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.

I have been enjoying a much need break since completing my last painting Fiery El Capitan, and getting ready for several shows. Last month I began working on my next paining, the second in my National Park series, which began with Radiant Yosemite Valley. Below is the title and description for this new painting.

Rugged Grand Tetons

The jagged peaks of the Teton Range tower more than a mile above the valley of Jackson Hole. This youngest range of the Rocky Mountains is located mostly in Wyoming south of Yellowstone National Park. The granite range is surrounded by a diverse array of wildlife, pristine lakes, and the Snake River winding its way across the wildflower covered valley. It is believed the Shoshone people had called the whole range Teewinot, meaning "many pinnacles."