The San Diego Temple

My parents served a mission together in the San Diego area and were involved in the Temple Open House there in the early 90's. Our son and daughter-in-law were married in this beautiful temple as well. For their 15th anniversary, he commissioned me to paint this as a gift for her. Happy Anniversary! Acrylic on canvas 36" x24" (gallery wrap)

The Ship Brooklyn

I have had the recent privilege of participating in the design and construction of a replica of the cutter ship "Brooklyn" at this is the Place Heritage Park in Salt Lake City. It will be a "hands on" experience for children to learn about this "almost forgotten" part of the Mormon Pioneer story.

238 east coast pioneers left New York aboard the "Brooklyn" about the same time as Brigham Young left Nauvoo. They sailed around the horn of South America and landed six months later in Yerba Buena, California (today's San Francisco). Many of them continued on east to Salt Lake, but some stayed in California. Some were even involved in stimulating the California Gold Rush @ Sutter's Mill in 1849.

I was also asked to do a painting of the Brooklyn for the display. I did a lot of research to understand more about this type of ship before attempting to paint it. It has been a fascinating experience for me. I have been humbled as I have come to know of the sacrifices made and hardships endured by these early pioneers. Their faith and devotion is inspiring.

My hope is that this painting will be a catalyst to help us remember our heritage and to reverence those who have gone before. We are certainly the beneficiaries of their commitment and sacrifice. Acrylic on canvas 36"x24".

Shine On II

I have the opportunity to teach a group art class each week. During one of our sessions last month, several students wanted to know how to paint a moon scape in low light conditions. As I began showing them some techniques, we began to compose this scene. Everyone liked the concept so much, I went home and painted it. We are now using it as the subject for our June classes.

Painting something that is not really there or something in low light conditions can be very challenging. Very subtle light changes are the key to this type of painting.

I have now painted several lighthouses through the years. They are a beloved symbol of hope and guidance for us as we navigate through this mortal experience. Even in our darkest hours, we can find glimpses of light to help us find our way. The power of darkness is simply the absense of light. Light always wins. Enjoy ...

Acrylic on canvas 24"x18"

Winter Spring Creek

I love to fly fish in the winter ... the quiet and solitude are therapeutic. Small streams like this one abound in our mountain valleys and offer a unique outdoor experience. After spending an afternoon in this environment, I just had to come home and paint it! Acrylic on canvas 24"x18".

Siena Perspective

This is a typical scene of a Mediterranean farming area. The perspective of the road and rows are the subject of this piece and are what drew me to paint it. I used a very impressionistic approach ... really fun! Acrylic on canvas 36"x24".

Tuscany Poppies

While Maureen and I were in the Tuscany region of Italy a couple of years ago, we saw many quaint landscapes like this one (a study painting with my painting mentor Jerry Yarnell). The red poppies really compliment the gray-greens of the surrounding flora and fauna of that area. It is so interesting to me that every area of the world has its own color scheme!

We were invited to spend a few days there with our good friends Denise and Gary Wright and loved every minute of it! Thank you, Wrights! The countryside so impressed me that I have completed several paintings of this region now. I have them displayed on my website in the gallery called "Europe" along with some of Prague and Poland. Enjoy ...

Acrylic on canvas 30"x15"

Spring break ... country style!

I did this little piece as a study with my painting mentor, Jerry Yarnell. I have completed several paintings lately and I noticed that they all have dirt roads or pathways in them ... Hmmm?!! There is just something artistic about dirt or gravel roads I guess! I love the outdoors enough that I have walked down my share of them and they speak to me for some reason. Anyway, hope you enjoy this piece of springtime in the country! Acrylic on canvas 24"x18".

Simeon with the Savior of the World

My close friend, Alan Russell, invited me to study the story of Simeon and then paint a scene depicting him with the baby Jesus. I have to admit, I had never paid much attention to this story in the Bible before. It was a humbling and fascinating experience for me! What I took away from it was that, like Simeon, we can all make valuable contributions in life even though we may not have high profile responsibilities. Simeon was just a good man, trying to magnify his calling as a temple worker ... every day going about his duties faithfully. I invite any of you to read this account in Luke chapter 2 ... I would love to hear from you about your experience.

I tried to imagine what it must have been like for him to finally hold the baby Jesus whom he recognized immediately as the Savior of the world when he first saw Him with His parents in the temple.

Then my little grandson, Matthew, was born in Washington state. I didn't get to meet him for several weeks after his birth. When I finally did get to hold him, I was overcome with emotion ... I just stared at him with awe and amazement ... the long awaited event was finally happening.

