May brings the Saguaro Cactus to bloom. This iconic Arizona Species dominates the landscape throughout the southern part of the state below 4000 feet in elevation. It is generally difficult to get a good photo of the blossoms as they appear only at the top and ends of the arms, which are usually too tall to reach, but occasionally some are hanging low enough to get a photograph of their spectacular beauty.
Again I have done a watercolor based on a recent photograph.
I was out in the desert a while back and came across a local resident. He watched me patiently with a curiosity that allowed me time to get my camera ready. Perhaps he thought I was about to have lunch and would leave a tidbit to share. Nevertheless, I took advantage of his realization that I meant him no harm, getting a few great photos, one of which I thought would make a great watercolor.
Gila Woodpecker on a Cholla skeleton.
One of the many useful plants in the desert, Canaigre Dock contains tannin, used in the tanning of leather. The leaves and stalks of this striking plant are also edible after cooking.
During the spring I often come across it in lower elevations, usually along washes that occasionally have running water and shade. Its broad green leaves make it stand out.
Summer has arrived and I will miss my treks out into the local wilderness areas. I find such great peace and solitude there.
I thought I would show you how I go about creating one of my pieces. I start with a drawing from one of my photographs. In this painting it is a species of dock, specifically Canaigre Dock. (Rumex hymenosepalus).
When I first moved to the desert southwest I was pleasantly surprised to discover the incredible diversity that is the Sonoran Desert. Far from a barren wasteland often depicted in western folklore, it is a place of vast numbers of both plants and animals. And, of course, the spectacular panoramic vistas only add to the feeling that you are living in a picture postcard.
Summer is upon us and it’s time to put the camera aside until cooler weather returns. I have taken thousands of photos and now it is time to start painting. I am doing a series of botanical illustrations. They will be available for sale as prints for 30 dollars, including domestic shipping. They will be printed in eight and one half by eleven size with larger prints available. I am willing to negotiate a price for originals.
Here are a couple of ink and watercolor paintings that I completed this week.
Art and creativity have always been a passion of mine. It’s a fascinating, interesting journey where I document the extraordinary world of nature with my art and writing.
I’m self taught, primarily painting in watercolor and acrylic. I also work in pen and ink, graphite and pastels.
As an avid photographer, I base most of my paintings on my photographs. I prefer the natural world, both flora and fauna. Most of my subjects are photographed in the wild.
I currently live in Arizona, and hence much of my art reflects the species here.
Detail of Mountain Lion. 2007. Watercolor. 
natureartlife 