My pond and ice studies from last winter continue to inspire larger works, and the newest is Pond Edge, Early December. It’s a tight view watching ice encroach on the shallows. Oak leaves are visible under the surface, as well as the reflection of blue sky and clouds. The upper half of the painting is thin ice with a hint of what’s below. The abstractness of this close, vertical view is what intrigued me – the possibility of realism colliding with abstract expressionism. Plus, the sheer beauty of winter and its mysteries. Details below. Enjoy.