Art 2022 Exhibition

12x9                   Oil on panel               $1950

”Afternoon Glow; Kern River”

On hot days I enjoy swimming with my dogs in the river and I never tire of painting the ever changing flow of water. The Kern River is spectacular to paint in the late afternoon with its rocks and rapids and shady pools contrasted by the bright light illuminating precipitous cliffs and distant peaks.

16X20                    Oil on panel             $3750

Days Final Glory Tejon Ranch” 

At the end of a perfect day, looking into the refracted light of the sun as it sets over the western mountains brought me a sense of Hope, Wonderment, and Joy. The intense light diffused much detail and left only silhouettes of distant peaks and backlit haloed trees in the foreground. It was as if Nature and the Heavens were conspiring together to create a new vision and a new song.

16x20                  Oil on Panel                $3750

"Sentinel Oaks Overseeing a Cloudburst in the Valley” 

Kern County is known for its majestic oak trees that give the landscape a strength and sense of scale. I loved painting these two oak trees, one of which had fallen and was supported by the other. They both stand as guardians to a long and distant canyon that is vast and untouched by human development. A late afternoon cloudburst seen behind the trees, cools the hot day, and brings rain and wind to a scorched earth.

16x20                        Pastel                        $2400

“Field of Dreams” 

While driving down Steuber Road one beautiful Tehachapi morning, I glanced out of the window and immediately pulled off to the side of the road. Jumping out of the car, I tried to take in the scene before me: a giant field of yellow mustard with hundreds, maybe thousands, of sheep grazing peacefully in the morning light. I was mesmerized by the personalities of the sheep, bathed in rim light, and how they seemed to all face in one direction, except for a few stray ones doing their own thing. The clouds floating tranquilly in the sky and the distant mountains all made for an idyllic setting, one I felt compelled to capture in pastel.

10x24                       Pastel                   $2600

“Oak Creek Wild Horses” 

I have lived with horses much of my life and yet never experienced anything as majestic or magical as the day spent with the Oak Creek Wild Morgan horses in Tehachapi. From the moment we pulled into the private land where they have lived for a century, I was enchanted. Indeed, they seemed to cast a spell over everyone in our group. We watched, mesmerized, while the 100 or so horses went about a regular day in the life of the herd: they all ate alfalfa together while the foals nursed and napped in the sun; the yearlings reared up to joust with each other; the stallions mated with mares and then gathered up their individual bands of mares and foals. I was able to snap a panoramic photo of them coming back from the watering hole, kicking up dust as they moved across the green field toward us. It is a scene I will never forget, now painted for posterity.

12 x 9    Pastel     $1200 

“Escaping the Heat” 

On a sweltering summer day, I followed a couple of sheep as they tried to escape the heat by hiding out in the halls of a horse barn. As soon as I entered the rustic space behind them, I was captivated by the drama of light and shadow. Sunlight streamed in through the far window and leaked through the stall doors, creating a bedazzling light pattern. But the hot sheep were oblivious to my presence and just stood quietly trying to cool off, while I relished in the excitement of my discovery!

11 x 18          Oil on Linen

Tehachapi Afternoon

Driving down the back roads of Tehachapi, this bluish barn caught my eye.  It was right before sunset and I had to stop and take in the beauty of this pastoral scene. I watched as the evening approached and the colors of the scene emerged and lasted for just a few minutes before darkness came. It is during these transitions that I am fascinated with and trying to capture those fleeting moments and those colors that come for only a few minutes is what I aim for in most of my paintings.  

9 x 12    Oil on linen

Crescent Moonrise

This is a scene right by the farm I saw  while driving along the country roads of Tehachapi.  

 20x16       Oil on Linen        $4800

“Afternoon Road  Shadows” 

12 x 12         Oil on Linen        $3100     

“Hillside Oaks” 

 12”x16”               Acrylic       $2000

“Parked for Good” 

For years I have wanted to paint this truck and recently there was a traffic accident on highway 58 so I turned off at Keene to avoid the traffic and saw this beauty sitting there reminding me that I needed to paint her!

11”x 14”     acrylic        $1800

“Morning Light” 

One morning on my way to paint a door at the top of Bear Valley I saw a herd of elk. The textures and lighting as the elk grazed peacefully through the pasture inspired me to paint this scene.

5”x5”                    Acrylic                  $450

“A Wish” 

My granddaughter and I were in the backyard on evening and the lighting was so pretty that I decided to get a few photos of her.  This one just seemed so sweet that I had to paint it.

