Monochromatic Studies - Abe

These were painted from photo references of a little boy named Abe who lives in Philadelphia. His mom, Anna, is the photographer @urban_crumbs.

My Miracosta college watercolor teacher really liked the above. She said if I did it in color (instead of mono) I could enter it in a show. Made me feel good.

I let Abe's hair get totally out of control in my painting which kind of ruined it. Less is more.

Oceanside Pier

Ink drawing and watercolor wash done at Oceanside Pier as the sun was setting and the moon was rising. It was windy and the sea was turbulent. I decided not to include the structures on the pier just to simplify the drawing.

Cactus, Cactus, Cactus! I love cactus!

I painted this wonderful cactus at Leo Carillo Ranch in Carlsbad. Such a peaceful place. These spineless cactus were bred by a horticulturalist in hopes of creating a replenished source to feed the cattle but the cattle didn't like it and it gave them diarrhea. However, Leo Carillo loved them and had them planted all over the ranch and around the hacienda. They get really tall and the bright green color is just amazing. Against a bright blue San Diego sky it pops and the edges of the cactus (minus spines) looks like it's been outlined in ink.

I painted a similar cactus in front of a house in Rancho Santa Fe one afternoon when I was out with Patti.

Inspiration (Rancho Santa Fe)

Twisted Sisters

    Eucalyptus Trees at Hancock Park in Carlsbad. Quick pull off the road watercolor impression.

These Boots are Made for Walking (Still Life)

Teal Waterfall

Used my Lamy Safari fountain pen loaded with brown ink to do this drawing and limited color watercolor wash in my watercolor journal. Gave this one to Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Betty.

Quickie ink drawing and watercolor done sitting on the cliff above Carlsbad Beach (2017)

Aunt Betty