Autumn Trees, possibly Rockbridge County, Virginia 

Pierre Daura possibly painted Autumn Trees in Rockbridge County, Virginia, using watercolor and ink on paper. Daura’s work here is tied to the inherent qualities of his chosen media. The fluid nature of watercolor allows for soft, transparent washes of color, capturing the fleeting quality of light and atmosphere. The ink adds definition through a network of delicate lines which describe the bare branches of trees, the roof of a barn, and the texture of the landscape. The act of painting _en plein air_ or outdoors, in direct response to nature was often associated with notions of artistic freedom, escaping the confines of the studio. But consider also the labor involved – transporting materials, enduring weather conditions, and committing to the attentive observation of nature. Daura blurs traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, emphasizing the importance of materials, making, and context in understanding the full meaning of his artwork.