“Summer Group” – Oil on Paper

I recalled something as I was mixing blobs of green paint with my palette knife. I remembered a pastel painting I created in high school that won a Scholastic Art Award. The subject was my bicycle. The entire painting was done in shades of green and it was a composition of negative shapes. I wish I still had that piece. It was on some sort of thin school-grade paper, and had a hand cut mat that was surely cut by my instructor. The art was stuck to the back of the mat with cellophane tape and had turned brittle and yellow with time. It was the ’70s.

Of course I had no idea that four years later I would end up meeting the love of my life. He is an avid cyclist and encouraged me to ride. He has also been my lead support of all of my artistic endeavors. Thirty-four years have passed and he has introduced me to amazing lifelong riding friends, beautiful pathways, and some really great stories. Saying I’m grateful would be an understatement.

I really love creating these paintings because I can reflect on the moods and moments on the road. The color and the movement on a ride is immensely inspiring. And because nature sets the stage, there is never the same scene, even on the most routine routes. When I arrive home, my mind is calm and happy. The subjects of my paintings are my friends, although anyone on a bike has the potential. There are laughs, serious conversations, problem-solving sessions and some serious reflection. Cycling generates an inner quiet. Even in a group or peloton of cyclists, there is peace, power and freedom.

As you head down your own path, observe what unfolds. You may be mesmerized by the cadence of swooshing pedal strokes and the rhythm of your breath. You may start pacing with the patterns of the cool shadows stretching across the pavement or the subtle thumping of tar-filled cracks on your tires. Check out the sparkling lit oasis’ and the soft morning colors. Witness the feelings of sunlight. Watch the top of the road as the edge drops off to underline the sky. Then race to see the other side.

“Summer Trail Ride” – Oil on Paper

“Four Up Hill” – Oil on Paper

“Sunday” – Oil on Panel

“Rolling” – Oil on Panel

“Yellow Line” – Oil on Paper