Chimeys at Cave Spring Park

 

I love getting to paint new (to me) KC trails during Walktober - sponsored by KC Parks every Sunday this month!  I've never even heard of the Cave Spring Park, so it was extra fun to explore this trail today.  With a map in my hand, I headed down the trail with my gear - and I didn't get far. When I reached the chimneys - ruins from a Masonic lodge from 100 years ago - I went no further!  The light was awesome and the leaves were turning, and I wanted to capture it in paint.  This one was a quick paint, which I arrived 30 minutes late, and still turned in 30 minutes early.  I hope the waterfall is running next time - the images of it brought me out here, and it's on my way to Parkville, too. Great day to be out painting AND hiking! Painting number 4359 in 4359 days. 

Stone Ruins

I loved getting to paint some of the stone ruins with students at Mound Ridge today.  After a several paints down by the Meramec River, it was refreshing to spend some time in here among some old stone structures.  I love getting to connect with others in the landscape, be they young or old.  We can all bond when studying the landscape, no matter what our favorite mediums are, it's all colors, shapes and values after all.  This first mentoring event with high school students in the Steelville area has really been a success - in SO many ways!  I hope to be a part of it for years to come.  I've really enjoyed my time here with them all!  Painting number 4237 in 4237 days. 

Looking up to Ha Ha Tonka

The castle ruins of Ha Ha Tonka are majestic high upon the bluff in Camdenton.  There is such a feel of the past here, as if time stands still.  I pick up a favorite fountain pen for this one, my TWSBI Eco.  The J. Herbin Caroube de Chypre ink is from their anniversary line, and is full of shimmering gold.  The tiny flecks are visible in the line work, especially in the heavier areas.  Although this gold is supposed to clog up fountain pen nibs, I have never had this issue.  The ink has a rich brown color that shifts to red with a little water.  You can clearly see that in the writing under the drawing.  I love the fancy bottle, too!  Timeless!  Painting number 1906 in 1906 days.