This piece is my rendition of an inky, October sky when the heavens part for an instant to allow the Orionids to rush toward the prairie land. The meteor shower is named for the Orion constellation, regarded by many as the Hunter. The Ojibwa people believe Orion is the Winter Maker, heralding a new season. […]
Natural Grasses Disperse Paint
Little Blue Stem and other native grasses are a natural way to disperse paint and create texture. […]
49th Annual Smoky Hill Art Exhibition
I’m so honored to be a part of this juried show at the Hays Arts Council. One of my favorites – Behold, Spring has Come – will be on display April 27 until June 6. […]
Spring Snow Melt Yields Paint Water
It snowed last night on the prairie land and I woke up to 11 degrees. On a positive note, I was able to collect some fresh snow for a special painting. I find that earth elements invigorate pieces and add nature’s spirit. […]
Stone Art Tools
I like to use local rocks for mark making, using earthen materials influences the paintings in a lovely way. This is gypsum from Russell County, KS. […]
The Promise of New Growth
This is the earth after a controlled burn of the prairie. Fire has cleared the land and removed old growth so the vast underground root system can flourish. At such times, nature reminds us of the great power of letting go of that which no longer serves us. […]
Burning the Prairie
This is a controlled burn of the Flint Hills at night, an annual event that clears the prairie for new growth and strengthens the grass. […]
The Perfect Mix
These are some of the natural materials I’m using this week. Orange oxide pigment, charcoal, blending wool, collected rainwater, sage smoke and prairie limestone. […]
Fresh Ash in Art-Making
I love to use natural materials in paintings so they carry the spirit of the land. I start with handmade stone texture and often apply charcoal/ash directly from a burnt twig or bark. I found local Eastern Red Cedar is malleable and works well. […]
