The Jack Richeson Company, a manufacturer of paints, easels and other artists materials, recently had a competition for a medium I had never tried. Trying new media, sometimes shoves artists out of their “comfort zone”. But it is a great way to break creative blocks, as well as discover some new techniques and most importantly, learn. Learning should never stop for any of us and exploring a new media shoves us out there to experiment and learn.
The medium the Jack Richeson Company was promoting was Casein, and they are one of the few makers of this old-world paint. I had heard of it but really knew nothing about it. So, for a change of pace and to perhaps learn something new, I thought I would give it a shot. Casein paint has been used since ancient Egyptian times. This water-based paint is durable, quick drying, with the pigment binder being casein – a protein derived from milk. Yes, milk! It is often referred to as “milk paint”. Who knew? Casein paint dries very fast to a matte finish. Although it can be re-wet and worked within a few hours after it dries, it becomes very permanent and water-resistant after a few days. Once dry it can be varnished like oil and framed without glass.
16 x 12 Casein on panel titled “Easing into Fall”
I started this Casein adventure with three primaries, plus yellow ochre, black and white. To say it’s a “fast drying” medium is a bit of an understatement. It dries really, really fast. So to aid in this new, fast drying world, I bought a cheap, Hobby Lobby wet palette which has a sealed lid. I added a thin palette sponge and some wettable palette paper to keep the paint wet during the painting process. It seemed to work very well. When closing the palette for the day, I added a drop of water or two to the colors on the palette and sealed the lid. This kept everything wet and moist until the next painting session.
10 x 8 Casein painting on panel
I found that after a painting or two, I began to like the way the paint handled, and the fast drying was a nice change from wet-on-wet oil painting. The Casein paint can be thinned with water and used like a wash or glazing. If some blending was needed, I used a spray bottle to mist the painting and the dry paint loosened enough to blend a bit. This could be done many times. If two or three days passed during the painting process, this characteristic of Casein was slowly lost. My first excursion into the world of “milk paint” I painted 9 pieces, ranging in size from 8 x 10 to 12 x 16, on panels and paper. I found the best surface was always a gessoed surface, either watercolor paper or an oil painting panel. If the surface was slick like some of the paint panels you can purchase, the Casein would lift off the surface easily, causing problems. Seems any surface with a good coat of gesso works well.
For a final layer of protection, I found that Krylon Color Maxx Flat Crystal Clear acrylic spray worked well and maintained the matte, Casein look. Since totally dry/cured Casein is permanent and water-resistant, the additional couple coats of the acrylic spray allow the paintings to be framed without glass.
Smoky Mountain Fall, 10 x 8 Casein on Panel
All in all, I’m liking the Casein experience. Working with it helps broaden painting techniques as well as build on established ones. Much like a pilot may train on several kinds of aircraft, or a programmer may learn several programing languages, when an artist expands his/her experience with several mediums, they build and expand on a knowledge base that helps all aspects of creating fine art.
I am always amazed at God’s provision for us in this beautiful and awesome created world. When God’s people, Israel, were coming out of Egypt to a new land, it was described in the Bible as “a land flowing with milk and honey”. This phrase refers to God’s provision and abundance in this new land. He had a place that He had made ready for them; they just had to get there as He commanded them. It was He who created our bovine friends and other milk producing animals for our benefit, and in this scripture, it is used as a symbol of blessing. Milk, cheese, ice cream, to name a few, all for us to enjoy and benefit from.
Of course, when He created milk, He knew that casein, the protein found in milk, would be used by artist way down the road to create all kinds of paintings and art. Once I heard a guy make a statement that went something like this: “Before there is the question, God provides the answer.” He is always ahead of us. You see it in creation, and you see it in the cross. The Bible says that Christ was slain for our sins before the foundation of the world.
And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. Revelation 13:8
Before we were created, before Adam fell, before we were born and needed salvation, He provided the answer through His perfect sacrifice of Christ on the cross. The answer came before the question.
For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Romans 5:6
That two word phrase, “the ungodly” covers us all. So glad He has offered us a way to be right with Him and spend eternity with Him through the death and resurrection of Christ! It will be even better than that land “flowing with milk and honey.”
October 23, 1965 a song hit number 80 in the charts, performed by the Byrds called Turn, Turn, Turn.
It parroted the text from Ecclesiastes chapter three. This text says
“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven”. Ecclesiastes 3:1
True words. For me, fall is a time for cooler weather and fall colors. And sometimes, a bit if melancholy mixed in as creation begins to shut down and prepare for the dormancy that comes with a winter’s rest. It also reminds me of the few days we have on earth.
PAINT LIVINGSTON 2025
October of 2025 contained all these elements, plus it has been a very busy season. Donna and I always count it a blessing to be able to visit east Tennessee in the Fall, where our son and daughter-in-law live, as well as Donna’s family. We were able to combine a visit this year with a Plein Air event called “Paint Livingston”, which was held in Livingston, Tennessee, and was sponsored by the Overton County Arts Council. This newly formed organization did an excellent job putting this event together, providing housing for participating artists. Our “host” family was a local couple who’s hospitality was second to none. Their help and generosity made this event a joy to participate in. We arrived a couple days early to look abound the county, but the actual event was two full days of painting for the main competition and then a separate “Quick Paint” event and sale the last day of the competition.
