I'm calling this 10 x 10" watercolor on canvas "Anticipation of Contemplation at Columbia River Park."

The scene's shadows drew me to create this piece. I love their graphic nature, how the late-day sun stretches them, and how choosing watercolor on canvas gives the shadows (and the whole piece) a jewel-like, stained-glass quality. Taken together, these elements draw the viewer's eye into the piece. I chose simple, muted colors when painting the river view to help viewers imagine themselves rocking peacefully on the chairs, looking out at the river as their cares gently drifted away.

I have always loved painting in watercolor, particularly on canvas. I gave it up for a long time to focus on creating works in oils and acrylics because I felt people would take me more seriously if I did that. However, I posted a sketch of this scene on Facebook and asked people if I should paint it in oils or watercolors and ink.  They chose the latter.  Their choice inspired me to return to this medium I loved: watercolor on canvas. It brought me so much joy that I think I'll do more like this from now on.