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.