A Story Left Untold (Part 2)

Robyn asked me not to leave anything out... but unfortunately,f I already have. The sites, the smells, the textures absorbed. Seeing where Mary, does her wonderful artwork, while Beto sits nearby, supporting her endeavors. Being taken to the bread store, and watching as Mary took a flat tray and tongs, to pick up individual rolls out of the bins.

I failed to mention that we drove on the highway south, from Mary's house. This hwy was again, very well maintained. The views were gorgeous. With high mountains in the distance, with incredible cloud formations. We were curious if we were seeing part of the weather system that was creating the hurricane in Texas, keeping our artists from flying south. It made for a fantastic landscape. After about an hours drive, Mary turned off on a dirt road. We passed by homes that were most definitely of people that were on the lower end of the economic spectrum. I was impressed how creative they were with their individual spaces. Cactus was used often as fencing material. Their lots were dirt, but it appeared to be swept smooth and clean. We passed by a soccer field where Mary told us how the locals played tournaments weekly. We came to the de los Fuentes ranch gate. Mary drove a bit more before we came to the house. You can't miss this structure. You see it from a distance, and know right away that it is everything you expected and more. I knew what to look for, because Mary had shared photos while it was being built. It is Orange. You can call it melon, tangerine, peach, or papaya.... but it is orange. In the sunlight, at different times of the day it will radiate all the different colors of orange imaginable, even into the magenta range.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by smiles from Maria, Mayo and Monolo. They are the trusted workers that help the ranch function while Beto and Mary are away.
It was also a joy to see the interior space I have read about. Photos prepared me, but to see it finally furnished, and accessorized, was very exciting. I love creative spaces. The colors are continued inside. Blue accent walls, and many windows that bring the orange and green inside.

The dining table that seats 12, is in the center of the space, with the open kitchen on one end and the living room on the other. Opposite the front door (across the dining table) is a pair of french doors that lead out to the courtyard. This view took my breath away every time I saw it in the daylight. The green grass, against the orange walls, made me take a deep breath each time I saw it. This was not a dead grass green either. One that you might expect in the desert. No, it is babysat, by the loyal workers...watered by hand. It is a luscious, rich and full of life. So green you want to touch it, more than once, to make sure it isn't painted on. It felt really good on bare feet

Across the Table pastel on Canson paper
(this was done while waiting for the other artists to arrive)

Dinner's Ready pastel on Canson paper
(this was done on the last day of our workshop)


My next post will share some memories of our first day painting.
Come on back...