Every day that I can paint is a day not wasted. I love to filter the beautiful transient moments in life into more lasting two dimensional images.

Although I have tried several different mediums and subjects over the years, recently I have found that plein air acrylic painting has been most successful for me.

By painting directly from nature I can soak in the feelings of place- the warm glow, the rich colors and feelings. Using acrylic paint outside means you have to paint quickly and this encourages a spontaneity that is more successful in catching fleeting moments than a more belaboured approach. I love to capture the glow and intensity of light that pulls my eye. I find that richer colors give a vibrancy and raw emotional depth to a piece that feels more authentic to me than more photorealistic works.

I prefer to paint places that have some context to me because I find I have more to say. It is similar to portrait painting, in this. The challenge is to combine some realism with a strong feeling for the personality and context of the place.

Most of my outdoor subjects are primarily organic in nature. . I enjoy when people can recognize, in my work, the magic in an every day sight. I usually do paint within the city limits but the conservation areas, ravines, and community gardens provide lots of opportunities to explore the urban forest. These pockets of nature vibrate with a warmth and depth that feels like a world outside of the usual urban stress.

More of my works can be viewed at :

http://smithwell.ca/gallery.aspx
I have won dozens of juried awards at Canadian and international show, including "Best in Show", "Best Acrylic in Show"," Best Oil or Acrylic in Show", Mayor's Award, Founder's Award, etc.