Air Paul

I am doing a trilogy of paintings depicting Utah winter sports, using as subjects, people close to me. In this one, my friend Paul is jumping a small cornice on his Polaris snowmobile in the back country above his cabin near Heber, Utah.

The other two scenes in my Winter Sports Trilogy are of my wife powder skiing (see earlier post in this blog) and a fly fishing self-portrait (on which I am still working)!

Acrylic on canvas 15" x 30".

Pecking Order

Our kitchen is decorated with roosters of all shapes and sizes. I thought it would be fun to paint some chickens and pumpkins to celebrate the fall season. Once again, I used a very impressionistic approach to this piece ... lots of fun! Acrylic on hardboard 24" x 18".

Harvest Pumpkins

A few years ago, we purchased some leftover Easter chicks from a local supplier and were assured they were all hens. Well, one turned out to be a rooster! Since our zoning ordinace did not allow for roosters, (and the fact that he was so beautiful) we just didn't have the heart to make him into chicken soup, so we took him to a place called the Pumpkin Patch. They loved having him there! Ever since, I have wanted to paint such a place to celebrate the harvest season and the beautiful fall colors! I really enjoyed this painting expereince! Acrylic on canvas (gallery wrapped) 24" x 24"

How Do You Like Them Apples?!!

As many of you may know, one of my most sacred painting experiences occured while painting a scene of some spilled apples from an old wooden bucket (see earlier story on this blog for details). While attending a reunion with Maureen's family a couple of weeks ago, I had some spare time to do some painting. I used a very impressionistic approach to this piece and really had a lot of fun with it!

It is a sequel to the original "Do You Like Apples?" It has an even deeper meaning for me because it now belongs to a good friend of mine and hangs in her home today. Acrylic on canvas 24" x 24"

The Greatest Snow on Earth!

Ski season is almost upon us here in Utah. Maureen loves to ski, but I am not so gifted! In her honor, I painted her frolicking in the powder. Since we have the "Greatest Snow on Earth" right here in our own backyard, I thought it appropriate to post such a painting as we head into winter. Acrylic on canvas 12" x 24"

Seattle Visit

I had the opportunity to visit Rachelle and her gang over Conference weekend. We had a blast! We watched Conference together and enjoyed every other spare minute ... we read Grammy's frog book, painted (of course), rode bikes, wrestled, told stories and thoroughly enjoyed each other!

I finally got to meet little Matthew ... he sure is a sweet little guy! I really enjoyed my visit! Thanks, Rachelle and gang!

Welcome, Matthew!

Little Matthew Glen was born last week to Rachelle and Cory up in Seattle! He is just a doll! Rachelle says that he is just as sweet as he is cute! He makes grandbaby #21 for Maureen and I! We sure are proud grandparents!

Autumn in Zion

While visiting our friends, Ken and Marilyn Peck, I noticed a photo the had in their family room of this striking scene near the Temple of Sacawava along the Virgin River in Zion National Park. I asked them if I could paint it for them ... I love the contrast between the deep shadows and the wonderful highlights. It makes the color jump right off the canvas! Acrylic on canvas 16" x 20".

On Point and On the Rise

My friend has an English Pointer hound and asked me to paint it on point in the field. I used a fairly impressionistic approach to the background and a more focused realistic attempt for the dog and quail. The texture of the original piece is wonderful, though it does not translate via the digital image. Oh well, it was fun anyway! Acrylic on canvas 24' x 18"

Deep Woods Therapy

The other day I was longing to be in a place such as this ... where clear pools of water held hungry trout ready to take my dry fly. As it turned out, I couldn't go, so I painted it instead. This color scheme with its deep shadows and contrasting bright highlights is very cool ... I really enjoyed this painting! Acrylic on canvas 24" x 18"

Winter Worship

For some reason, my last few paintings have been of winter scenes ... may be a Freudian thing because I really do love to paint snow and it has been pretty hot out lately ... who knows?!!

The softness of the moonlit snow and the darkness of the night really define this painting. It will make a great Christmas card, don't you think?!! Acrylic on canvas 24" x 18".

Narrow Gauge Nostalgia

When my son, Nathan, was in High School, he and his friend formed an official club called T.W.I.G. (Train Watching is Great). I never quite understood the whole "train watching" thing but they did it nonetheless!

Now, years later, most of my grandchildren are themselves fascinated by trains. Maybe it is a hidden characteristic in the DNA pool?!! Who knows ...

