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