Made in the Shade

Many artists inspired by the bright colors of beach umbrellas have played with this aerial perspective. It’s irresistible, so I wanted to give it a try. I had recently visited the cool beach resort La Playa in Naples, and after experiencing the view of the beach from from the high floor above, I knew it was my time to make one as soon as I got home! The gradual transition in the wavy water from Navy to Royal and then light blue was fun to make. The waves are divided by pops of color in patterned papers. To mimic the fizzy waves, I added lace and pearls to achieve more of their likeness. It was a challenge to choose the perfect combination of colors for the umbrellas. The towels offer more activity, color-wise and suggest the presence of people under them or in the water, leaving their little flip flops in the sand. I added the shadows later, to help with contrast and dimension, and of course suggest there is shelter from the sun. As with many of my titles, I’ve referenced another famous song by the Rolling Stones. Gimme some shelter ;) and you’ve got it Made in the Shade!