The North Shore

Plein air artwork from the Channel Islands National Park on Santa Rosa Island off the coast of southern California

After two days of painting one stretch of coast in this off-the-beaten-path outpost of California, I was eager to see a different part of it before leaving later this day. It would require a 2.2 mile hike, while “carrying a ton*” art supplies up and over the low hills without a soul in sight to bring me to a completely different shoreline, facing nearly due north- an unusual arrangement on California’s coast.

The only unwonderful thing about painting this was knowing I had to get it done fast and hurry back without time to explore or else risk missing the boat. I’ve missed the boat on a lot of opportunities in life, and wasn’t eager to discover what it would be like to miss the actual boat itself. Still a great time to see this shore with my own eyes before leaving.

*Not all that heavy really, maybe 25 or 35 pounds max, but the geographical wordplay is intended for those who know…


Artwork Information:


Artwork Title: "The North Shore"
Original Size: 16" x 12"
Medium: Acrylic on Birch Panel
Year Painted: 2018

Additional Artwork Information:


Method: Plein Air
Date Painted: 09/24/2018
Region: The California Coast > The Channel Islands > Santa Barbara > Southern California
Road Trip: A Bit Farther Out (Mostly) 2018

Artwork Logistics:


Miles Hiked: 4-6 Miles
Hiking Terrain: Off Trail Wilderness Tromping
Vehicular Logistics: Extra Vehicular Assistance Needed
Extra-Vehicular Requirements: Boat Required for Access
Geological Hazards: Steep or Unstable Cliffs, Awkward Footing on Uneven Terrain
Botanical Hazards: Some Poison Oak Observed
Biological Hazards: High Grass- Tick Country!
Weather Logistics: Painted in Heavy Winds


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