West

30 x 33" original oil

private collection of the artist

I decided it was time I had a seascape for my own private collection. I have the perfect wall to hang this on in a room that has new grayish paint and an exposed brick wall. Every day I see it I will imagine I am at the beach, my favorite place on earth! 

So, somebody in my family recently used the name West for a middle name. I wasn't thinking of that when I chose West for the title of this painting, but I like the nod it gives to my newest little nephew. 

The bottom half of this piece that is darkest is full of texture. Some of it shows in the photograph, most of it is best seen in person as is typical with original art. I sanded, painted, sanded, knifed, and repeated. 

Enjoy! 

detail of the delicious texture I am so fond of in my seascapes

Ballroom

32 x 40" original oil

sold

These poppies were growing along 600 South in Salt Lake City. I went there a few times to photograph the poppies this summer; the flower beds are by a stop light and it never fails that some smart alec of a driver pulls up to a red light and honks his horn at me while I'm bending over to photograph. I need a shirt that says "You're not funny and I know karate." 

This composition reminds me of a ballroom full of swirling dresses and partners. Poppy petals have always reminded me of swirling gowns. This is a nice, large piece, perfect for that big wall you're looking to fill. 

My favorite part is the center area made of two bright white poppies and a third that is half in shadow. I love the depth. My close second-favorite area is anywhere with that crazy blue. I like the swooshing line made by the middle white poppies that divides the composition.