Scarecrow!

I was happy to see a scarecrow in the orchard when we painted at the Waldo Ward Ranch in Sierra Madre.  And some pumpkins as well.  There is also a persimmon tree which had some pretty fall colored leaves.  At least I think it's a persimmon tree but I haven't seen its fruit.  It was fun to find a painting subject that felt like the end of October fall season.

5" x 7" Gouache

Lots of old rusty farm equipment at the ranch.

Garden Memories

I was painting again at Arlington Garden last week.  Every time of year is beautiful there and I'm lucky to live close enough to visit often.  We were all saddened that the garden's founder, Betty McKenney, passed away in September.  Seeing her there in June was a treat.  I'm hoping Betty's vision will be carried on and the garden will remain as special as it is now.

10" x 8" Watercolor

The Snack Cart

A couple months ago we painted at McDonald Park in Pasadena.  It's very busy on Saturday mornings with lots of kids' soccer teams.  Many parents and coaches were there too of course.  This was my second visit but I didn't finish my previous piece.  I tried a home across the street from the park and came to a point where it wasn't going well.  Not savable.  So this time, even though I really like the house across the street, I tried a quick watercolor of the snack cart and its colorful umbrella.  It was fun listening to the coaches as they tried to coach their kids.

5" x 7" Watercolor

San Pasqual Walk

We painted at Cal Tech again recently.  It was a pretty day and the campus has so many views to paint.  I always enjoy our paint-outs there.  On our previous visit, over a year ago, I painted Olympiad Saturday.  The Cal Tech campus has some beautiful buildings and landscaped walkways.  On weekends there are usually a lot of dog walkers taking advantage of such a peaceful area.  I found a view of the main east-west walkway, San Pasqual Walk, with some blooming trees and nice shadows.  I had to include a dog walker.  Looking forward to my next visit as always.

Watercolor 5" x 7"

Administration Building

Beckman Auditorium

Dabney Hall