Sunset Ebb

The last painting of 2013, on to 2014.  14x11"; Oil on Linen. Happy New Year! Available at Holton Studio Gallery.

Rocky Beach

16x8", Oil on Linen.

Rocky Shore

What a great way to spend a Thanksgiving weekend, I feel very thankful for gorgeous weather and time to paint. This little beach was difficult to scramble down to; I wouldn't have attempted it without sturdy hiking boots, it was worth it though for the solitary reverie. Study 10x8", Oil on Linen. 

Pearls and Rust

Last weekend, Ernesto and I went out painting on Alexander Mountain, above Alexander Valley in northern Sonoma County. The weather couldn't have been more perfect, better than the typical Bay Area summer day. The rust was very thick and all I could think about was remembering a quote (I think by the great Edgar Payne) something along the lines of, "Nature does not scatter pearls for lazy painters". I kept thinking that she doesn't scatter pearls for rusty ones either. Still, it was wonderful to be outside and painting. Looking forward to going again soon! Both studies are 8x6, oil on linen.

Early Spring in Sonoma County

I painted the study for this painting last spring (technically winter, but to me winter means snow). It was probably January or February, one of those rare pleasant winter days between storms where the radiant heat from the sun is instantly missed as it sets at 4:30 in the afternoon. I was actually painting a different view. It was getting late, I was shivering already and packing up to go home. I turned toward the car and this scene in the last of the afternoon light begged to be painted. My study was very rushed, I just tried to get a few color notes, but it was enough. I spotted the study in my pile and decided it was time to paint it up. I started a smaller canvas and by the time I had finished my rough-in I knew I wanted it bigger, so I grabbed a bigger canvas and started over. I'm glad I did, it is my new favorite. 30x24 oil on linen.