Relaxing painting process | Natural birds sounds

Somonte journeyed to San Martín de Valdeiglesias, a tranquil town on the outskirts of the Community of Madrid, where they discovered a serene landscape featuring the Hermitage of La Sangre in the background. Despite the fact that the outcome of this particular painting did not fully satisfy their expectations, they deemed it worthwhile to share the experience and highlight the beauty of the Spanish countryside.

This scene inevitably evokes the tradition of plein air painting, a fundamental principle of the Impressionist movement of the 19th century. Seeking to break free from the constraints of the studio, the Impressionists dedicated themselves to capturing natural light and its fleeting chromatic effects directly from the subject. The choice of San Martín de Valdeiglesias as an artistic motif reflects a sensitivity towards the inherent beauty of the natural environment. The Hermitage of La Sangre introduces an architectural element that establishes a visual dialogue with the surrounding landscape, offering interesting contrasts of form and texture for pictorial exploration. The apprehension of the atmosphere, the interplay of light, and spatial representation are inherent challenges in landscape painting.

The original soundscape of the location, characterized by the song of native Spanish birds, enriched Somonte's sensory experience. Although sound is not directly translatable to paint, it forms an essential part of the lived experience of the landscape, contributing authenticity and vibrancy to the scene.

While the specific pictorial result did not meet Somonte's expectations, the immersion in the landscape and the direct engagement with the subject represent crucial stages in artistic development. Each attempt contributes to a deeper understanding of the medium and the subject matter. The serenity and historical elements of the Spanish countryside, such as the Hermitage, remain a constant source of inspiration for artistic creation.

San Martín de Valdeiglesias, May 1st 2025

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