Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967)

The strong east wind, blowing all day, finally brought rain at nightfall – a mild warm rain that stirred the blood. I made a pencil sketch at last twilight of Cottnells house, and the dark pine trees. Apr. 18 (Thurs). ; A lowering sky day, which I have wanted for my new large painting I have started, for which as yet I have no title but “Genesee St. Building” – make a few studies, then hurriedly drive to town. ; It was very warm when I started, so I dressed accordingly, but shortly after had started my sketching, it began to grow rapidly colder; so cold in fact that by twelve o’clock I was chilled thru [sic], and had to stop. I went directly to Bowle’s Lunch (the one-arm) hoping to be warmed up by food. However it was so cold afterwards, I came home, intending to dress warmer and go in again. ; When I got home however, I concluded I had enough studies, and persuaded Bertha to go in to see “Rebecca” – I enjoyed it as much the second time. Apr. 19 – (Friday) – ; All day in studio on the new picture – I had hoped to start the actual painting – but the whole day spent in completing and correcting my drawing. ; It is good to be working on a large-scale more thoughtful composition again- one that requires time and endless