“Only here. Only now.”
—words embroidered on a ribbon, a gift from a friend
I spent a few weeks last month working on a commission to paint the vista from someone’s front door in Harmony Township, New Jersey. I went several times to get a feel for the place, arriving in the late afternoon and painting through the sunset. It was a glorious vista. The family had lived on that land for a long time, and it felt like a special place.
Here’s a picture of my painting-in-progress on my little french easel, with my beloved palette. I feel very sentimental about the easel and palette; they have accompanied me on many adventures!
On one occasion, I took my student Laurie along with me for a private plein-air lesson. I really enjoy teaching, and Laurie is an exceptional student. I admire her tenacity and spirit! On a side note, I am accepting new students right now. If you are interested in an outdoor, socially distant private lesson, just let me know. I’m up for painting outdoors throughout the winter. We can bundle up!
I’m happy with the paintings that I’ve been doing, and I plan to return to this particular vista as the seasons change. The owner of the property has graciously invited me to come and paint any time.
This last one might be my favorite….
I really leaned into the abstraction and the feeling of the sunset in that one moment, that one place. I allowed myself to be free.