November 24th, Founder's Park, Alexandria
November 2024 WSLP Paint-Out
The Sunday, November 2024 Paint-Out was held in Alexandria, VA. Participants were invited to paint wherever they wished in Alexandria and then meet for lunch to review paintings on the river-side of the Torpedo Factory on N. Union Street at noon. The day however, began overcast with early morning temperatures in the 40’s. Only Ted Reed was both close and foolish enough to attend.
The clouds began to break before 9:00 a.m., giving way to a mix of clouds and sun that shifted towards longer periods of sunshine as the hours ran by. Ted painted along the river front at Foundry Park, close to the boat docks but facing north up the river, leaning in to his painting during moments of sunlight. Temperatures rose quickly after 9:00, bringing numerous joggers, bikers, strollers, and families to the riverfront by noon. Dozens stopped to chat with Ted, offering compliments and suggestions, including one lovely eight-year-old girl named Bailey who said she was the best artist in her family and then provided the most unvarnished and exacting criticisms Ted has received this year. His painting improved immediately.
Lunch was an exciting exchange between Ted and two fearless flocks of pigeons between the Torpedo Factory and the river. The clouds had broken, and everyone was out in the sun. The half hour was filled with smiles and hellos from passersby, many of whom seemed puzzled by a painting on the easel with no paints, brushes, or supplies anywhere to be seen. It closed with best peanut butter and jelly sandwich of the season.