8x10                   Oil             $700

“Tehachapi Moon” 

After a long and lovely day in the Tehachapi Mountains, the moon rose in the eastern sky, lighting my way in the soft light of dusk.

 12x18     Oil      $1300

“Mountain Air” 

High above the Tehachapi Valley, Cummings Mountain offered magnificent vistas, cool breezes, and the scent of pine in the mountain air.

 14x11     Oil     $1100

“Lone Yucca” 

Scattered all about the hills and roadsides, beautiful yucca blooms stand tall above all the other Springtime wildflowers, and catch my attention like a neon sign.  

11.5x24           Oil on Panel         $1420

“Casting on the Kern”

I love being able to combine my passions as an artist. Few things bring me as much joy as putting a brush to panel or casting a dry fly onto the perfect spot on the water. It is easy to see why the Kern river is one of my favorite places.

8x10            Oils             $720

“Time for Reflection”

It’s easy to contemplate the wonder of life when faced with a sunset as serene as this. As the heat of the day subsides and is replaced by the tranquility of the evening sun and it’s reflections on the water, we take time to recalibrate from the day that has been.

11x14              Oils          $1000

“Winter Dusting in Stallion Springs”

I’m drawn to the cold winter months. When thinking about Tehachapi and the surrounding area it’s easy to forget the splendor of winter when we’re in the middle of summer. I loved the idea of representing the chilly, quiet, and contemplative aspects of this beautiful area in Stallion Springs.

12x16               Oils on Panel         $1120

“Winter in Stallion Springs”

It was a cold day in Stallion Springs, California, and I was captivated by the road curving around to travel through this quaint, covered bridge. It was quiet and I felt the cold envelope me, but the winter scene brought me a sense of peace.

9x12                      Oil on Panel           $840

”Kohnens Bakery”

I love glimpses into everyday life. This adorable bakery in Tehachapi, California, is brimming with life. I wanted to capture a moment in time before the rush of patrons anxious to devour the tasty treats.

16x20                 Oils         $1440

“Kern River Rock Garden”

One of my favorite times of year is autumn. There is a sense of slowing down and taking time to just breathe. The Kern River is always beautiful, but, at this time of year, the multitude of rocks are exposed and the water appears to have slowed it’s journey through the canyon. Moments like this allow me to feel gratitude for the beauty of life.

 9 x 12                Oil on Panel        $500    

"Wing To The Future" 

Depicting a Northrop YB-49 Flying Wing over Muroc Air Force Base, which was renamed Edwards AFB to honor the copilot Glenn Edwards who died, along with the rest of the crew, in the crash of one of these test aircraft in 1948.

12 x 24             Oil on Panel           $1200

"Blue Angels Maintenance" 

Parked at Fox Field, Lancaster, California, a F-18 Hornet of the world-famous US Navy's flight demonstration team, the "Blue Angels," awaits another airshow performance as it gets serviced by the highly skilled ground support team.

 12 x 24             Oil on Panel        $1500  

"Sentimental Journey"

Parked at Fox Field, Lancaster, California, this highly polished Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress, named "Sentimental Journey," is a favorite among the airshow crowds and is a superb example of one of over 12,000 B-17s that flew and fought in World War 2.

24x18      Oil with palette knife       $3800

“Stallion Springs Impressionistic View”

Painting this beautiful scene in plein air gave me great inspiration for a larger studio painting.   Thinking about the Horse thievery that went on back in the day made me wonder how beautiful they must have looked spending time in this beautiful landscape.   I wonder if the little red shack across the way may have been a meeting point.  

 8 x 10        Oil with palette knife        $800

“Tehachapi Museum Poppy Bloom”

When we arrived in Tehachapi, we drove around looking for places to paint for the next 3 days.   I loved the poppies growing all over town and The Tehachapi Museum with its white paint made me feel I had to go back.   Monday afternoon before coming home we decided to take one last look at the Museum.   Perfect timing with the sunlight making the poppies shimmer and the light and shadow on the building inspiring for a perfect plein air experience.   

  10 x 20   Oil with palette knife       $2400

“Springtime Caboose”

I had the opportunity to paint the Sutton ranch nestled in the mountains near Tehachapi ranch a year ago.  I kept thinking about how I would paint the Caboose that adorns this beautiful landscape if given the opportunity to do so.  On a beautiful Spring day in May 2022, I indeed had the opportunity to paint two paintings on two different size canvas of the Caboose, all the while collecting data and experimenting with color, in Plein Air.  Missy Sutton, her husband Bob and all their critters gave for a super, wonderful experience on the Sutton Ranch and the inspiration for this studio painting.        

