SKETCHES FEATURING 12 PANELS BY RÉJEAN ROY

This series vividly reflects the sense of elation I feel when spring finally arrives.The warmer air, the new scents, the light — all compel me to leave the studio behind and paint outdoors. New adventures await, and it is as exciting and overwhelming as the rushing rivers, the return of migrating birds, and the anticipation of a new season. I must admit that I do attempt to paint in the middle of winter, but only when the temperature is at least above minus 5 degrees Celsius. Even then, by the end of a painting session, my fingers and toes are as cold as I can tolerate, and I need to get on the move so I can warm up. I am often asked, “Doesn’t the paint freeze?” Well, oil paint tolerates the cold much better than my toes. I’ve found that standing on a foam pad helps quite a bit. But when spring arrives, it is, of course, much more comfortable to paint outdoors, and I venture farther from the warmth of my camp and my studio.” – Réjean Roy