The boundaries of the event were Overton County and a bit of a couple neighboring counties. The area is beautiful, with lakes, waterfalls and an abundance of rural settings to choose from. Below are a few of the works I created during this event.
Below are 4 of the 5 plein air pieces painted during the Paint Livingston plein air event in Livingston, Tennessee.
After the Paint Livingston Plein Air event, we traveled south a couple of hours to Cleveland, Tennessee where Donna’s family live. Our son and daughter-in-law live pretty close to there as well. While visiting family and friends for a few days, I found time to setup my easel near the creek Donna played in as a kid. Although it was overcast and sprinkled rain from time to time, I really enjoyed the quiet painting session.
Fall Creek, 12 x 16 Plein Air Oil on Panel
Towards the end of that week we hit the road again and headed north-east to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, where we stayed a week. The much anticipated Fall colors of the Appalachian mountains were not quiet at their peak, but it was beautiful never-the-less. We did stumble across some of the most beautiful color I have ever seen on the Foothills Parkway that crosses the mountains as it snakes it’s way from outside Pigeon Forge to Chilhowee, Tennessee. It was one of the most beautiful drives I’ve taken in many years.
While in Pigeon Forge, we visited the Smoky Mountain National Park several times, looking for wildlife. As we cruised the roads in and around Cades Cove in the National park, we saw turkey, deer and bears, with the bears being the most entertaining!
On several outings in the National Park I managed to create 4 paintings. I painted in the Park last year as well, and was again reminded of the obstacles present while painting this area. The challenges always present themselves in the beauty that draws a painter to attempt to capture a scene. The small brooks and rivers are complex with their moving water, many small falls, moss covered rocks in abundance all overlayed with dappled lighting that challenges the values.
By the Water Brooks • 9 x 12 Plein Air Oil on Panel
Fall Glory • Plein Air Oil on Panel
Add to these element is the nature of the lighting in the mountains. As the sun fights to penetrate the dense forest, the light changes very quickly altering the entire scene. Often called the “Land of the Noonday Sun”, it was a struggle to paint in places that would be well lit at the start of a painting, only to be submerged in deep shadow 90 minutes later. But even with the struggles, the quietness, beauty and solitude in God’s awesome creation made the hours spent there a thing to be cherished. Another reminder of our passing days. Days that number fewer and fewer week by week.
For me, the entire fall season is a reminder of what has passed and the urgency of the limited time left. Fall brings on the very strange celebration of death, blood and gore, known as Halloween, which is mixed with fall colors, pumpkins and a particular flavor of latte :-). Although I do not celebrate Halloween, I’ll touch on a Halloween subject… the grave.
Tent Grave
Mark, our host during our stay in Livingston, showed us around the landscapes of Overton County a bit while we were there, and one of the unique things he showed us was something I had never seen before – Tent Graves. The origin of these type of graves is debated- they may have Scottish/Irish roots. What is known for sure is that these graves were more common in the 19th century, mostly in the south. They are unique in construction and appearance. To avoid cattle walking on the graves and caving a compromised coffin in or to keep animals from digging up the remains from what was probably a shallow grave, large slabs of sandstone were hewn and two long slabs were leaned against each other to form a “tent” like structure over the grave. The ends were sealed with two upright head and foot stones. Some of the dates we saw on these Overton County tent graves dated back to the late 1700’s. As Donna and I explored Overton County in search of painting locations for the competition, we discovered a couple more old graveyards that contained several of these old tent graves. Once you see one of these in person, you begin to look for more in the same way you would collect knives or a particular kind of old antique dish. You can’t help but wonder about the times, the people and stories buried in these old graves.
Tent Graves in the Davis Cemetery in Overton County, east Tennessee.
I have found that graveyards have a way of re-planting one’s feet firmly on the soil of this fleeting life. I heard a man once say we should take a walk through a graveyard periodically to remember the brevity of life and how quickly it will pass. I find this to be true as most of my life is in the rear view mirror.
The sobering reality of a graveyard is twofold. The first is that they remind us that we all will die. One hundred percent of the living will die. The second is this – eternity waits and we will spend it somewhere. The Bible mentions two destinations: Eternity in a beautiful place called Heaven with the God who made us, or eternity in a place of suffering, flames and misery called Hell. No middle ground.
The scripture also says we can know where we will spend eternity, and we can actually make arrangements for the peace and beauty of Heaven while we yet live. Art is all about the light. Without light, all would be dark and artwork meaningless. If the big picture of this ongoing story, Jesus entered the darkness of this world with the Light of His saving grace….The Gospel. It’s simple. Jesus Christ stepped into this dark, fallen world and took the punishment for our sin on Himself on the Cross. He died, was put in a grave and God the Father raised Him from the dead to show us that the debt for our sin was paid in full. How do we lay hold of this great salvation? The Bible says if we repent – which means to change our mind about our sin, and confess it and believe that Jesus died for our sins, was buried and then was raised from the dead, Salvation is ours… forever. When you do this the scripture says eternity in heaven is certain for all who believe.
That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; 17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Ephesians 3:16-19
I hope your fall is filled with the peace that comes through Christ alone!
I am blessed to be participating in the 2nd Annual Paint Livingston Plein Air Competition in east Tennessee. Tennessee is a great place to be in October! Painting starts October 1 and ends on October 4th with sale and a Quick Draw competition.
