"Palm Tree Trio" ©

While I was painting this one, a comment made was that the palm trees were "scruffy".  Looking around at all the palm trees I thought they all look a bit scruffy this dry hot summer.  I did add a little more to the fronds for the paintings sake.  One of the many advantages of painting, just putting down what we wish to see in the end.   

Oil on Linen,  16" X 12"

"Calafia Palms" ©

Calafia Beach in San Clemente is packed with families frolicking in the warm Pacific waters, once the sun breaks the marine layer of clouds.  I painted this piece very early in the morning looking up the little canyon from the parking lot before the sun and people arrived for the day.  The interesting shapes of the palm trees were captivating.  

Oil on Panel 16" X 12"

The "Paint San Clemente" event ended last weekend with an art fair in the park outside the gallery.  I like to participate in these occasionally and  think it is valuable to hear peoples comments on my paintings.  Often when sales occur online or in a  gallery, you never actually talk to the new owners.  I enjoy having the personal contact and knowing the families that will hang my paintings in their homes.  

"Palms in the Afternoon" ©

These palms live at the employee entrance to the Phoenix Zoo. I was chasing the suns warm light on the Arizona desert last March and saw these beauties. It happens to artists, we see something and just know in our hearts that someday we will paint it. Finally, I had the time.

Oil on Canvas, 16" X 20"

"Desert Sentries" ©

Years ago a seasoned painter was explaining with excitement about painting trees, the different personalities, varied greens and the body language of the limbs. I just didn't understand at that time and now years later, I get it. Experience was needed to appreciate nature. These desert palms sway in the wind, house birds within the fronds and critters find safe haven in their skirts.

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Oil on Panel, 10" X 8"

"Victory Park Palms" ©

Yesterday I played hooky from the studio and painted out with the Thursday Morning Irregulars, headed up by the famous and fearless Walt McNall, in Pasadena. It was a flat gray day and the San Gabriels were barely visible. Right at the edge of the parking lot was this bunch of palm trees. I have learned that it's better to just get started and paint rather then walk every inch of a place for the best view. After all our job is to be able to make a painting out of anything, right?

Oil on panel, 12" X 9"

"Desert Palms" ©

Flicking through old images, looking for something inspiring, I found these old desert palms. Perfect for a quick study before packing to paint at Randy Higbee's studio tomorrow.

Oil on Panel, 6" X 8"

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