Scarecrow Steve

Pomegrantes on Turq - I

Pomegranates on Turq - II - SOLD

White Pumpkin Solo

White Pumpkin Trio

Herzog Lake

Upon enthusiastic advice and sketchy directions from a friendly staff member of Husick's Country Store, Clarksburg, Ca. http://husicks.com/, I ventured off to "paint the lake". After crossing the green bridge, turning right over the yellow bridge, turning left on Russell Road, 2 sharp curves and dead end at Herzog Road - Lake Herzog? I believe it is actually an extension of the river and a connector to Snodgrass Slough. Please correct me if I am wrong.
There was a wonderful quality of light and variety of views/subject matter to paint. However, I did spot a county sheriff's car slowly cruising by rubbernecking! I must have looked guilty "licking" my painting!

Pommegranates on Parade

The challenge to deliver fresh spontaneous brushwork while describing form is such fun! These studies become exercises in concise seeing and execution. Counting brushtstrokes is allowed and somewhat encouraged. This type of artistic endeavor can be compared to performing/completing the circuit at the gym. Typically, one can't wait for the torture to end and the hot tub/shower to begin.

Sunday Market Persimmons

A visit to the neighborhood farmer's market inspires an artist with the season's colors and textures. Fall brings forth the rich warm colors of pumpkins, persimmons, and pomegranates. Exotic gourds and Indian corn offer the extreme seasonal, textural challenge for an artist.

Channel Reflections - SOLD

Along with a good friend and fellow artist, Patris, I set up my easel on the bank of the abandoned ship channel that connects to the Sacramento River. http://www.artist-patris.com/ Exploding fall colors were mirrored in the still water. Light was diagonally traveling up the embankment. Occasionally, fishermen interrupted the calmness of the water with the casting of their line. Curious young fishermen pondered the idea of artists painting instead of fishing.

Apple Duo

Red delicious apples for sale.

Apple Trio

Apple Hill inspires an entire series of apple studies. Such variety!

Texas Oak & Mesquite - SOLD

Texas Trip - PAINTING DAY 7
Only at Pa Ben's camp could we have enjoyed such a wonderful finale feast of fried catfish, BBQ dove, and the most fabulous hush puppies made from a "secret recipe".
While everyone listened to the Dallas Cowboys beat the Cincinnati Bengals, I focused on capturing the wonderful gesture of the leaning oak and the sweeping mesquite.
It was sad to have a wonderful week with family and friends end. But, there is always next year!

Texas Homestead Hill - SOLD

Texas Trip - PAINTING DAY 6
While everyone hunted for dove on this beautiful ranch, I snuck away (far enough away to avoid getting peppered by the shotgun blasts) to a nearby pasture. The broad vista was amazing. There is no wonder why the founding ranchers claimed the top of this hill to build their 1930's homestead out of native stone. I have it's roof just tucked within the trees. Hopefully, it will be the subject of a future painting.
It was important for the ranch owners to oversee their pasture and livestock. A few deer blinds and deer feeders are scattered amongst the mesquite and brush.

Coleman Lake Park View - SOLD

Texas Trip - PAINTING DAY 5
After a whole 48 hours without painting, I was suffering from turpenoid withdrawals. Armed with a fresh canvas panel, I was determined to make a painting. After cruising the streets of Coleman. I headed west to the lake in search of an irresistible vista. Right before you cross the bridge, there are campsite facilites and restrooms! http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/fish/recreational/lakes/coleman/

I was kidnapped near dusk to head off to dinner at the Beehive Restaurant in Albany, Texas.
http://www.fortgriffinandbeehive.com/ We had a fabulous dinner and a lot of laughs!