This piece was painted from a photograph I took while on a walk in California, visiting family.

I was struck by the shape and color of the trees, contrasting with the blue sky and approaching storm clouds. I particularly enjoyed the play of light and shadow on the trunks and the lovely bark texture typical of eucalyptus trees.

I use acrylic paints for their versatility; I start with thin watercolor-like layers and add quick, thicker dabs of paint on top, but not everywhere. This method gives the painting life and immediacy.