Summer in Colorado. Can be lovely, can be stormy. Today in the park in Granby, at the “Art in the Park” event I was one of about 10 artists selected to make art on a bird-shaped cut-out provided by the art association (every year is a different theme; not sure but last year’s might have been fish). The individual pieces will be on public display in Granby on an “art wall” alongside the highway.

Birds? Really? Perfect!

Had a ball, great to meet other local artists, and while yesterday was a fine day to paint outside, for today’s event of showing the art to the public the weather was tumultuous (rain, thunder, lightning, squalls, hail and blustery winds). So the usual crowds didn’t show, but I still enjoyed myself. We had moments of sun here and there, which was lovely, and I admit that, while the lack of attendance was disappointing, part of my fun of being in the Rockies is weather-watching. I am not disappointed. (The Granby group loaned me a canvas canopy so I was sheltered, mostly.)

Getting my feet wet (today, literally) in the local art scene. Kinda different from California; the populations here are small. Which frankly makes it more fun. An art event when you paint in a park and they give you lunch? And money for art supplies? Seriously? To feel appreciated as an artist was lovely and frankly that kind of treatment is nonexistent in CA, at least in the Bay Area. Very refreshing and I am appreciative. I don’t care anymore about art success — tried for that in the Bay Area and it was a grind and I got burnt out.

I’m sure my age has a lot to do with dwindling art ambition. I’m just too tired. I’m glad to continue to paint and teach and be part of local events. Never saw myself happily living outside the Bay Area but this slowed-down life is terrific. Sometimes getting old is great.