“HIGH COUNTRY” BRYCE N.P. (11 x 14in.)

The “hoo-doos” in the background is what Bryce Nation Park is known for. The erosion patterns make for some interesting shapes and forms. Sometimes you feel like you are in a natural cathedral with these huge spires towering overhead.
The main focus is of the gnarled and weathered pine tree. It is a difficult environment to live in…high elevation, cold in the winter and exposed to the relentless sun in the summer. Still somehow this tenacious tree has managed to find a way. Some parts have not survived but a few branches that have new growth still hang on. The twisted trunk with all its variegated colors is part of what fascinated me. Another important element is the snow on the ground. It not only adds more contrast to the painting but it provides a surface to display the pine tree’s shadow. The last part that makes this painting work is the intense blue sky. The color of this graded wash is quite complementary to the oranges and earth tones of the rock formations (as well as the tree).