Peace in the Valley

Peace in the Valley, oil on gessoed board, 20x16"

During a recent trip to Harpers Ferry, I hiked two days in a row in sudden onset thunderstorms.  It was an exciting experience that forces you to find your mettle within the forces of nature.  The second day, cover was sought under the Jefferson's Rock near the Harpers cemetery. Watching rain blow sideways, and the fog spurs rise across the Shenendoah, Maryland Heights and the town of Harpers Ferry below, was something I won't forget. 

The one less traveled by

"The One Less Traveled By", oil on hardboard, 20 x 16"

Last weekend my son and I went hiking at a mysterious patch of woods in the middle of the city. It is owned by the Archdiocese of Louisville and it is entered behind a parish church and a wonderful historic building that used to house Passionist Priests.  Way down this very path we found remains of a swimming pool formerly used by the priests, and a gratto that still housed Mother Mary, left behind after close to a century of standing in one spot. 

Hushed October

Hushed October, oil on gessoed board, 20 x16"

Nothing is more freeing to me, then walking on a path, when no one else is around. For just a moment or hopefully more, you can pretend that this one small parcel of earth is there only for you and your thoughts. I worked on this painting for several days, as it is bigger then my normal 10x8.  It made me crave patience which I am normally full of, but in the end it all was found and utilized. 

Fishing Lake

Fishing Lake, oil on board, 20x16"

I finally feel like I am headed in the right direction with this one. It's probably hard to tell by the photo , but there are layers of color interacting with each other in the painting, as well as the gestural mark making, which I've always been drawn to.  These isolated lake scenes are becoming my favorites and have allowed me to not feel so inhibited.