The cottonwoods along the Santa Cruz River in southern Arizona beckon with radiant colors. Perfect for a plein air painting! The weather has cooled and the air is brisk during the early morning. It is a perfect scenario to set up the easel to splurge on the vibrant colors that characterize the change of season. 

Morning at the Empire Ranch on a perfect October morning and a window to the mountains through an old barn is the scene of a new painting. After a very hot summer and the added confinement of the pandemic, breathing the fresh, fragrant air of the cottonwoods and mesquite are a delight. Meredith picks a cool kitchen still life scene while I paint and chat with tourists outdoors. We walk the now dry creek bed area where massive old cottonwoods, dry and stoic, have a multicolor luster revealing their many years gracing the creek before their thirsty demise. They are their own legend. 

Day of the Dead brings us the opportunity to commune in spirit with our loved ones passed on the the otherworld. Marigolds beckon with color and fragrance offering a conduit to and fro our alters of remembrance. Music and photos and flowers fulfill dreams creating reciprocity between realms. 

***Some of these original prints are available for sale. Please inquire at artbyvaleriegraham@gmail.com***