Arizona Highways Magazine Project

This is the first of my new series “True Blue Arizona” focusing on the native plants of the Grand Canyon State. True Blue (my Jeep Wrangler’s nickname) and I had some wonderful adventures this spring, and I was happy to drag a few of you along with me! The inspiration for this painting was found in late April on a trek up to Sedona and Cottonwood. I think the whole valley thought it was one of the last nice weekends, because Sedona was humming with outdoor enthusiasts. That’s where four-wheel drive comes in handy.

Slowly, we literally left the crowds in the dust. My husband navigated us to a place where I had seen a large amount of sego lilies blooming two years ago. I’m not going to tell you where, let’s keep this one a secret that you will have to unlock yourself. There were also a large number of fat and happily rained on agaves sending up their flower stalks. You know I love a good juxtaposition…

The back ache and was worth the shot that lead to this painting. We celebrated with a beer in the wonderfully quirky town of Cottonwood, and True Blue came home dirty and this artist happy. My daughter gave the painting its name. I think its perfect.

More about the True Blue Series  

Oil on Canvas, 40in. x 60in., 2021

Almost a year ago, Randy and I acquired a lodging reservation on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon because a friend had to cancel. Truth be told, most visitors were there because of cancellations. There were young couples with their travel vans and retired folks with flexible schedules, all there to enjoy the height of fall color. Everyone was happy and friendly despite the state of the pandemic. We were privileged to enjoy one of the most spectacular places on earth during its most colorful season: autumn.

The restaurants and gift shop were closed, but the canyon was wide open. We drove down a winding dirt road through yellow aspens to the rim of the canyon at Point Sublime. It was wild, uncrowded and peaceful.

That night we sat in the dark on the patio of the lodge talking with people from across the US, mostly much younger than us. We drank wine and listened to the analysis of this podcast and that podcast, and by the time the chilly evening was over, I was thoroughly encouraged. The future was in good hands. Speaking of podcasts, I recently heard a fascinating young man speak about how statistically, the state of the world is better than ever. Negative news is pumped out on a loop, and its effects can be hard on our mindset, but really, if we look at the truth; well, one can be very optimistic.

The change of seasons is a great time to reflect on the truth around you. The leaves are falling, the light is changing, and winter is coming. Pull the Jeep over and make a stop at Positive Outlook; the view is great.

-dh

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November 12, 2021- January 6, 2022
Proceeds to benefit Hospice of the Valley
Contact Bonner David Galleries for more information

Also please see Arizona Highways Magazine, December 2021

Read more about this painting

18×24  $19.99

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