More river influence..

I've been working on a large (36 x 48) commission this week. Its in many layers of thick paint so in-between layers, while the paint dries, I've been working on some smaller sketches (16 x 20). Here's one. It reminds me of one of our neighbors who clams the river. Think I'll keep it as a rough sketch - seems to fit. I love being on a "working river" - many of my neighbors work the river - for clams or oysters or fish. Their knowledge of the river is amazing. I love it here.

Bounty of the River...

In addition to the wonderful light and views, we have been enjoying the bounty of the Newport River as well... right out our front door are crabs, clams, shrimp, oysters, fish. Amazing how much life is in this nursery area of the river.

Food is one of my art influences - I started out painting large paintings of peppers. The colors and shapes are wonderful... I also did large fish paintings when I started out - perhaps its time to come full circle? The fish we catch are so beautiful when they first come out of the water - their colors are brilliant and translucent. More inspiration!

Splendid Storm

Our parched coast was so happy to see these storm clouds roll in a couple days ago. So beautiful to see the storms roll in over the river. I love my studio here...surrounded by beauty every day.