If you've ever stared into a blue, blue sky, you know there are many colors of blue and white and purple mixed in there. When you are in the high atmosphere of newly warmed Yellowstone Park in April you feel like you can almost see the thermals. They rise up next to a cliff and swirl around, sometimes causing wind shears in between two solid rock faces. Every time you look it is different, not just because you've moved your eyes and your head but because air is not static. I chose to use texture in the blue and even behind the clouds to communicate what I saw here this day. It's an incredible place and I will return to paint it again.
Each time I come to this spot, two ravens are hanging out. I'm afraid someone has fed them, which is worrisome. But it is so nice to see them. They come close and talk loudly. It's impossible not to note their presence as some sort of benediction.
Down lower, I saw the bluest blue bird. The first one of the season always feels like a miracle.
I have lived near Yellowstone for 50 years, finally this spring I am bringing my paintbrushes.
8"x10", oil on board