Blog

Although there are horses, hills and sky in this painting, the subject is really the late afternoon light and the colors it brings to the scene. Late afternoon and early morning are usually a favorite time of day for painters of the outdoors for this reason. The shadows are longer, providing interesting shapes to explore and for me, a chance for me to apply the luscious violets and blue shades that I love. On the other hand some painters love the subdued, indirect light of an overcast day which can inspire a calm or even melancholy mood. For myself, I am inspired by bright sunlit colors. To each his own!

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Here in the depths of winter, it's hard not to wish for sunshine and 70's. But despite a few periods of below zero temps and blizzard conditions, it has really not been a bad one so far. Spells of warmer days here and there help to make the cold season seem shorter and help the cattle ranchers as they work to make sure their soon-to-be mother cows are fed enough to stay warm and healthy. As Spring approaches they are gearing up for calving, a gratifying time of year as the hard work of winter results in baby calves bucking and playing in the pastures. As the little ones finally get tuckered out, they find a warm place to nap, not far from their protective mamas. I can't wait! Read More

Why does a full grown man with all of his marbles climb on the back of a 2000 pound animal who will stop at nothing to rid itself of this pesky human on it's back? I suppose it's the same reason humans have been climbing mountains, jumping out of airplanes and riding hair- raising roller coasters. Because it's there, you will have a story to tell and risking your fool neck makes you feel alive. Being a person who has a strong sense of self-preservation, I can only stand by and be thrilled vicariously as I watch these daredevils defying death. Maybe these bull riders have a heightened sense of our precious, short time on this earth because they sure are willing to live life to the fullest - what a ride! Read More