December 2010 at Quail Hollow Pond

by Sue
(Felton, Ca.)

A lot has changed since I painted in this spot 30 days ago. All the leaves are gone - the trees now bare - showing the sculpture of their being. The ground where I stand to paint is bog-like - my socks are wet within minutes. We have had a lot of rain recently. Remember to wear waterproof boots next month!

I squint my eyes down to make out the basic color of the bare trees and then paint that color and shape with a large brush. This business of meditating on the same landscape is very calming, I feel my breathing slow.

Many water birds, mostly Mallard ducks and coots, are swimming and fishing. Some are sunning themselves in the cold winter sun - a chill breeze ruffles the pond surface from time to time. I'm glad I wore my flannel lined levis (bought in Maine) for this outing.

I'm painting an 8" x 10" panel this month. It's good to change up the format from time to time. Creates new possibilities for a familiar scene.