On Saturday, October 4, downtown Livingston, Tennessee will bustle with plein air painters, art enthusiasts and art-curious folks during the second annual Paint Livingston Plein Air Competition & Art Sale.
The center piece of this event is around 30 professional and amateur plein air painters who will set up their easels in and around Livingston on Thursday, Friday & Saturday, Oct 2-4, to paint and compete for $5,000 in cash prizes.
Particulars
The plein air competition and the Quick Paint competition are open to all artists, both professional and amateur.
Paintings in acrylic, oil, watercolor, pastel, and gouache are permitted.
The art exhibit, the award ceremony and all competition-related events are free and open to the public.
Receptions and dinners are invitation-only for OCAC members and patrons. Become a member or a patron today!
For more information and to find out about patronage and sponsorship opportunities for this event, email us at info@overtoncountyarts.org.
It as been a busy summer. Paint-outs in Spring, several shows in Texas and Louisiana have kept me somewhat busy, along with some additional work that must be done.
One of the shows I was honored to be juried into is the 55th Annual River Road Show, which is a National Juried Art Competition. This show is sponsored by the Art Guild of Louisiana in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The Art Guild of Louisiana was happy to have as the Juror and Awards Judge Artist Calvin Liang. Calvin is a Master member of Oil Painters of America, Master member of American Impressionist Society, Signature member of California Art Club, Signature member of Laguna Plein Air Painters Association, and a Signature member of American Society of Marine Artists.
I was blessed to be awarded a 3rd Place Award for my painting “Windows of Heaven”, a 20 x 24 oil on canvas. One thing I appreciate about Calvin Liang is the comments he made for each of the pieces he selected for an award. Usually the artists never hear the thoughts of the competition judge, so it was refreshing to hear Calvin’s thoughts on why he chose the pieces he did. Thank you to the Art Guild of Louisiana and Calvin Liang! (see Video below)
The location of the painting “Windows of Heaven” is in a little town southwest of Fort Worth, Texas called Walnut Springs. I always loved the old silos and run down buildings I saw on our many trips through Walnut Springs. This painting captures a bit of an American that is fading away.
Windows of Heaven, 20 x 24 Oil on canvas • 3rd Place in the 55th Annual River Road Show
I wanted to give a shout-out to all the folks that made the Paint the Town Plein Air Festival event a success! There were many volunteers who helped during the weeklong event, Host families who put up artists (and perhaps “put up with”) in their homes, and especially Erin and Lindsey who I know were probably exhausted after this competition and sale.
I had a great time with perfect weather, traveling around the designated paint area working on a total of 10 pieces. These included a Nocturne painting that was in a separate competition category, as well as a Saturday morning “Quick Draw” competition, which I was blessed to win 3rd Place. I heard there were about 70 plus artists who entered the Quick Draw competition, which was separate from the main Plein Air competition.
The event pieces I created can be seen in the slide show below. If you would like to purchase any of the works, just shoot me an email and I’ll relay the price and details back to you.
In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. – Psalm 102:25
Many times, when I’m out painting in the quiet – unless its beside a highway ☹ – I find myself thanking and praising the God who created the awesome creation I am attempting to capture. The light and color of creation always leaves me falling short of what lies before me. But, I’ll keep trying to grab a glimmer of the beauty He has given us to enjoy.
Hope you have a great Spring! Give me a shout if interested in any of these works.
Spring seems to have come a bit early here in North Texas. Temperatures have been hitting the mid to upper 80’s, and we are still in March. Trees putting out leaves and the grasses are waking up from their long winter’s nap. It seems that summer will be rolling in soon, but I hope not too soon.
On one fine day in March my wife and I went to Glen Rose to visit friends at the Creation Evidence Museum. If you are not familiar with the area, Glen Rose area is known for its dinosaur tracks. These massive animals once walked this area, leaving both bones and tracks in the Texas Limestone. The Creation Evidence Museum is very close to the Dinosaur Valley State Park. The area has a lot going on and is a great place to visit, especially in the spring.
I have been working on a project with the Museum’s director and sometimes an in-person visit is in order, and it’s always great to see old friends there. If you have never been to the Museum, spring is a great time to check it out and enjoy the unique displays there. The Museum has many great exhibits, including dinosaur tracks, fossils, historic collection of Bibles and manuscripts and many other artifacts unique to biblical history as well as history of the Universe. They also have a working lab that gives daily tours and lectures about biblical Creation and the interesting things being discovered in science. When I visit the museum, I am always reminded of Job 12:8, 9 and 10 :
“Or speak to the earth, and let it teach you; And let the fish of the sea declare to you. Who among all these does not know That the hand of the LORD has done this, In whose hand is the life of every living thing, And the breath of all mankind? “
Just down the road from the Museum is the Dinosaur Valley State Park. One of the parks main features are the Dinosaur tracks found in the bed of the Paluxy River which dissects the park. (Note: you can see many more clearer tracks up the road at the previously mentioned Creation Evidence Museum) There are also many walking trails to enjoy at the State Park, as well as both RV camping and tent camping.
