Something new from something Old

This painting, which I worked on at the 2012 Shellmouth art retreat, had its genesis as a painting completed at a 2005 retreat at the same location.  I am becoming a bit more brutal about what satisfies me in my paintings, if it no longer resonates with me then it is destroyed or in some cases whitewashed and reborn as another creation. The painting above speaks of a trip my wife, son and I made to southern Utah a few years back, camping and hiking in the sandstone landscapes with their amazingly beautiful shapes and textures.  The textures from the previous painting really came through nicely and complemented the new paint layers. I had a bit of fun with iridescent gold paint my buddy Dean Bauche lent me. As usual, photos cannot do justice to the painting.

Shellmouth 2012

I'm just nicely back from my annual journey to Shellmouth, Manitoba where my great friend Jan Layh hosts the annual Shellmouth Artists Retreat.  It was pointed out to me that this is my 12 session!  Geez, where does the time go?  Anyways, we all had a fantastic time.  There was much merriment, art making, cooking and eating, playing of guitars, banjoes, accordions (thanks for playing Jan).  I had the pleasure of painting beside my good friend Dean Bauche and wife Barb.  We always have such a good time together.  I credit the whole gang that attends this event with my growth as an artist.  It is no wonder that one of these retreats is never enough for us, we need additional fixes so we have organized other smaller events throughout the rest of the year.  It is a great family we have created.  This summer we mourn the loss of two member artists, Mabel Munds sister Joan and Miriam Koch's friend Mildred. May they gently rest. I had the good fortune to sell this 30 x 60 oil on the last day of the Retreat.  I barely had time to get acquainted with her.  The painting is titled "Song of Autumn". At least I know it is in a home that houses many of my other Retreat paintings and is loved for what it is.