Hiking & Painting in Nature – Chicago
Was I seeing correctly? Was that a pelican on the water? A few days ago, on a spur, I drove out to Rock Run Rookery by myself. I've been there once before with ornithologists on a bird outing. It's fun to listen to bird enthusiasts, especially knowledgeable ones who can identify birds by their call … Continue reading American White Pelican Watercolor
Ahhhh...To live like this one...basking in the sun without mind of time. There's no room for a watch on his stubby little leg. He sees no second hand, therefore ticking cannot be heard in his ears. It is such a healthy state to be in, without regard to time. I feel most whole when I … Continue reading Turtle Without Time Watercolor
The rain hits my window and I give it my full attention. It does not come in a rude, forceful manor, Rather humbly, as soft as it can. Like a missionary quietly in the background, Who doesn't want credit, Who doesn't want accolades. I notice you, rain. I know the good works that you are … Continue reading Chipmunk Feast Watercolor
My hikes never cease to provide surprises, even some half buried in the snow. On this cold winter day I found amber jelly rolls. Amber jelly roll (Exidia recisa), is a fungus that grows on downed twigs and limbs. Beautiful blobs of jelly they are, chilling on frozen branches on the ground. An interesting fact … Continue reading Amber Jelly Roll in the Snow Watercolor
A Red-breasted nuthatch (Sitta canadensis) came by to say, "Hello." In return I fed him suet. I quietly sat contemplating his woes. They are many, for while he ate his breakfast it was a mere 8°F. He ate alone and used the pine tree in my backyard for cover several times: grabbing suet, flying to … Continue reading A Red-breasted Nuthatch Said Hello
Are you one to despair on a gloomy day? Does the weather hold you as a prisoner in your own home? Please, let me charm you on the joys of a rainy day. Yes, joy. The forest is alive, even without leaves on the trees, with the deafening sound of pelting rain. It vibrates and … Continue reading Rain Created Watercolor
Winter isn't deprived of beauty. Yes, color is a little more drab but really, beauty is still all around us... you must look a little closer. Where winter is weak in color, it makes up for it in texture. There is texture to be seen in every inch of every step you take in the … Continue reading The Allure of Winter Weeds
The setting sun beckoned my company for one last moment. The clouds declared a mood, consecrating these last seconds. I was ordained a devotee. Such was my walk at dusk. This painting was inspired by a gorgeous sunset just the other day. You would not believe how easy it is to paint this scene. You … Continue reading Let’s Paint Christmas Birch Watercolor!
Today this tree is covered in white. It looks nothing like this painting. Perhaps there are a few less leaves as well after a gusty winter storm arrived in Chicago yesterday. It is perceived differently today than it was when it was not dressed in white, sporting gorgeous colors. But it is the same tree. … Continue reading Before the Snow Autumn Tree Watercolor
I have the most amazing job ever. I'm a naturalist who has the privilege of teaching people (mostly children) about nature in my area. I give presentations on wildlife, hiking, host nature themed birthday parties, etc. The other day I hosted an animal encounter with the theme of rabbits. During this presentation I gave facts … Continue reading Let’s Draw a Rabbit (for kids and adults who want to have fun)!