On the banks of the Paluxy River, outside Glen Rose, Texas
This particular fine spring day we went to the State Park and I set up my easel down on the banks of the Paluxy River. I found a spot that I found very interesting. I setup my easel and worked out a composition featuring rocks and water, with one large rock the center of interest. What’s not to love about rocks and water? The colors of the scene were still muted by the passing winter days, so my palette was rather limited. Olive Green seemed to be the “color of the day” as it worked well as a base for the water and submerged rocks. A bit of sketching with vine charcoal and the race with the always moving sun was on.
As I worked on the painting, one couldn’t help but notice the “ambience” of the river. People living life up and down the river bank. There were the old, remembering the days of their youth. Kids and dogs running and wading in the clear cold water. Fathers instructing their boys about the finer points of rock skipping. The constant voices and laughing was accented by the periodic splashing; Some intentional, usually carried out by some kid heaving a large rock into the water to watch the “trauma” of the splash. But then there was the occasional unexpected splash caused by someone falling into the river. It all reminded me of the long gone days, probably over 20 years ago, when my wife and I would bring our grandchildren to this same river on warm summer days to wade its waters and walk the trails, always anticipating the adventure that lay before us.
I probably painted a couple of hours, trying to grab the essence of the moment. I noticed as I painted that the crowd thinned out over the two hour period, leaving only a couple of folks present as I packed up my gear to head home. The result of the outing was this little 9 x 12 oil on panel called: “Paluxy River, Early Spring.” This painting will be available in a couple of weeks at the “Paint the Town Art Festival” in Marble Falls, Texas. (click link for more information)
12 x 9 Oil on Panel titled “Paluxy River, Early Spring”
I always enjoy going out into the awesome creation God as made for us to enjoy. Much of God’s word to us is full of illustrations taken directly from what God has made. I was reminded of one of these visuals while painting on the banks of the Paluxy River. The God of the Bible describes Himself as the Rock; and when taking the entire message of scripture into account, we know that this Rock refers to Christ. Here are a few examples:
He is the Rock, His work is perfect; For all His ways are justice, A God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He.
Deuteronomy 32:4
The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2
Then they remembered that God was their rock, And the Most High God their Redeemer.
Psalm 78:35
He shall cry to Me, ‘You are my Father, My God, and the rock of my salvation.’
I have some favorite foods. You know, those foods that are always a “go to” when you want something really good to eat. Tacos are on that list. Especially the small “street tacos”. As Thanksgiving came around this past year I received a request to paint three House Portraits for the owner of one of the Rusty’s Tacos locations. The oil paintings were to be Christmas gifts for the owner’s (Joe) three sons.
I loved this idea, not only because the commission gave me some work before Christmas, but because it was an excellent gift idea for a man to honor and bless his three sons. The oil paintings, as does all original artwork, capture a moment in time. A part of the lives of families. Son’s and daughter’s-in-laws and grandchildren. A painting that in time will sort of take on a life of it’s own as the years pass and we all get older and eventually move on from this life. I really appreciate Joe for his show of love through these unique Christmas gifts.
If you live in the Plano area, or find yourself in Plano, stop by and say hi to Joe at Rusty’s Taco. His location is at 8000 Coit Road, Plano, Texas. (972-244-4047)
One reason I really love what Joe did for his three sons is that what fathers do, does indeed matter. In a series of movies starring Tom Selleck as a small-town New England Police Chief, his character, Jesse Stone, makes a statement in several of the movies that is absolutely true. On more than one occasion as “Chief Stone” is solving crimes and issues in the small coastal town, he makes this statement: “Fathers are important”. As the saying goes…”truer words have never been spoken”.
House Portrait #1- 8 x 16 Oil on panel
Fathers are indeed important. The Bible talks a lot about the importance of fathers and the relationship with their children. One of the amazing things about the Bible is that it doesn’t “sugar-coat” the characters whose lives are recorded in its pages. You can read that some fathers in scripture were probably the worst fathers ever, while some were great fathers.
The good and bad fathers influenced their sons; some in good ways and some in bad ways. But you see the statement that “fathers are important “ ringing true throughout scripture.
House Portrait #2 – 11 x 14 Oil on Panel
In the last chapter of the Old Testament, the last two verses there is a sobering warning in relation to Fathers and their children.
“Look, I am sending you the prophet Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the LORD arrives. His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of children to their fathers. Otherwise I will come and strike the land with a curse.” Malachi 4:5 and 6
Fathers are important. This scripture is a warning about the negative effects on society when the father/children relationship is broken. It also says the land (society and culture) will be healed when this fundamental relationship if made right.
House Portrait #3 – 11 x 14 Oil on Panel
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that there is a “curse” on our land. Prisons are full of men who have broken relationships with their fathers, or they never knew their father at all. Not only in prison, in our cities, neighborhoods and pretty much everywhere in the United States, our society is broken, our families are broken, and our children are broken. We need fathers to step back into the game, to use a football analogy, get back on the field.
The awesome thing about the Gospel of Jesus Christ is that it is a gospel of reconciliation. First, when we believe the gospel and surrender to Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are reconciled to God the Father. We are no longer enemies of God but children of God. Then, once reconciled to the Father, we can then be reconciled on a horizontal plane. I.E. Fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, husbands and wives…. Basically fulfilling the greatest commandment- “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Can you imagine a world where absolute peace is the norm? Not just peace from wars and international conflicts, but true peace in every relationship. It’s hard to grasp a world like that. But, that is one of the things Christ came for 2000 years ago.
