“Hawaiian Outrigger” (3 X 5 in)

While house sitting for some friends my girlfriend and I were offered an opportunity to participate in their paddling club. Being up early and on the water by 6 was a challenge but well worth it. We met many interesting and friendly people who were always willing to help us refine our paddling stroke. But the best part of all was being on the water with migrating whales. At times we were close enough to hear their breathing (blow holes) and see them leap completely out of the water. Members of the club told us that often they could hear whale songs coming through the hull of the outrigger. What an honor to see them up close and consciously be part of their world!

Robin Vander Hamm

I specialize in watercolors that are inspired by my world travels. My subject matter ranges from South American landscapes to the flora of California. The use of bright colors, original designs and exotic settings are components I bring to my paintings. The incredible range of transparent watercolor allows me to capture the fragile beauty of a single flower or the somber mood of a gray day. For me, an artist is only limited by their imagination and technical skill. The elements of control and spontaneity make it a challenging endeavor. The thought of ever mastering the medium becomes more and more elusive and perhaps a goal never to be fully achieved.

I find the process of creating watercolors very satisfying and it also provides many side benefits…the greatest of these is the ability to see beauty everywhere.

So please wander through these images. There is some text beneath each. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did creating them.