Saint Albans Aug 19, 2024

Last week took me to the northern reaches of my usual jurisdiction. Colorful and vibrant, I found the small city of Saint Albans to be gorgeous in every direction. Considering all the prevailing factors I decided on a sweet shady spot under a tree in Taylor Park with a good view of downtown. I was especially attracted to the magnificent central time piece and colossal floral display.

Once I got set up to paint, the first hour was the drawing and block-in to establish the main components and design. With that important foundation accomplished, I quickly shifted into “the zone”, that wonderful place we experience when completely engaged and time stands still.  I started this painting about 10:00 AM. When the first hunger pangs arrived I guessed it was noon. I asked a passerby the time. He checked his watch; quarter till 2:00.

It wasn’t until writing this post I realized something rather funny. I had asked that nice fellow walking by what time it was because I really had no idea. I’d been painting the giant clock right in front of us for the last four hours.