Red Firs

Acrylic, tempera, and plaster on high profile canvas (36" W x 36" H x 1.75" D)     

This painting makes me think of tall pine trees in a forest. I have spent a lot of time in New Mexico, Colorado, and California and I always loved hiking in the forest and mountain areas. There is just something about a forest that makes you feel alive and part of something larger than yourself. It’s a spiritual experience that you only get when you are immersed in nature.

I used acrylic and tempera paints to get the bold colors in this piece. The greens, oranges, and reds really work for me. I also prepared the canvas before applying the paint to give it a more complex and interesting feeling. Finally, I applied several coats of non-toxic polyurethane to bring out the vibrant colors and protect the paint I think this painting can make a real statement in a living room, family room or entryway. A bold painting can be just the thing to set off a room that needs a little color.

I hope this painting can take you back to a time and place where you were surrounded by trees. Perhaps a special place you think about from time to time.

Colors: Magenta, orange, yellow, sky blue, lime green, black

Click this link to see a video on the creation of this painting.