The winter of 2022-2023 transformed Steven’s Creek. The water levels were unusually high as I painted this to the sound of rushing water.
Swift
14″ x 11″ oil on linen panel
Oils
A Walk Between Rainstorms
9″ x 12″ oil on linen panel
I’m drawn to the subtle colors of winter and a sky laden with more water, particularly in a case like this where there is a passage of vivid spring chartreuse on the side of a hill briefly bathed in light by a break in the clouds. This plein air painting was done on a soggy February morning at the Santa Teresa Open Space Park in the San Jose area.
Exhibited …
2023 – Coastal Arts League “Companions and Locals”
Heading Out
12″ x 16″ oil on linen panel
This began as an early morning plein air piece in the Monterey Harbor that I finished up later in the studio. Striving to convey early morning sun as it brings some warmth to a chilly morning on Monterey Bay and the potential catch ahead.
Exhibited …
2023 – Harrington Gallery “Fresh Works”
Calla Lily Trio
8″ x 10″ oil on linen panel
Calla Lilies appear in the garden each winter asking to be brought inside, painted and enjoyed.
Pescadero Reach
9″ x 12″ oil on linen panel
Pescadero is sometimes called the Slow Coast. It lies between the major highways to the coast with a mix of rugged coastline and active agriculture. It is a favorite place for me to paint. This time capturing the reach of the rock outcroppings into the Pacific.
Morning in Silver and Green
8″ x 10″ (private collection)
In our area, we find streaks of spring greens even on the coldest of days. On the December day I painted this, the temperatures hit record lows at Rancho Cañada del Oro open Open Space Preserve in Morgan Hill. In this piece, I am seeking to capture both the morning’s chill and a sense of calm.
In Succession
10″ x 8″ oil on linen panel
While painting this at Garrapata State Park, I enjoyed observing the variations in this trio of coastal bluffs.
On the Boardwalk
16″ x 20″ oil on panel
Sharing a perfect summer day in Santa Cruz. I continue to enjoy walking along the boardwalk and remember a time when I rode the Giant Dipper roller coaster 20 times in a single day with my best friend who was visiting from Michigan.
Exhibited …
2024 – Allied Artists West Group Show “Colors of Summer”
2024 – Coastal Arts League “A Moment in Time”
2023 – California Art Club “California Dreaming”
Moss Landing Neighbors
6″ x 8″ oil on linen panel
I’m struck by the juxtaposition of the white boats and dark cypress trees in the harbor at Moss Landing. The cypress trees are a roost for snowy egrets who are endlessly entertaining. Still, I managed to restrain myself and haven’t included the birds in this small painting.
Ski or Surf?
14″ x 11″ (private collection)
Winter morning on CA-17. It makes me smile each time see two vehicles passing with one carrying skis or snowboard and the other with a surfboard. In this case the silver Tesla is headed to Tahoe while the green Chevy in on the way to Santa Cruz. You’ve got to love California even with all of the crazy imperfections. This view is from an overlook at Glenwood Drive.