Matted 16"X 20" (Image size 7-1/2"X11")

Viewed from afar, the massive Columbia River can feel daunting. However, as I sat on the shore and painted this scene, the river and surrounding hills took on an intimate, personal nature that I attempted to capture in this painting. The light in the sky was breaking through in the distance, creating rich greens in the pines, and interesting patterns in the shadows along the shoreline. The soft sky and reflections contrast with the textured land which creates diversity and interest as well as some tension – all tied together by using harmonious colors and loose fluid brushstrokes.