The Boston Marathon

To Run The Boston   watercolor   20 x 13.5

is the premiere marathon for runners around the world.  For those who have finished it, the race becomes a benchmark of integrity and endurance for the rest of their lives....such as Bob, one such artist and runner in one of my classes, who always speaks glowingly of his multiple experiences in the race.  We were privileged to experience the race in 2011 when our son competed.  Our class assignment:  the cityscape.  Artists in my classes vote on subject matter.  The cityscape does not appeal to me as a genre.  I am not sure why, but I guess it has to do with the amount of information on the page...too much for me.  My reference photo was taken in 2011 and features two runners from Nigeria.  While the initial lay-in contained many beautiful spontaneous strokes, I was not content.  Too many pieces/parts.  My process involves the laying in of subsequent washes and a push::pull that allows some elements to shine, while pushing others into roles as supporting actors.  This is my final answer.

I am pleased that I attempted a work that I wouldn't have otherwise considered.  I was spurred on by the integrity of these African runners.  Ahh.....it's about meeting of the challenge.....courage.