Mud Season
Mud Season (2022)
24×18¼ Pastel on Pastel Paper
Original is Available
Here in Vermont, we have a "5th season" called Mud Season. It happens when the surface soil thaws but the ground beneath remains frozen, making our dirt roads an absolute mess. Getting stuck is no fun, but you can always make the best of it by slinging mud with your hunky friends.
Working on this piece let me focus on the heavy, wet textures of the rural landscape. I mapped out deep, sloppy ruts and reflective puddles to make the ground look thick and difficult to navigate. Against the backdrop of the rustic barn and blue sky, I contrasted the setting with the warm, sunlit skin of the two figures. Capturing them mid-stride, shirtless in splattered denim and boots, allowed me to render the motion and tension in their chests and shoulders as they run through the muck.