12x16          Oil       $1600

“Dreaming of Summer” 

A boat lies against a willow, with a bit of water inside.  It made me think of the coming summer, the cries of children across the lake at the beach, the paddling and fishing to come.  All the adventures of summer.

9x12                      Oil              $900

“Red Rocks Getaway” 

I have always loved the look of an Airstream trailer and thought it would look great in the Red Rock Park setting. 

16x20           Oil         $2300

“Sunset Rambler” 

I have seen elk several times around Tehachapi and I wanted to include it in a painting.  This valley at sunset seemed perfect.

11x18  Oil on linen laid on wood panel  $4500

“Where Sheep May Safely Graze”

As we drove looking for possible painting locations and on our way to the Dorner Winery we spotted hundreds of sheep grazing on dry grass and weeds. This is not a typical theme for me, but I believe I have been successful in making a landscape with sheep that works!  The frame on this painting, as well as the frame on “Where we Painted” were hand crafted by the artist.

8x10               Oil on board           $2400

“Heading for the Tehachapi Loop”

Every train enthusiast can quote the incline ratios and all the statistics that make this loop world famous, and an attraction for train Nuts from all over the world.  Thank goodness that most train engines are Orange the purpose is to balance with all the greens in my painting, of course!

16x23   Oil on canvas laid on wood panel.    $6500

“Where We Painted”

In the hills high above Keene where the landscape is totally different from what one finds in the Tehachapi valley floor, is where we painted a number of years ago. The oaks here are ancient, 500 years old and older, and massive granite boulders contrasting artistically with the dark green oaks. 

 16" x 12"                Oil             $2,000

“As Beauty Unfolds"

Passing through the gate from the inner courtyard to the open grounds of the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument, I was immediately drawn to this prickly pear in bloom. After further inspection the series of buds in various stages of bloom along with the strong shadow pattern provided a most striking composition and drew me in; like a staircase ascending to the star of the show.  I truly enjoy capturing the variety of color in the pads and the buds. I am fascinated by the brief beauty of cacti blooms and have several species of cacti in my own yard. Each year I eagerly await the emergence of the buds and the subsequent unfolding which produces the finale of the beauty of the bloom. 

14 x 18                 Oil              $2250

“Peaceful Pastime” 

While scouting for a painting location one morning, I stopped at Cub Lake in Bear Valley Springs where there were many fishermen engaged in their favorite pastime.  Walking along the lake, I passed a huge weeping willow with its massive trunk and beautiful cast shadow pattern.  As I turned around, I saw the distant female fisherman and the lovely glimmer of the lake edged by the reeds with the distant hills all combining to create a peaceful and idyllic scene which I knew needed to be expressed on canvas.

10 x 8                   Oil              $700

“Enchanting Courtyard” 

Walking into the walled courtyard at the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument, my eye caught a glimpse of the beautiful rosebush against the brightly lit wall. The shadow pattern on the walkway and the nearby open gate were also fascinating..  I sat for a moment to take in the scene and I found myself enchanted not only by the beauty of what I was able to see but also by the mystery of what pleasant surprises might be found beyond the gate.

Pastel                     12x6              $340

“Museum Totum”

This was a Plein air pastel painted in the gardens of the museum in Tehachapi. I just thought it was an interesting subject to see in So Cal, and was fun to paint. 

Pastel                 11x14             $850

“Missy's Vista”

This was a beautiful view along the road at Bob and Missy Suttons ranch. Dirt roads with boulders and rocks I frequently gravitate too while Plein air painting. 

Watercolor & Pastel      14x20      $2,000

”Good Friends and Horsey Time”

This painting I did from a few reference photos I had from the area. One of the ladies (on the horses) is a good friend and co-worker from years ago. She sent me a photo of them riding. I took liberties with the location and landscape of the photo as I loved those beautiful big trees there in Tehachapi and felt like painting them. 

16x20        Oil on Stretched Linen    $1600

“Tehachapi Twilight”

After enjoying a dinner / gathering at the Dreyer’s home, my friend, Sharon and I were driving back to our motel in Tehahapi.  The sun was at that wonderful point where it spreads a warm glow across the grasses and through the trees and drapes the far hills in a blanket of rose colored light.  As we headed out, I just had to stop to admire the rising full moon and the beautiful rose colored hills.

