California Seascape by JC Strong

Southern California has been experiencing heavy rains. The past week I was reminded nature is in full control at the San Clemente Beaches.

This day I felt I had a glimpse of an expressive and assertive ocean. The sun came out for a brief time but underneath the sea is full throttle activity . . .
You can see the churning in the ocean. I could see waves sand and dirt rolling around.

Landscapes and seascapes for me are a matter of taking cues from nature and editing down the scene. I usually paint in a small format but this scene needed a larger canvas (16" X 20"). See more photos and details.

Original Painting California Landscape by JC Strong

It’s been a turbulent 24 hours. Southern California has had lots’ of rain. My neighborhood lost power for 18 hours. (I kept the frig closed so my Christmas goodies would not spoil. I know what's important.)

Water came down so hard, our road seemed like a river. Everybody is safe in our neighborhood. It just reminded me nature is in control.

I started this painting of the T-Street area, bridge, and majestic tree before the lights went out and I finished it this afternoon. It's a beautiful sunny spot in San Clemente, California. I'll paint a rainy day some other time.

I give the old masters a lot of credit for the ability to create without electricity and heat etc. I couldn't paint in candle light. I'm glad for the little advantage's this Christmas, like electricity and heat.

Latest Updates:
I started a Facebook Fan Page you can see additional samples of my work on that page. I also enjoy viewing other artist's work

Acrylic Painting, It's Cold in So. California

It’s cold in Southern California, and I can hardly believe it! I’m sure people in the east coast wouldn’t consider 32 degrees in the evening and 55 degrees in the afternoon a winter wonderland but for a native Californian its cool.

The inspiration for the artwork I posted was taken from my neighbor’s yard and the surrounding landscape. The little orange tree vibrates with color when its cold. When I try to capture nature, it’s a humbling task. I like it when a small bit of color in a landscape just captures your attention and then you fight to put it on canvas. I enjoy the learning process between nature and the artist.