Sunday, September 2, 2012

New Mexico Reservation Ranch House

One of the most memorable places I visited in New Mexico was the Acoma Pueblo Indian Reservation.  The Acoma Pueblo, sometimes called "Sky City" is perhaps the oldest continuingly operational 'city' in the Northern American continent.  After my visit to Sky City, my cousin Karen and I hiked down from the top of the Pueblo rather than ride the bus back.  (Non-tribal members may only visit the Acoma Pueblo as a part of a guided tour.  If you have a chance, don't miss it.  And don't be put off by the fact that you have to buy a photo license.  Buy it.  The photos you get will be spectacular....and the money goes to help the tribe.  A win-win for all.)

On the way down, we passed several abandoned (I think) ranch houses and small huts.  This was one of them.  The fence, the tree and the impressive rocks behind the ranch house made a natural painting subject.  

Acoma Pueblo Ranch House   12" x 16" oil on canvas panel. 
I painted this in the Fongwei workshop and published it in an earlier post.  I've since had a chance to revisit it and make a few changes Fongwei suggested and a couple of my own. 

I'd love to return to this spot again.   There's something about the American Southwest that is unique and unforgettable. 

4 comments :

  1. I like the light that you put in your re-visit, nice painting, Vickie

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  2. I like the light that you put in your re-visit, nice painting, Vickie

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  3. Thanks Vickie....That's exactly what I worked on. At the workshop, Fongwei suggested adding light in the foreground, but I couldn't seem to get it more intense. After the painting set up, I was able to add it. I also tried to add light in other places as well, including the tree.

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