6x12           Oil on Linen panel       $500

“Overlooking Stallion Springs” (Looking for Poppies)

My friends and I hicked up a hill with a terrific view of the valley below.  We had hoped to find fields of beautiful poppies, but only found little clusters of poppies here and there. 

11x14      Oil on Canvas panel      $850

“In The Heart of Hart Flat”

This was another plein air piece.  It was painted at the junction of the offramp on the way to Dwight and Laura’s house in Hart Flat.  I loved the golden field and the way the cloud formed a heart shape above the oak covered hillsides so I tried to capture it.

18x24        Oil on linen            $3000

“Winter's Parting Gift”

When Spring rains are followed by a few days of sunshine the low foothills become verdant once again.  Follow that with a late season snowfall and you sometimes get a rare scene like the one depicted in "Winter's Parting Gift" which, combines beautiful elements of both seasons.

9x10          Oil on board           $950.00

“A Dusting at The Top” 

Sometimes the narrative of a painting is simple; "Look at the beauty Nature's God is capable of creating!”

11x14       Oil on Linen      $1300

“Hillside Trail” 

For me, the challenge of this painting was making something interesting and beautiful of a scene comprised mostly of neutral tones.  I think I succeeded.  I hope you agree.

16x20       Oil on Canvas Board     $1300

“Tank Farm”

Where most artists shy away from flat midday light, I welcome it as a challenge. I also like farm junk, and this place had plenty in the form of translucent and non-translucent tanks. The tanks add a variety of colors that balance the large purple shed. The entire scene was set off by the dramatic clouds coming over Bear Mountain just outside of Arvin, CA which I couldn’t resist it. 

9x12         Oil on Canvas Board        $475

 “Palm and Pole”

I haven’t met a palm tree of power pole that I didn’t like, and this scene was no exception. Every year the almonds of Kern County light up the valley with soft pink blossoms. This particular morning the light was perfect, and I was able paint a portrait of the palm and pole in their natural habitat.   

16x20        Oil on Canvas Board      $1300

 “Red Barn Morning”

This site in Tehachapi struck me as the most peaceful bucolic scene. The contrast between the red barn and green oaks was so striking that it beckoned to be painted. The puffy clouds softened the two opposite colors and set the scene of what it means to farm in California. 

16X20          Oil        $6000

"Family Farm"

August is luxuriant and green in the countryside around Springfield, MO. Down a remote and less traveled road one passes many farms and ranches. The cattle are sleek and glossy reflecting the lush landscape they enjoy feeding upon. Stopping to observe more closely, the cattle come to attention when they notice the strangers among them. Disturbing their serenity is not our intention, hence we soon move on so they may go back to contemplating whatever it is that cattle think about. Their little family group is once again undisturbed.

16x20           Oil        $6000

"Morning Swim"

We arose early to take advantage of the quiet time at Four Islands Lake in Bear Valley Springs, and to do a little kayaking. The morning was lovely and the ducks had beat us to the lake. We quietly paddled around, enjoying nature and the other occupants that were also early risers.

 9x12             Oil         $3300

"Little Prince" 

Again we visited the wild horses of Tehachapi. They were as beautiful as I recalled from last year. This little fellow was taking a short rest from the constant activity going on around us. Even at rest, he presented an aura of confidence and pride. He would soon grow large enough to participate in the hijinks the older horses were indulging in.

9x12      Oil     $1200

“Chavez National Monument Roses”

Painted “en plein air” on a Sunday in May at Cesar Chavez’s home in Keene. The day was overcast, but the springtime roses popped and spoke to me! I was compelled to paint them!

12x16     Oil      $2300

“Tehachapi Rocks”

This painting was 90% completed on site at a friend’s home in Tehachapi. The title is a play on words, as everywhere you look, there are rocks on the land, but also because Tehachapi is an awesome place that I love to visit!

18x24       Oil         $3500

”Hiding In Plain Sight”

It’s amazing how deer can be right in your midst, quietly grazing, while in the late afternoon dappled light, you can almost miss seeing them. For me, the challenge of this studio painting was to try and recreate that effect.

12x6     Oils     $800

”The Double Line, Pop Bottle Series#9”

I love vintage soda pop bottles! I was fortunate to become of the owner of my brother's collection of offbeat soda bottles he collected over many years. I am currently painting a series of these bottles. Painting #9 includes a vintage bottle opener that belonged to my grandfather and bottle cap found while painting in either Virginia City or Lake Tahoe.  

