Fresh Paint and a Holiday Opening

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Sacred Sunrise | Oil on Linen Panel | 18 x 24 | © Beth Cole

Sacred Sunrise | Oil on Linen Panel | 18 x 24 | © Beth Cole

Last October I spent a few days in Mullen, Nebraska, for a painting workshop with Shanna Kunz. (Fabulous). The last morning, I got up early and went out with my camera to the place we had painted the previous afternoon - a meadow with the Middle Loup running through. I wanted to see what it was like in the morning light. It did not disappoint. The water was glittering. The air was cool and a little misty. And the sun was starting to warm everything and give it a glow.

This painting is inspired by my visit to the meadow that morning. I took lots of photos to use as references, so I’ll be painting more and more of this in the days to come.

When I shared this on the socials, it was unnamed, and I asked for suggestions. One of my friends (thank you Karen S.) suggested “Sacred Sunrise,” and immediately I knew that is what it should be named. I believe there is an unseen spiritual realm all around us and I believe our Maker created light and the earth upon which it falls. When I paint, I am always aware of this and I think that is why I am drawn to atmosphere — that veiled effect of light and air. To me it symbolizes the spiritual realm which also, for me, symbolizes comfort and peace. So I hope this painting, Sacred Sunrise, speaks, in its own way, to you.

Holiday Opening at the Burkholder

The Burkholder Project in Lincoln will host the opening for Holiday Mosaic today, December 7th, from 5:30 to 8:00. This show features over 50 Burkholder artists plus the work of woodturner, Harold Adams.

My piece, “To A Faraway Land,” is a part of this show and will be available there through the end of the year.

To A Faraway Land | Pastel on Paper | 18 x 24 | © Beth Cole

To A Faraway Land | Pastel on Paper | 18 x 24 | © Beth Cole

I hope you are doing well and enjoying the festive Christmas season. We put our nativity set and tree and stockings up last weekend. I love the extra special light in our home this time of year.

Thanks for reading, Be well. I am grateful for you.

—Beth Cole
Soli Deo Gloria