River Grasses - Big Bend, Texas

River Grasses, 9 x 12, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2014

Big Bend, Texas

Standing on the Texas side of the Rio Grande River, it's hard to believe that Mexico is just a stone's throw away. I could've waded over, but alas, did not have my passport with me. I was quite happy observing these backlit grasses along at river bank. They brought an irresistible warm glow to the soft desert neutrals. Inspiring. 

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Santa Elena Canyon - Big Bend, Texas

Santa Elena Canyon, 12 x 9, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2014

Big Bend, Texas

This ancient canyon is divided by the Rio Grande River which flows along the Texas/Mexico border. The massive size of the rock walls along the river are ominous as you drive up to them and the canyon itself is awesome. When the light hits it in the morning, the shadows bring it alive. This spot is one of the "must see" treasures of Big Bend. 

Heat of the Day - Big Bend

Heat of the Day, L. Daniel, 6 x 8

The craziest thing about Big Bend this time of year is the ever shifting weather. Hot to cold, calm to windy. At this location, I chose a small canvas and the only spot of shade I could find because it was so hot and deadly still that morning. My plan was to do a quick study and do it fast! Not 15 minutes in, a breeze came up and soon I was holding on to my easel to keep it from tipping over. Be careful what you wish for! :)


For those that know the area - this is looking out from the shadow of Santa Elena Canyon. For those that don't - that little piece of river is the Rio Grande which travels the border between Texas and Mexico. And those yellow grasses on the right? Yep, they are in Mexico.

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