Bemidji

North of the Barn, watercolor, 7x4.5 (each), 2012

I went out to paint north of the barn after supper because that was where the light was best.  Mosquitoes chased me inside before I finished, so I finished them this morning.  Mosquitoes in Bemidji on March 21.  Today it is colder.  We will visit awhile, play some board games and head for home.  This meadow might be garden by next year, that would be fun to paint also. 

Willow River

It has been crazy warm here in Minnesota.  I'm on Spring Break right now and I did not need to travel anywhere to be able to paint outside.  Well, OK, I went across the border to Wisconsin.  Willow River State Park is so beautiful.  Miles and miles of great hiking and a spectacular waterfall. 

Willow River 3.19.12 (1), Watercolor, 4.5x7, 2012

Willow River 3.19.12 (2), Watercolor, 4.5x7, 2012 

After sitting by the waterfall for an hour or so, it was a nice change to find a quiet spot near still water.  I worked on these two paintings of the fallen branch at the same time.  It started to rain while the sun still shone, creating a full rainbow.  Wow.  I love how at the end of the day the water has pink in it.

Willow River 3.19.12 (3), Watercolor, 4.5x7, 2012 

Willow River 3.19.12 (4), Watercolor, 4.5x7, 2012 

I returned to the waterfall before heading for home.  I only penciled it while there and then painted it at home.  There was a large group of rock climbers there early in the day, when I returned later it was just one woman climbing by herself.  She did get down safely.  

Getting into my car I realized that I would be driving west for a long time at sunset.  Thankfully, there were clouds at the horizon so I did not have to stare into the sun as I drove home.  That day was a gift.