Grebes on the Lilly Pond

Grebes on the Lilly Pond began with a summer weekend walk at Cottage Lake Park. Along the water, a few birds drifted in and out of view, but one pair caught my attention most. They moved close to each other, calm and steady, as if they were sharing the same quiet path across the pond.

I wanted the painting to hold that small moment of connection. The surface of the pond became a place for soft greens, floating lily leaves, and gentle reflections, while the two grebes give the scene its center. Their closeness made the landscape feel more personal, turning an ordinary walk into something tender and memorable.

This piece was painted in oil on canvas over about three hours. It keeps the feeling of noticing something simple in nature and letting it stay with you after the walk is over.