When we camp, I’m usually too busy to do much art. So, if there’s time, I usually just sketch using my pencils. For this trip, I did pack a small paint set, just in case. And, I’m glad I did!

I was inspired by the “late winter” colors of the deserts in NV, AZ, and CA. So I decided to try to capture their brilliance in quick “urban sketches” … seems funny to call these “urban” since I was in the wilderness most of the time with no buildings except for outhouses..Maybe I should just say these are “plein air” but that doesn’t seem right either … so, whatever these paintings should be called, it was fun to push myself to sketch quickly and attempt to mix colors to match the surroundings. I especially appreciated being in the moment and allowing myself the freedom to play.

Note to self: don’t skimp on paper, even when traveling…

In case you’re curious, I used: Winsor & Newton Cotman Water Colour Paint Sketchers’ Pocket Box, Half Pans, 13 count (12 colors and a brush)

#watercolor #birds #nevada #arizona #california #art #carlsbadstatebeachcampground #blackrockcampground #joshuatreenationalpark #redrockcanyoncampground