One of my favorite ways to paint—especially when I need to let go of stress—is to begin with a messy background and simply see where it leads. It’s always interesting to watch what begins to emerge from a canvas full of color and texture.
 
This blue heron painting developed that way—organically, without preplanning—allowing the movement, layering, and subtle shifts in tone to guide the direction.
 
I’ve always loved the freedom and possibilities that come with working in rich texture and color, and this piece reflects that process.
 
At the base, I included a portion of Le Lac (The Lake) by Alphonse de Lamartine. It felt like a natural fit for the mood of the piece.
 
“Oh time, suspend your flight—and you, favorable hours, suspend your course. Let us savor the fleeting delights, the most beautiful of our days.”
 
I titled this piece Still Moments—a quiet reminder to slow down and fully experience the beauty in front of us.