So, in their honor, I decided to study up on old steam locomotives so I could paint an accurate rendition of this "narrow gauge nostalgia". I really enjoyed this painting experience! Kaiden has especially been looking forward to seeing the finished product ... enjoy! Acrylic on canvas 30" x 15"

Welcome little Kayla!

Kayla was born to Nathan and Holly on July 18, 2009. She is beautiful and perfect! She rings the bell as the 20th grandchild for Maureen and I! Grandpahood sure is sweet!

Escondido

While fly fishing this past winter, I came across this little guy hiding in the grass. The only thing that caught my eye while walking past him was his glistening eye. Experiences like this one are why I love to fly fish in the winter ... along with solitude! Not many folks are willing to brave the elements, but for me, the rewards are worth it! (Acrylic on canvas 24" x 18")

Torrey Pines #3

We just completed a Medical Office building for Dr. Monte Layton in Midvale, Utah. His passion is golfing and one of his favorite courses is Torrey Pines near San Diego. This is my attempt with this beautiful place. We had it framed and gave it to him as a "move in" gift!

Morning Rays of Spring

This is the springtime version of "Morning Rays". Note the eggs in the nest atop the post!

Morning Rays of Autumn

Autumn is my favorite time of year ... I love the colors and angle of the sun. I had fun mixing up the poses of the little wren ... this one is my favorite.

Morning Rays of Winter

This is the "winter" version of this scene. (see earliler post) It was a fun experience to capture this scene and the little wren during different seasons of the year!

Morning Rays of Summer

I am doing a series of paintings depicting the same scene across the different seasons of the year. Our daughter-in-law, Stephanie, inspired this concept, so to her I dedicate this body of work. This is the first installment of the group ... the other seasons will follow as I complete them (I am just finishing up "winter" right now). I did a painting similar to this many years ago, and I thought it would be a perfect setting for such a project. There is just something very artistic about old wood and weeds ... I love to paint them! (Acrylic on canvas 18"x 24")

The Three Amigos

Several years ago, Maureen captured this scene in our back yard after London, Eric and Ethan had been splashing around in the wading pool. She has used it as her screen saver ever since. The painting hangs in our living room today.

Catch & Creel vs. Catch & Release

Springtime along the steep banks of a river gives way to this nostalgic scene of days gone by ... I have experienced this setting many times through the years. Creels have since given way to catch and release, but the therapy is still the same! Tight lines ... (Acrylic on canvas 30"x 22")

Wild Flower Power

Spring has sprung ... finally! This was a quick study in painting something to simply brighten up a room! It is not my normal genre of things to paint, but it was fun and helped me broaden my horizons. (Acrylic on canvas 16"x 20")

Shine On

A few months ago, my sister asked me if I had ever painted a light house. Coincidentally, I had just finished a painting for my first mission companion that depicted a sailing vessel and a light house guiding the way. That was the first light house I had ever painted. My mentor, Jerry Yarnell, has done a collection of lighthouses and so I decided to study up on them. I did this piece with one of my students as a seascape study. I was fun to paint in the "old masters" style of deep shadows and bright highlights. My group painting class chose this painting to work on this month. Though it is challenging, they seem to really enjoy this piece.

Though I have not had much maritime experience, the few lighthouses I have seen always give me comfort and peace amid the turbulence of the sea ... a great metaphor of Heaven's guiding light in our lives. (Acrylic on canvas 20"x 24")

Trail of Faith

My friend, Mac Davis and his sister, commissioned me to do a painting about the Martin's Cove area and the handcart pioneers for their Mom. She will be serving a mission in the Martin's Cove Visitor's Center beginning this summer. I had seen a poster advertising for a Pioneer Trek some time ago and thought it was an appropriate depiction of that area. This is my interpretation of that scene. Whenever I have occasion to ponder on the pioneer effort to come to and establish Zion, I am humbled by their faith and determination. Acrylic on canvas (30"x 22")

Location, location, location ...

This was a fun study in monochromatic painting. I basically used different values of one basic color scheme. I used a golden undertone, adding only purple, its compliment, to create the shadows and sky. This would be a great little cabin to have as a retreat someday! Acrylic on canvas (24"x 18")

Beauties of Creation

I have always wanted to paint the Tetons. I have been holding out for an "on-site" experience. That may still come about, but I just had to paint this scene the other day! It is difficult to capture the scope and magnitude of such grandeur, but I had fun trying! This scene is a composite I created from a couple of old photos that I had taken while on a family trip in the late 80's. Another fondness from my memory bouquet! Acrylic on canvas (36"x 24")

Great, Great Grandad Ross ...

