Desert in the Spring

I go to the desert every year around this time. For three years in a row I took a workshop from William Hook at Scottsdale Artist School. I didn't sign up for that this year, but unexpectedly visited the desert anyway. The Arizona area around Phoenix has not had any rain for 132 days. So, in contrast to the riot of color it was last year at this time, it was pale, low contrast, and uninspiring.

I am home now, with a clean studio and a clean slate. Have a couple commissions but don't have enough info to get started yet. Today is sunny and warm, and I have more motivation to sit in a chaise outside than to get out some painting supplies.

My trip to France is fast approaching. Only 4 weeks away, I am glad that my fellow artists have spent a lot of time planning various activities, routes, and food!