Seeing Differently...

There’s something about the Historic Cavileer House in Lower Bank, NJ… it draws me in.  Standing against time on the east bank of the Mullica River, parts of the house predate the Civil War.  It’s old, it’s got character.  Porches, a portico, Victorian trim, out buildings, an outside dinner bell, old boats, peeling paint, history, antiques.  It even had a wood windmill and water tank till a windstorm blew it over two years ago.  It’s my “Olson House” for those who get the reference.  I’ve probably done over a hundred drawings and paintings of the place… some just a few lines in my sketch book, others 31” x 22” detailed paintings.  I’ve taught plein air workshops there, sailed in the river and explored every nook and cranny.   And each time I visit something catches my eye and the “that would make a good painting” thought comes to mind.  A few weeks ago, Laurie and I were visiting, and the side of the barn and boat sheds caught my eye again.  This time, however, the late afternoon January sunset across the river cast an ochre glow on the white clapboards… you guessed it… another painting idea.  I’ve painted from this spot a few times, I’ve used my own creativity to create the beginning of a story which each observer can finish with their own imagination.  So, here is a photo and some of the paintings that this wonderous place has inspired.

A heartfelt thank you to Kathy and Grove Conrad… the keepers of the house.