Paths

Lavender Path/pastel/9.5x11

 There's something inherently attractive about paths, whether they're literal or figurative. In nature, there are man-make paths and animal trails. While hiking in wilderness areas it is courteous (and frequently the law) to stay on the path to protect vegetation and prevent erosion. Animals make paths to sources of food and water. Gardeners build paths to draw the eye to focal points or for practical reasons. In life we often refer to a career path, a path to fitness, or a spiritual path.

These three paintings are different takes of the same scene, a path at one of the lavender gardens that participates in the Oregon Lavender Festival.

Coral Path/pastel/9.5x11

The original painting, done en plein air, sold long ago but clever me took a photo of the original scene and I've repainted it many times, each time seeing something new.

What's your path? Are you on the main path, and if so do you try to look for something new each time you travel? Are you looking for a new path? Go for it! Have you taken a side trail? Woo hoo! There are loads of divergent paths...they can be fun. What about the path less traveled?

The Path of My Choosing/pastel/9.5x11

I am on a path of self-discovery, adventure and exploration. It's scary sometimes, but that's the way, uh, uh, I like it, uh, uh.