Building Bridges

Residing in the heart of Illinois, nestled alongside the majestic flow of the Mississippi River, I've been privileged to call this vibrant region home for the majority of my life. Among its defining features are the bridges that connect us with neighboring Iowa, providing vital arteries for travel and commerce. While two main bridges serve as primary conduits between our states, the landscape is dotted with three additional bridges, offering diverse pathways for crossing into Iowa's embrace.

Having been a part of this community for years, I've found myself drawn to these architectural marvels, capturing their essence through my lens and immortalizing their grandeur in a series of paintings, a selection of which is showcased below. One significant event that unfolded in recent memory was the poignant spectacle of the former I-74 bridge being dismantled in 2023/24, making way for the construction of a new, modern span that now stands as a testament to progress and resilience.

Amidst the backdrop of these engineering feats, the surrounding wildlife flourishes, providing endless inspiration and delight for my artistic endeavors. From the graceful flight of birds to the playful antics of river otters, the natural world teems with life, offering a rich tapestry of subjects to photograph and paint. In this corner of the world, where man-made structures harmonize with the beauty of nature, every moment is an opportunity to capture the essence of our dynamic surroundings.

Former Iowa-Illinois Memorial Bridge
also known as Twin Bridges (I-74)

Building new I-74 bridge alongside former bridge

 Fred Schwengel Memorial Bridge
also known as Mississippi River Bridge (I-80)

Centennial Bridge also known as
Master Sargeant Stanley W Talbot Memorial Bridge

 

Guiding Lights: The Symbolism of Lighthouses in Art and Life

The lighthouses depicted below have undergone various transformations over the past decade, each stroke of paint telling a unique story for its respective clients. As an admirer of the renowned artist Thomas Kinkade, I find his works to be a wellspring of inspiration, aspiring for my own creations to capture even a fraction of their magnificence. These iconic cylindrical structures stand not just as architectural marvels but as potent symbols of hope, resilience, and unwavering strength. Their steadfast beacons of light pierce through the darkness, guiding weary sailors to safe harbors amidst turbulent seas.

In the broader scope of life, the allure of the lighthouse extends far beyond its maritime context, resonating deeply with individuals on a personal level. Much like the steadfast presence of these towering structures, the symbolism of hope and perseverance they embody can serve as guiding lights through life's tumultuous journeys. May we all find solace and inspiration in the unwavering glow of our own internal lighthouses, illuminating our paths towards brighter horizons.

 

Birds Of A Different Feather

When I was a child, birds held a captivating allure for me, particularly after witnessing Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds." The film depicts a tranquil town besieged by wild birds, leaving an indelible mark on my psyche, simultaneously instilling both fear and fascination.

Did you know that Birding is a cherished pastime for many? It involves the joy of observing, studying, and documenting avian species in their natural habitats.

In my artistic pursuits, birds initially captivated me as subjects before landscapes took precedence. However, I found myself hesitant to delve into the intricate details of feathers, fearing it might detract from the therapeutic nature of painting. After all, art should be a source of solace, not stress.

In my view, the finest bird portraits are those rendered in silhouette, where minimal detail allows for a captivating simplicity.

 

Red Bird: My Spiritual Guide

Once upon a time, high in the sky, a beautiful red bird soars. Angels shine down from the heavens offering solace to those in need from his spirited presence.

This painting was a labor of love to a dear friend. 

She had ask me if I could do something with her original photo, depicted below. As she shared her back story behind the picture, I was immediately filled with inspiration. 

During her baby shower, my friend had to step outside for some air. In that moment, a red bird alighted on her beautiful fall pumpkin display. She quickly grabbed her camera capturing the stunning site. What she didn't reveal initially was the deep significance behind it; she had lost her mom a couple of years before and keenly felt her absence at the baby shower.

This revelation brought tears to my eyes. I, too, have noticed red birds more frequently since losing my dad and mom.

Photo of Red Bird.
I use procreate to add sunflowers to subject. 

 

Bear Essentials

One lesson I've failed to grasp from painting is the art of stepping back when encountering a problem with a project.

The bear essentials of Painting 101, it's advised to take a break and return with a fresh perspective. However, I seem to defy this wisdom. Instead of stepping away, I'm drawn to confronting the issue head-on, attacking it before the paint even has a chance to dry.

Take, for instance, the painting below. In the first photo, I began replicating this piece from the reference photo captured by my mother during her time in Alaska. It depicted a mother bear and her cubs frolicking in the tall grass. Before I had the opportunity to finish my emotions stirred within me, likely stemming from personal turmoil. 

My intention was to present this painting to my mother for her 71st birthday. However, during this period, I was grappling with a mix of emotions as a dear friend battled cancer and my mother faced unexplained health issues.

In the fourth photo, I decided to express my inner turmoil by aggressively scratching and scraping at the paint with a palette knife. Yet again, I altered the painting dramatically, much to my disappointment.

This piece serves as a constant reminder, hanging in a prominent place, of the essential nature of bearing our emotions to overcome adversity and emerge stronger.

In the beginning, the grass was not turning out to my satisfaction 

The painting was just about complete until I decided to add texture

Reference photo 

Finished painting with palette knife 

 

Creative Crafty Gift Ideas

No matter the season, a simple joy awaits you in the form of a rock. Pick one up during a leisurely stroll, bring it home, and transform it into a personalized gift or a whimsical park treasure. This creative endeavor is perfect for bonding with children or grandchildren, enhancing school projects, or surprising loved ones with a unique present. Need inspiration or guidance? Countless online tutorials await your exploration.

Visit your local art supply store and explore a myriad of ready-made items like bird feeders, hinged wooden boxes, metal or glass containers—then let your imagination run wild! The act of creation itself is fulfilling and the resulting pieces make delightful gifts.

As for the Halloween-themed rocks, my grandchildren and I meticulously hid them in a nearby children's park, reveling in the joy of watching as young explorers stumbled upon their unexpected delights.

These novelty’s items make great gifts to family and friends. 

Bee Happy Froggy

Bumblebees symbolize productivity, endurance, and determination. They represent the importance of persistence in achieving goals and overcoming obstacles.

Frogs symbolize transformation and renewal. They are associated within wetlands and rainy climates. In some cultures are believed to possess spiritual qualities of balance, harmony, and communication. 

These natures creatures make me happy as I delight in watching them work. Their extraordinary resilience within their environment fascinate and amazes me.