I have spent many days throughout the years driving around the Appalachian Mountains, setting up my easel wherever I feel compelled to paint. On the parkway, next to one of our beautiful lakes or ponds, by a creek, in the middle of the woods, or on the side of the road. Wherever I feel inspired, really. The idea of taking this adventure and turning it into a painting, a document, creates an individual connection between myself and the space. Nobody can experience the same feeling I felt about the colors of the sky that day, the feeling of the wind, the presence of the fog, the fish that jumped and scared the hell out of me, the birds chirping, the cars racing by next to me, or the dozens of people coming up and sparking a meaningful conversation. These adventures aren't typical as they create a sense of community within myself, but also with completely random people. How charming. Let's protect it.