This is the second year in a row that I’ve been fortunate enough to paint along Eastern Sierra streams with gorgeous fall colors. We were thinking we might be hitting Highway 395 a bit late for peak color and there had been forecasts of rain and snow.
Fortunately for us, there was tons of color to savor while we were there and a dusting of snow on the peaks as a bonus. Our first stop came along Tioga Pass itself as we approached Lee Vining. There was just time for a quick painting next to the sounds of rushing creek water. The aspen leaves blowing on my palette served as a color check. My painting of the spot has been pretty much left as is though I’m not sure I consider it to be a finished piece. In any case, I am very interested in hanging on to the sense of fresh air in this little painting. “Autumn, Lee Vining Creek”
I didn’t get a chance to paint in McGee Canyon last year but fell in love the stunning views. Not only are the aspen beautiful but the purples, greens and magenta tones of the brush make a lovely counterpoint. Too windy for a tripod, I painted this in my lap and found my wet panel covered in seeds from the surrounding brush. The painting is not finished but I have been able to remove the seeds. “Waking Canyon”
I painted this in the June Lake Loop area near where we were staying. I’ve only had enough time to sort out the composition and block things in while I was by the stream and took it from there once I was home. I am not sure it’s finished but it is close. I thought I ws going to add the drifts of aspen leaves as they came down the stream but now think there is already plenty going on for very small painting. I left out the ducks too. I may have a go at a larger studio painting of a similar view. “Rush Creek at Rest”
The Lundy Canyon views of mountains, rock formations, colorful aspen and quietly reflective beaver ponds is pretty magical. Unfortunately, we had to call a rain delay at when we arrived at our planned painting spot. Still, as we were leaving the canyon, the sun came out and we happened on a delightful spot by the river. Turned out to be wonderful to the colors of the water and rocks beneath the surface. Joyful low-key moments to wrap up our experience. “Mill Creek in Gold” and “Mill Creek Bank”
I’m still basking in the glow of the Eastern Sierras and hoping for an opportunity to visit and paint again there next year.
