August 1, 2010

The Lone Cyprus

This is done in Acrylic sized 8''by 10'' from a photo taken during my recent visit to California.I mainly used palette knife to bring in some texture.

The Lone Cypress Tree is over 200 years old and is found during the drive through 17-Mile Drive at Pebble beach..It is considered to be one of the most recognized and beloved landmarks in California. The tree is perched on a rock with a cable around it for additional support.It is fascinating to look at the tree standing there for years with so much of strength and endurance. Anyone who is crumbling down can learn a lesson from this inspirational tree.

Talking about trees, my grandfather planted fig, pomegranate, sapota and coconut trees about 50 years back in our home and till today they are very much alive with fruits. His action years ago is yielding results even after he has crossed over and his hard work is very much remembered with gratitude. So what is a better way to leave a mark behind us than planting a tree! I have planted bamboo and avocado...but will they survive through the coming years and stand strong?! Let me hope so :-)

22 comments:

  1. This is gorgeous, Padmaja. I was wondering how you got so much texture with the acrylics. I thought that somehow you'd achieved some crackle in the finish, much like old oil paintings. Love your thoughts to go along with this beautiful coastal view!

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  2. beautiful composition and wonderful colors and textures! I like how the warm & cool teamed up in the painting :)

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  3. A wonderful painting, such great texture you achieve! I love the story about your Grandfather's trees and I certainly hope your contributions survive! What a great gift to the future.

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  4. Wonderful painting and great explanation. Trees are amazing - but then all of nature is amazing! I'm sure yours will survive with that little bit of love and tenderness that they all need.

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  5. I love the clean colors, the richness and drama of this one tree, all alone, that has stood the test of time. As always, enjoyed your thoughtful comments too.

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  6. I enjoyed reading this post about your grandfather and the trees. And oh....I know that tree! We have driven that before. You did a great job. I love the texture and color.

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  7. This is a great post, Padmaja. I like your powerful image of the lone cypress and its surroundings, and your thoughts about planting trees.

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  8. Hi Padmaja the texture has come out really well ... what a nice thought which all shall take some action on by planting trees and save mother earth so that our future generations can also enjoy's its beauty. Thanks, Riya

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  9. Padmaja, I lived for a time in Northern Ca. just outside of San Francisco and visited the Lone Cypress. It is an outstanding tribute to nature .. I found it remarkable, although when I saw it . it did have a bit of help.. Amazing though. I have many photos of it...

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  10. It's a very nice painting, Padmaja. How lucky you are to live in a place where you can grow coconut trees along with all the others you listed.

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  11. The textures that you have created are brilliant. A very interesting work.

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  12. I like all the texture in this painting, Padmaja. There is also something I like about the softness of the tree against the jagged shapes of the rock, like the tree's life will not be quelled no matter what. Lovely painting.

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  13. A stunning post Padmaja...nice texture and colour!!
    Loved the story of your Grandpa's trees :)

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  14. A marvellous painting full of feeling and emotion. Thank you for all your kind words.

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  15. Great color choice and so deep and interesting post!

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  16. Padmaja this is Great,your last two posts are loaded with beautiful textures,the backgroung texture is beauty:)

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  17. Lovely picture Padmaja!I love the palette knife texture of the rocks.. just discovered your blog and many other colorful paintings by you. Gorgeous!

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  18. I like the light holding the tree on the textured rocks, Padmaja.
    I like your experimentation with materials!

    So do you apparently!
    (do you still have a drag on your leg?... much tenderness to you for a year of it!!!)

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  19. Just now saw your super duper home tour on Patty's blog and simply simply loved it !:)
    It is so refreshing and stylish !!
    ...and fall in love with all your art works once again...you are the best Padmaja !!...keep rocking :)

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  20. noble thought and a colourful painting of the lone cyprus at pebble beach...never used knife with acrylics! But this painting is gorgeous!

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  21. Such a mesmerizing tree..the colors are spiritual and mystical..totally beautiful work..such presence and gentleness ..and such Life! Wow! Love the story behind this painting..and also love what you shared about your grandfather..very very special!
    Magnificent painting!
    Victoria

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  22. Yes! Planting a tree is a wonderful way to leave something lasting!
    H

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