Tall tree and shadows near canal

This enormously tall tree is growing right next to the Lachine canal near the bridge where I painted the graffiti. I composed the scene with about 3/4 sky and 1/4 ground on a portrait format. Portrait means tall and narrow (vertical) rather than landscape format which is horizontal. The idea was to create a sense of vastness in the sky, with the canal just snaking along the ground next to the grass and trees. To get the yellow highlights on the top of the tree I daubed on the vanadium yellow (PY184). 

Tall tree canal, watercolour 6 x 7.5" cold press, June 2025

 

My shadow was being cast onto the surface of the canal as the sun got low. The colour was more of a greenish hue, I mixed navy blue (PB60) with umber (PBr7), but then made the mistake of adding a dab of burnt umber (PBr7) which made a charcoal hue. Next time I am down there I will try this one again. 

Shadow in canal, watercolour 6 x 7.5" cold press, June 2025

 

These trucks were parked in the depot, with the sun in the background. The shadows were coming out at interesting angles due to the position of the sun and the perspective. It was a challenge to see if I could make a dramatic painting out of parked truck trailers. As it had rained heavily earlier in the day, there were puddles everywhere in the gravel lot. 

Truck shadows, watercolour 6 x 7.5" cold press, June 2025