A few years ago, I painted this scene for Maureen of the Ross homestead in Fitzroy Township, Ontario, Canada. She had been researching her family history at the time and had a truly inspiring experience on this trip. We have a couple of old artifacts from this old barn. It was one of the only remaining original structures built by her great, great grandad Ross!

She just returned a couple of days ago from another trip to Ireland where she was researching this same family line ... she came home with an old mossy stone from their old homestead in Longford, Ireland along with more inspiring stories of success. She was able to find exactly what she was looking for over there to be able to connect the dots a little further back in her Ross line! She maintains that if you want to have a spiritual experience, just start doing some family history work! This little painting is another tribute to her selfless work! Acrylic on canvas (20"x 16")

Reflective Stroll on the Charles Bridge

My daughter, Rachelle, and her little family lived in the Czech Repulic for about 5 years. We had several opportunities to visit them and experience the beauty of Prague first hand! We have walked across this famous old bridge many times. This scene was how I recalled one of my first visits there ... it had rained a bit and dusk was settling in ... it was a very peaceful scene. I hope I was able to capture that moment for you! Acrylic on canvas 18"x 24" studio wrap.

To bind on earth and seal in heaven ...

This is a typical scene at our Bountiful Temple from the north and east side. We love having the temple so close to us ... literally it is only about 4-5 minutes away! I have painted this temple more than any other! Acrylic on canvas 24"x 18".

Ah, Venezia ...

Maureen and I had the opportunity to travel with Paul and Nadine Craig this past November to Venice, Italy and points beyond. I was able to paint a little during the cruise, but painted these two scenes just the other day from some photos and thumbnails I sketched while there. I experimented with a more impressionistic approach this time ... a technique I have been working on lately. Impressionism is quite popular these days, so I thought I had better figure it out! Both are Acrylic on canvas about 18" x 24".

Meet Easton Alan Harmon ...

Easton was born February 4, 2009 to Kyle and Tiffany back in Maryland ... congrats to our east coast gang! Easton is grandchild #19 for Maureen and I! Kaiden looks like he approves!

Coincidentally, Feb. 4, 2009 was the 33rd anniversary of my Guatemala earthquake experience! Way to go, Easton ... you came into this world with a bang!

Pakenham Bridge

Maureen has been doing a lot of genealogy work in the Ottawa Valley in Eastern Canada. This old bridge is significant in her family history. It is the only one of its kind in North America. It spans the Mississippi River near its headwaters. Mo's family members are buried near a little church just behind this view.

She asked me to paint it for one of her distant relatives who has been so helpful to her with her research efforts. Acrylic on canvas 20"x 10" (Jan. 2009)

Lean On Me

My sister, Connie, asked if I could paint this scene of some old out buildings she had seen in a black and white photograph given to her by Sister Elaine Dalton. She expained what it meant to her ... sometimes in our lives we need to lean on someone else for support and sometimes we need to be leaned upon! I was thrilled to give it a try!

As evidenced in the painting, the Lord can use any of us, no matter our perceived condition or stage in life to help another! I thought it was a great visual image of one of life's wonderful realities. Acrylic on canvas 24"x 18" (Jan 2009)

Grammy's Monkey Business (Christmas 2008)

Maureen has been suffering from some severe neck trauma and has been working through some disc decompression therapy since November. She somehow found the strength to sew a sock monkey for each grandchild, 18 in total, for Christmas this year! Liz Wolfgramm from work helped her cut out and sew a few (thank you, Liz!) ... I even tried to help a little by stuffing some of them. In the end, Maureen did most of the work (even re-did some of my efforts) and finished them on time for Christmas!

The kids absolutely loved them! She even led them to believe that she had used all of my fishing socks for the project ... a fact that several of them relished! I naturally fell right into the act complaining later that all of my fishing socks were missing! We really had alot of fun with that one!

I was so impressed by her efforts that I painted this litte guy and had all of the grandkids, that were there that day, sign the painting and we gave it to her for her Christmas present! Acrylic on canvas 16"x 20" (Dec 2008)

Restoration Morning

My friend, Jay Ritchie, told me about his experience visiting the Sacred Grove with his wife, Paula a couple of years ago. Since then, I have longed to be able to visit there as well ... someday perhaps!

