After choosing the regions, I also decided to focus on my favorite trees. I chose to start with the ocean and the Monterey Cypress for the first painting. I had an aunt and uncle who lived in Pebble Beach, close to the 17 Mile Drive. I loved to travel around photographing that region during various weather conditions and times of day and was fascinated by the unique shapes of each tree arching out, windswept by the ocean breeze. I wanted to include iconic elements like the Lone Cypress but not focus on them. Instead, I wanted it to be more about the overall look of the regional location. In creating these paintings in the Arts & Crafts woodcut style, I did not want them to end up looking flat. I chose to paint them in a way that gave them depth by slightly changing the technique as the elements move back in space.

Keith Rust Illustration

Paying homage to the woodcuts of the Arts & Crafts era and the inspiring beauty of nature.

After reviewing my landscape designs, I have determined which idea I am now focusing on for my next painting. I will hopefully begin painting the illustration next month. What follows below is the title and write up for my next illustration.

Vibrant Rocky Hillside

One of the original counties of California, San Luis Obispo County was created in 1850 at the time of statehood. The county's distance from surrounding metro areas has helped to retain its rural appearance. Referred to as "the Central Coast," the area is more rural and agricultural than many other coastal regions in California, producing strawberries and wine grapes. Scattered along the coastal foothills and beaches are numerous quaint coastal towns.