I hadn't visited the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden for many years until a recent paint-out there. It was wonderful to visit again. The garden is 127 acres so I was only able to check out a small part of it as I searched for something to catch my eye for my watercolor.
One area has a lake and the ornate Victorian style Queen Anne Cottage built in 1886 for Lucky Baldwin. Lucky Baldwin was a very colorful character and important businessman in Arcadia, California. He's most famous for founding the Santa Anita racetrack which is across the street from the Arboretum. I headed to the lake and cottage to look for subjects. The time to start painting was getting short so I chose a view from across the lake of the cottage peeking over the foliage. I'll be painting there again this week and will try to get to more of the grounds.
The Arboretum is home to a flock of around 200 peafowl. They are descendants of birds imported from India in the 1880s by Lucky Baldwin. They can also be found in Arcadia neighborhoods around the Arboretum. While our group had lunch at the cafe and chatted about the paintings a friendly peacock browsed. I ran across one in the parking lot admiring himself in a car's reflection as you see in my photo below. Such a beautiful and interesting location!
Oh my, such a beautiful location. I love your rendition, Sherry. The fronds on the trees are spectacular, and love the shading. Also the water is so well done.
ReplyDeleteA friend of mine who lives in LA told me just last week that there were some peacocks on her roof! And now with this photo, and your explanation, I now understand why they were there. How lucky to have these birds in your midst!
Thank you Terry! I always appreciate your comments. The murky water was tricky. Loved the variety of bird species making it an interesting day.
DeleteSherry you certainly have a way with trees in your paintings. Everything always looks so natural. Gorgeous stuff.
ReplyDeleteThanks Laura! I always appreciate your comments!
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