Red Pine, Topsmead, Litchfield Connecticut Painting

I have to admit that I become completely tongue tied when people ask me what my inspiration was for a particular painting. Ridiculous, I know. I usually have too much to say about any given topic. Except the mystery of the creative process. This painting, however is different. I can remember, vividly, when I saw it in my mind. Having recently retired from a 9 - 5 job I have been able to devote more time to my true love - art. I also thought I should remain active. Moderately so! There is a wonderful state forest near me. Topsmead in Litchfield, Connecticut. It was early spring. I was quite alone in the park. It was a rather chilly morning with a thin sun attempting to warm the earth. The place is just amazing. I walked down an alley of trees. Ancient behemoths. Venerable. One particular pine was so huge I could wedge myself in between the lower branches and reach the trunk. I stood there like a 1960's tree hugger. My eyes closed, my hand on the rough bark. I stood there for a LONG time. And that is when I saw it. Totally vibrant, screaming red orange branches. Dark, almost black soft needles. I felt as if the tree was sharing it's joy in the simple but exquisite color of its being. Technically, this piece is a departure from my usual style. Which tends to be much more graphic. But, at heart, I am a colorist. And I think I was true to that with this painting.