I like the 500 year old carol called “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”. Set to a lively tune, this old song tells the complete story of when, why and where Christ came that very first Christmas. The second verse says:
In Bethlehem, in Israel This blessed Babe was born And laid within a manger Upon this blessed morn The which His mother Mary Did nothing take in scorn Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and Joy for all who place their trust in Jesus…. Then jumping to the 4th verse when the angels visited the shepherds with the “Good News” of the birth, it states the reason for His coming – to free us from Satan’s power:
“Fear not then,” said the Angel, “Let nothing you affright, This day is born a Saviour Of a pure virgin bright, To free all those who trust in Him From Satan’s power and might.” O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy O tidings of comfort and joy
Jumping down to the last verse the song talks about what would be the fruit if the world believed:
Now to the Lord sing praises, All you within this place, And with true love and brotherhood – Each other now embrace; This holy tide of Christmas – All other doth deface. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy
True peace in this world and in our personal lives will only come through believing in Christ, the Savior who came into the world long ago. If you are tired and weary and anxiety floods your days and nights, remember the words of Jesus: “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you. Let Me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
In closing, back up to the very first verse of this old Christmas carol… it tells us is a few simple words what the true meaning of Christmas is:
God rest ye merry gentlemen Let nothing you dismay Remember Christ our Savior Was born on Christmas Day To save us all from Satan’s pow’r When we were gone astray Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy Oh tidings of comfort and joy
I hope you have a very merry and truly blessed Christmas, and a great New Year!
In America, I believe the Thanksgiving Holiday is much overlooked in its importance, and we have so much material wealth that we have become ungrateful. We should remember that gratitude is an amazing thing… everything changes when we live a life of thankfulness and gratitude. Donna and I were blessed and truly very grateful to have been able to spend this Thanksgiving with longtime friends in Colorado Springs. The saying “the road to a friends house is never long” certainly rings true in this case. Old friends are a blessing from the Lord, and we are continually grateful for them. Plus, we had the bonus of snow-covered mountains and the inspiring Colorado landscapes.
Our first morning in “The Springs” began with an awesome, newly minted blanket of beautiful snow. Our friend’s house sits in a way that the back door and deck faces West, which means there is a spectacular view of Pike’s Peak across the snow covered roof tops and decks of the neighborhood.
Pike’s Peak, Colorado Springs, Colorado
For me, snow has always been a bit magical. Of course, I guess if I had to live in it for 4 or 5 months I may change my mind. But living in the South, snow is sparse and only stays a day or so if it comes at all. But this particular morning a day before Thanksgiving in Colorado, it was magical and had an air of mystery about it in the way it fell quietly in the night while we slept. This added extraordinary elegance to our view out the patio doors towards Pike’s Peak the next morning. The undisturbed brilliant whiteness on the trees and bushes made the morning cup of coffee really special.
We have lived in Texas for several decades and, like most of the South, snow is not a common occurrence. In fact, we are fortunate if we get one dusting a winter. Sometimes a few inches will fall, but not often. Because of this, I have never set up in a snow-covered landscape and painted. As always, I drag my easel with me when we travel, and I could not pass up the opportunity to finally go out and attempt a painting in the snow, and what better place than Colorado? It proved to be a bit more difficult than I thought, due to the wet nature of snow and the ever-present cold.
I mentioned the mysterious nature of snow in how it can fall silently during the night, or day and cover everything with a magical beauty. Snow is truly a unique thing to behold in all its glory. What equally fascinates me about snow is the way God uses it in the scriptures to illustrate an idea or to describe something. In Psalm 147 the Bible is talking about some of the attributes of God and some of the things He does. Verse 16 says:
He gives snow like wool; He scatters the frost like ashes – Psalm 147:16
There are about 23 verses in the Bible that mention snow. Sometimes just to mention that it is God who make snow to fall, and sometimes to talk about being cleansed from sin, or as in Proverbs to talk about the actions of a fool (Proverbs 26:1) It seems that snow is a great teacher in the scriptures.
Often when I paint I contemplate the “riches of God’s grace” or His creative acts we see all around us, or the fact that the scriptures say in John chapter 1 this:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. – John 1:1-4
As I painted in the beautiful mountains of Colorado, these were the thoughts that occupied my mind a times…. Along with the cold.
Set up at Red Rock Open Space
The first location I was able to setup and paint in was Red Rock Open Space, not far from Garden of the Gods. (Note: Garden of the Gods should be called “Garden of God”, as it was He who created it) Carrying paint gear for more than a couple hundred yards is never an option for me; Painting locations have to be limited to short distances from car, unless I have a cart or other wheels. At Red Rock I found a cool formation about 75 yards from the car, just off a well-traveled trail. The sun position was not optimal as it was almost shinning directly in my face, but the large black umbrella I carry did the trick of blocking its intense rays.
