Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Near Sedona, Red Rock Formations

One of hundreds of red rock formations around
the Sedona, AZ area.  Being from the midwest this area
was very exciting for me and not the typical landscape.
This was started as a plein air piece and then finished
at the home where we were staying.  Such a variety of colors
caused me to change my entire palette to get what I was
looking for.  Course I was on the constant lookout for 
Rattle snakes.  I found it was hard to paint while
looking over your shoulder and around your feet.
One guide told me he had been hiking the trails for 
26 years and had never seen one.  Ummm I didn't believe him. 

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

California Roses

On one of my many business trips to California, these
roses always caught my eye as I was coming and going
from the office building where I was working.  Roses for me
are very challenging because of there many layered petals.
Overlap on top of overlap, so beautiful and intricate
all at the same time.  The rest of the challenge is
how the light plays off from the different petal layers
and angles.  Such graceful curves which create beautiful
light and shadow areas.  I don't paint many roses because
of the challenges they present, but I'm usually happy that I did.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Red Rock Loop

One of the most beautiful views around
Sedona, AZ.  There are 5 or 6 red rock
formations visible from different pull outs along
the loop.  It changes with the light and sparkles
in the sun like jewels.  I really enjoyed painting
in this place.  So different from my midwest 
roots.  One thing I discovered about driving around
Sedona, is there are far to many curves in the road
and way to many rock formations to see and admire.