14x18    Oils     $1800

“Dreams and Wishes”

This collection of artifacts and vessels features some of my favorite objects to paint. I enjoy the contrast and juxtaposition of symbolism and form--from the wishbone and feather, to the reflections and transparency of the vessels and marbles, to the irregular shapes of garlic and red onion.  All the stuff of wishes and dreams.

12x16   Oil   $1480

”Tehachapi Morning From Cummings Mountain”

The early morning light flooding the valley was breathtaking from my vantage point on the top of Cummings Mountain. My painting is an effort to capture the downslope of the mountain as shaded pines framed the subtle color and light of the rolling hills. 

12x16     $750 Oil on Linen Panel

“Moonrise , Upper Hopkins Lake” 

An evening in August on a backpacking trip to Upper Hopkins lake, 11,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the setting sun set the slopes on fire as the full moon rose above them. The sun & moon seem to acknowledge each other as they moved in both apposition & concordance in a breath-taking dance of light.” (Jimmy Buffett). 

The juxtaposition of cool purple shadows with warm tones of the last rays of sun on the mountains made for  a delightful show. Times like these you feel alone & connected to everything in the Universe. Carl Sagan said we're made of star stuff. Guess you can never be alone. We're connected to billions of stars & all living things. 

24x18 $2,000 Oil on Wood Panel

“The Tortoise and The Raven”

Every painting has a story, some obvious like the beautiful golden poppies I witnessed in Joshua Tree after a wet winter. Others, like this idyllic scene hide a darker story. The desert tortoise population is under attack in the western Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree National Park.   Since 1990, the number of desert tortoises in the western Mojave has plummeted by more than 90%. While there are many causes one is linked to the increase in raven population. Some locations the raven population has increased 700 times due to increase human presence and associated trash and new water sources.  Did I hear the echo of “never more”? 

9x12    $600  Oil on Wood Panel

“Autumn Cottonwoods Walker Basin” 

Driving home on old Calliente-Bodfish Road from fishing on the Kern River, is more scenic than highway 99 or the 5 Freeway heading to LA. The road winds over the southern terminus of the Sierra Nevada Mountains  towards Tehachapi. I wanted a view of old town Calliente, established in the 1870s & prospered during Southern Pacific Railroad's construction of the Tehachapi Pass line. The line makes a 360-degree circle as it heads over the pass from Bakersfield to Mojave. The high point on Caliente-Bodfish Road is near 4,000 ft., home to blue oak woodlands & high mountain meadows. This autumn day the cottonwoods turned a beautiful yellow, the morning sun shown on the leaves making them glow. 

9x12            Oil on linen panel          $750

"Quail Springs Summit"

This overlook is a special area to my kids and me. When they were quite small, we used to drive up to this dead-end cul-de-sac and gently ride the “merry-go-round” as we took in the view at the top of the world. My kids would laugh and say “Again!!”and “Again!”  It fondly reminded me of my mother and us when we were little. 

14x11         Oil in linen panel      $900

"Cousins’ Creek"

This little scene is at a private residence in Tehachapi. I am blessed to be able to stay here when I come to visit.  This beautiful idyllic view greets me each morning when I get up. I enjoy seeing the sun illuminate special visual treats in the yard like the figurine, creek, a new plant blooming, or a squirrel, … and quite often some deer! 

12x16          Oil on linen panel         $1100

"Favorite Picnic Spot" 

Another favorite spot!!! Going up and down the Keene Road was a special treat when we had to go to Bakersfield; it felt more like an adventure that way. There always was a lot to see, but this jewel of a spot was a favorite; one that we would sometimes venture to just for a picnic! The afternoon light made it especially inviting!

9x12            Oil           $800 

”Lockstep”

Tehachapi is home to a few bands of semi feral Morgan horses, of which a number of artists had the opportunity to paint. This painting, "Lockstep", shows a newborn foal that is already matching its mother's steps as she grazes.

18x24        Oil          $2000

“Compadres Thru Time”

 While searching for a view that captivated me, this little bend in the road caught my eye like no other. The sway of the plunging boulders fascinated me, alongside the curvilinear trees that complimented the placement of the boulders. I imagined how much time it may have taken for these formations to coexist.

18x24     Oil      $2000

“Field of Dreams”

A panorama tells a story as one reads from left to right. This scene along the Cummings Valley struck me in its roguish natural beauty and in its subtlety. There are riders in this scene, but subdued, so that the eye can journey on its own before it comes upon the travelers.

18x24          Oil     $950

“Stallion Springtime”

An essay in springtime greens. Overlooking Tejon Ranch and the Tehachapi’s from Stallion Springs. 

