Description

12 x 16

oil on canvas

From the “Near and Far” series*

Painted from a romantic getaway to Sedona with my sweet hubby.  This scene presented itself as we raced to Enchantment for their wonderful happy hour among the magical red rocks.

*For this series, I am painting both botanicals and small landscapes. I wanted to explore the idea of the up close (botanical) and the far away (landscape) both visually and  in terms of living in the south west and what I find interesting. Also, I think this will be an interesting exercise as I plan to paint the pieces in rotation, so a botanical then a landscape and so forth. I am hoping this will help me grow in my ability to communicate subject matter as well and keep my eye fresh when approaching my work.

Here in the southwest, the light is intense and revealing. When the sun shines through the transparent petals of a cactus bloom or dances through the center of an agave, it reveals something intimate about the subject that cannot be seen in muted light. The “far” views we see in the landscape are also affected by our light and atmosphere. On a clear day, landmarks that are miles away seem right in front of you. Shadows are rich with color and provide dramatic contrast, especially in early morning or late afternoon.

As always, a goal with my work is to encourage you. I hope the places and plants I paint for this show will compel you to have your own southwest adventure; to see something new, to venture out. I hope you will allow yourself to take note of the light in front of you, whether on a bloom, a vista, or in the eyes of the one you love.