My water series continues to expand with this new canvas.

I approached this “in-the-moment” subject carefully, thoughtfully. I wanted to do it justice, to successfully capture such a intimate moment of connection between two people. And, expressing the movement of  the vibrant waters of the Adriatic was a challenge all its own. Polignano a Mare, where I observed this young couple, continues to be a rich source of the observing the human form in water.

My journey into each of my water series paintings is like diving in and swimming my way to completion. Perhaps this sounds contrived; I hope not.  While I have a vision of the final painting, the current of creative inspiration inevitably takes me in directions that surprise me in retrospect. I see that I place emphases in different places. I add contrast and depth. I add vibrancy. All these things are where are an artist becomes a magician of interpretation.

Being in the moment is a big focus and lesson in my life these days.

I’m a big fan of Alan Watts, particularly because his lectures (thankfully, well-preserved in audio form) often speak to the only true reality, the present moment. I, like most of humanity, spend too much time looking over my shoulder at the past and straining towards a future idealized state. The present moment often is ignored. Thankfully, painting and creating has been my biggest teacher in bringing me to reside fully in the moment. Internal chatter falls away. Spaciousness presents itself.

“You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment.” – Henry David Thoreau

Also, in choosing my subjects in this water series, I’m keen on scenes that capture a special moment. And, ultimately, I’m in love with water’s embrace and how we’re drawn to its restorative qualities.

I’m already into my next canvas, and here’s a sneak peek.

My paintings come to life in a way that start very expressively, with on-the-canvas sketching that starts broadly. This way I let the painting unfold. The human form usually comes first, being the focal point of the painting. But the water and its movement is such a critical part.

Tentatively entitled, “Hair Flip,” here’s a glimpse into the earlier stages of one of my water series paintings. I also think you’ll see, that it’s another in-the-moment subject.