The End of Winter or is it the Beginning of Spring?

(C) 2018 Dale DiMauro

This painting was inspired by one of my last cross-country ski outings, in Grafton, Vt. This group of apple trees with their seasoned character and twisting habit are such icons in the natural environment. Most people I run into have a story or two to tell about an impressive apple tree from their youth. Some mention that it framed their childhood as they hid under it's arching branches or climbed high up to pick apples. 

The fact that I could look through the tree trunk and see the distant hill caught my attention. It is similar to an old barn leaning over, shaped by the seasons, yet standing on it's last leg. However, within a month, new buds will burst forth, full of greenery and new life.

What I like about this watercolor is the warmth of the sky in contrast to the grays. In watercolor it is said that neutral washes bring out the colors in the picture. A certain balance can be achieved which provides the viewer with a calming affect. It makes me realize that if you know the palette well, a limit of color can go a long way.