use of natural materials and design.  There are exterior porches with gorgeous beams which echo Japanese cloud shapes.  Lots of light and shadows are created by many rafters and eaves.  I had to try to simplify.  I found some shade under a tree across the lawn at the rear.  The stained wood exterior makes a very neutral-toned subject all shaded by dramatic roof lines.  A difficult but relaxing challenge.  Here is my painting and some photos of the house, as well as the artists.