The hour and a half to two hours that I was setup there painting, the sun moved just enough to be almost directly in my face, which cut the painting session short a bit. These little plein air outings are always very informative in that they teach the painter things that can only be learned outside painting from life. The color is much more complex and rich. Shadows are never “black”, but transparent and rich in content. The downside is there is so much detail to deal with in the 3D space in front of you that the battle to simplify the scene is always raging. The limited time, the moving sun and other “elements” present make for a dynamic experience. (many folks walking on the trail stopped to chat)
Red Rock, 9 x 12 Plein Air Oil on panel
A couple of days later we drove up to Mueller State Park which was up towards Pikes Peak. It was beautiful! There were perhaps a couple feet of snow on the ground and it was a bit chilly. I saw several places that might make an interesting painting, so I went back up the next day with my easel. I set up in an empty parking lot and painted some aspens that were backlit by the low, midafternoon sun. It was 36 degrees, but I was grateful there was not much wind. After two hours of painting, the only thing that got really cold was my toes.
Easel setup at Mueller State Park, Colorado
I found the colors of the snow, the “white on white” of the scene that was before me very intriguing, and challenging. “White” aspen trunks and “white” snow; But the interesting thing was that nothing appeared pure white. Snow reflects light of the surroundings. The Aspens were blueish on one side, yellow ochre on the other, with intense highlights on one edge. The snow was equally rich in color; blue in the shadows, rich golden light where the sun came through the trees. It was a treat to attempt the painting in the awesome beauty the Creator has arranged before me in the cold, winter snow of Colorado.
It was a great reminder that God is Holy, and we are not. The Bible says the best things we can do are but filthy rags in His sight. We are sinners, unclean. But the snow tells the story of God’s amazing grace given to us through Christ Jesus. King David committed adultery with Bathsheba and then had her husband killed to try to cover his sin. Imagine that in your local newspaper headlines. But then we read in Psalm 51 about David’s repentance and the grace of God.
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. 8 Make me hear joy and gladness, That the bones You have broken may rejoice. 9 Hide Your face from my sins, And blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51:7-10
God can make the ugliness of sin be white as snow through the blood of Christ.
We see it again in Isaiah:
“Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the LORD, “Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool. Isaiah 1:18
Aspen Snow, 9 x 12 Plein Air Oil on panel
God is reaching out to us all. He uses His written word and the things around us, the things He created to help us understand. He uses something as common and beautiful as Aspen trees and snow to point us to repentance and a relationship with Him.
Your mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Your righteousness is like the great mountains; Your judgments are a great deep; O LORD, You preserve man and beast.
How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. Psalm 36:5 thru 7
Donna and I read this Psalm one morning before we started our day in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. I am always amazed at the mercy of God to us; We who do not deserve it and can’t earn it. He invites us into His righteousness through the blood of Christ.
Mid-October Donna and I were blessed to travel to “the old country” of east Tennessee. We left the “big sky” land of Texas and headed east, by way of Memphis. The final destination was Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, not far from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The long drive “back east” is always an adventure; this trip had the bonus of traveling with our awesome daughter and granddaughter. They always make the trip more interesting and “lively”, as well as entertaining. We four travelers voted every time we came to another Buc-ee’s, in order to make a decision whether to stop or not. (We stopped at every one of them except one) Buc-ee’s has finally made it to east Tennessee, so our last stop at the beaver’s crazy big “convenience” store was Crossville, a couple hours from our final goal. We rolled into Pigeon Forge about sunset and caught our first glimpse of the majestic mountains that seemed to be guarding the towns of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. These mountains and their towns are a strange mix of the past and present. Commerce and some of the most beautiful landscapes God has created are wrapped in a unique bundle, fresh air and mountain streams competing with the smell of cotton candy and about any kind of food you can imagine… and pancakes. Lots of pancakes. Words seem hollow and very inadequate when it comes to describing the beauty of this mountainous region. The words of Psalm 19 are so true… “the Heavens declare the Glory of God…”
Covered Bridge in Harrisburg, TN
We made Pigeon Forge our destination because for years my awesome mother-in-law has had a time-share condo there in Pigeon Forge, and it has been a blessing to stay there when we visit the area around the Smoky Mountains. Donna wanted to spend some time with her mother on this trip, so I drug my oils, gouache and some greyscale markers from Texas and when she and her mother were relaxing in the condo or hitting the shops of Pigeon Forge, or exploring the surrounding countryside, I sought out quiet places to paint…places where the crowds that came to see the fall colors had not penetrated. I found several awesome spots.
The first place I came across was a very old, covered bridge in Harrisburg, Tennessee, just a few minutes from Pigeon Forge. I think the small river it stretched across may have been called the Little Pigeon River, and it was beautiful…and quiet. Except when a car made its way across the 149-year-old wooden covered bridge. The single lane bridge popped and moaned and complained with every car, and I’m sure some of the drivers wondered it they would make the span without visiting the river below.
I love wood and architecture, so the heavy wooden timbers and “old school” construction of this historic bridge was a real treat to investigate. After I checked out the heavy timbers and construction of the bridge, I grabbed some watercolor paper, gouache and greyscale markers and climbed down to the creek bed so I could see the bridge from the river’s point of view. The late afternoon sun was backlighting the fall leaves and casting shadows under the bridge and down the bank and across the river. I did a quick value study with the greyscale markers, then a quick gouache color study while sitting in a 3-legged camp stool that was not “happy” with the soft sand and mud of the river bank. After some aggravation and having to only fish one marker out of the water, I hopefully captured a bit of the essence of the scene. I hoped to return with oils and paint the next day.