9x12       Oil        $550

“Mile High Pond”

A charming duck pond, cattails and boat dock view: an unexpected discovery amongst dense pines at 7,000 feet up Cummings Mountain.

18x24         Oil        $950

“Red Rock Wash”

Characteristic wintertime landscape along Nightmare Gulch, Red Rock State Park. 

5x7       Oil     $575

”Edge”

Cultivated lands encroach upon the fields that once dominated the scene.

14x18    Oil    $3270

“Bend”

The famed Tehachapi Loop is ringed by a similar loop of pavement. Along this scenic route, two varieties of oaks, Blue and California, frame the drive.

24x18     Oil     $3950

”Lamp”

The light of day is outshone by a lantern entwined with roses and wisteria. A fitting entrance and tribute to the Cesar Chavez monument.    

18x24          pastel         $4500.

“A New Day” 

Morning is my favorite time of the day. There is a sense of renewal and hope with the possibility of good things to come. When I arrived at the location that inspired this painting, the hills and mountains were catching the morning’s first rays of sunlight. As the sun slowly came over the hills to the east, I witnessed a new day.

16x20       pastel        $3800

 “Journey’s End” 

This barn is a fixture in a high country meadow in The Eastern Sierra of California. For years I was curious about it and eventually learned it was used by local sheep herders. I however, still like to imagine it was the last stop after a long and perhaps difficult journey. An old homestead from bygone days. A simple dwelling that kept its occupants warm and dry during the winter. After painting “Journey’s End” it now feels a bit like an old friend. 

9x12      pastel      $800

“Mountain Shadows” 

Spending time in California’s Tehachapi mountains after a spring rain was the inspiration for “Mountain Shadows.” Watching the changing light with the passing clouds, awakened the desire to share the experience through a pastel painting. 

16x20     Oil on linen   $4800

 “Bear Mountain Overlook” 

Up high where the red-tailed hawks fly looking towards the Tehachapi Mountains.

 9x12    Oil    $2600

“A Spring Day in Antelope Valley”

Poppy patterns and snow capped San Bernardino Mountains. And a few sheep for good measure.

18x24   Oil   $5800

“Tehachapi Mountains Magic” 

Wait, California oaks and Rocky Mountain elk? Are you nuts?! But it happened. I was exploring the Tehachapi region recently and, while slinging paint, a massive bull and his buddy sauntered by. It was an experience that was, well, magical. Spring weather, bull elk in velvet, and even a few wildflowers. Truly amazing. I’ve seen many elk when painting in the Tejon Ranch, but did not know how prolific they were in the region. They were brought here in 1966 and have thrived.

12x16          Oil            $2320

“Enya” 

I was struck by the beguiling gaze of Enya, an Andalusion horse owned by one of my friends who raises horses. This horse is special. She is alert and wants to know who you are.

9x12           Oil            $1240

”On the Praire”

I am always moved by the strength of women who braved the open plains to forge a life away from the “ Comforts” of civilization. This painting is dedicated to those tremendous ladies who defied the terrors of the open prairie to settle and make a life for themselves and their family.

11x14        Oils         $1600

“Dustup”

I love seeing horses run in the wild and especially when dust is kicked up into the air creating an amazing color effect of light ochres and orange.

 24 x 12         Acrylic on stretched canvas      $900

“Tehachapi’s First Vines”

In 2005, the first crush of Tehachapi grapes yielded wine that garnered national competitive awards. In the years since, the award-winning streak has continued among all Tehachapi vineyards, resulting in the official recognition and designation of the Tehachapi Appellation as an American Viticulture Area.

16 x 20              Acrylic on stretched canvas       $930

“Tehachapi Mountain Lift” 

A vintage sailplane, a Lasiter LP-49, soars above the oak and pine covered Tehachapi Mountains. Tehachapi’s glider port, which draws aviation enthusiasts and competition from around the world, offers unique wind and lift conditions, known the “mountain wave”, which enable pilots to achieve world record altitudes and distances with these unpowered aircraft. 

 20 x16       Acrylic on stretched canvas      $1600

“Ancient Kawaiisu Gathering”

Among the peaks, valleys, and foothills of the Tehachapi Mountains lie the ancient gathering places of the Kawaiisu tribe, where grinding holes remain from their lost conversations, while producing acorn meal.

