This is the painting I had been building to with my 10″ studies of the Kootenai Valley. There is a mighty and powerful river there but I was entranced with the small trickling streams and ditches. Cold but amazing place. I wanted to stay until dark but when we nearly got the car stuck leaving seemed like a pretty good idea!
The winter arrived late but with serious intent. Mornings dream like with mist lifting from the waves and through the forest. The water revealed as the color of dawn warms the sky if not the air.
The third painting inspired by the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. I am currently working on an 18″x24″ piece in the same vein.
Framing & Shipping 11”x14”
I got up in the darkness to frame and package a couple sold paintings. I thought I better try to mail them between snow storms!
Another small painting inspired by a beautiful wildlife refuge in North Idaho! The preserve is called Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. It is nearly to Canada in the Idaho Panhandle.
My solo show is ongoing at Elliott Fouts Gallery in Sacramento, CA. It will run the month of February.
I went down for the second Saturday art opening! It was fun to talk to art enthusiasts and buyers. It was a very successful show for the gallery and myself. So much work goes into such an event, you never know what will happen. I keep my mind focused on the art… it’s all there is to do.
As a painter I tend to be very solitary, in my own head. Funny how much I find myself talking at these shows…
Last weekend we took a little road trip to the Kootenai National wildlife refuge. We didn’t arrive until the evening but the lighting and views were magnificent! The main loop drive was closed for the winter, but worth the trek regardless!
I have done a few little winter scenes inspired by the evening. I hope to paint a larger image next.
What can I tell you, I like clouds. A close up on one catching the last light. Though the days are getting a bit longer the sun is still low. Often clouds seem to be the only ones enjoying the sunshine.
My recent winter paintings on the studio table. We are due for much colder temperatures and heavy snowfall. In other words I am sure there will be more of these!
In North Idaho winter is a very real season. I love to be in the studio working this time of year! I don’t feel guilty about being inside, and it’s such a beautiful view. I decided to capture a little of the winter feel in these small paintings. I will probably do a couple larger paintings on the theme soon.
I hope everyone is staying warm!
brian sostrom 