If you are fortunate enough to have a spectaular view like this, notice how the light changes. Some mornings, I get to watch as the sun peeks over the ridge. Mists rise from the ground as the cool air touches the warm earth. Have you ever seen the bark of a ponderosa pine steam as the sun hits it? The scent is delicious. On this particular day, as the mists hugged the valleys between ridges, the light seemed to glow with periwinkle and lavender, and these two magestic ponderosa pines appeared to be having a tree conversation. I have grown quite fond of these two trees. My eyes seek them daily, as if to confirm that they have survived the night.
When I create a painting like this, I will take some reference photos with my camera. I begin with a basic loose drawing, just to fit the elements where I want them on the canvas. I have an idea of what I want the painting to look like, but the feel of it is more important. Then I start mixing paint. The painting evolves. I love blending paint on the canvas, adding layers and layers of color and light.
This original acrylic painting is on a nice gallery wrapped canvas, with the painting continued around the edges. It does not need a frame :)