As I have studied the Book of Mormon this year, I have had the desire to paint this sacred event, even starting the painting a couple of different times. Each time, though, I was not satisfied with my interpretation. I finally had this scene come into my mind a few weeks ago. I have a strong testimony of its reality and invite all to gain the same feelings of hope and peace. Acrylic on canvas (30"x 22") Nov 2008

He is Risen

I originally painted this piece several years ago early one Easter morning. I discovered that the power of darkness is simply just the absence of light. My feelings toward the Savior were sweetened and enhanced during this experience.

Several years later, our friends Alan and Sherrie Russell lost their 17 year old son in a tragic car accident. I was impressed to give them the painting, hoping that it might help them in their healing process. Both of us were again touched by the sweetness of the gospel and the hope that the Savior's atonement brings to all of us.

I have painted this scene several other times through the years for other family members. This one hangs in our home now. Acrylic on canvas (30"x 22") (Original completed in April 2000 ... I did this version in Nov. 2008)

Santorini

Paul and Nadine Craig invited us to go on a Greek Isle Cruise with them in November sponsored by Midwest Floor Coverings. I took my painting stuff along and painted several thumbnails ... 2 of the Savior, one of Veneice (which I gave to Paul and Nadine), and this one of Santorini. Adam had seen pictures of Santorini and thought it looked alot like his mission area on the southern Spanish coast.

Adam and Aubrey were "house sitters" for us while we were away, so I gave this one to them as thanks for helping out. Acrylic on canvas board (12"x 16")

Stormy Seas

In the current "economic storm" we find ourselves, doom and gloom abound. This scene depicts how I felt one particular day ... being tossed to and fro by the economic winds of the storm, yet confident enough to feel steady at the helm! In many life situations, there are many things we can learn from storms that we simply cannot learn from calm seas.

I used an impressionistic approach, limiting my pallet, brushes and time (I even set the timer to make sure I didn't get caught up in too many details!) It was a very insightful experience for me and helped me "loosen up" a bit. Acrylic on canvas (20"x 10")

"Rooster"

Cindy Cima, who frames most of my paintings, commissioned me to paint their family dog "Rooster" for her husband's Christmas present. This was a really fun project for me! Acrylic on canvas (30"x 22")

The Ultimate Getaway

We had the opportunity to build a recreational "get-away" for the Jake Harouny family up in Heber, Utah. I really enjoyed helping them with this project. I painted this scene as a house warming gift for them ... I wanted to protray a peaceful and enduring feeling. (Acrylic on canvass 36"x 24")

Aliza Bree Harmon

Aliza Bree was born November 25, 2008 to Adam and Aubrey Harmon ... she is sweet, beautiful and perfect! Faith is sure a proud big sister!

The Hankster ...

I first met my good friend, Hank Boehm, in 1988 as our guide on the Green River. Gary Wright had arranged for a guided float trip for us through Angler's Inn. By the luck of the draw, Hank was our guide. It was so fun, that I continued to book successive trips with Hank through the years.

We have become great friends and even work together now @ Ivory Homes. I painted this scene of him on the upper Provo River for his birthday. Tight lines, Hank!

The Glow of Christmas ...

We recently had the opportunity to stay with the Hrncirik "bugs" while Rachelle and Cory attended his sister's wedding reception in Houston. I was in "Grandpa heaven"! While we were there, I had the kids pose for this "impressionistic" Christmas tree scene.

"To be lifted once more in a glorious light,
The Spirit of Christmas you embody tonight,
Decked out in splendor your time has now come,
To herald the birth of God's loving Son".

This is one of my "mini" paintings ... Acrylic on canvas (11" x 14")

Manti Magic ...

The Manti Temple holds a special place in my heart ... My parents were married there, and I received a powerful confirmation of the reality of the Book of Mormon while attending the Manti Pagent during my junior year of high school. I gave this temple scene to Mom and Dad's 50th wedding anniversary in July of 2003. I had earlier painted a similar scene for Carl and Margaret Truman as well. Acrylic on canvas (24" x 18")

Little Hole on the Green River

My friend, Vaughn Burbidge, has a special spot on the Green. This is my vision of that "sacred" spot! Vaughn is the fisherman (lefty) Acrylic on canvas (18" x 24")

Trail to Bethlehem

Acrylic on canvas (18" x 24")

Grandkids + Painting = FUN!!!

