The Red Canoe (2025)

My family and I were floating down the Erie Canal one summer day, when we passed this inviting scene and I snapped a photo. Nothing fancy, nothing profound. I just fell for the color contrast of the red canoe against the greenery, with the playful pops of colors provided by the Adirondack chairs.

But this painting also reflects what I appreciate most about being an artist. It isn't that I have some "special" talent. Instead, through years of observation and practice, I have honed my ability to stop and notice what others might sail right past. Moreover, I can take that image, alter it any way I want, and share it so others in such a way as to communicate my impressions of that summer day. In this way, I can make an otherwise fleeting moment a lasting treasure.

I've recently been encouraged and inspired by the Be.Make.Do podcast for creatives. Upon reflection and their encouragement, I've discovered that my artist "type" is a Storyteller. This has liberated me from expectations that don't really suit my sensibilities, values and approach to art, in order to focus in on the stories I want to tell. While this particular painting may not be considered "profound" or "groundbreaking," in this generation of of anxiety and depression, isn't it nice to have reminders of lazy, quiet, sunny days to soothe our spirits and encourage us that, whatever we are going through, it is only a season?

Seasons change. That thought gives me hope and reminds me to choose how I think about my circumstances. I can return to this scene in my mind, sit down in that blue chair and sip a cold drink--alone or with friends and family--or I can take the canoe out for a river adventure. Whatever story this painting inspires, my hope is that it communicates blessings and peace for its audience, including you!