Rocks on the River: Reflections on Painting the Ventura River

The River Had Other Plans

Abstract expressionism “Rocks on the River is 8” x 10” axrylic on unstretched canvas

I was standing in front of my canvas thinking about rivers. Thatfast-moving unpredictable water that seem peaceful until you actually get close, and suddenly, you’re reevaluating every life choice that led you to this moment. That was the feeling I wanted for “Rocks on the River”. I wanted that balance of calm and barely-contained chaos. And also hoping I wouldn’t completely mess it up the painting.

A Study in Contrast

The painting is all about contrast. The thick, heavy texture of the black and white paint mimics the push and pull of water and stone, chaos and stillness. I worked the palette knife scraping, layering, and laying the paint into the csnvas. The result? A piece that feels both structured and wild, like the river itself is trying to escape the canvas. . “Rocks on the River” available for purchase here.

Why Do We Stare at Water for So Long?

Abstract landscape “Rocks on the River is 8” x 10” axrylic on unstretched canvas matted to 11” x 14”

Have you ever found yourself just staring at a river? Like, really staring? Not thinking, not planning, just watching the water move? Turns out, there’s some science behind that. Something about our brains being wired to find moving water both calming and hypnotic. Which explains why I lost a good 20 minutes standing on the bank, zoning out in front of this painting, and wondering if it was done.

The Art of Almost Falling In

I should mention that Rocks on the River wasn’t just inspired by a river. It was inspired by one very specific river. The Ventura River which is about a mile from where I live. And by “inspired,” I mean “almost became part of.” Let’s just say that balancing on wet rocks while trying to get the perfect angle is not my strong suit. The river was polite enough not to completely swallow me, but it did make sure my shoes were soaked for the rest of the day.

Finding Meaning in the Mess

At the heart of it, this painting is about movement and how things change, how forces push against each other, how even solid rock isn’t as permanent as it seems. There’s beauty in that, I think. In the idea that nothing stays still forever. That’s why I love working with thick, textured paint. It refuses to be tamed. Every brushstroke, every smear of black and white, adds to the story in ways I don’t always expect.