The grandkids and I have had so much fun painting together ... here are a few pictures of our painting sessions!

The St. George temple ...

As we entered the St. George housing market a couple of years ago, I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time there and to experience the beauty of the St. George temple. I painted this scene in late November 2006 and gave the painting to Clark Ivory. It hangs in his Villa in St. George today. (Acrylic on canvass 24"x18")

And he did walk in the ways of his father ...

I have a special relationship with my dad and my children, each made up of many memories of time spent together. Fathers everywhere have such a great opportunity to influence for good those over whom they have stewardship. This painting is tribute to all those fathers who are really trying to make a difference! My son and grandson (Kyle & Kaiden) are the subjects in this scene ... Kyle's signature white NC ball cap, of course, had to be in the painting! (Acrylic on canvass 24"x 24")

From the Land Bountiful ...

We get to see similar sunsets nearly every day here in Bountiful. Having a temple so close to home is truly a great blessing in our lives. This painting hangs above our fireplace in our family room and reminds us daily that our hearts are bound to those who came before and will influence those who come after. (Acrylic on hardboard 48" x 44")

Do you like apples ...?

When the grandkids are over, we often paint together. London, then about 5, helped me underpaint this apple scene. He soon tired of painting and began inspecting my fly tying station. He was intrigued with the many different "bugs" and was impressed that I knew each of their names!

The next thing I knew, he was playing in the room and tripped ... landing with both hands on the nearly finished painting! The painting flew off the easil and on to my palette of paints. He screamed ... I screamed ... and paint "stuff" flew everywhere! He ran out of the room crying, "I wooined da painting, I wooined da painting". It took awhile to clean things up and to console poor London. I tried to convince him that we could fix the painting, but he wasn't buying any of that.

Soon, however, we made our way downstairs to my studio and we began tranforming his little hand prints into seed pods, and the long, dark line through the painting (my brush mark when the board flew off the easil) into long grass blades. One of the center apples was also smeared a bit, so we repainted it to be "different" and "unique" from the other apples ... I told him that it would represent him! Needless-to-say, he was relieved and impressed that we truly could "fix" the mess.

I explained to him that because of the Savior, every circumstance in our lives can be set straight. As Isaiah explains, "He can make light out of darkness; He can make straight crooked paths". Not every brush stroke will be perfect, some may even be mistakes, but in the end our life's painting can be beautiful with the Savior's help.

London signed one corner of the painting and I signed the other ... our first work of art together! He now has the original ... I repainted this one for my own use to remind me of this wonderful and sacred experience. (Acrylic on hardboard 36"x 12") (August 2006)

Bountiful Temple

Both Adam and Aubrey were endowed in the Bountiful temple. This painting hangs in their home. (Acrylic on canvass 16" x 20")

Christmas Lights on Temple Square

I painted this scene for Kyle and Tiffany as a wedding present. They were married in December just before Christmas in this, the Salt Lake Temple. (Acrylic on canvass 18" x24")

Sometimes we can learn more from "stormy seas" than from "calm waters" ...

My first mission companion, Rick Koplin, wrote a wonderful poem about sailing off into life's journey and being guided by the spirit ... he asked me to paint my interpretation of it! This was a fun and touching experience for me ... Thanks, Rick, for the opportunity! (Acrylic on canvass 36"x 24")

Small stream USA ...

I had the opportunity to spend a couple of days with one of my favorite painters, Jerry Yarnell. This was my first official art lesson! I loved every minute of it! This scene was the subject of our lesson ... of course, I personalized it by adding a fly fisherman! (Acrylic on canvass 24"x 18")

High Uintah Therapy

Dad and I spent a lot of time together in the Uintah Mountains of Utah when I was young. On one occasion, we were hiking into Pinto Lake to join the scout troop during there summer camp. We received poor directions and soon found ourselves lost in the wilderness. Needless-to-say, as an 8 year old I was getting concerned, but Dad assured me that all would be well. He pointed out a landmark, Bald Mountain in the distance, and told me that our truck was at the base of that mountain. All we had to do was to keep the mountain in sight and it would lead us back to safety. Sure enough, it did. The next morning, we got better directions and made our way easily to Pinto Lake.

