I spend a lot of time looking at the sidewalk. The beauty and permanence of the concrete astounds me. I think of the history that these aggregates of sand and gravel hold - the transient layers of footsteps, skinned knees, scattered leaves, weather, and child's play. If only they could talk.

Hopscotch was something that I was very good at as a child. I was a top-notch player and hopscotch was one of the few things I had confidence in as a tall, skinny, knock-kneed little girl. I was very non-competitive and a hair away from being a total introvert, but in a game of hopscotch I would revel in the secret knowledge that I would most likely win. I usually did. My secret? A gold chain bracelet that held firm in place on each toss and a good throwing arm.

This piece was done using artist-quality Golden and Windsor-Newton acrylic paints on 1-1/2" gallery-wrapped canvas. I have embellished it with pastel, watercolor pencil, a photo image of a butterfly, pieces of a page from a magazine from 1910, bits of paper from the trash, a 1/2 penny from the Netherlands from 1888, and an old bracelet . I started with layers of thin paint, laying the lighter colors down first. Over those I applied heavier layers of grays that I mixed using various hues. When those were completely dry I sanded over some of the darker areas to give this piece a weathered look. I added highlights and shadows using pastel and watercolor pencil. The sides are painted black so there is no need for framing. It is signed, ready to hang, and will come with a signed Certificate of Authenticity upon request. This piece is available for sale - please email for details: shawnmarie1961@gmail.com