Moss Landing Neighbors

6″ x 8″ oil on linen panel

I’m struck by the juxtaposition of the white boats and dark cypress trees in the harbor at Moss Landing. The cypress trees are a roost for snowy egrets who are endlessly entertaining. Still, I managed to restrain myself and haven’t included the birds in this small painting.

First Nocturne

I’ve painted at daybreak and at sunset but this is my first nocturne. I painted this from the wharf in Monterey Harbor. I was pretty happy that I thought to pack a headlamp with my gear!


I’m not sure how many nocturnes I’ll be doing. My husband wasn’t thrilled that I was out on my own in the dark but it sure was fun.

Pacific Checkmate

11″ x 14″ oil on linen panel

I had to scramble to try to catch the late afternoon light streaming between these rock monoliths at Sue-Meg State Park (formerly Patrick’s Point). The stone towers seemed to be in conversation or perhaps in the midst of a chess match.

Sturdy Cypress

9″ x 12″ oil on linen panel

I painted this from Moonstone Beach in Westhaven California. As I began the painting the fog was lifting so I raced to catch the veil it cast over the distant trees before the sun took over which it did for about 20 minutes. After that, the fog came back in full force. So … this painting is really about the moments in-between and catching a sense of peace even as things constantly change.

Celadon Morning

12″ x 16″ oil on linen panel

I painted this from a hill above Trinidad California. This area has become one of my favorites anywhere. Here, I’ve tried to catch the celadon cast of the water on a quiet September morning. This piece received an award for merit as part of the 2022 Humboldt Open Plein Air event.

Incoming

9″ x 12″ oil on linen panel

As I was setting up my painting gear the fog dissolved leaving a perfect day for painting and enjoying the rocky shore at Pacific Grove. There was just enough time to capture the image before the rocks gave way to the incoming surf and rising tide.

Coming and Going

9″ x 12″ oil on linen panel

I painted this on a day when weather reports indicated the sun would be fleeting. Instead, it was sunshine all day. Such a joy! This painting began with an interest in the reflections of boats in the Santa Cruz Harbor. From my painting spot I was able enjoy the activity of sailors and kayakers heading in and out.