I have never forgotten that experience. The principle applies to our spiritual lives as well. If we know to Whom to look for guidance, we are never really lost, even though we may be a bit off course. This painting is my memory of that "Bald Mountain" experience.

Alaska

The indian name for this bear is "Snuckuponus"! He surprised us as we were fishing for Coho Salmon on the Kuskatan River. (Acrylic on canvass 24"x 18")
The Alaskan Moose are so majestic and interesting ... just had to paint this guy! (Acrylic on canvass 24"x 18")

This old troller was moored in Port Alexander where we stayed for a week of fishing with Brent, BJ and Robbie Hogge. We never saw it leave port, but we walked by it everyday. These old vessels are so unique and intriguing! (Acrylic on canvass 24"x 18")

Dinos for London and Kasen

Stephanie has been "Dino" decorating the boys' room and asked me to personalize their favorite dinosaurs with a painting for each ... London loves Raptors and is fascinated by anything "Spiderman", hence the Spiderosaurus ... Kasen loves the T-Rex and is never seen without his faithful doggy companion "Baby Vinny", hence the Kasenosaurus Rex! I am now a "dinosauw expote" (Acrylic on canvass 12"x12")

Winter Camp

I have really had fun creating some "mini" paintings like this one. This scene is from my Native American and Old West collection. (Acrylic on canvass 8" x 10")

New heights ...

I painted this scene for Adam when he received his Eagle Scout award a few years ago. (20"x 16"Acrylic on canvass )

My young friend, Craig Hansen, just earned his Eagle Scout award as well. His parents commissioned me to paint this for him to be presented in his Eagle Court of Honor. Craig and I have been getting together to paint now for several months. He is becoming a fine artist in his own rite. (24"x 24" Acrylic on canvass)

Silence is golden ...

There is something about the solitude of fly fishing that is therapudic for me. I tried an impressionistic approach to this painting to convey the peace and quiet of such aloneness! Though loneliness is all it is cracked up to be, sometimes there is nothing wrong with "quiet"...

(Acrylic on canvass 36" x 18")

Grandpa, what's the name of this bug ...

Instead of tidying up my fly tying station, I decided to paint it! The grandkids love to feel the feathers and play with the "bugs" when they come over. They are always impressed to discover that I do know the names of all of the "bugs"! This is a "mini" size painting (Acrylic on canvass 8" x 10")

"... never forget what they did here ...

While visiting Kyle, Tiffany and Kaiden in March 2008, they took me to Gettysberg, PA. to visit this famous battlefield and memorial. I was overwhelmed with reverence for this place. We also visited the Linclon Memorial in Washington D.C. and read his Gettyberg address. His words, "... never forget what they did here ..." prompted this painting. I am grateful today for those who protect us and stand up for those who cannot. (Acrylic on canvass 24" x 18")

Czesky Krumlov

I had the opportunity to visit this quaint little town a couple of times with my daughter while visiting their family in the Czech Republic. It really is "fairytale-like" in its atmosphere and quaintness. (Acrylic on canvass 18" x 24")

"Why don't he write...?"

Only just a few years ago we waited anxiously for the mail to arrive in hopes that a letter from our missionary was there ... now we watch our email accounts! I painted this while Kyle was serving his mission as a reminder of those "good old days" of the anticipation of snail mail!

This was a fun study on how to create a look of old sheet metal and weathered wood. (Acrylic on canvass 18"x 24")

Free spirit ...

I love horses, but painting them is a real challenge. Here, I tried to capture the excitement and determination of the horse in a free gallop! This is part of my collection of paintings of the Old West and of Native America. (Acrylic on canvass 24" x 12")

Days gone by ...

Old buildings just get artistically better and better with age ... I wish that were true with some other things! (Acylic on hardboard 30" x 22")

I beheld a tree whose fruit was desirable to make one happy ...

This painting provided a wonderful lesson for me about how precious our families are to us. In Lehi's dream of the Tree of Life, he states that when he had tasted of the sweetness of the gospel covenant, he immediately began "searching", "beckoning" and "shouting with a loud voice" for his family to share it with him. I'm sure that each of us have similar tender feelings as we deal with our families and close friends.

I also had a meaningful experience pertaining to the image of the "strait and narrow path". It was very different from what I had previously envisioned. In the scriptures, the word "strait" is spelled like this, rather than "straight". The subtle difference was profound to me ... rather than a linear "straightness" as I had always before imagined, the words that describe this type of "strait" are more like these: strict, limited, close fitting, narrow, not easily manuvered, etc. So, this layout of the Tree of Life vision came into my mind as I pondered this passage of scripture. I truly enjoyed this painting experience ... hope you do, too! (Acrylic on canvass 36"x 24")

The Charm of Fishing ...

