Really Nice Fog

During my last visit to northern California the clouds had me. I did lots of little 3 by 3 studies in my sketchbook while Pam was driving or of photos taken while we were out. I think they were very abtract and more about how the landscape made me feel. I also forced myself to work with the pastels I had in California. I'm such an art supply junkie. For the past few years one of my vows has been to use the supplies I have before I make another purchase. Not working well.

In The Shade Made

These days getting a picture downtown without people is pretty hard. During the pandemic, not so much. Downtown was literally just buildings and a few cars. I hope our attempt at returning to "normal" will be sucessful this time. For all of you visiting our city for the Rodeo, SXSW etc..stay safe, healthy and enjoy Austin.

All Glory Fades?

I try to paint each stage of the florals life. This includes the eventual wilting, falling off the stem and ending up in my kitchen sink. The shapes become more complex and the colors change. I posed the question in the title because of our societies obsession with youth and beauty. I try to find beauty in all stages of aging because I was raised that way. That translates into my approach to painting florals. Lately I've been frustrated with the quality of flowers that are available for purchase. This year more flowers will be added to my garden.

This is an Agave that grew in my old hood prior to the February freeze last year.

Sierra Trees On Top

I know the title is silly but its what I casme up with. This is a mixed media image that started out as an ink rendering. At times, the ink drawing speaks for itself and others demand a little watercolor, etc. The photo that inspired this piece was taken during my last real vacation in 2019. The last time I traveled without fear of infection and maskless. Now I feel naked and vulnerable without a mask. My how we have changed as a world.

My passion for gardening strenthened even more over the past three years. Of course I paint, draw and eat what I grow.

SOCO Coffee Buzz

South Congress in my opinion is more like an inner city vibe than anything else. The pace is fast and the people are young and unique. That is unusual for a small Texas town like Austin. Even though it has grown in population and density, it is still a small Texas town. This is the companion piece to "SOCO Boots On The Ground ."

SOCO Boots OnThe Ground

This is a little slice of bustling South Congress (SOCO) Avenue. Its a very popular spot as its where you will find coffee and the "I Love You So Much" sign.

Died Lavender

Another in the kitchen counter series. I call this one died lavendar because I think these flowers weren painted this color by the florist. Do florists paint flowers?