The trip to St. George, Utah was great, as always.  I enjoyed visiting with collectors, admirers, friends, and fellow artists.  It is always great to connect with others and build friendships, all while enjoying art! 

The day after the 2-day event, I decided to head out into the desert to paint.  From St. George, I took an 80 mile dirt road south to an extremely remote portion of the Grand Canyon.  The canyon overlook is about halfway between the main portion of the park and Lake Mead.  Most of the drive was a well maintained gravel road, but the last 14 or 15 miles were rough and rocky.  My 4x4 was well used on that stretch of road.  For those interested, take S. River Road from St. George past the construction area of the new airport.  Once you cross the Arizona state line the road becomes gravel.  It is called the Mt. Trumbull scenic loop drive.  From the (almost) ghost town of Mt. Trumbull you head due south into Whitmore Canyon. 

The Grand Canyon is not as deep, nor wide at this point, however, it is equally inspiring.  There is a moderate hike to the bottom of the canyon (made more difficult by my painting gear).  I soaked by feet in the chilly Colorado River.  It was a great respite from the heat of the sun.  I think the greatest thing about the day was the absence of people.  I passed only 2 vehicles heading the opposite direction during the 3 hour drive toward the canyon.  I did not see a single soul the entire time I was there.  I was dwarfed by the magnificent grandeur of the scene. 

I did some sketching and photographing and hope to develop some paintings soon.  I'll keep you posted.  I regret not painting certain scenes.  I had my mind so set upon painting the Colorado River, that I passed up what I should have painted.  Looking away from the canyon, towards the layers of cliffs to the west/northwest, the light was stunning and the terrain rugged.  It is obvious as I reflect on the day (and look at my studies) that I should have painted that.  But while in the moment I succumbed to my weakness rather than follow the voice from within.  Next time I'll learn...

That does not mean that I am not excited about what I have.  I certainly am.  I simply passed up a scene that was exceptional - even a '10' - for a somewhat lower '9'!   You can never go 'wrong' painting out there.  The desert is magical.  It is surreal.  It is inspiring.  Where else can you see the skeleton of the earth, with all its raw strength and power?  The mighty forces that carve the land are evidenced with every jagged outcropping or precipitous cliff which plunges into the deep chasms below.

I have rambled on too long, yet again.  I will post images of paintings from the area as I work though and develop my ideas.  I am not sure how soon I will get these paintings done.  I would rather do them right, than rush them.

Best Wishes,
Keith Bond