"The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of something elusive yet obtainable ... a perpetual series of occasions for hope." (Acylic on canvass 24"x18")

Trout truly don't live in ugly places! (Acylic on canvass 36"x48")

My love of fly fishing and painting have collided many times through the years. These "therapy" scenes are of some of my "special" places where "a river runs through it"! (Acrylic on canvass 24"x18")

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon

One can see forever, it seems, in Color Country! I love to paint these types of scenes! (Acylic on hardboard 36"x 12")

Meet Ava Marie Harmon ... the latest addition to our Grandchild bouquet!

Ava Marie was born on March 1, 2008 to Nathan and Holly Harmon ... what a sweetheart she is! I told Nathan to get limbered up and be prepared to be wrapped around her little finger!

Vinny

Vinny is our little beagle dog. He came to us early from his mother (about 5 weeks old) who had turned on the litter and had torn him up pretty good ... one ear was nearly gone, the tip of his tail had been bitten off, etc. He was also the runt of the bunch. We named him after Vincent Van Gogh (the missing ear thing). The ear has grown out a bit and looks fairly normal now, but the name stuck!

He was about two years old when I painted him here. He just loves to climb on top of everything. He is sure a fun little guy, always willing to play and impart his affection ... he thinks that he is everybody's friend! Vinny has become a wonderful companion and friend to us and our grandchildren ... they all love Vinny. He just turned 7 years old in February. (Acrylic on canvass 18" x 24")

Some of my oldies, but goodies ...

This was a fun study in a monochromatic style painting. It hangs in our basement family room and emits a feeling of peace and solitude. (Acrylic on cavass 36"x 18")

This little snow scene was finalist in the 2002 Olympic Fine Arts Competition ... note the shadows in the snow on the roof. (Acrylic on canvass 20"x 16")


This snow scene represents our Pioneer Heritage and Olympic Spirit (the wagon wheels lay in the shape of the olympic rings) ... this piece was shown in the State-wide Olympic Fine Arts Competition. Acrylic on canvas (16"x 20").






I painted this scene of the Mormon row barn at the request of my close friend, Alan Russell. (Acrylic on canvass 36"x24")








Maureen and I visited her cousin in British Columbia and while there, walked along this misty forest trail ... just had to paint it! (Acrylic on canvass 18'x 24")



















I can actually smell the quakies when I look at this painting. I passed through a spot like this on my way to do some fly fishing one morning and just had to come home and paint it! (Acrylic on canvass 12"x 24")

Fishing anyone?!!

Here are a few of my many fishing related paintings ... I am still in the process of photographing the rest of them. I'll get them posted just as soon as I can! This one is of the Blacksmith Fork River. (Acrylic on canvass 18"x 24")




These two 24"x 12" acrylics on canvass are of Nathan at 14 on the Green, and a self-portrait on the Madison.

Some card ideas ...

Acrylic on canvass 18"x 24"
Scripture time ... acrylic on canvass 18"x 24"

Juliana, Vinny and Frosty

This is in tribute to the long winter we have been having!

Some of my latest works ...

This indian village is an acrylic on hardboard (36" x 12") and is part of my Native American and Old West collection.

This seascape is an acrylic on canvass (24" x 18") and reminds me of the east coastal shores. My son Kyle and family are back in Maryland and I hope to visit there someday soon.

We visited George and Suzie Ross (Maureen's brother) in Colorado a couple of years ago and their home decor was perfect for this painting. We sent it to them as a thank you gift when we returned home. Within a couple of months, however, Suzie passed away as the result of a brain tumor. We are glad she got to enjoy it for awhile.

I love this scene from the Uintah mountains. I gave this painting to Katelyn Kellerstraus for her wedding present. I have watched her grow up through her parents over the years and just thought she might enjoy a scene like this that reminds us all to look at the big picture as we navigate our way through this life.

Our Czech connection ...

