Horseneck Beach. The snow fences have been taken down, the path is cleared and the last vestiges of winter's mark are disappearing. 

Today's painting time included this quick little 12"x16" oil study on canvas in preparation for larger painting.  

In honor of all my beloved Bears around the country, "Still Life with CPap" is based on a photo I took at Phil & David's back in 2007.  I just waited until the time was right to begin the painting.

Since I've returned to New England, one of the few things I've found very challenging is the late winter/early spring grayness. After spending 15 years surrounded by green lushness, with camellias blooming in January, cherry blossoms opening at the end of February and even seeing roses in December...New England, for all it's cool stuff, has a harsh and dreary six weeks. Here it is, the 3rd week of April, and I am over the moon jubilant that the big tree outside my studio window is finally waking up.

The potent desire to clean house while in the throes of art grant and submission deadlines is clearly encased in the law of physics.