After returning home, Matthew's parents sent me a photo which captured that very moment. I was unaware that the photo had even been taken. I knew right off that I would use this image as my guide to paint this piece. (It's a little scary to see what even more grey hair and a beard does to make one look older!) I could only imagine that Simeon, too, took a moment to gaze into the babe's countenance with wonder and amazement after such a long time of longing. I hope this piece will inspire us all to be a little better each day and to try to do as much good as we can. Acrylic on canvas 18" x 24".

Ahhh ... New Zealand!

Maureen and I spent two wonderful weeks in New Zealand this spring (their autumn). The people were warm and friendly, the pace laid back, the scenery stunning and the weather pleasant! It was truly hard to come home! I wasn't sure at times if we were in Hawaii or Alaska ... the landscape was that divers and beautiful.

This little scene is a typical scene on the south island (my favorite!). Hope you enjoy it! Acrylic on canvas 24" x 18".

The Green River Gorge

One can see forever it seems in this BIG country near the Flaming Gorge reservior and the Green River below. The scenery is stunning! Though this is one of my very favorite areas to fish, it is worth the drive just to experience the vistas and breath-taking landscapes ... and a river runs through it! Acrylic on canvas 30" x 15".

Are you in there?

This is a fun little painting that I did as a lesson subject. I had done a similar one previously but I wanted to give the little wren a bit more attitude this time! The softness of the background and the deepness of the shadows make this a dramatic yet simple painting! Hope you enjoy it! Acrylic on canvas 12" x 24".

Logan LDS Temple

My son and his fiance will be married in the Logan temple this coming May. I have always wanted to paint this temple ... it is so beautiful, in setting and in architecture! This one will hang in their home soon! Acrylic on canvas 30"x22"

Town Square in Eastern Europe

I offered to do a painting for my nephew as a wedding present a while back. He and his wife both served missions in Europe and they decided to have me paint this scene of a town square in Poland just after an evening rain (that seems to be the theme of several of my latest pieces?!!) Acrylic on canvas 24"x18"

Small town gathering

I painted a similar scene for my home several years ago ... I actually painted it on hardboard and then cut it in half so that I could place the two halves in tall narrow frames that would fit on my radius stairway wall. Cutting the painting in two took some courage, I admit, but it worked out well and the scene still hangs in our home today.

I wanted to have a painting of the complete scene as well so I painted this one just for myself. It is a fun study in creating the peaceful feeling that always follows an evening rain. Hope you enjoy it! Acrylic on canvas 18"x20".

Wintertime at the Bountiful Temple

No doubt, I have painted the Bountiful Temple more than any other! I was teaching a class the other day using this type of monochromatic approach and decided to experiment on how the Bountiful Temple would look in mystical stormy weather. I had painted this very scene for my son years ago depicting a bright summer day, so this is in direct contrast to that view.

The little birds roosted in the trees and the glowing lights through the foggy mist lend to the mystical feel of the painting and suggest a long, cold night ahead. What a contrast to the light, warmth and hope that the inside of the temple offers! Acrylic on canvas 16"x20"

"... he went and washed, and came seeing"

The story of this miracle is very sacred to me and my dad. A few years ago, he asked me to give him a priesthood blessing because he was concerned about the macular degeneration of the retina with which he was then challenged.

As I prepared myself for this event, I studied this passage with great interest knowing that the Savior certainly had the ability to restore my dad's eye sight just as he had for this blind man. It was also interesting to see the progression of the blind man's testimony of the Savior in this passage.

The day of dad's blessing came and, as it turned out, it was different than I had previously hoped for. His was not a restoration of his eye sight as I was want to bestow upon him, rather the promise of stabilizing sight and the comfort of knowing that he would be able to see when he needed to see and that he would be blessed with the added ability of discernment which is simply the ability to see spiritually. We wept together at the conclusion of his blessing ... tears of gratitude and comfort.

I have long wanted to paint such a scene, and after studying the wonderful photographic body of work by Mark Mabry called "Reflections of Christ", I finally had the basis for this one. I hope it reflects the promise of hope that the Savior provides for us. Acrylic on canvas 24" x 18".

Alpha and Omega

I have been working on a body of work now for a couple of years about the Savior. During that time, I have developed several thumbnail sketches and even some other paintings of the Savior's life, but none of them have felt right, so they sit in the corner of my studio gathering dust.

However, the other night, after having been studying about His compassion and healing influence, I began to think of trying again. We had a couple of our grandsons spending the night, and the thought came to use their dad's image as my model. In less than an hour, this painting was complete ... it seemed to just flow from my brush!

