Our 2013 River trip was eventful and productive.

This year we had two boats, 10 days and 23 artists, including instructor Kevin Macpherson. The two extra 'layover' days were something I have pushed for years now, and finally this year we were able to do it. This proved very popular with the artists. Twice during the trip we spent two nights in one spot, with a full day of painting in between. I managed to do about 14 total paintings on the trip, and some artists did even more. A very productive expedition, including the sketches and reference photos captured.

The trip was eventful as well. One of the largest rapids on the river is Hance. Just after entering this monster, one of the boatmen (not the captain, thankfully) got bounced out of the second boat and had to do the 'Hance dance' swimming through the cold churning water until they could pull him back in at the bottom of the rapid. Typically, one loses muscle function after about 4-5 minutes in that water. Our boatman was pretty cold upon rescue, but he thawed out and was ok in the end.

Later in the trip, one of the passengers took ill, and we had to do a helicopter evacuation. Just getting a signal on the satellite phone proved difficult in that spot (Fern Glen, mile 168). The team leader and I got on one of the boats and circled the bay for some time to get through, but finally we did. Once we had a chopper on the way, everyone worked together to form a 'bucket brigade' to wet down the beach that became the landing zone. The gentleman was taken to the Flagstaff hospital, and eventually made a good recovery.

The weather was great for most of the trip, though we had some rain and strong wind one night. Most of us painted every day, and there were some talented artists along. I enjoyed it very much and learned a lot. I've already sold a few of my plein air pieces from the trip and just completed a studio piece with another currently in progress on the easel. I've added some photos from the trip to my Facebook page for those who would like to see them. Some of my new paintings can be seen on my website here.

Next up for me is a quick trip to Michigan for my grandmother's 95th birthday. Unfortunately she recently fell and broke her hip, so I'll be visiting her in rehab.

Right after that, on June 15, I've been invited to have two paintings in the annual auction at the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff. This has been a great event for me each year, and I'm honored to be returning for a third time.

Coming up soon

I've been invited to teach a two-day workshop in Driggs, Idaho on July 24-25. This is the valley on the west side of the Tetons, almost west of Jackson, Wyoming. It's a beautiful area, the class will be a lot of fun (we even get to ride the ski lift to paint up high), and it's followed by a plein air event. If you're interested, here's the link.

Koya Klips

Little Koya recently had her first play-date with her new boyfriend Barney. He lives down the street and is about the same age and size as our girl. They had a blast together.