(Note:A few recent paintings scattered in to break up the text, video at the bottom, please read on!)

It's been in the high 90's here in El Cajon much of this summer, typical hot inland San Diego County.  Keeping our cool in spite of the temperature is important, but in addition to the hot temperature, I'm referring to keeping our cool everywhere, in spite of things that heat us up emotionally.  It is known to be beneficial for our health to relax, enjoy something for sheer, well joy.

"Hiding in the Grass"  14x18  sold

Some people do this by reading, perhaps laying in a hammock outside, or at the beach.  I find being in a field with cows and a camera does it for me.  Nothing but a sweet breeze, a beautiful meadow and some bovines who already look pretty relaxed to me, and I decompress. That is why I enjoy painting them, a combination of taking myself to that place, and also bringing it as I see and feel it, to you!

"Meet Me Behind the Barn"  14x18   Available

I read an article by artist Keith Bond this morning,

Don't Let Go of the Good to Protest the Bad

 that in a related way reminds us to keep beautiful art in our view, what better way to lift our spirits than to focus on something that takes us to a special place, especially if darkness swirls around us.   He said,

"...we need a counter balance to all the ugliness in the world. We need to be shown that there is beauty, even amidst all the horror and ugliness. We need a respite. We need hope. Art fulfills that need. We need art as a means of rest and restoration and a source of renewal. "

Whether it is literal heat or emotional heat or just fatigue from that we see around us that is wrong and the frustration we feel being unable to change it, never forget to balance that with the good, the beautiful, go away to another place for a while, keep cool.

Here is a virtual visit to my neighbor's gallery in downtown El Cajon, White Sage Gallery with some artwork both hanging and sculpture, I hope it captures your attention and brings you to a happy place.