Catoctin Creek

Acrylic on wood. 16 × 20 in.

I drove around Catoctin and Cunningham Falls for some time looking for just the right spot to stop and paint. I had to go on a few short and hurried hikes to scope out some views, just to get back into the car and drive back to this one spot that really drew my eye.

I chose this spot because of the feeling it gave me the second I had first seen it. It called me to be painted, so I did. I love the way the colors were dancing together, with the water reflecting the beautiful pale blue of the sky. The trees framed the valley well, with the colors keeping everything interesting.

I didn’t have much time left with the sunlight, so I knew I had to be quicker than usual on this day. I enjoy the challenge, as I am always finding myself making things harder than they really have to be.