What is your medium now? (oils, acrylic, pastel, watercolor...) What medium have you always wanted to use, but haven't yet? Why do you prefer your current medium?

My medium is oil and there are no mediums that I have not tried. I know and like the characteristics of oil, and don't want to accumulate more equipment.

Do you think the specific art materials you use are critical to the success of your work? If so, why?

Yes. I want my work to have a certain look.

On the monthly paintouts, how do you decide what to paint? What draws your eye to a particular scene?

I always paint the landscape. An interesting scene, and a good composition draws my eye.

Do you do preliminary sketches before painting your subject? In a sketchbook? Or directly on the canvas or paper? Why? What colors are on your palette?

I do not do preliminary sketches but paint directly on the paper. My color palette includes Thalo Green, Thalo Blue, Cobalt Blue, Cerulean Blue, Ultramarine Blue, Payne's Grey, Burnt Umber, Burnt Siena, Raw Siena, Yellow Ochre; Cadmium Yellow Deep, Medium and Lemon; Naples Yellow; Titanium White, Cadmium Orange, Crimson, Thalo red. Because you can make any color in nature with these colors.

Do you prefer wood, glass or paper for your palette surface? Why?

I prefer paper because it is easily disposable.

Do you prefer to sit or stand when you are painting? Why?

I prefer to stand because I like to move around while I paint.

What new art techniques have you discovered this year that have influenced your work?

Using Burnt Umber as a tone for the underpainting is the technique I use.

When do you know a painting is really finished? Or are you always wanting to "tweak" it a bit more?

I just know. I don't make changes after I know the painting is finished.

What plein air supplies do you recommend having in your car for spontaneous painting?

I always take my full compliment of supplies, so can't otherwise answer this question. Personally, I wouldn't want to be driving around with oily rags and turpentine in the trunk!