Archway to Jackson Bottom, 12x9

Archway to Jackson Bottom, 12x9" Pastel on sanded paper

This week has been pretty busy with wrapping up all the loose ends from my trip to Los Gatos and preparing for more upcoming events. I did have the liberty to go out and plein air paint (this one above) just once more before my kids are home from school for the summer months. At this point in my life, I'm just wishing I had a wife to do all the little things that I'm asked to do while I'm working on my art. If anyone knows where to get one, without all the strings attached, then just holler, wouldja?

On a more serious note, this little colorful one was painted in the thicket of a forested area (Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve) looking out onto a more open area. When I had completed this piece, I came out from under the shadows and the color just blew me away. With all that grey in the sky from the overcast sky, I just had to let the color ride, working mainly with value in mind. A good day was had by all!

This Saturday, I will doing a painting demonstration at The American Art Co from 12-4:oo pm. I plan on painting a large 24x24" from this small study...

Rise From Water, 6x6" Pastel on sanded paper

Upcoming events include a pastel demo at The American Art Co. this Saturday, a solo show at Elsinore Gallery in Salem, OR., a group show "From Sea to Shore" and a Quick Draw (July 1st) at Caswell Gallery. So if you are in the area, come on out and surprise me like some of you have graciously done!