Crystal Blue

Plein air pastel landscape painting of Crystal Lake near Frankfort, Michigan.

Pastel painting 11 inches x 8 inches

My friend has told me, over and over again, how beautiful Crystal Lake is. She said the color of the water is unlike anything I would see in Northern Michigan. After visiting a few weeks ago, I am now a believer. The water depth is relatively shallow for a long way out and appears a shimmering light aqua color. Then, suddenly, it drops off sharply at the “blue line.” It is truly a stunning view and I wanted to capture it in a loose, colorful pastel painting.

I was again trying to capture the essence of the scene, not necessarily every ripple and highlight. Not quite sure how successful I was, but I had a blast painting this pastel landscape!