Freeway Palm

6x8
Oil/linen panel
Plein air

When I paint in Mission Valley I try to imagine the paradise it must have been before I-8 and all the malls and condos were there.  I imagine past San Diego artists like Alfred Mitchell, Charles Reiffel and Maurice Braun painting away in this valley.  Though now the valley is way different from when they were here (1890 to 1940 more or less) a different kind of beauty is found.  The palms and plants still shine bright no matter if the concrete jungle dominates the landscape.  This one was painted near the transit station at Fashion Valley Mall.

Old Town

6x8
Oil/linen panel
Plein air

Painted at San Diego's Old Town, near where we live.  The area has a lot of historical architecture, very touristy.  This is a house called La Casa de Estudillo.  I love to paint architecture, especially old architecture.  Haven't painted at Old Town for quite a while and I'm glad I did.

Bread & Cie

8x10
Oil/Masonite panel
Studio painting

This is one of the paintings in my current show.  It's the only studio painting in the group.  I like how it turned out, all the angles and simplified values.  Though I love painting outdoors, it was nice to settle inside for a studio painting.  I am currently working on a couple other studio paintings, will share those when they are ready.

Water Tower

8x10
Oil/masonite panel
Plein air

Direct from North Park, the famous water tower.  This is visible from pretty much anywhere, a staple in the community for many many years.  From where I painted it will not be very good view soon as there is going to be a building blocking the way, as noted by the construction site in the foreground.  This painting and many others of San Diego will be on view at Bread & Cie Cafe in Hillcrest for the entire month of April.  Today, April 6th, there will be an informal opening for 20 of my plein air paintings that will be on view there.  I will be at the cafe from 3pm to 5pm today to hang out and chat about the paintings.  The cafe is located at 350 University Avenue.  Please drop by and enjoy some local art and delicious cafe cuisine and sweets.

Smog Check

8x10
Oil/masonite panel
Plein air

This corner smog station caught my eye in a hurry.  It was a blustery day, the clouds were quickly on the move and the sun wouldn't decide to stay or go.  It was a good challenge, another day at the art gym.  I love paintings with signs, they add an interesting element.  Though this sign is simple, I've been scouting out other places with cool vintage signs.  More to come......