Quick Studies: Greyscale marker on left, Gouache on right
Next day, I returned with our “crew” (Donna, mother-in-law Ruby, daughter Christy and granddaughter M’Kiah) to show them the bridge and to possibly paint an oil painting. We were blessed to meet Mr. Woody, a very interesting native of the area who owned the land, house and property that bordered the creek and bridge. He gave us a great overview of the history of the bridge and the surrounding area and was kind enough to allow me to set up my easel on his property, which proved to be the perfect spot to paint a Plein Air oil painting of the historic bridge. I enjoyed a “picture perfect” morning painting in a perfect location.
Harrisburg Covered Bridge, 12 x 9 plein air on panel
Greyscale value drawing for “Fall Crossing”
On another day I headed into the Smoky Mountain National Park to find a quiet location to paint. One of the places I knew about from a previous visit was a small river called the Little River. The Little River runs through the park and also runs beside the road to Elkmont Campground. The road to Elkmont Campground is always less traveled than the main roads through the National Park that most visitors travel. I found several places to park and paint on this quiet, little road. The first location was about a hundred feet from the road and only visited by fly-fishermen, hoping to catch one of the large Brown Trout that make the Smokie’s many streams their home. At this spot there was an old bridge, part rock, part steel and part wood that provided the park rangers with access to the other side of the Little River.
In an effort to plan my paintings a bit more, I have lately been working out greyscale drawings before I paint. It helps with values and composition. I worked out a greyscale drawing of this scene to help establish and hopefully solve problems with value and composition. Then I set up my easel and started an oil painting.
Bald Eagle checking out who was painting on his river.
After about an hour of painting, I was re-adjusting my umbrella when I noticed a large bird flying up the river bed about 20 feet off the water. I first thought it was a great blue heron, having only caught a flash of movement from its wings. As it got closer, I saw that it was a bald eagle that was navigating the river channel with all the beauty and majesty that God had intended when He created it. It was an awesome sight. The eagle at first didn’t see me, I guess because I was under the umbrella, but when it was almost even with me, about 30 feet away, he caught a glimpse of me and the movement of the umbrella and with all of it’s 6 feet wing span changed direction and headed straight toward the sky, no doubt thinking to leave me with it. But then it changed its mind and came back down and continued in the same direction for about 75 feet and landed in a tall sycamore tree. The leaves of the tree added to this awesome site because they were starting to get some fall color. When I saw this truly awesome display of God’s creative power, I thought of God’s promise to believers in Isaiah 40. Verses 28 thru 31 say this:
“Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the LORD, The Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. 29 He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength. 30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, 31 But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”
When I first truly grasp the gospel back in the mid 80’s, I read several books by Francis Schaeffer- Two of those books were “The God Who is There” and “He is There and He is Not Silent”. These works are excellent resources for gaining an understanding of who God is and His plans for us. One of the solid principles Schaeffer brings out is that God has indeed revealed Himself in His creation first, and then through His written Word. Psalm 19 wraps this principle up nicely:
“The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, And night unto night reveals knowledge.” Psalm 19:1 and 2
So, when we read “They that wait on the Lord shall mount up with wings like eagles” we can be amazed as we observe the eagle in flight. It’s a living illustration of a principle in God’s written word.
Or, when the written word says “Your righteousness is like the great mountains” (Psalm 36:6a), we can stand in awe while looking at the Appalachian Mountains, or any mountain, and know that God’s righteous is massive and so far beyond us. And this righteousness is available to all who believe and trust Christ… this faith applies the righteousness of Christ to all who believe.
“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:21
“Fall Crossing”, plein air oil on panel, 12 x 9
It’s always an awesome thing to drag an easel into the great outdoors that God has given us and create and paint, remembering Who created it all, and being amazed at His grace towards us in Christ.
The last day I was able to paint in the Smokies I returned to this spot and set up my easel and painted a detail of the river and part of the river bank. I didn’t see the eagle this time, but I did watch a river otter work its way up the river, diving for crawdads or salamanders or fish, as it worked its way past me and then on up the river bed till it was out of sight. Maybe the eagle was wanting some otter for lunch…
Smoky Mountain Stream, 12×9 plein air on panel
Between these two outings mentioned above, I set up back on the Little River but a mile or so downstream from the bridge. But before I went out to this spot, the night before, back at the condo, I worked out the composition with my greyscale markers from a photo I shot that day. It always helps to get familiar with the subject before painting if at all possible. It helps solve the problems that will come up in the process.
So next day, I went back to this third location on the Little River. It was a beautiful spot with the leaves in the process of changing color and falling into the river. Again, a very quiet spot, only an occasional fly-fisherman working the stream for one of the three species of trout in the Smokies. The wife of one of the fishermen was also a photographer and stopped by and chatted a bit as she shot some cool photos. I always love meeting people while out painting. Always find some interesting stories in the Journey.
Greyscale marker study of Falling Water on left, Plein Air oil on panel on right (12 x 9)
The last painting I want to share is of a place outside Pigeon Forge. It’s a simple scene of mountains, barn and trees, but it kind of intrigued me so I pulled off the road onto some unknown person’s property and started a quick drawing and painting. I soon found out who owned the land when he pulled up behind me to see what I was doing on his property. I told him the mountain scene with the barn was awesome and wanted to paint it; I then ask if I needed to leave his property. He said it was no problem at all, and it was his wife who made him come down. He then told me a bit about the folks in the area, about the Tennessee “right-of-way” laws, (which don’t really exist) and then left me with it. It was a beautiful afternoon.
