everything emptying into white

Lilies and Hydrangeas, 8 x 10, oil on canvas panel

Plugging away at my assignment from Elio Camacho. Number 20 above. 180 to go. As I prepare to apply each new stroke, I ask myself, "is this lighter or darker than what's next to it? cooler or warmer?" and I mix the color on my palette to match what I see. This is one of the more successful all white still life studies. But, more to come!

And, it seems that Cat Stevens was right, even Carly Simon thinks so. Everything's emptying into white!

Anticipation

Anticipation

15 x 15

pastel on BFK

With the sound of the surf beckoning me, I stand at the top of the path and pause for just a moment. Wet salty air blows through my clothes and hair and I feel the reassurance that I am back.

The beach always does that to me.

About 30 more steps and I will be at the top of the dune, overlooking the grandeur of the Pacific Ocean. I will walk on the sand and feel my perspective shift in the solemn face of tide and vastness of water. I will write my troubles on the sand and watch as they are erased by rushing waves.

But for this moment, it is all about anticipation.