About the 2014 Comanche, Texas Commission

The Windmill – 2014 Oil Painting with Texas Wildflowers

This painting was a 2014 commission on a client’s property in Comanche, Texas. My wife and I were driven around on their Mule — basically a glorified golf cart built for rough terrain — stopping at different spots so I could get out and take reference photos. The client mentioned they had never seen a single rattlesnake on the property, which sounded reassuring… until we drove over one section and I looked down to see a huge rattlesnake about twelve inches from my ankle, curling up fast. I’m not sure if the Mule ran over him, but he made a panicked run for the nearest brush. My client joked he could tie me off the back and drag me along as bait for any others. I declined.

Artistic Adjustments and Client Input

In the video below, you’ll see the development of the painting from start to finish with some still images, a couple of palette shots and other video segments. Also you will notice the large oak tree changes shape a few times. I took some artistic license early on, but the client wanted it to look more like their tree, so I reshaped it to match their request. That’s part of the commission process — the client plays an important role, especially when the painting depicts an actual place that means something to them. The final piece becomes a blend of artistic interpretation and personal accuracy.

Stage Photos and Painting Process

Here’s another related commissioned piece highlighting its progress from concept to finish.

Landscape Oil Painting Demo: Water Reflections

Learn more about the Aermotor Windmill, the classic design seen throughout rural Texas landscapes.

https://aermotorwindmill.com/