From the Artist: When the pandemic hit, I stopped painting. Instead, I walked miles to relieve the isolation and confinement of my home. Throughout the summer, we were fortunate enough to spend time on Cape Cod and in the beautiful state of Maine…I was still not painting. Having always loved photography, I reluctantly brought my camera along on one of my walks and realized that I had forgotten how good it felt to be behind the lens. It was gratifying to click the shutter and instantly create an image. (Still not painting, but a step in the right direction.) Most of my photos were of the ocean and surrounding beaches, which offered solace as I walked. Some days were calm and peaceful while others hosted turbulent seas and gusty winds, resembling the emotional rollercoaster of living through a pandemic. Armed with my new photographs, I finally felt inspired to paint. Never having mastered the art of painting waves in watercolor, I was now confronted with striking images of the ocean. I started small. The 5 x 7 paper felt less intimidating than what I usually used. After finishing several pieces, I sent them to friends and family as a way to stay connected or offer a bit of hope. I finally worked my way up to the larger format that I was accustomed to late this fall and created this piece, which is from a photo taken at Long Sands Beach in York, Maine.