I did another big transition in the direction for the magnolia painting. I overpainted most of the blue cloud sky. I think this unified the petals of the flower better. I was bothered by the harsh edges and color transitions. Now that I’ve softened all of the I’m liking what this painting is trying to become. I like the warm glows of the color range. I can’t wait to see what the painting is trying to say this week in the studio.

In the garden the huge Rhododendron roseums are in full bloom. They edge so much of the property, shielding the garden from the street and providing privacy. Over the years, I’ve moved so many of them into different places in the garden. I wouldn’t have the strength anymore to dig them up, drag them, and replant them, but I think they are by now just where they should be.

This is a daily journal of my solo exhibition at Locust Grove in Poughkeepsie, NY, from June 5 – September 15, 2026, my work in the group show at the Ceres Gallery in June, and my upcoming November solo exhibition in Chelsea, New York City.