Cherry Tree

Cherry trees in bloom are a Washington DC iconic sight. 

This tree was painted for the DPW challenge

and for Bil Guffy's Virtual Paintout challenge.,

from the trees in bloom along Ohio Blvd. in DC. 

I tried to use Carol Marines directive of 'one stroke' at a time 

and load with a new shade/tone between each, using a #6 bright.

 Didn't quite make the single stroke per load, 

but came close and will continue to work on 

simplifying with this technique.

6" x 8" oil on canvas panel

for sale on DPW auction

I Will Stand By You

This painting was submitted to Alice Thompson's Calypso Moon Artist Movement, April challenge.  This blooming cherry tree (Sakura in Japanese) is in the yard of an elementary school in Japan. It is old and venerable, often pruned, and with its branches shaped by the wind making it a perfect symbol of wisdom and strength. Along with Mt. Fuji in the background, they are signs of hope for the children, and all the people of Japan in the light of the recent disaster.

The painting's title is from the words of a song by Rascal Flatts. This song gives another layer of meaning to this painting.   Ever since I first heard this song, it has moved me in many ways. In this instance, it is how I think the people of America, and we as artists, feel about the people of Japan. Listen to it and see if you don't agree.  "I won't let go! .  Thank you to Alice Thompson for a most meaningful and interesting challenge.

7"x5" acrylic on canvas panel

$50.