This painting is from a lovely spot I found while exploring the banks of a river in West Texas during my three week residency through the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts. As I set up my easel, the sun began to set, casting a magical light that transformed the whole scene. The sky turned into a canvas of pink and orange hues, which reflected beautifully on the water, making it all feel quite dreamy. I tried to capture the way the trees framed the river, their branches reaching out as if to hold onto the colors of the sky. It was one of those moments that remind me why I love painting outdoors—everything just comes alive in such a special way.