Boathouse March 2020

This is the 4th painting I have made of this historic boat house in my home town. The first time I painted it I brought artist's who were visiting from China to paint with me. I sat near Professor Gu Xong...even though we did not speak the same language we got along famously as painters. Now I have gone back several times and even though I am alone I can imagine and "feel" Gu Xongs presence painting alongside of me. So much of my work is done solitarily and this was a special moment of camaraderie that I will always treasure. I love the boathouse the reflection in the river and the curve of the walking bridge I can stand under. Due to an ordinance it is not lawful to build a structure this close to the river any more and so this is a a treasure. I love coming back to this site for these one day plein air paintings, this recent painting makes me feel how close in our humanity we are to all people. I have been in touch with Gu Xong, he and his family are safe but it has not been easy.