Ode to My Backyard - April 2026

My painting of the month for April is “Ode to My Backyard.” I painted this plein air, that is outside in, well, my backyard.

“Ode to My Backyard”
14×16 inches, oil on panel, framed
$400

Last month, I had a “Love Letters to Public Lands” art exhibit at my home for Boulder Arts Week. I showed 19 paintings of public lands with accompanying love letters. And using that same theme, I also wrote a short letter to my backyard to accompany this painting.

Dear Backyard,
You’re my most local land. I gaze through the windows at your trees, flowers, colors. I talk to the neighbors over your fences. You captivate me as I plant cucumbers and fava beans, hoping for another year of abundance, yet accepting the hit or miss nature of life (and plants).
Love, Lisa

I recently returned from a week in New Mexico where I visited Ojo Caliente, Santa Fe, Ghost Ranch, and Georgia O’Keefe’s house in Abiquiu. Below is a new painting inspired by my New Mexico trip.

“New Mexico Morning”
14x16 inches, oil on panel, framed
$400

I have had a little ailment called trigger thumb. Ack! On my painting hand. Last week I had a minor surgical procedure to alleviate the issue. My thumb is feeling better every day, so things are looking up! Here’s to continued improvement, and here’s a photo from Ghost Ranch with Cerro Pedernal in the background.

Thanks to everyone who visited my “Love Letters to Public Lands” exhibit. It was great to see you! And big thanks to Roberta Walbert who joined me for the exhibit. If you have any questions, comments, or would like to visit my home art gallery and studio, just let me know.

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Sending you my best wishes!