************IMAGE OF MOUNTAIN BARN
Mountain Barn, 12 x 9 plein air on panel (right)
To sum up this trip, it was a continuing learning experience both in art and who God is and His plans for us. I created about 12 little paintings and drawings, each one teaching a little more about the finer aspects of color, value and design. And, I was reminded of the old truth that God wants to be involved in every aspect of our lives, showing us His mercy and grace and how His awesome creation teaches us more about who He is.
“The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. 2 Day unto day utters speech, And night unto night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language Where their voice is not heard. 4 Their line has gone out through all the earth, And their words to the end of the world. In them He has set a tabernacle for the sun, 5 Which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, And rejoices like a strong man to run its race. 6 Its rising is from one end of heaven, And its circuit to the other end; And there is nothing hidden from its heat. 7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; 8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; 9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. Psalm 19: 1 thru 9
Perhaps we need to dig down below the surface to really answer this question. The answer must start with creation: Genesis 1:26 “Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”
We are made in God’s image. The depths of this concept probably have not be reached, even after these thousands of years. What exactly does that look like, to be made in God’s image?
I only want to focus on the creative aspect of this. The desire and gifting God put in us to make things, to sculpt, to sew, to draw and paint, among many, many other things we do that illustrates the simply fact that we were made in God’s image.
But, back to the question… Why do Artist paint? Recently Donna and I traveled 4.5 hours to an art exhibit featuring the works of two national artists: Scott Christensen and Quang Ho.
We were not disappointed.
Two works by Scott Christensen at the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville, Texas
The exhibit was well worth all it took to get there. The combined work of these two artists, about 100 works of art, some very large, was overwhelming. The difference between seeing an image of a painting on a computer screen and in person is like the difference between someone describing the taste of an exquisite dish and tasting it yourself. The work of these two artists was incredible.
Although Quang Ho is indeed a master and his work simply incredible, we especially loved the landscapes of Scott Christensen. The color, the values, the (for me) incomprehensible use of brush strokes and paint captured the grandeur of his subject and spoke in a clear language the answer to the question at hand – Artists paint to give voice to that need in each of us to proclaim that the physical world God created, even in its broken state, is truly awesome. We have a need to share the this beautiful creation with others. As if to say “Look at this… this is a beautiful thing…”
I have no idea of Scott Christensen’s world view, whether he believes in a God or biblical truth, but I do know that we as people, made in the image of God, do exhibit some of His attributes, even if we don’t believe He exist.
Standing in the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville, Texas, looking at a large masterpiece depicting a vast landscape of mountains, valleys, skys and streams of Wyoming and Idaho, I can say I caught a glimpse of the world as it should be. I know that is why I paint… each painting quietly says “Look at this… This is from the hand of a loving God”.
Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse
These few words in Genesis 1:26 are like a deep well. And, trying to fully understand them is like trying to understand the depths of the ocean while standing on the beach. The effects of sin in a fallen world have dulled our senses to the reality of what God has done.
One of the aspects of being made in the image of God is that we are creative beings. We create. What we create is wide and vast as that ocean mentioned above. Some write in ways that make the comprehension of their words seem like a fine German pastry accompanied by a cup of coffee. Others build magnificent architecture that rises hundreds of feet above the streets below or, like Frank Lloyd Wright, build an incredibly beautiful house nestled in the woods suspended over a roaring mountain creek.
We create because we are made in His image, and the ways we create seem almost innumerable.
Are We There Yet? • 16 x 12 Oil on Panel • Plein Air, painted on location at “That Joint at Spicewood”
See SlideShow of all Marble Falls Plein Air Paintings Below
Visual artists hear that voice God imbedded in their being and have to head off to some intriguing location and paint, or draw, or create. I drag my easel out to the great outdoors not to create a new thing, but to attempt to relay a message, duplicate the awesome beauty that God has already created… a “shout-out” if you will to the glory of an awesome, creative and loving God.
Yellow Door • Won Second Place in 90 Minute QuickDraw Competition • 9 x 12 Oil on Panel
Recently I was blessed to be included in a group of painters who met for a week in Marble Falls, Texas. Our mission was to “Paint the Town” in a Plein Air competition and sale. It was a great break from the stress of work and other life issues and gave me an opportunity to paint six days in a row at various locations around Marble Falls. We painted on a beautiful longhorn ranch, at “That Joint at Spicewood”, which was an interesting and eclectic collection of all kinds of things from past decades. We also painted in the old down town section of Marble falls, and ended up the event with a 90 minute QuickDraw competition Saturday morning. I was blessed to win Second Place in that event for a piece called “Yellow Door”.
Donna and I enjoyed the week and beautiful landscapes and incredible wildflowers of the areas around Marble Falls. Sometimes I find these times of painting “en Plein Air” to be a time of worship; a time to praise the God who is for His kindness, grace and love for His creation. A time to thank Him for the salvation He has offered to fallen people through the work of Jesus Christ on the cross.
He who was delivered over because of our transgressions, and was raised because of our justification.
