These paintings are winter landscapes from Santa Cruz & Pima Counties, Arizona; a very different locale that has quite a bit in common with my home in Susquehanna County, PA- agricultural backgrounds, cows - dairy farming and cattle ranching, mountainous landscapes and decidedly rural communities.

The Arizona pastel paintings are part of a self-imposed project that I undertook - making thirty paintings in thirty days - all begun and completed out-of-doors, on location in March, 2007. Every painting I do out of doors, directly from my subject, strengthens my abilities as an artist. One sees colors and nuances that most photographs don't capture.

I relish the solitude I have found in the desert. Each day brings its own challenges; relentless wind, heat, the ever-present sun and the prospect of making an interesting picture. The desert holds many surprises for those who wander in it…including water, which attracts wildlife and birds. I am primarily a landscape painter…I don't include wildlife as a rule, but I love having their company while I paint.

I'll be glad to tell you what is hanging in the studio besides what you see here.

570-278-2479 between 9am and 9pm please.