The Nomad Project
After selling our home in Maryland following a layoff at the end of 2023, my wife and I set out on what became an extended nomad adventure. We crisscrossed the country, including time abroad, searching for our next hometown while reconnecting with friends and family along the way. Their generosity gave us more than a place to sleep. It gave us time together, shared meals, and a sense of home on the road. As a thank you to those who welcomed us in, often for longer than planned, I painted each of them a piece inspired by the places we stayed.
Capolavori di Roma
This painting was created for close friends in Baltimore who visited Italy shortly after we did. I worked from one of my friend’s photographs as a reference. They have been especially generous over the years, continuing to host us as we spend time in the area while our son finishes college.
Sunrise on Nelson Lake
Our nomad route naturally took us through Minnesota and Wisconsin, where my wife grew up. These friends opened up their lake cabin, and this scene was captured during an early morning canoe trip on Nelson Lake as the sun came up.
Big Belts
We spent a significant amount of time in my home state of Montana, where we stayed with family near Helena and seriously considered putting down roots. This scene was captured as a storm began to form over the Big Belt Mountains just east of their home.
The Sentinel
This is a scene I had wanted to paint for years. We often visit these friends near Afton Alps, Minnesota, and this large elm overlooking the St. Croix River has always stood out to me. The finished painting brought some comfort to our friends during a particularly difficult season.
Island Lake Cabin
Another Midwestern setting, this piece comes from Island Lake, Minnesota. Our aunt and uncle have a cabin there, one that my wife visited frequently as a child. I began the painting during a family gathering before completing it later in the studio.
Liquid Sunshine
We lived in Estacada, Oregon for several years and remain close with friends who welcomed us back during our travels. This scene was painted at nearby Eagle Fern Park. I started it on location, but rain cut the session short, and it was finished in the studio.
Sweet Home, North Carolina
After 18 mostly incredible months on the road, we have happily settled in Carolina Beach, North Carolina. Look for plenty of paintings from this lovely coastal community in the future.