9 x12                  Acrylic on stretched canvas           $380

“Distant Thunder” 

A Lockheed NF-104, in addition to its jet engine, was modified with a rocket engine to achieve record altitudes and demonstrate flight characteristics similar to spacecraft returning to Earth and landing at Edwards Air Force base in the Mojave Desert. There were three NF-104 Starfighters modified to test and train future astronauts in the 1960s.

12 x 9       Acrylic on canvas board      $350

“Eastern Sierras” 

The northern reaches of the transverse Tehachapi Mountain Range merge with the massive Sierra Nevada Range, where glaciers met granite to form trout-laden lakes and streams.

 16 x 20           Acrylic on canvas       $1200

“X-1E, Toward the Unknown”

The X-1E was a modified version of the X-1, in which the sound barrier was broken by Capt. Charles Yeager in 1947. Between 1955 and 1958, at Edwards AFB, CA, the X-1E was flown 26 times, achieving a max speed of Mach 2.24 and an altitude of over 90,000 ft. Eastern Kern County is home to the historic and iconic fight testing ranges where “the right stuff” achieved world aerospace records.

12”x16”           Oil on panel        $1500

“El Tejon Ranch,” CA.

A sense of grand opening space prevails through this painting. Sweeping vistas over the Antelope Valley in the California Impressionist style.

9”x12”       Oil on canvas     $900

“The Portal,” Tehachapi, CA.

A magical view of the Tehachapi mountains through a natural portal of oak trees. A sense of ample and sweeping vistas is eloquent.

12”x16”       Oil on canvas     $1500

“From Clear Creek Road,” Tehachapi, CA.

A very pastoral celebration of Tehachapi in the tradition of the California Impressionist style.

9x12      Oil     $2500

”Olvera Street”

Olvera Street is the birthplace of Los Angeles vibrant and colorful much like the City it represents.

16x20      Oil on linen       $5500

”The Wooden Shed”

As an artist, I always find inspiration in subjects that have stories to tell.

The first time I laid my eyes on this wooden shed it pulled me into the total

harmonious colors created by nature and contrast by a man-made shed.  Through observation and immersing oneself within the confines of this painting one learns the story of this shed.

18x24     Oil on linen    $7200

“Covered Bridge”

I've been fascinated by this bridge ever since I saw it.  Looking back at the bridge from the trail I wanted to capture the beauty of its surroundings in my painting.  The poppies were in bloom and yes it was spring in Tehachapi.

18” x 14”     Watercolor and colored pencils   with RARE Robert Cardenas signature        $2499

“The Flying Wing”

As an artist and engineer, the flying wing is one of mankind’s greatest engineering accomplishments.  The artwork depicts Northrop’s YB-35 Flying Wing with authentic signature of test pilot, Brigadier General Robert Cardenas, who was the Chief U.S. Air Force Test Pilot for Northrop Flying Wing, which preceded the B-2 Stealth Bomber by more than four decades.

Oil on linen      16x12       $4000

“The Conversation”

Oil on linen   11x14    $4000

“That Was A Long Day”

Oil on linen      12x12        $3600

“Virginia Lake Sparkle”

12x16 Pastel on Mounted Paper $9500

"To Love and Light"

An allegorical still life where even the moth is brought to a standstill, caught mid-flight. The soft dramatic lighting shafts diagonally across the picture drawing your attention to the tiny creature that symbolizes the transcendence of love.

16x20     Pastel      $6800

"Tehachapi Dawn"

Early morning light in May was just beginning to peek over the edge of the billowing low clouds in the far distance reaching over the valley to touch the ridge I was standing close to. It was a glorious sight to see.  

12x9    Pastel    $1500

"Pepper Duo"

A colorful split complimentary palette on display in this contemporary still life of two peppers.

18x24      Oil      $3000  

 “Elusive Illusion” 

The drama of the sky spoke volumes; capture me if you can. It’s named Illusion, because I see all kinds of images when staring at clouds. Elusive, because of the challenges I had getting the sky to work as I envisioned it. I underestimated the “if you can” part! Plus I needed to add the unintended water stream for better interest and eye direction flow. It felt Elusive indeed.

7x9       Acrylic on Board        $1060

“Behind The Studio”

Fall was upon us in the high but dry mountains of Tehachapi. Dry because of the drought’s impact on the vegetation, which the trees were giving up their leaves earlier than usual and just barely making their golden brown colors. But a pleasant day to capture the warmth of light bouncing off the ground “Behind The Studio”. My time being short, I choose to use Acrylic for its quick drying properties. A fresh wet into wet translucent lay in with some opaque here and transparent there made for a surprise result I’m still trying to relive.   

