Hummingbirds are territorial and considering their size are fearsome fighters of their space. Pugnacious 8x10in panel

I jumped out of bed and was surprised to see how beautiful that full moon was here in San Rafael. I couldn’t find a tripod, didn’t have warm clothing, was sitting on the sidewalk. It did not mater as I was thrilled to watch the color-rama the moon displayed for over the next hour. It … More Super Blue Eclipse Moon

Ford Ord is covered with California Coast Live Oaks. Because it was a military base most trees were undisturbed.  Tangled contorted branches and trunks weave interesting designs that early California artists enjoyed painting This view reminded me of those artists. The non native ice plant in reds and yellows now covers many areas in the … More California Coastal Oaks

While exploring the Fort Ord National Monument I was drawn to branches that were trimmed. The inside bark on these oaks is thick and red. I found them fascinating.

In Norwegian mythology Skadi  is a winter goddess. The first week of January up on Donner Summit I found a old juniper I hadn’t painted before. Junipers can be over 500 years old. This one just showed age with a missing main trunk and weather worn bark. There wasn’t much snow in the area so  … More Skadi

A friend requested a special painting for a birthday. The  original had sold at HCH. I used photos of my first to paint the second one. This was one of my favorite views to paint in Truckee this fall.  See October 29th blog for the first version. Adding Truckee River at end.

Staring off the month with eight paintings of fall color around Truckee. Now in High Camp Home.

The locals have said weather in Truckee this October has been best in years. Little bit of snow, but all the autumn color stayed on the trees for weeks. Donner Lake today. It has been a good month to paint. Color at the top Donner Pass Trees along the lake

This group was highlighted in afternoon light. I painted a small 5x7inch in the shade of a big pine looking thru the branches. With still plenty of light I got out a larger panel and painted it again. The day was warm and no wind. Usually it is cold and windy. Sierra Light 16×11 in  … More Henness Pass Road

These trees are on West River Street along the river.There are not many pullouts to park and paint. I asked the owner of contractors parking lot to get this view. Truckee Cottonwoods framed HCH I started with this sketch. Some tourists came by and snapped my photo after I finished.