I had been reading a passage from the Book of Revelations wherein John explains that, "God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."

I was so touched by this description ... the act of wiping away tears implies a very intimate relationship ... only a parent, a spouse or a child would do that. Then He calls himself, "Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end". I was overcome with gratitude as I pondered on His great life and promise of hope.

I began to wonder ... what is He the "end" of ... the "beginning" of? As I see it, He is the end of death, sorrow, despair, guilt, loneliness and other challenges of mortality. He is the beginning of life, hope, forgiveness, peace and joy. I hope this painting helps to bring these "beginnings" into your life. Acrylic on canvas (18" x 24")

Irish Homestead

While on a family history trip to Ireland, Maureen and I came across a photo of this old homestead. We wondered if it might look something like the places that our ancestors may have lived back in the mid-1800's. Since we both have Irish roots, I wanted to paint this quaint little scene in their honor. Acrylic on canvas (18" x 24")

Ruling the roost

I have had several requests to paint roosters in an impressionistic setting. I have to admit, it has been pretty fun to develop this painting techinique. I have raised many chickens through the years, so this body of work is more personal than most. These are a sampling ... hope you enjoy these birds!

Confluence

In the winter, spring feeder creeks provide a unique fishing opportunity in our Utah rivers. The water in most spring creeks is a few degrees warmer than the main river water and thus offers fish and insects in the river a higher matabolism opportunity. I love to fish these "confluence" areas because the fish generally congregate along the "seams" of the converging flows.

I had the opportunity to fish such an area in January and the fish were very willing to play that day! I just had to come home and paint the scene! Acrylic on canvas 18" x 24".

Historic Benson Grist Mill

This is my vision of how the old Benson grist mill may have looked in its working days. It was key to the development of the Tooele valley and served as the last real watering hole before crossing the desert salt flats. Ivory Homes has a new housing development called Benson Mill right next door to the old site. The mill has been restored now and is open to the public.

Because of my company's connection to the mill area and because I have always wanted to paint an old grist mill, this one seemed a perfect fit! The stark contrast of the life threatening cold outside and the life giving grain inside is the theme of this painting. Acrylic on canvas (30" x 22")

Horseback in Zion

Zion National Park must be seen first hand in order to appreciate its scope and beauty. There is no better way than by horseback. This composition is a bit different for me but it was fun to paint and to relive the experience. Acrylic on canvas (30" x 15")

Key bird

My dad used to describe the little birds of winter as "key-birds". When asked why, he would simply say ... "They seem to be saying, 'Key-key-key-riminy its c-c-c-c-c-cold"! Here is my latest version of a "key-bird"! These little winter birds are very artistic and fun to paint, especially cardinals! Acrylic on canvas 14" x 11".

LDS.org - Ensign Article - Mormon Journal

LDS.org - Ensign Article - Mormon Journal

An acquaintence of mine entered my name into his search engine to help him find my Harmon Art website and he stummbled across this link to the LDS magazine "Ensign". (My article is the second one on the link) I had almost forgotten about this article that I was asked to write for the Ensign way back in 1979 about my experiences during the 1976 earthquake in Guatemala. As I read it again, I was touched and humbled anew by the character and humility of the amazing Daniel Choc.

My time with Elder Choc has forever changed my life. I can't wait to see him again and thank him for the inspiring influence he has been for me and for my family. I hope you enjoy reading about this incredible young man.

Irish Pride

My friend, Mac, asked me to paint this rendition of his wife's family homestead in Red Castle, Ireland for her for Christmas. Originally it belonged to her great, great grandfather. The significance of the trombone is a fun story ...

He asked me to incorporate somehow a trombone into the painting as a tribute to her father, who played in the Utah Symphony for years and who's dream it was to return to the old homestead and live there. Unfortunately, he passed away before ever having the opportunity.

The deep shadows and the brilliant light really define this painting. It was fun to use every shade of green on my pallet! Acrylic on canvas 24" x 20".

Arc of Faith

During a recent Family Home Evening about Noah's arc, Little Miss gathered all of her stuffed animals together to put them on the arc! Her parents captured this photo and I just had to paint it! It sure is fun to be a grandpa! Acrylic on canvas (20" x24")

Winter in Midway

There is just something artistic about old farms ... fences, out buildings, trees, etc. This setting in Midway includes the majestic Mt. Timpanogus in the distance and a beautiful winter landscape, typical to this area. I plan to have a booth in the Midway Swiss Days next September, so I thought it would be fun to start painting a few scenes from that area. Acrylic on canvas (30 x 22")

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.