 18x24      Oil      $3000 

“Neglect Nook”

Surrounded by well kept places of businesses & homes, the contrast of this unkept section of alley behind Jake’s Steakhouse captured my interest. There seemed to be more character in the neglected than the kept. Go figure! 

9x12          Oil         $650

“Working Girl”

This cow was not taking it easy in the pasture at all.  She was working hard watching over and guiding her youngster away from the scary painter.  

14x18   Oil    $1100

“Backroad” 

This quiet backroad just north of Tehachapi looked to me like every classic California backroad that beckons you to take the next turn.   

16x20           Oil     $1600

“Radiant Rabbitbush” 

What caught my breath viewing this scene was the brilliant light radiating in the Rabbitbush.  The beauty of these high desert shrubs was beyond anything manmade.

11x14      Oil with Gold Leaf      $1600 

“Golden Oak” 

The use of gold leaf in art has a long tradition going back to ancient Egypt and Japanese antiquity. Sharon has set the abundant oak trees of Tehachapi against a backdrop of gold leaf to create a dramatic image. “The California oak tree is a staple of Tehachapi and I wanted to show its importance to the area. While driving back to my hotel from a plein air event for this show, I came across this beautiful oak tree that was silhouetted against the sunset. I knew this scene would be the perfect starting point for the painting I had envisioned.”

16x20       Oil      $1800  

“Fields of Gold”

The farms and ranches that dot the Tehachapi Valley are a part of the story of the American West. Fields of Gold was painted as the setting sun cast a rich golden hue over the scene. It shows how Tehachapi integrates many of the elements that are iconic to the western experience. “I wanted to capture the calm, quiet beauty of the west. This idyllic spot combines several elements to make a traditional western statement. The mountains, barn, golden fields and country road together tell the story while the colors were enriched by the sunset.”

10x8            Oil        $800 

“Red Barn” 

Finding inspiration is hit and miss. An artist can never predict where that spark will come from. A mid-day drive through the Tehachapi Valley brought Sharon to this scene in a very open, flat area. Many artists would have driven right by, but Sharon saw something that inspired her. “I decided to stop and quickly fell in love with this simple field filled with wild flowers. The variety of colors and vegetation was fascinating and the red barn in the distance was an added bonus that provided a focal point and contrast to the field.”

12x12            Oils            $1200

"Tehachapi Sunset" 

On the way driving home, I just had to pull over and take in this beautiful sky. Our Tehachapi sunsets never cease to amaze me!

10x8          Oils            $450

"An Evening Stroll" 

I've been living in Tehachapi for almost 10 years and can't believe I've never visited Horse Thief Park in Stallion. I thoroughly enjoyed walking around the lake and taking in 

18x24       Oil        $2875

”Golden Hills Forever”

The road out of Bealville had all the California icons I love - golden rolling hills, sunny blue skies, deep afternoon shadows, bright wildflowers, breeze-ruffled grasses and majestic oaks. The interesting rock outcroppings made the scene even more irresistible. 

9x12         Oil        $975

“Caliente Country Road”

Whenever we visit Tehachapi we like to wander up into the Caliente area. I have long admired the stately eucalyptus trees that line some narrow country roads. Native California sunflowers climbing over the fenceposts made the scene even more joyful and appealing. 

14x18        Oil       $1400

“Walker Basin Springtime (Rankin Ranch)”

I went searching for wildflowers and finally found poppies and lupine in the Walker Basin, home of the Rankin Ranch. I enjoyed painting the ranch a number of years ago, and it was a pleasure to revisit it on this beautiful spring day. 

8.5x21         Oils        $1700.

“Cow Conference”

Saw these cows in the shade of large oak trees. They seemed to being having a group discussion. I then notice the cow separated from the group…maybe the lookout. I decided on a long narrow composition was needed to make the above statement.

16x20       Watercolor     $2200.

“Tehachapi Oaks”

I was once told that the spotted arrangement of the oak trees along the slopes of Tehachapi was a result of the fires started by the coal embers of passing steam engine trains. The resulting tree pattern, together with the sprinkling of various rock formations, give a unique look that defines the Tehachapi landscape. I was careful to accurately represent the highly contorted trunks with gnarled branches. The distance observed in the landscape is realized with a subtle change in the dominate green hues of the these oak trees to a cooler blue.

14x18       Oils         $3200.

“Dusty Road (thru poppy reserve)”

Poppy fields have inspired artists for generations. For me, the old dusty road passing through the poppy field to distant horizons was the statement.