Following the Rio Grande

Following the Rio Grande
12" x 9", Oil, Linen on Panel

One year my husband and I followed the Rio Grande from El Paso, Texas to Taos, New Mexico. This route added hours to our trip but it helped us bypass a lot of desert and see something green all along the way. I can't remember exactly where this particular scene was but someday I will go through all of the photos and get it narrowed down. The best I can do right now is say it was somewhere south of Albuquerque and north of El Paso. 

Along the Turquoise Trail

Along the Turquoise Trail
12"x 9", Oil, Linen on Baltic Birch

This scene caught my eye many years ago when visiting New Mexico. It is located along the Turquoise Trail just outside of Santa Fe. I fell in love with everything about Russian Olive trees; their structure, their soft gray sage color and the sweet scent with which they perfume the air. This one was simply glorious against the red land and surrounding brush. 

Taos Aspens

Taos Aspens
9"x 12", Oil, Linen on Panel

I think aspens are one of the most beautiful trees in the mountains regardless of the time of year. We were there just before they came into their fall color. I've had a great life and now have a very short bucket list. One thing very near the top is that I would love to spend 366 days in Taos and paint the area in all seasons. (366 days is not a typo!)

La Chiripada

La Chiripada
9"x 12", Oil, Linen on Panel

La Chiripada Winery is located in Dixon, New Mexico. The name means "stroke of luck" and it was indeed a stroke of luck that Chris Morel selected it as one of our painting locations in September. The owner visited with us while we painted adding to the many wonderful memories of the day.

La Chiripada Winery is located in Dixon, New Mexico. The name means "stroke of luck" and it was indeed a stroke of luck that Chris Morel selected it as one of our painting locations in September. The owner visited with us while we painted adding to the many wonderful memories of the day.