Prague ... the Jewel of Europe ... city of 10,000 spires! (Acrylic on hardboard 42"x 40")
Castle steps ... the Prague Castle sits atop this hill and these steps descend onto the street below. (Acrylic on canvass 18"x 24")

Rachelle and her little family had the unique experience to live and work in the Czech Republic for several years. These are images that I have painted after our multiple Czech visits. I had a lot of fun with these pieces because they bring back fond memories of the Hrnciriks in Prague. (Acrylic on canvass 18"x 24")

P.S.:

I am just in the middle of painting a scene of Czecky Krumlov ... I will post it as soon as I am able.

Highlights from our trip to Europe 2007

I sketched this wonderful old Villa while we were traveling through Tuscany with Gary and Denise Wright. I had an opportunity to paint a version of it for them while we were there, but painted this one when we returned home. It now hangs in the Ivory Homes Headquarter Building (Acrylic on canvass 36"x 24")

This incredible old sailing vessel was a real challenge to paint. I am not an expert in anything "Maritime", but I really enjoyed this piece. Maureen had been researching her immigrant ancestors who bravely made such voyages from Ireland and England on similar vessels. I felt inspired to paint this scene to remind us of the faith of our fathers and of the hand of the Lord who led them to this land "choice above all other lands". (Acrylic on canvass 24"x 18")

I painted this old Irish Castle as a tribute to Maureen's Irish heritage. (Acrylic on canvass 36"x 24")

When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy!

I had a wonderful experience with this piece. I learned anew that the power of darkness is simply the absense of light. Darkness must yield when light is present.

As the angel declared, "For unto you (all of us) is born this day in the city of David, a Savior (not a just a baby) which is Christ the Lord."

I published this as my first personalized Christmas card in 2007.(Acrylic on canvass 24"x 36")

Archive work from 1999-2001

Light in the Forest ...Acrylic on canvas 16"x 20" (1999)

Nebraska Windmill ... Acrylic on canvas 16"x 20" (1999)

Laie Shores Acrylic on canvas 18"x 24" (2001) I gave this painting to Quayle and Sherrie Dutson as a thank you for letting us take our boys (Kyle, Adam, Jared and Justin) to Hawaii just after Kyle returned home from his mission and stay in their home in Haula on the north shore of Oahu.

This was my first painting of the High Uintah Mountains. We spent a lot of time there when I was a boy. Acrylic on canvas 18"x20" (2000)

I gave this painting to Sander and Merlene Larsen as a house warming gift. We (Ivory Homes) had the opportunity to build a new home for them when they returned from their mission in Bellevue, Washington. We discovered that they used to live in our home @ 977 East in Bountiful! He also knew Rachelle from Ricks College where he served as the Dean of the Performing Arts and knew her as the lead in their Opera, "The Bartered Bride". Acrylic on canvas 18"x 24" (2001)

Archive work from 1998

This was a scene I painted for Maureen's friend, Missy (1998). She loves wildlife. I have been a part of these types of mornings out in nature many times. Arylic on canvas 30'x 20" (Fall 1998)






After my Mission President, Bob Arnold, passed away, I painted this scene for his family. This is how I felt ... Though the proximate surroundings seemed dark and gloomy, the hope of new light was not far distant on the horizon. Acrylic on canvas 20"x 16" (Late Winter 1998)
Maureen and I spent a week with Carl and Margaret Truman at Lake Powell. We visited Rainbow Bridge and I just had to paint it right there on site! Acrylic on canvas board 16"x 20" (Summer 1998)




Southern Utah is so divers in its beauty ... I painted this scene for one of our neighbors as a thank you for helping us through a particularly difficult time in our lives. Acrylic on canvas 20"x 16" (Fall 1998)

Some of my early work from 1996

This is probably the most photographed light house in the world ... it was one of my very first paintings. I remember painting it on the kitchen table because I didn't own an easel yet! I gave it to my good friends Jerry and Verlyn Pullman years ago. They have always been supportive of my painting efforts and I wanted them to have it as a show of my appreciation. Acrylic on canvas 20"x 16" (Spring 1996)

This is one of my very favorite pieces of my early work. I learned a lot from this painting experience. It is a scene in Capitol Reef that caught my eye as we made our way down to Lake Powell in 1996 ... Acrylic on canvas 20"x 16" (Fall 1996)

My first painting ...

The other day, I ran onto a bunch of old photos of my earliest paintings. It was kind of fun to stroll down memory lane. They were just regular photograpghs, so I scanned them to have in a digital format.

This piece is my very first painting ... completed in 1995. I gave it to Rachelle as she later went off to college. Acrylic on canvas (14"x 18")