The Magic of Marshlands: The Inspiration for the Sketches

The Chesapeake Bay wasn't just a body of water; it was a living legend in my childhood summers. The salty air clung to my skin like a second layer, the smell a constant reminder of adventures waiting to be had. One day, it might be the thrill of casting a line from a rickety dock, the next it was swimming out to the sandbar.

Sunlight streamed through the reeds, making the marsh shimmer. Shadows danced across the surface of the water while the currents caused ripples beneath the surface. Dragonflies hovered with jewel-like wings and unseen birds serenaded the world with well-known tunes. Every day was a different adventure with a different landscape.

“Marsh- Lime” Original Oil Pastel Sketch by BekHarris

Now, miles away, a freshwater lake brings the same sense of peace. The water here is a deeper, cooler blue, yet it's another constant canvas, its mood shifting with the light.

This connection to water and the spirit of exploration continue to guide my artistic journey.

Those childhood explorations continue to shape my art today. From tidal marshes to coastal beaches, and now a freshwater lake in between, I am still amazed at the constant changes of the water. The ever-changing moods – the tranquil blues reflecting a summer sky, the stormy greens mirroring a brewing tempest, the fiery oranges of a setting sun – are all a constant source of inspiration.

“Marsh- Amber” Original Oil Pastel Sketch by BekHarris

My latest collection captures the essence of these marshlands. Each piece is a color study, a vibrant snapshot of water's ever-shifting moods. From the spring's gentle greens, where new life awakens, to the fiery oranges of fall foliage reflected on the water's surface, these paintings echo the awe I feel around the water.

Feeling a connection to the magic of these marshlands? You can bring a piece of it home! My latest collection is available now. And if you have a special watery memory you'd love to see captured, I'm always open to custom commissions. Let's bring your own cherished scene to life!